Islam: Important Concepts and Vocabulary Terms
Islam
SLM
Jinn
Muhammad
Allah
Kaaba
The Black Stone
Quraish
Qur'an/Koran
The Five Pillars of Faith (Confession, Prayer, Charity, Fasting, Pilgrimage)
Hajj
Ramadan
Dhu al-Hijah
Sunni
Shi'a
Jihad
Shirk
Mosque
Minaret
Mihrab
Muezzin
Discussion Questions
1. Discuss the significance of the Quran in terms of the English rendering of its name as "recitation." In what ways can the concept of recitation be applied to the nature of the Quran? What parallels can be drawn between this and ideas that we have previously looked at concerning the use of language in primal traditions?
2. Explain the development of the two major sects of Islamic belief and practice. In your response, include the reasons behind their creation and characteristics of their beliefs.
3. Westerners are inclined to equate Islam with political and/or nationalistic tendencies of the particular culture in which it is practiced. To be sure, there have been secular leaders who have tried to use Islam to their political advantage. Cite and discuss some examples (current, recent or otherwise) of how this practice is evident in the Christian tradition. Has Christianity ever been "appropriated" as support and rationale for a political/national ideology, either in the United States or elsewhere?