Basic Islamic Knowledge
Basic Islamic knowledge encompasses understanding the core beliefs and practices of Islam, including the Five Pillars, the articles of faith, and fundamental Islamic practices. It also involves learning about the Qur’an, the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, and Islamic history.
The Five Pillars of Islam:
- Shahada (Declaration of Faith): This is the core belief, stating “There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God.”.
- Salah (Prayer): Muslims pray five times a day facing Mecca, a central practice connecting them with God.
- Zakat (Charity): A mandatory act of giving a portion of one’s wealth to the needy and those in need.
- Sawm (Fasting): Muslims abstain from food and drink from dawn to sunset during the month of Ramadan.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage): If able, Muslims undertake a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.
The Articles of Faith:
- Belief in God (Allah): Acknowledging God’s oneness and uniqueness.
- Belief in Angels: Understanding the existence and role of angels as messengers and messengers of God.
- Belief in Divinely Revealed Books: Recognizing the authenticity of the Quran and other scriptures revealed to prophets.
- Belief in Prophets: Acknowledging the prophets as messengers of God, including Muhammad, the last prophet.
- Belief in the Day of Judgment: Believing in the final day when people will be judged for their deeds.
- Belief in Divine Decree (Qadr): Accepting that God has predetermined events and that everything happens with His will.
Qur’an: The Holy Book of Islam, believed to be the word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad.
Prophet Muhammad: The final prophet in Islam, whose teachings and example guide Muslims.
Hadith: The compiled accounts of the Prophet’s sayings and actions, providing guidance and insights.
Islamic History: Understanding the history of Islam and its development, including the lives of the prophets, the early Islamic caliphs, and significant historical events.
Stories of the Prophets: Learning about the stories of prophets, such as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, as they are important examples in Islam.
Fiqh: Islamic Jurisprudence, providing practical guidance on various aspects of daily life based on the Quran, Hadith, and other Islamic sources.
Islamic Manners: Understanding and practicing Islamic etiquettes, such as being respectful, honest, and kind.
Halal and Haram: Knowing the permissible and forbidden aspects of food, drink, and other aspects of life.