Download Islam terms

ISLAM
Terms
Caliphs
military, political and religious leaders
Hajj
The journey to Mecca Muslims are to take once in a lifetime. (5th Pillar)
Hijra
The emigration of Muhammad and his followers from Mecca to Medina.
Considered the beginning of the faith.
Imam
Spiritual leader for the Shi’i branch.
Jihad
(exertion or effort) the struggle to defend the faith and/or Qur’an.
“Holy War”
Ka’ba
Cubical structure in courtyard of “The Great Mosque” in Mecca.
Holy center of the universe.
Mosque
Place of prayer and worship. Traditionally includes a prayer hall,
courtyard and minarets (“call to prayer” towers)
Qur’an
Islam’s sacred text. Regarded to be the direct word of Allah through the
angel Gabriel to Muhammed.
Ramadan
The 9th month of the Islamic calendar. Period of prayer and fasting.
Shahada
The confession of faith; ”There is no god but Allah and Muhammad is his
prophet.”
Shi’i
(Branches)
Minority section of Islam. Imam has a strong influence. Qur’an should be
the political and religious guide. (Iran &Iraq)
Sufi
Mystical and spiritual sect of Islam. Believes one can have a direct
experience of Allah. Very liberal. Often rejected by other Muslims.
Sunni
Major Division of Islam (85-90%). Sunna “established custom” follows
the life and example of Muhammad as recorded in the Qur’an (hadith)