Nature of religion and beliefs ❖ Can be a way of life

❖ Religions can either be : Indus or Simetic

​Religion A set of beliefs concerning the cause,
nature, purpose of the universe
❖ SEMETIC FAITHS
- Where humanity can can
➢ Has transcendent worldview
express their sense of ultimate
➢ Monotheirstic (belif in one God)→
reality
Judaism, Christeanity and Islam
- Moral code in which an
➢ “Semite refers to the offspring of Shem,
individual lives their life
the Son of Noah → direct descendant of
- Religion is understood as the
Abraham
right way as long as the society
➢ Began in 1900CE → Abraham
deems it the right way
founding father
➢ Their family roots give these three
World view It is a way in which we look through a religions some traditions in common
lens for the meaning of existence ➢ Origins is the same in all three

The ➢ Its Power is beyond human ❖ INDUS FAITHS

supernatural comprehension Knowledge and - Emphasis on spiritual salvation
➢ Transcendent Dimension Deliverance - Spiritual wisdom has a deep
➢ It defies natural laws and still familiarity with the ultimate truth
link to human society of life (within)
➢ Located within human psyche - Wisdom as a direct personal
of belief in a higher power/ experience of spiritual reality
dimension - Spiritual reality resides within

Experience of - Wisdom reveals the ultimate

Transcendent worldview Immanent wisdom reality of life
- Rituals designed to prepare onse
➢ Divine being can ➢ Has a belief in a spiritual identity so one is able to
move between the divine being or seek wisdom
human world and powers, link is - Wisdom joins us to the living
the supernatural coming from within reality of the world
➢ Divine world ➢ Encourages good - Wisdom is an immediate and
linked with the deeds and actions personal experience that alters our
human world ➢ Understanding of existence
through faith stewardship - Wisdom united is with what we
➢ Can be described as ➢ Buddhism → know, so that we are what is
a bridge Aspire to Nivana known to us
➢ Major religions→ ➢ Hinduism → Aspire
Islam, Christeanity to Dharma deliverance and - Wisdom leads to deliverance -
and Judaism the world from suffering and death in the
physical world
- Reincarnation allows the spirit to
❖ Transcendent and Immanent can overlap go into additional wisdom to take
❖ During the nineteenth early twentieth century the individual to a higher spiritual
there was more reference to only the one God plane
→ western view point - Life is cyclical → birth, life,
❖ The influence of a culture or society heavily death, rebirth- to ultimate
influences the way an individual act and thinks enlightenment
about the world
❖ Religion promote their own world views
 ❖ Seeking God
Ethics Governs what is right or wrong
➢ A reason to live
according to the religion due to
➢ Create order out of chaos
their obligations to their God/s and
➢ Finding happiness
references to text as guidelines
➢ Belief in an afterlife
➢ Looking for answers Beliefs & Belief defines the worldview of the
➢ God has influenced our action→ Believers: believer & is central to all religious
Guidance traditions
➢ Is transcendent

RELIGIONS CONTRIBUTION TO: NATURE OF DREAMING IN RELATION TO:

The individual Society Origins of - Aboriginal view on how being

the came to life, origins
Creates individual - Brings people together universe - cycle of life and death
worldviews Able to express who they - How the world came to be through
● Sense of purpose really are with like minded the ancestral spirits
● Sense of identity individuals
● Forms a moral - Opinions and thoughts are Sacred - Places associated with ancestral
compass expressed sites beings
- Sense of belonging - Diversity a way of - Bound to creation due to its
- Provides comfort understanding each others inextricable connection
- Connection with a views - Trails of the lives and movements
higher power Religion as a conservative of the ancestral spirits, site to site
- Meaning in life influence on society connected → songlines.
- Ethical guidance - In areas regarding sexuality,
Stories of - It is the embodiment of truth, it
- Look to religion fro morality and bioethics
the details the beginning of creation of
existential questions - Recent contribution of
Dreaming living things.
- Enables individuals religious groups to be debated
- Connection with land by the
to act in a morally about certain issues
interactions with, creation-- rock
correct manner Religion as a progressive
formations, trees, rivers, mountains
- Brings up social influence on society
etc
concerns → - Have an emphasis on
- The essence of aborigional
distribution of wealth human dignity
religious belief, laws, ceremonies
- Opportunity for - Have been more proactive
and rituals are all delivered from
people to express such as advocacy for refugees
Aborigional mythology
their values in a - Opposition to military
supportive action
environment - Enacts a sense of justice symbolism - Colour and designs reflect different
- Ritual meaning and art stories
- Most art was created on the earth itself
Define the characteristics of religion - Art and ritual objects play an
Rituals & Celebrate & reinforce the central important role in telling of stories and
Ceremonies belief system & structures for that in preserving the sacred laws handed
religion, led by religious leaders down from the past
- Songs and dances function as both art
Sacred texts & Oral &/or written sacred texts,
and narrative’
Writings writings, or other types of stories
which contain rules & direction on - form expressing spiritual belief
how to live as well as prayers &
rituals central to tradition.
DREAMING TELLS OF: CHRISTEANITY
- Beginning = Aboriginal World View - When Jesus was born Romans were in power
- Spirit Beings and their activity over time - Before christeanity it was only a small sect of
- Interconnection and interconnectedness of these Judaism made up of middle and lower class of
beings: how they acted to shape the physical first century Palestine Western Churches were
world in order to affect creates and physical centered in Rin and the Eastern churches was
landscape. centred in Constantinople where the Great
- Influence of these beings on human Schism in 1054 happened due to disagreements
relationships and their relationship with the but compromised when variants developed
world around them. - Practices would be different but ultimately believe
in Jesus Christ and one God
THE DREAMING….
- Allows Aboriginals to understand themselves
and their world
- Shows how the Spirit Beings are responsible for
the shaping of the world, the land, the plants.
- Spirits are present in sacred sites
- Relationships for the values of the people and
set the law for mutual and respectful
cohabitation.

Totem
An object such as an animal, plant or particular
landmark, through which an Australian Indigenous
person is linked to the ancestral being responsible for
his or her existence

Diversity of the Dreaming for Aboriginal peoples

- Great diversity of Aboriginals, hence aren’t
exactly the same but share many common
elements in the Dreaming
- Common to all Aboriginal nations is the belief
in an ancestral spirit who came out of darkness
and created the world’s features
- Totems of each nation differ depending on their
ancestral animal
- Each nation has its own Dreaming and therefore
different ritual actions and ceremonies
Pentecostalism
Reasons for diversity: Origins and It traces its origin from the ‘Oneness
Different Geographical Locations History Pentecostal Movement.’
Dreaming stories are based on geographical features of
the location in which the nation is situated. For this In Australia Adherents are increasing rapidly.
reason, nations closely placed will have more similar → 650 adherents
beliefs
Largest churches in Australia are
Dialects affect the level of communication, in turn Pentecostal Churches.
meaning nations were further divided and the Dreaming E.g.- Riverside Church, Paradise Church,
accounts vary Hillsong.

“More people are attending Pentecostal

 Churches than any other Christian ● Penance
denomination.” ● Holy Communion
● Confirmation
Key The Pentecostal Movement: United ● Matrimony/ Marriage
Movements Protestant Churches in the US. ● Holy Orders
● Anointing of the Sick.
God’s teaching have been preserved and
Organizational Mix of ​Congregational and Presbyterian safeguarded through the guidance of the
Structure systems. Key Beliefs Holy Spirit
→ Operate under their own structures.
→ Elect their own pastors. Dioceses apply this in unity with the pope

Key Beliefs - The Bible is the only source of Eucharist is considered to be the source
truth. and summit of the Christian life
- Salvation is a Gift of God, granted
by faith. Accordingly it plays a central role in the
- Baptism as well as Communion lives of Catholics
are the only accepted sacraments.
- Advent belief in heaven and hell
- Christmas
Key Festivals - Epiphany Catholics believe that faith and good
- Easter deeds are necessary for salvation’
- Ascension Christmas
- Pentecost Advent
Key Festivals Pentecost
Good Friday
Catholicism Easter
The Catholic Church teaches that it is Lent
historically and in terms of its teaching in Holy week
Origins and line and continuity with that of the first
History disciples of Jesus (Peter). It is the largest
and most widespread of all the Christian Orthodoxy
denominations The Orthodox Churches can be split into
There has been a drop in numbers of two different groups known as the Eastern
priests and sisters. Origins and and Orthodox Churches.
In Australia History → The belief that the Church originates
Mainly led by a surge in immigration. → from the Apostolic Community.
People from the Philippines, Vietnam and - Greek is the language of orthodoxy
India. Fourth largest Church in Australia.

Attendance rates have fallen. In Australia There were no Orthodox Christians in

There has been a drop in numbers of Australia during the colonial period.
priests and sisters.
In Australia There are so many different migrant
Mainly led by a surge in immigration. → groups that it is divided between ‘ethnic’
People from the Philippines, Vietnam and lines.
India. Key Derive their beliefs from the sacred
Movements scriptures and the sacred tradition of
Attendance rates have fallen. teaching
Organizational Sacraments:
Structure ● Baptism Orthodoxy places emphasis on
 monasticism Protestantism
It evolved out of the time period when
Organizational Approximately 20 churches is organised the Reformation occurred.
Structure under the leadership Ecumenical Patriarch Origins and
of Constantinople currently all Holiness History
Bartholomew Percentage of people has declined by
about 20%. → smaller percentage in
The clergy hold office in a line of descent In Australia comparison to Catholics.
from the Apostles who are regarded as the
first Priests and Bishops Less British Protestants. → Much larger
numbers of them during the 1950s and
Regard scriptures and tradition to be of 60s.
equal value. Key The Protestant Reformation.
Key Beliefs Movements → Reforming beliefs of the Roman
Belief in unity of God in the trinity of Catholic Church.
persons

Church is a sacred institution founded by Organizational Does not have hierarchical structure.
Jesus Christ to provide for the salvation of Structure → They believe that in order to reach
humankind God, they do not need assistance from a
mediator.
characterized by the chanting of prayers Bible is only source of truth
and the frequent use of incense which
symbolizes the prayers ascending to God Key Beliefs The Pope is the representative head of
Also of great importance is the expression Christ on earth.
of faith contained in the Nicene Creed Advent

Only men may become priests, yet they Key Festivals Christmas
may be married
- Easter Epiphany
- Christmas
Key Festivals - Epiphany Pentecost
- Pentecost
- Dormition(death of Mary), Anglicanism
- Annunciation
Traces back to the Reformation.
- St. Nicholas Day
It was influenced by the theology of Martin
- Orthodox New Year
Origins and Luther.
History King Henry did not want the authority of
Roman Catholic pope in Rome. He
established an independent church in
England.

Anglicanism does not have the Pope as a

central authority.
In Australia
Sydney is predominantly Low Church

Low Church or Evangelical Church has had

considerable historical influence in the
development of religious expression in
 Australia due to the prominence of the - ​How Jesus can be fully human as well as fully
Anglican Church in colonial times in NSW God?
Key Protestantism allows an increased role for - Over emphasising either his divinity or his
Movements women leaders than Catholicism humanity
- Leads to a distorted picture of Jesus Christ
The lambeth conference in 1920 which
Docetism
centralises the use of the bible confirmed
- View that Jesus was fully divine
that it contained everything necessary for
salvation - Not truly human
- - Merely had the appearance of being human
Organizational The focus is on Biblical authority with a - Undermined integrity of the humanity of Jesus
Structure special place held for the Archbishop of - Rejected by orthodox Christians
Canterbury. Arianism
- Belief that Jesus is superior to the rest of
sacraments Baptism and the Lord's Supper creation
- Less divine than God → not actually God
Larger group, High Church Anglican can
- Arius → most influentially espoused this view
be referred to as Anglo Catholic
recognisable difference as they do a number - Jesus was created → could not be eternal
of Roman Catholic ritual and practices - Jesus cannot be equal to God
- Only Father was God
Low Church Anglican, sometimes referred - Son could reveal God to humanity
to as Evangelical Anglicans are more - Led to a divisive dispute in the early Christian
closely aligned with the Protestant tradition Church
with Ministers leading congregations and - Formally resolved by the Council of Nicaea in
worship carried out with very little 325 CE
adornment
→ Jesus was of one substance with the father, fully
Highlights the Apostles Creed and Nicene
divine, fully human
Creed
Key Beliefs Nestorius
HIgh Church use of vestments, incense and - Two separate persons within Jesus → divine
their ministers being known as Priests. and human
- Mary was the mother of the human Jesus but
The Bible contains the core of all Christian not the divine Jesus
faith and thought. - Undermine the integrity of the person of Jesus
- Council of Ephesus 431 CE → reinforced view
celebration of the sacraments ordained by
- Mary is the Mother of God as well as the
Jesus - that of Baptism and Eucharist
mother of the human Jesus
- Advent
- Christmas Holy Trinity
Key Festivals - Epiphany - The Father
- Lent - The Son
- Ascension day - The Holy spirit

THE DIVINITY AND HUMANITY OF JESUS THE NATURE OF GOD AND THE TRINITY
CHRIST
The Father
Christological Controversies
- Raged over the issue of the humanity and
- Person to whom the Eucharistic Liturgy is
divinity of Jesus Christ
addressed
- As the source of all our blessings
 - Helps us remember important moments of - Understanding the relationship between the
salvation history in which the Father was at Father
work
- Helps us remember and celebrate the Father’s REVELATION
gift to us of his Son
- God is revealed to humankind through human
The Son history
- Experiences of human history
- Presence of Christ in the people assembled - Intimately involved with all aspects of human
- Presence of Christ in the celebrating priest or life
bishop - Human beings learn about God through divine
- Presence of Christ in Scripture revelation
- Presence of Christ in the Eucharistic elements - God relates to humankind and all of creation
- God is the source of revelation
Holy Spirit - Provides knowledge of the divine
- Encountered in human experience
- Draws the community into oneness with Jesus
- Takes place through a number of related
Christ
vehicles
- Reveals Christ present in the community
- Reveals Christ present in Scripture Holy Spirit
- Reveals Christ present in the physical signs of
liturgical celebrations - God’s own Spirit dwelling within human beings
- Prepares us for the reception of Christ in the - Enlivens the faith of Christian
liturgy - Knowledge of God
- To make the saving work of Christ real - Paramount in process of revelation
- Inspires and guides Christians
Belief in the Trinity - Inspired the writings of the Bible
- Continues to inspire the Christian Church to
- God is omniscient, omnipotent and omnipresent
teach in
- God is One but embodied in three persons
- fidelity to the truth of the Bible
- Central tenet of Christianit
- God’s promise of salvation has been fulfilled Bible
through life, death and resurrection of Jesus and
the outpouring of the Holy Spirit God is - Revelation communicated is the sacred text
revealed as the trinity - Inspired by God
- Normative text for Christian life
○ God the Father → Hebrew Scriptures - Fundamental and normative text
- Teaching tradition of the Church
○ God the Son → Christian Scriptures
- Church has continually taught in the name of
God
○ God the Spirit → Through the Church
- Inspired by the Holy Spirit
Trinitarian Doctrine - Considerable difference in the understanding of
the importance of this tradition
- Three co-eternal, equal persons in one God
- Difficulty is reconciling monotheism with the Orthodox and Christian → clear emphasis on the role of
notion of the three persons the teaching tradition
Protestant → less emphasis on this role and greater Christians believe it is the inspired word of God
emphasis on the teaching of the Bible and is true

SALVATION WHY IS THE OLD TESTAMENT IMPORTANT TO

CHRISTIANS?
- Human beings require deliverance by God from
the power of Sin ● History of Jewish people and their religious
- Belief that Jesus’ death was important to development
destroy sin ○ Resurrection of the body will ● Creation stories: tell Christians what the first
occur for all at Final Judgement beliefs were about the way God created the
- Gospels record the trial, crucifixion, death, universe.
burial, ● God’s developing relationship with humankind
is recorded in OT: his covenant with Abraham.
resurrection and ascension of Jesus His first rules and commandments etc.
● For many Christians, these scriptures gained
↳ Referred to as his ​PASSION
added importance as they seemed to show that a
figure like Jesus was actually predicted by some
○ As ​HUMAN, ​Jesus was capable of suffering and
of the most important Jewish prophets, like
dying
Isiah.
○ Christians believe that SALVATION​ had been made
WHY IS THE NEW TESTAMENT IMPORTANT TO
available to ​ALL PEOPLE​ and SINS ​were forgiven -
CHRISTIANS?
death of Jesus
GOSPELS
○ Jesus’ resurrection - future resurrection of all people
● Tell everything about life, teachings and the
○ Heart and foundation of Christianity: ↳ Human and person of Jesus.
divinity + death and resurrection + salvation ● Everything about Jesus’ birth and resurrection
come from the gospels.
○ Fully revealed in heaven ● Gospel writers:
● Matthew: wrote specifically for Jewish
○ Obstacles in life Christians and makes a special point of
demonstrating the fulfilment of OT
SACRED WRITINGS
prophecies
● Mark: concerned with Jesus’ teaching.
● The bible is made up of 66 books and is divided
Emphasises his miracles and the idea
into two parts:
that he was the Messiah misunderstood
● The first part, the Old Testament, made
and rejected by the people
up of 39 books written before the time
● Luke: emphasises Christ’s loving
of Jesus
kindness and gives prominence to the
● The second part, the New Testament,
Holy Spirit.
made up of 27 books that were written
● John: emphasises the presence of Jesus
after the life of Jesus and before the end
in the world since the start of creation.
of the 2​nd​ century CE.
● It is important to Christians because it is a
ACTS
source of Christian beliefs, is a guide to life and
contains the word of God, especially as many ● Book that tells after the ascension of Jesus
 ● It tells us when the Holy Spirit first appeared to The Ten ● Decalogue, contained in Old
Jesus’ remaining disciples, and about how the Commandments Testament (Mt Sinai), critical
Jewish persecutor of Christians source of ethical guidance
● Important because it is a record of what the ● Framework for key principles of
disciples went through after Jesus finally left Christian ethics, summary of ethics
them. Helps Christians connect to the lives of the ● Phrased in terms of what is not
first Christians, to share in some of their energy, permissible
the gifts of the holy spirit that can come to them ● Way to guide people – basis for
on Pentecost, and follow the very beginnings of structuring and living the Christian
the Christian faith. life
● Emphasize the importance of
WHY IS THE BIBLE IMPORTANT TO
human life and the need to respect
CHRISTIANS?
family and personal integrity
● Important as it is regarded as the Word of God, ● Appear to be rules, but ​each
divinely inspired, provides commandment highlights key
● Explores the key beliefs and provides ethical values​ which should be part of
guidance Christian life, motivated by love for
● Guidelines for prayer, ritual and worship humanity
● Important as it contains salvation history and an ● E.g. Thou shalt not kill –
account of Jesus’ ministry and God’s power key reflects honesty, truth,
message which can be passed on through the justice and reverence for
Bible human life
● Protestant groups such as Lutherans Bible is ● First three commandments – the
only source of authority worship of God – invite Christians
● Fundamentalists interpret in a literal sense and to love God and believe in God and
base decisions and beliefs on th his goodness
● Last 6 – obligations to neighbour
and society – guidelines for how to
love each other, call Christians to
create communities based on love
of neighbor

The Beatitudes ● 8 blessings Jesus gives during the

Sermon of the Mount in the Gospel
of Matthew
● Consists of two phrases – the
condition and the result. All begin
with “blessed are…” and praises
virtues
CORE ETHICAL TEACHINGS ● Model for Christian life → warns
against and approach which values
only material strength and power,
by pointing to an inversion of
values whereby things regarded as
not having value according to the
 dominant culture are celebrated in which enable adherents to make ​informed
the reign of God moral choices
● E.g. Blessed are the poor in ● The example of the life and ministry of Jesus.
spirit, for theirs is the Christians seek to model their lives on the life
kingdom of heaven and ministry of Jesus and as such the ethical
● Teach that all have a responsibility standards practiced by Jesus in the course of his
to care for others in society life become guides for the actions of Christians.
● E.g. social justice agenda ● Guidance in relation to contemporary ethical
of Christian groups such as issues
Anglicare emerges from ● Generally, Christian ethical teaching in
this text areas such as sexual morality and
bioethics have been in line with
conservative forces in society
Jesus’ ● A summative statement which ● Ethical teaching on issues of economic,
commandment draws together all prior ethical ecological and military significance are
of love teaching more in line with progressive elements
● About God’s love for human beings in society
and their opportunity for salvation
through love of God and neighbor PERSONAL DEVOTION
● Underpins Christians relationship
with God and with each other, two ● Prayer was at the heart of the ministry of Jesus
categories – ​love of God and love of and those who follow Jesus seek to also live a
neighbor life of prayer.
● Love is seen as a fulfilment of the ● Sabbath or Sunday service which is the focal
law as love is the essential quality point for the life of the community.
which gives meaning to all other
virtues THE LORD'S PRAYER
● Love of neighbor taken to a new Importance
level – Christians called to model
their lives on the love of Jesus ● Also known as the Our Father.
which in itself fulfils the ● This prayer is taken from the occasion in the
requirement of love gospel where the disciples ask Jesus to teach
● To love one another, as God sees them to pray.
each person → love as the ● It is used throughout all Christian
identifying characteristic of denominations and is commonly included in
Christian life, commandment liturgy as well as personal prayer.
conveys the requirement to love ● For example, the word “hallowed be thy name”
can be seen to represent praise.
● “Give us this day our daily bread” can be seen
to stand for prayers of petition.
IMPORTANCE OF ETHICAL TEACHINGS ON ● “Forgive us our trespasses” can be seen to
ADHERENTS indicate a prayer of repentance.

● Christians place considerable value on the THE ROSARY

ethical teaching in determining their response to
a wide range of issues – ​provide guidance ● Prayer which draws heavily on biblical texts.
 ● The Rosary is organised into 5 decades each ● In this way they pray seeking to gain greater
containing 10 recitations of the prayer known as insight into the meaning of the passage and
the “Hail Mary” deepen their understanding of the Christian way
● Each decade is begun with the Lord’s prayer ● Personal Devotion
and concludes with a short prayer of praise ● Traditional and Formal Prayers
known as the “Glory Be” ● Informal and Spontaneous Prayers
● In the course of each decade of the Rosary, the ● Morning and Evening Prayer
person praying is encouraged to meditate on one ● Prayers of Intercession and Petition
of the “mysteries” ● Prayers of Reflection and Meditation
● These are organised into four groups and are ● Bible Reading and Reflection
based on events in the life of Jesus. ● Prayers of Praise and Thanksgiving
● School of Prayer and Spirituality
Intention of the Rosary
ISLAM
● The intention of the Rosary is that a person can
meditate on the events of the life of Jesus from EVENT DETAILS
the perspective of Mary the mother of Jesus.
This approach takes its inspiration from the 570CE ● He gave them hope and peace for
biblical text where Mary is described as Birth of the Arabia
pondering events in her heart (Luke 3:51) ● Born in the year 570 in Mecca
Prophet
known now as Saudi Arabia
INFORMAL AND SPONTANEOUS PRAYER Muhammad ● Islam began during the seventh
century CE in the Arabian
● Christians across a range of denominations use Peninsular
a variety of informal and spontaneous forms of ● M. mother Aminah died when he
pray for different occasions and times. was a young child
● Raised by his uncle Abu Talib who
MORNING AND EVENING PRAYER was a wealthy Merchant
595CE ● Accepts arranged marriage with
● Christians have been traditionally taught to Muhammad’ Khadija → wea;thy
begin and end each day with prayer and s marraige ● Had six children with Khadija
● Kadija was 50 and he was 25 when
accordingly the pattern of morning and evening
she proposed
prayer is widely followed.
610CE ● Mountain of light
● Typically, a morning prayer is one of dedication Muhammad’ ● Enveloped by a divine presence
to God. s first vision ● Voice said recite
● It often also includes petitions relating to events ● Woken from sleep from terrifying
in the coming day or pressing matters of presence
concern. ● Felt new words of Arabic scripture
● Evening prayer or night prayer is typically a come out of his mouth
prayer of thanksgiving for God’s providence ● Islam had come into being
● Ran out of the cave
during the day.
● Feared he was possessed
● Muhammad had heard poetry
BIBLE READING AND REFLECTION
● Khadija thought it would be best
for them to go to someone who
● When using the bible as an aid to prayer
knew about these thing (her cousin
Christians seek to find inspiration and guidance
Waraka)
through the words of scripture. ● May be message from God
 ● Warakka said Muhammed is the SHEPHERDS AND MERCHANTS
prophet and it wouldn’t be easy Local tribes lived semi-nomadic lives and were
● He was a messenger of God predominantly engaged as shepherds or in servicing the
● Proclaim message of Allah well-established trade routes.
619CE ● After spending considerable time Shepard tribes were small and scattered, moving
Night in prayer and spiritual searching
livestock between the desert oases where they could find
Journey and Muhammad experienced the night
feed for their animals.
Ascension of power "Laylat-ul-Qadr
● Felt a great weight descend oh him
and sweated profusely MAKKAH AND MADINAH
● Had to work hard to see what Makkah is about 80km from the Red Sea and lies
divine connection was coming between the Mediterranean city of Gaza to the north and
through the city of Aden on the Indian Ocean to the south
● Society acquired credibility this Madinah is more than 300km further to the north.
can not be the words of a man Makkah was a city founded on the trade routes between
● Revelation was presented to
the Indian ocean coastal towns and the great cities of
society of professional memorisers
Syria and Egypt.
and whatever the words
Muhammed had spoken they
world take note and memorise SACRED CITY OF MAKKAH
these words Had significant status in religious terms due to the
● Muhammed perfect act of presence of the Ka’ba which had become a significant
surrender to divine was made centre for religious devotion.
● Followers, slaves, women on the
outskirts followed him early on WORSHIP AT THE KA’BA
● Women were given and had
Most powerful tribe were the merchants known as the
adopted inheritance right, divorce
‘Quarish’
rights
● Khadija was a working women Wealth and power allowed them to control much of the
● He was asleep and woken up by economy in Makkah
Grabiel
● One night her was a sleep and was MUHAMMAD AS A MODEL FOR MUSLIM LIFE
mounted on to a magical steed - Muslims place great significance on the
● Moved him to Mecca to Jerusalem prophet’s actions and wisdom
and meets Jesus John the Baptist, - Devoted to prayer and spiritual searching
Mathew
throughout his life and even before the night of
● Ascended to heaven and meets
power → example for Muslims who make
various prophets of the past
● Enters the divine prayer a central part of their lives (reflected in
● Mecca to Yathrib because fear of the pillar of Salat)
assasination - Showed his trust in Allah, for example through
● Tribe warfare was constant and his migration with his followers from Mecca to
intense Medina → example of Muslim life
● People of Yathrib let the muslims
become honorary tribe member - Values of wisdom, faith, patience and social
justice (given the title of ‘Al-Amin’ the trusted
BEGINNINGS OF ISLAM one) → example to Muslims of how to maintain
Began during 7th century CE on the Arabian Peninsula relationship with Allah
in the modern day Kingdom of Saudi Arabia - Proved himself a capable leader → under his
Dominated by sandy dunes. leadership the Muslim community had many
 strong characteristics such as integrity, sexual GOOD AND EVIL - JURISPRUDENCE
morality, just and fair dealings and care for the - Choices are often influenced by the emotions
poor and desires and the selfish impulses of the nafs
- Last Prophet of God - The grey area of human action, we need
- Transmitter of God’s revelation (Qur’an) independent sources to guide us towards
- Representative and teacher of God’s revelation goodness such as the
- Servant of God Qur’an: word of God,
-Perfect human being in moral behavior and wisdom the Sunnah: which are the core legal and ethical sources,
CALIPH Qiyas: analogical reasoning,
Caliph - men who followed in Muhammad’s footsteps Jima:consensus of scholars.
and oversaw the consolidation and expansion of his
empire ○ Fiqh (jurisprudence) - product of the human attempt
to understand God’s will
PRINCIPLES OF ISLAMIC ETHICS ○ Shariah is slumped up under four broad
- Islam covers comprehensive law, ethics and categories:
morality ↳ Aqidah - creed
→ defines muslims’ relationship with ↳ Ibadah - religious worship and practices
themselves then natural and human environment ↳ Akhlaq - morality and ethics
- Aqidah: creed and beliefs ↳ Muamalah - human relations
- Ibadah: religious worship and practices Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence
- Akhlaq: morality and ethics ○ There is an overall purpose of Islamic law
- Muamalah: human relations ○ Law and ethics must protect the following
basic
ROLE OF HUMAN BEINGS IN ETHICS human rights:
- Ethics is a discipline dealing with what is good ↳ Life - every person has a right to live in safety
and bad and the moral duty of obligation and earn his or her livelihood
- Having good influences that surround you will ↳ Property - owning and preserving one’s
help keep you on an ethical path personal property is a fundamental right
↳ Human mind - no one, including the sel,
A human being : society and state, should coerce or remove the
- Has been honoured with goodness→ capability ability to think freely
to recognise goodness and virtue ↳ Belief and religion - no compulsion in religion
- Is created in the best composition → has the and every person has a right to keep and pass
capacity to excel amongst humanity their religion to future generations
- Created as a caretaker on earth→ duty of ↳ Family and lineage - humans have the right to
upholding goodness and righteousness raise a family
- Given the trust → self awareness and freedom ○ Muslim jurists also take into account
of choice important
- Has a nafs→ egotistical soul, all human evil is a methodical principles that are utilised when
product of the unpurified nafs addressing ethical problems
→ it is the sense of human failings ↳ Everything is allowed (h​alal​) unless otherwise
→ Human nature stated
↳ If there are options, select the one easiest for
people
↳ Prevention of harm has greater priority that
achieving benefit
 ↳ That which leads to ​haram ​(prohibited) is also - Scholars have deduced from the Qur’an
haram and the Sunnah orearching purposed
↳ Prefer lesser of the two evils and five basic human right that need to
↳ Doubt does not remove the certainty be protected by law
↳ That which is necessary to achieve an - Must ultimately lead to Justice, beauty
obligation is obligatory and mercy
1. Life: Every person has a right to live in safety
The Qur’an and earn his or her livelihood
○ Primary source of God’s relevance 2. Property: Owning and preserving one’s personal
○ Sourcebook of Islamic principles and values property is a fundamental right
The Sunnah and Hadith 3. Mind- no one, including self, society and state
○ Words, actions and approvals of the Prophet should remove the ability to think freely
Muhammad as the messenger of God 4. Family- humans have the right to raise a family
○ Thousands of hadith report collectively make 5. Religion- there is no compulsion in religion and
up the body of the Sunnah every person has a right to keep and pass their
Ijma ​- consensus among religious leaders religion to future generations
○ Consensus of the community of scholars over
a solution to a legal and practical issue is the LAW, PUBLIC MORALITY AND INDIVIDUAL
third source of the law CONSCIENCE
- Human action has consequences not only for the
Process of Islamic Jurisprudence individual but for society as well
1. First step in the process of discernment is the - Muslims seek balance between law, public
Qur’an. morally and individual conscience
○ Authority that places limits on the decisions - Islam lays responsibility to the individual whose
of other authorities conscience becomes a compass for the right and
○ Not possible for a judgement to be accepted if wrong.
it clearly contravenes an aspect of the Qur’an - Islam’s emphasis on belief in the All-Knowing
2. Hadith and Sunna God and trial in the afterlife gives a Muslim
○ Traditions convey the words and actions of great motive to do the right thing as “good
Muhammad deeds” are directly linked to human salvation.
○ Consider these traditions to be particular - Since people live as a community, one cannot
valuable where the Qur’an is not explicit or assume full independent existence. Just as we
detailed in a given area all benefit to make our lives easier by being part
○ Most influential of these traditions are known of a community, all of our actions or inactions
as the sacred hadiths or ​hadith qudsi​ - regarded impact on the community in a positive or a
as part of the revelation of Allah and are negative manner.
communicated in the words of the Prophet
3. The process of Islamic jurisprudence is
known as fiqh (knowledge or understanding)
○ Process of studying the shari’ah in a scholarly
way - relating the legal practice to the revelation
of the Qur’an and the traditions of the Prophet

AIMS OF LAW AND ETHICS

 - Created beings who can die
- They are not devine
- Not to be worshipped to
- Carry out God's commands
PRINCIPLE BELIEFS - No fallen angels, Not divided into good or evil
BELIEF IN ALLAH - Humans do not become angels after death
- belief in one true God - Created before humans
- God doesn’t need to prove himself the - They are of different size, status,merit
individual must have faith - Greatest Angel Gabriel
Belief in God consists of four matters: - Relays God's message to the prophets
1. Belief in God existence - Only God knows how many angels there are
2. God is the supreme Lord - Can take on different formas
3. God alone is entitled to worship - Each angel has their own task
4. God is known by his most beautiful names and - Angel Michael is responsible for rain, directing
attributes it whenever god wishes
- God’ existence is known by answers to prayers
- Miracles of prophets and the teachings in all BELIEF IN THE PROPHETS - RISALAH
revealed scriptures - Prophet Muhammed was the last prophet
- Human are not born sinful but they are - There's a prophet for each nation
forgetful - There is no others channel to receive divine
- God is supreme Lord communication
- He decides what is wrong and right - God Chose the best of all humanity to send his
- Angels, prophets, Human beings, and the message
animal and plant kingdoms are under his control - Noah, Abraham, Jesus and Muhummed superior
- God is the supreme lawgiver prophets
- Sets standards of human interaction and - God conveys his message through the prophets
behaviour - Rejecting the prophets is rejecting the one who
- He is the only one that can be worshipped sent him (God)
- Worship in Islam consists of every act, belief, - Told the people to believe in the one true God
statement or sentiment of the heart which God - Link between earthly being and heaven
approves and loves. - Receive message through angels
- Needs to be worshiped by the body, soul and - Chose morally upright men
heart. - Adam, Noah, Abraham, Isaac, Ishmael, David,
- It is incomplete if it is done without four Solomon ,Moses, Jesus and Muhammed
elements: Reverential fear of God, divine love prophets
and adoration, hope in divine reward and - No prophet will be after Muhammed
extreme humility Purpose of sending prophets
- Shirk (Worshiping someone besides Allah) is - Guiding humanity
the only unforgivable sin if not repented from - Clarifying to humanut the purpose of reaction
and it denies the very purpose if creation - Showing humanity the right path will lead the to
- Respect him through his names, names are also paradise
attribute e.g Al- Aleem - all knowing - Uncovering the unseen world which exists
beyond normal senses
- Providing humans with practical examples to
lead moral, righteous, purpose driven lives free
BELIEF IN ANGELS - MALAIKAH of doubt and confusion
 - Purifying the soul from materialism and sin - Hell is an infernal place of punishments and
- Conveying to humany the teaching of God purification
- Chosen prophets were mentally and physically
fit with the best morals BELIEF IN THE DIVINE DECREE
- Were rejected and accused of being sorcerers, - Belief in the books of God
madmen, and liars - God is revealed through the Holy Scriptures and
- Fully human had no divine attributes books through God's messages
- Sent them as an example to humanity 4 Holy Books
1. Qu’ ran
BELIEF IN LIFE AFTER DEATH - AKHIRA 2. Torah
- Islam views death to be a natural threshhold to 3. Zabur
the next stage of existence 4. Injil/gospel
- Islmaic doctrine holds that the human existence 5. Hadith
continues in the form of spiritual and physical - Each person is responsible for their own actions
resurrection - Belief in the divine decree strengthens one’s
- The afterlife will be one of rewards and belief in God
punishments - You should trust and rely on God
- A day will come where he will judge whether - Whoever refuses God's perfection denies
hell or paradise is deserving for the individual knowledge and wisdom
- Justice will be served on the day of Judgement - God has eternal Foreknowledge
- Faith in life after death is one of the six SACRED TEXTS AND WRITINGS
fundamental beliefs required of a Muslim to THE QUR’AN:
complet his faith The Qur’an is the fundamental text for all Muslims.
- Rejecting it renders all other beliefs → Contains revelation of Allah, complete and unaltered
meaningless Revealed to Muhammed and he was told to ‘recite.’
- The acceptance or rejection of life after death is
perhaps the greatest factor in determining the SUPREME AUTHORITY:
course of an individual’s life → Prominent in every aspect of Muslim life and its
- Muslims believe that, upon dying a person authority is supreme and unquestioned.
enters an intermediate phase of life between Regarded as Holy book and treated with utmost respect.
death and resurrection The Qur’an is not to be placed on the ground and never
- Trial takes place where everyone is questioned touched unnecessarily.
by Angels about their religion, prophet and Lord When being read, it is placed on a ‘kursi’ (low stool).
- Grave is either a gard on paradise or a pit of hell
- A horn will be blown upon where people will SURAHS:
rise up from their graves → Organised into 114 Surahs or chapters.
- A universal gathering will occur Order of the Qur’an today is not the same in which the
- Great Plain of Gathering where people will revelations were received.
placed in unbearable conditions will ask for Order is according to an instruction given to Prophet
mercy where they will be reminded of their Muhammad.
good deeds and sins and God will judge his Each Surah has a name linked to a feature/word
creation contained in it.
- The SIRAT is a bridge that will be established
over hell extending to paradise HAFIZ:​ ​→ A person who knows the whole Qur’an off
- Conveys higher level of divine justice by heart.
- Paradise is eternal physical and spiritual delight Muhammad was not literate so he had to commit to the
Qur’an to memory. Traditions of Muhammad can prove to be useful
Muslims believe that to hear the Qur’an read aloud is a substitute.
blessing → encouraged to recite.
Many of his companions committed the entire Qur’an to COLLECTIONS:
memory. → After Muhammad’s death:
Traditions began in relation to his life
P​ROTOCOLS: Traditions came in collections and this became the basis
→ When the Qur’an is being read, people must remain of Hadiths.
silent. 600, 000 hadiths were known to have existed. → some
No food or drink consumed, noise should be avoided. were of course false and dubious.
Before reading from the Qur’an, a person must bathe or ➢ Strengths and weaknesses
wash carefully to ensure they are properly disposed with ➢ Caliphate - how long they ruled for
the appropriate attitude. (Symbolically cleansing ➢ Caliph: deputy/ representative → believed
yourself) to be successors of Prophet Muhammad.
Women are not permitted to read the Qur’an when
CALIPH:
menstruating.
Abu Bakr
If the Qur’an is not being used, it must be in an elevated Caliphate: 632 -634CE
position as it is the word of Allah. ● Muhammad’s father in law and regarded as
his successor/ senior companion (Shahabah)
THE HADITH: ● Was a military strategist
The term “hadith” means that of which has been ● He always put his fortune into the service of
recounted or told. the community (‘Umma’)
- Refers to collection of traditions of words & ● Ruled over Rashidun Caliphate from
deeds of Muhammad. 632-634 CE → First Muslim Caliph
Two types of hadiths: ● Only individual allowed to accompany
- Prophetic Hadiths and known as Sacred Muhammad during the Hijra (marks
Hadiths. formation of first community of Muslims)
- Sacred Hadiths or Hadith Qudsi are regarded as ● He pacified and united the Muslim tribes
the most important. ● After Muhammad died, he was left to
Believed to not only reveal tradition of Prophet restore stability amongst the people who
Muhammad but to also convey something about the broke into a widespread revolt.
nature of Allah.
● → This took a lot of effort and a lot of
resources were used.
● As Muhammad’s companions who
CHAINS:
memorised the Qu’ran were killed too, Abu
Process of authentication tracing back to emergence
Bakr needed to start the process leading to
back to someone who had actually been with the the first written version of the Qu’ran.
Prophet. ● He succeeded to the political and
→ Line of transmission, provenance administrative functions previously
Authors make sure that it is authenticated so that words exercised by the Prophet.
of the Prophet are not falsified. ● Suppressed uprisings of political rebellions
(‘Riddah’)
● Defeated rebellion of various Arab tribes in
USE OF HADITH: a campaign which unified all of the Arabian
→ Proved invaluable to Muslim communities in peninsula.
addressing an issue not explicitly covered by the → Allowed him to launch campaigns
Qur’an. against the Persian and Byzantine Empire.
● Later called ‘Al-Siddiq’ (The Truthful)
 ● Began the definitive version of the Qur’an
Umar ○ Uthman decided that in 644 CE, he
Caliphate: 634- 644CE would begin the establishment of the
● Was a friend and companion of the Prophet canonical Qur’an
● When he became the second Caliph he ○ He began to collate previous
adopted the title commander of the recitations, both written and verbal
Believers ■ However, some of the verbal
● He Extended Islams Temporal rule over to recitations were lost as the
Syria, Iraque, Egypt and Persia people who knew them died
Temporal power refers to the state politically rather in battle
than a spiritual Authority ○ This was done under the supervision
● He took purely a military stance and was a of Zayd ibn Thabit, the scribe of
victory for them Muhammad — he selected which
● Muslim state conquered territories with a recitations were to be part of the
tolerance almost unheard of in that age canonical Qur’an
● This type of tolerance was not unusual of ● He extended the empire eastward before
Islam tribal factionalism and threat of rebellion
● Within four years after M. had died a battle resurfaced
during a sandstorm occurred blunted the ○ People from other tribes wanted
power of the Byzantines – whose ruler power and often went to violent
Heraclius who not long before rejected a measures to gain it — as a result
letter from the unknown Prophet of Arabia. ‘Uthman’s rule was under threat of a
● Byzantine was ready to surrender and so rebellion by other tribes
had to go through Jerusalem to surrender in ● Originally, Ali was to be the caliph after
person Umar however he did not accept the
● Umar astounded the public when he set decisions of the two previous caliphs, Abu
their fears at rest by negotiating a generous Bakr and Umar.
treaty stating As a result Uthman became caliph in his stead
“ In the name of God … you have complete ● The Uthman caliphate was controversial
security for your churches which shall not be He was accused of nepotism — he gave those in his
occupied by the Muslims or destroyed.” clan key positions in society
● To get the support need he was able to get ■ Nepotism — the practice
the Muslims to tolerate Christians and Jews among those with power or
but removed the primary case for influence of favouring
destruction relatives or friends,
● Served for 10 years especially by giving them
● Had victory over the persian Empire as the jobs
battle of Nivahavand also known as They way he managed Egypt was cruel and harsh
conquests of conquests it sealed the fate of ■ As such, the Egyptians
Persia by becoming one of the most resented him
important provinces in the Muslim Empire ■ They fought for fairer
● Known for his Justice, administration, treatment but were publicly
social ideals and statesmanship renounced by Uthman
● Died of Assasination ■ As a result of such treatment, Uthman was
Uthman murdered by Egyptian assassins
Caliphate: 644-652 CE (ended by murder)
● Chosen by ‘Umar’s council of six — Umar
Strengths Weaknesses
selected a committee of six to select the
next caliph
 ● Charitable and ● Did not have as much
modest political strength as
his predecessors
He earned the favour of
Muhammad He was often told what to
do by his relatives in the
Earned prominence in Banu Umayya Clan —
early Islamic this made the people he
community ruled over resistant to his
rule as they knew he
wasn’t making these
decisions by himself

Ali
Caliphate: 656 - 661 CE
Shahadah “There is no God by Allah, and Muhammad
● Son - in - law of Muhammad. Fervently Declaration is his messanger.”
devoted religious disciple of Faith
● Ali was about 5 years old when he was Muslim recites this they proclaim:
taken into the household of the Prophet Mu Recited 3 ● Allah is the only God, Muhammad is
● Two opposition movements challenged times in his prophet.
Ali’s authority ( One, led by the prophet’s front of ● Personally accept this as true.
widow A’isha ( daughter of Abu Bakr) was witnesses ● They will obey all the commitments
defeated at the Battle of the Camel in 656 out loud of Islam in their life.
CE, the other led by the nephew of
“Uthman, Mu’awiya”. After a battle and
arbitration that both proved indecisive in Salat Daily prayers
657 CE a group broke with ‘Ali and called Daily Interrupts daily activities to keep believers
themselves the Kharijites. Prayers mindful of God Allah in the midst of
Occurs 5 everyday life.
● In 661 CE ‘Ali was assassinated by the
times a day
Khaijites and Mu'awiya claimed the
Prayed in 5 sets:
caliphate. Salat al-fajr: ​dawn
● During the Caliphate of ‘Ali the internal Salat al-zuhr: ​midday
tensions in the Mulisms community came to Salat al-’asr:​ late afternoon
a head resulting in a kind of civil war and Salat al- maghrib: ​dusk
political upheaval which ultimately split Salat al-’isha: ​between sunset and midnight
Muslim allegianaces. Prayers sets the rhythm of the day:
● Mu’awiya was chosen to succeed him, ● Provides pattern to their day.
however, given the split in allegiances, the Prayers of body, mind and soul:
caliphate of Mu’awiya and those that ● Not just phrases to be spoken.
followed are not regarded in the same light ● Involves uniting mind, soul & body
as the four rightly guided caliphs. in worship.
● The division that surfaced during the time ● Muslims perform a series of set
of Ali’s caliphate are basis for the existence movements that go with these
of the Shi'a and Sunni groups in Islam prayers.
EXPRESSION OF FAITH ● Make sure that they have the correct
FIVE PILLARS mindset before praying. →
concentrating exclusively on God.
Zakat The act of worship and thanksgiving break or open the fast with dates or
Almsgiving ● Redistribution of wealth water, following the example of
● Traditionally, Muslims give Muhammad before eating a proper
2.5% of their wealth. meal. ​(iftar)
● Almsgiving to disadvantaged ● Evening meals are occasions for
members of community family.
especially at the end of
Ramadan brings awareness Eid ul- Fitr:
that Muslims hold in trust Month of Ramadan ends with this festival
what belongs to God. ● People dress up and visit mosque for
● Form of submission to God. prayer.
● Means of freeing oneself from ● Additional times of prayer known as
attachment to worldly possessions. tarawih​ (Friday)
● Frees people from greed.
● Helps believers to be constantly
aware of God’s presence.
Hajj Muslims of every ethnic group, social status,
Sawm Muslims are required to fast during Ramadan, Pilgrimage culture, colour gather in Mecca and stand
Fasting the 9th month of the Islamic calendar. before the Kaaba praising Allah together. →
● During 29/30 days of Ramadan, adult Physically & financially able adult Muslims
Muslims must give up (daylight required to make this pilgrimage.
hours): ● Takes place during 12th month of
● Food/ drinks Muslim calendar ​“Dhul-Hijjah.”
● Smoking, including passive ● Ritual designed to promote bonds of
smoking Islamic brotherhood & sisterhood
● Sexual activity showing that everyone is equal in the
Muslims that are physically or mentally eyes of Allah.
unwell are excused as well as those under 12. ● Allows Muslims to feel real
● If an adult does not fast for these importance of life on earth and the
reasons, they should make up for it afterlife as it strips away the markers
by fasting later or making a donation of social status, wealth and pride.
to the poor. ● People who attend must have the
Good reasons for this fast: maturity and soundness of mind.
● Obeying God ● Intention known as ​niyyah​ is
● Learning self- discipline important. → Allah judges them on
● Becoming spiritually stronger their intentions.
● Appreciating God’s gifts to us ● Hajjs or pilgrims wear simple white
● Sharing sufferings of the poor and clothes called ​Ihram.
developing sympathy for them ● Pilgrims perform acts of
● Realising the value of charity and worship and renew a sense of
generosity purpose in the world.
● Giving thanks for the Holy Qur’an
which was revealed in month of
SUNNI-SHI”ITE DIVIDE
Ramadan.
● Sharing fellowship with other ○ Political polarisation during Ali’s tenure eventually
Muslims. lead to the Sunni-Shi’ite orientations
↳ Main issue was the idea of justice on the murder of
Eating in Ramadan: Uthman. While Ali wanted absolute justice, others were
Many Muslims will try to eat a large meal content with relative justice
called ​suhur​ before dawn. ○ Debate over whether caliphs represented religious and
● When daylight is over, most will political authority produced further rifit
 ↳ Shi’ites believed caliph must have both whereas
Mandum, ● Compliance earns spiritual
Sunnis saw that caliphs were not perfect therefore only Mustahib or reward but no punishment is
scholars represent the religion Sunnah inflicted for failure.
○ Opposition to Umayyad rule (681-750) E.g.- giving alms to the poor,
attending the sick.
○ Sunni
↳ Name derives from Sunnat al-nabi (custom of 3 Permitted Neither forbidden nor recommended
Halal (ja’iz) gives option with no liability.
the prophet
● Majority of school of law
■ Means traditionalist permit contraception.
↳ Accepts authority and leadership of the Four rightly ● Polygamy is permitted if man
guided caliphs and their community appointed is able to provide equally to
successors each wife.

VIRTUES 4 Reprobated Actions advised against but not

Makruh forbidden.
The principal ethical teachings of Islam can be
● Preferable not to commit
summarised in virtues which Muslims are expected to
them but no punishment or
display: moral blame.
- love of Allah E.g.- Divorce, being cruel to animals.
- humility
- modesty 5 Prohibited Binding demand to abandon
- naturalness Haram something.
- selflessness E.g.- blasphemy, stealing, killing,
eating pork, drinking alcohol.
- Jihad.
Muhammad referred to two kinds of Jihad: Sacred Texts and Beliefs “Aquida”
The greater Jihad​ is an internal struggle against Q. 2. 87
temptations and things that are wrong. Risalah/ Rusu(lulah): Belief in the Prophets
The lesser Jihad is the external struggle of fighting We gave Musa the Book and followed him up with a
against oppression. succession of Apostles: We gave Isa the son of
Maryam clear signs and strengthened him with the
T​his second kind of Jihad ​is the use of physical force as Holy Spirit.
a defensive action, taken as a last resort to fight against
the physical oppression of the Muslim community. It is Q. 112
not a call for Muslims to fight against non-Muslims in Tawhid: Belief in Allah
defence of Islam He is Allah, the One, Allah is Eternal and Absolute.
None is born of Him, He is unborn. There is none
like unto Him.

Q. 6. 61
Malaikah: Belief in Angels
He sends forth guardians to watch over you and when
death overtakes you, the messengers will carry away
your soul
Five categories of Ethics & Law
Hadith
1 Obligatory Binding demands from lawgiver, e.g.- Akhira: Belief in day of Judgement
Wajib The Five Pillars On the Day of Judgement no step of a servant of
Allah shall slip until he has answered concerning four
2 Recommended Demands that are not binding.
things: his body and how he used it; his life and how
he spent it; his wealth and how he earned it; his
knowledge and what he did with it.