IGCSE Islamic Studies Notes
The Life and Importance of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
- Birth and Early Life: Born in 570 CE in Mecca; orphaned early; raised by grandfather Abdul
Muttalib and uncle Abu Talib.
- Prophethood: First revelation in 610 CE at Mount Hira through Angel Jibreel. Called people to
monotheism and denounced idol worship.
- Migration (Hijrah): Moved to Medina in 622 CE due to persecution in Mecca; established the first
Islamic state.
- Battles: Fought key battles such as Badr, Uhud, and Khandaq to defend the Muslim community.
- Last Sermon: Delivered during Hajj, emphasizing equality, justice, and adherence to the Quran and
Sunnah.
- Death: Passed away in 632 CE in Medina.
Pillars of Islam
- Shahadah: Declaration of faith - 'There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.'
- Salah: Five daily prayers to establish connection with Allah.
- Zakah: Obligatory charity to purify wealth and assist the needy.
- Sawm: Fasting during Ramadan to develop self-discipline and empathy for the poor.
- Hajj: Pilgrimage to Mecca, mandatory once in a lifetime for those financially and physically able.
Articles of Faith
- Tawhid: Belief in the Oneness of Allah.
- Angels (Mala'ika): Created from light, messengers of Allah (e.g., Jibreel, Israfeel).
- Books: Belief in divine scriptures - Torah, Psalms, Gospel, Quran (final and unaltered).
- Prophets (Nabi): Belief in all prophets, ending with Muhammad (PBUH).
- Day of Judgment: Accountability for deeds; eternal reward or punishment.
- Al-Qadr (Divine Decree): Belief in predestination - Allah's control over everything.
The Quran
- Revelation: Revealed over 23 years; preserved in its original form.
- Themes: Monotheism, guidance for life, stories of previous nations, ethics, and morality.
- Structure: 114 Surahs, divided into Meccan (spiritual guidance) and Medinan (laws and
community).
- Role: Primary source of Islamic law (Shariah) alongside the Sunnah.
The Sunnah
- Definition: Practices, sayings, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Importance: Explains and complements the Quran. An essential source of guidance.
- Hadith Collections: Sahih Bukhari, Sahih Muslim, Sunan Abu Dawood, etc.
Islamic Moral and Ethical Teachings
- Kindness and Justice: Treat everyone fairly, including non-Muslims.
- Respect for Parents: Importance of obedience and care.
- Charity: Encouraged to help the poor and less fortunate.
- Prohibition of Haram: Avoiding forbidden acts like lying, stealing, and harming others.
- Environmental Stewardship: Responsible use and care for Allah's creation.
Islamic Practices
- Wudu (Ablution): Purification before prayer.
- Adhan (Call to Prayer): Summons Muslims to prayer.
- Eid Celebrations:
- - Eid ul-Fitr: End of Ramadan.
- - Eid ul-Adha: Commemoration of Prophet Ibrahim's (AS) sacrifice.
- Funeral Rites: Simple burial, prayers for the deceased, and emphasis on humility.
Key Figures in Islam
- Prophet Ibrahim (AS): Father of Monotheism; built the Kaaba.
- Prophet Musa (AS): Brought the Torah to the Israelites.
- Prophet Isa (AS): Received the Gospel; Muslims believe in his return.
- The Sahaba: Companions of the Prophet who spread Islam.
Challenges Faced by Early Muslims
- Persecution by Quraysh in Mecca.
- Boycott of the Muslims in Shib Abi Talib.
- Migration to Abyssinia and Medina for protection.
- Wars against oppressors (Badr, Uhud, Khandaq).
Contemporary Issues
- Islamic Family Law: Rights and responsibilities of spouses, inheritance laws.
- Role of Women: Equal spiritual status, contributions to society.
- Interfaith Relations: Principles of dialogue, coexistence, and respect.
- Social Justice: Emphasis on equality and helping marginalized groups.
Tips for Exam Preparation
- Focus on understanding key concepts and their applications.
- Memorize important Quranic verses and Hadiths relevant to topics.
- Practice past papers and structure answers clearly with references.
