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Islamic Foundations

Core concepts, practices, and history of Islam

25 cards · religion

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Cards (25)

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TawhidAbsolute oneness of God
Core Islamic monotheism affirming that God is unique, without partners.
QuranIslam's revealed scripture in Arabic
Believed revealed to Muhammad via Gabriel between 610 and 632 CE.
SunnahProphetic example as a source of guidance
Consists of Muhammad’s practices, preserved through reports and tradition.
HadithReports of Muhammad's sayings and actions
Collected, evaluated, and classified by scholars for authenticity.
Muhammad as final prophetSeal of the prophets in Islam
Muslims believe prophethood culminates with Muhammad, completing revelation.
Day of JudgmentFinal accounting and resurrection
God judges deeds; heaven and hell are ultimate outcomes.
JihadStriving in God’s cause
Includes personal moral struggle and, under conditions, collective defense.
UmmahGlobal community of believers
Transcends tribe and nation, uniting Muslims by faith and practice.
ShahadaDeclaration of faith in God and Muhammad
Affirms “There is no god but God; Muhammad is the Messenger of God.”
SalatFive daily ritual prayers
Prayed at set times facing Mecca, with prescribed movements and recitations.
ZakatObligatory alms to support the needy
Due on qualifying wealth; purifies possessions and aids social welfare.
SawmFasting during Ramadan
Abstention from food, drink, and intimacy from dawn to sunset.
HajjPilgrimage to Mecca once if able
Performed in Dhu al-Hijjah; includes rites at the Kaaba and nearby sites.
QiblaDirection of prayer toward the Kaaba
Originally toward Jerusalem; later changed to Mecca in Muhammad’s time.
KaabaCubic sanctuary in Mecca central to worship
Focal point of Hajj and daily prayers; considered the House of God.
Halal and haramPermissible and forbidden categories
Classify actions and foods by lawfulness under Islamic law.
ShariaIslamic law derived from Quran and Sunnah
Covers worship, ethics, and social matters; interpreted by scholars.
FiqhHuman understanding of Sharia
Jurisprudence using methods like consensus and analogy to derive rulings.
HijraMigration from Mecca to Medina in 622
Marks year 1 of the Islamic calendar and a new community’s start.
Constitution of MedinaFoundational pact forming a Medinan community
Outlined rights and responsibilities among Muslims and allied groups.
Battle of Badr624 victory seen as pivotal early battle
Small Muslim force prevailed; considered a turning point in early Islam.
Treaty of Hudaybiyyah628 truce enabling later expansion
Secured peace with Mecca; led to increased conversions and alliances.
Conquest of Mecca630 peaceful takeover of Mecca
Idols were removed from the Kaaba; general amnesty proclaimed.
Sunni and ShiaMajor branches differing on succession
Sunnis emphasize community consensus; Shia uphold Ali’s line and Imamate.
Battle of Karbala680 killing of Husayn with lasting impact
Central to Shia memory of martyrdom and injustice; commemorated in Ashura.