The Rise and Spread of Islam: A Brief History and Beliefs

Unit 5: The rise of Islam

First Christianity happened then Came ISLAM

History • Muhammad (570 - 632) lived in a polytheistic Arab society • One day, the angel Gabriel tells him to spread the word of God • Muhammad teaches monotheism

religion is called Islam, and followers are called Muslims • Muslims believe Muhammad is the last and greatest Prophet • Islam spreads across Arabian Peninsula soon after Muhammad’s death

The Spread of Islam

Islam Spreads • The Qur’an Prohibits Muslims from forcing others to accept their religion • Muslim rulers were tolerant of other religions • Why did people convert to Islam? • It was appealing • They wouldn’t have to pay the non-muslim tax • You would be treated better

Islam Splits • There is conflict under Ruling Muslim family, the Umayyads • Islam breaks into two main sects: • Shi’as Opposed Umayyad Rule • Sunnis did not oppose Umayyad • Today, most people are Sunni

Muslim Distribution Map

Practice of Islam • the five pillars– 5 duties Muslims must perform to show their acceptance of Allah

1)Faith • A Muslim must believe in no god but Allah and no prophet but Muhammad

2)Prayer • A Muslim must pray to Allah, facing Mecca, 5 times every day.

3)Alms • A Muslim must give alms, or money for the poor, through a tax.

4)Fasting • A Muslim must fast during the holy month of Ramadan. • Muslims eat only one meal a day, after sunset, every day during this month.

5)Pilgrimage • A Muslim should perform the hajj – a trip to the holy city of Mecca – at least once in his or her life.

The Rise and Spread of Islam: A Brief History and Beliefs