Learn on PengiHistory Alive! The Medieval World and BeyondChapter 2: Islam in Medieval Times

Lesson 2: Learning About World Religions: lslam

In this Grade 7 lesson from History Alive! The Medieval World and Beyond, students explore the core beliefs and practices of Islam, including the Five Pillars of Islam, the Qur'an, the Sunnah, jihad, and shari'ah. Students examine how Islam originated with the prophet Muhammad in the 7th century and how it connects to Judaism and Christianity through shared monotheistic roots and the concept of the ummah. The lesson builds understanding of how these foundational teachings shape the daily lives of Muslims around the world.

Section 1

Islam's Texts Shape Belief and Practice

Key Idea

Muslims believe the Qur'an contains the direct words of God, which were revealed to the prophet Muhammad. This holy book is the central religious text of Islam and the primary source of guidance for a Muslim's beliefs and actions.

To better understand the Qur'an, Muslims also study the Sunnah, which is the example of Muhammad's life and teachings. The Sunnah provides a practical model for how to apply the Qur'an's message in daily life. Together, these two sources form the foundation of Islamic practice.

Section 2

The Five Pillars Guide Muslim Life

Key Idea

The Qur'an and Sunnah outline the core duties for all Muslims. These duties are known as the Five Pillars of Islam and provide a framework for daily life and worship, guiding a person's relationship with God and their community.

The pillars include the declaration of faith (shahadah), praying five times a day (salat), and giving to charity (zakat). Muslims also fast during the month of Ramadan (siyam).

Section 3

Jihad Defines a Muslim's Struggle

Key Idea

The Arabic word jihad means "struggle." For most Muslims, this is primarily an internal, spiritual struggle to be a better person and live according to the teachings of Islam. This daily effort is a core part of a Muslim's faith.

This concept is understood in two ways. The greater jihad is the personal, internal struggle against one's own bad habits or temptations. The lesser jihad is an external struggle to defend the community against oppression or injustice. This external struggle has strict rules of engagement, including the protection of civilians.

Section 4

Muslims Develop Islamic Law

Key Idea

After the Prophet Muhammad’s death, Muslim communities looked to the Qur’an and Sunnah for guidance on how to live. From these texts, religious scholars developed a body of Islamic law known as Shari'ah, which means "the path to water."

Shari'ah provides a guide for a Muslim's duties to God and to other people. It covers many areas of life, including prayer, family, and business. Its goal is to help people live according to God's will.

Lesson overview

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Section 1

Islam's Texts Shape Belief and Practice

Key Idea

Muslims believe the Qur'an contains the direct words of God, which were revealed to the prophet Muhammad. This holy book is the central religious text of Islam and the primary source of guidance for a Muslim's beliefs and actions.

To better understand the Qur'an, Muslims also study the Sunnah, which is the example of Muhammad's life and teachings. The Sunnah provides a practical model for how to apply the Qur'an's message in daily life. Together, these two sources form the foundation of Islamic practice.

Section 2

The Five Pillars Guide Muslim Life

Key Idea

The Qur'an and Sunnah outline the core duties for all Muslims. These duties are known as the Five Pillars of Islam and provide a framework for daily life and worship, guiding a person's relationship with God and their community.

The pillars include the declaration of faith (shahadah), praying five times a day (salat), and giving to charity (zakat). Muslims also fast during the month of Ramadan (siyam).

Section 3

Jihad Defines a Muslim's Struggle

Key Idea

The Arabic word jihad means "struggle." For most Muslims, this is primarily an internal, spiritual struggle to be a better person and live according to the teachings of Islam. This daily effort is a core part of a Muslim's faith.

This concept is understood in two ways. The greater jihad is the personal, internal struggle against one's own bad habits or temptations. The lesser jihad is an external struggle to defend the community against oppression or injustice. This external struggle has strict rules of engagement, including the protection of civilians.

Section 4

Muslims Develop Islamic Law

Key Idea

After the Prophet Muhammad’s death, Muslim communities looked to the Qur’an and Sunnah for guidance on how to live. From these texts, religious scholars developed a body of Islamic law known as Shari'ah, which means "the path to water."

Shari'ah provides a guide for a Muslim's duties to God and to other people. It covers many areas of life, including prayer, family, and business. Its goal is to help people live according to God's will.