A CARSTENS-VALENTE INITIATIVE - MARKETPLACE MINISTRIES

Transcription

1 Religions of the World focus on Islam A CARSTENS-VALENTE INITIATIVE - MARKETPLACE MINISTRIES - SOUTH AFRICA

2 Focus on Islam - Johan Carstens 2003 First Published in 2003 Copyright 2003 J Carstens Published by: Marketplace Ministries Johannesburg South Africa Printed and bound by: Anglo Swiss Print Johannesburg South Africa ISBN Layout and Design: Millennium DTP & Repro House Johannesburg South Africa all rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced in any form without the permission in writing from the author except in the case of brief quotations in critical articles or reviews.

3 From a Christian Perspective

4 This book is dedicated to all those followers of Jesus who want to make a difference in this life

5 Thank You: Pre-Proofreading: Lillian, Gerda & Marietha Proofreading: Ronel van Biljon Proofreading Islamic: Neville Truter Photography: Johan Carstens Sketches: Hennie van Loggerenberg Support: Lillian, Marisa, Michelle, Johan, Karl & Reynhardt Strategic Support: Kermath, Johan & George

6 CONTENTS Preface i Section I In the Beginning 1 Background 7 Muhammad 11 Expansion 19 Reasons for Growth 23 Section 2 Islam the Religion 29 Articles of Faith 36 Religious Concepts 43 Religious Practices 47 Section 3 Theology 53 Qur'an 69 Islam-view of Jesus 64 Muhammad 75 Section 4 People Reaching People 79 Five Critical Elements 85 Challenges 97 Principles and Strategies 101 Glossary 109 Suggested Reading 119

7 Preface i Dear Reader Religions of the World is a series written for Christians by a Christian and from a Christian perspective It draws on familiar fundamentals of the Christian faith and most readers will therefore not only understand but also feel comfortable with the terminology and theology used As you read the book you will find your worldview being challenged At the same time you will also experience the joy of rediscovering what you really believe and hold dear You will start feeling comfortable, confident and willing to evaluate, compare and share your faith with people from other religious backgrounds This will happen naturally as you gain knowledge, insight and understanding, knowing that you have the tools and the truth available to and in you The purpose of the series is therefore to set the Christian on a track to interact with people who have different religious beliefs and customs

8 Focus on Islam ii This particular book introduces the reader to the religion of Islam The material is presented in such a way that it is easy to read and understand. It imparts knowledge about the origins, creeds and perceptions of Islam The information in this book touches on some important similarities and differences between the beliefs of Christians and Muslims It is anticipated that the person who seriously wants to witness the Gospel of Jesus Christ to Muslims will read wider than the information covered in this book This book (and the other is this series) is written for a Christian audience and is not intended to be aggressive or negative towards any of the religions discussed In saying this 1 do however not apologise for the fact that it is written from an evangelical and fundamental perspective It stems from a basic proclamation that professes Jesus Christ as Lord - and He alone the way of salvation Enjoy your reading! Together, in His service Johan Carstens

9 Focus on Islam 1 SECTION 1 In the Beginning The Origin of Islam Muhammad the Prophet Islam as a World Religion

10 2 Introduction

11 Focus on Islam 3 1 INTRODUCTION IN THE BEGINNING Islam, the religion of the Muslims, originated in Mecca as a result of the revelations received by their main prophet known as Muhammad. Born in Arabia in the year 570 AD Muhammad was destined to start the only major post- Christian religion - Islam. From its inception Islam was structured to be an expansionist religion and through the centuries Islam established itself, alongside Christianity, as one of the worlds largest religions. As with Christianity it is a missionary driven religion with a view of reaching the whole world. More than 1000 million people call themselves Muslim and they represent twenty percent of the world's population. This implies that one in every five people on planet earth is Muslim. One out of every three unreached people is Muslim. It is therefore important to take the missionary endeavours of Islam seriously. They have the vision, passion and commitment to make their dream come true. In saying this, one should be careful not to view Islam as the problem child of religions, nor a threat, or even a challenge. Islam is much more than that.

12 4 Introduction It presents itself as a missionary opportunity of a magnitude that the church has not had for many years. Islam is a movement of people - lost people. In order to reach these people we need to understand how Muslims think, act and react. We need to view the Islamic faith holistically, as Islam is a religious movement that prescribes and determines all facets of the human being. It influences and controls the political, economic and religious life of Muslims. Islam is not just a religion. It is also a way of life. In the following chapters we will be dealing with the subject of Islam and meet its adherents, the Muslim. It is therefore important to remember the purpose of this book - it is to equip Christians in such a way that they better understand the religion of Islam and the Muslim. The purpose is also to guide the reader to understand what we, as Christians believe. This book is one of the most basic tools to help us in our witness as Christians. Focussing on the people of Islam one must be careful not to lose sight of our aim. The danger is that we might be side-tracked by political or other issues of the day. Although most Muslims are active politically and socially, the commission of the Church regarding Islam is primarily a spiritual one, namely to make the Gospel of Jesus Christ available to all Muslims. Our mandate is thus a spiritual one and our focus is on the people of Islam and their perceived relationship with God.

13 Focus on Islam 5 In the process of effectively accomplishing our mission, we need to understand the worldview of Muslims, as it forms the frame of reference for Islamic thinking. In a sense we need to position ourselves within the world of Islam. We need to be able to think as Muslims do. This does not imply that we will be compromising our Christian views and values. No, exercises of this nature help sharpen our own worldview and we will (re) discover that which is so valuable to us. To conclude: The purpose of this publication is to provide Christians with a general overview of the world of Islam, its doctrines and world-view. It also aims to compare some of the Christian values in relation to that of Islam. In the closing section we also look at various strategies and methods of outreach. Different avenues of evangelism are also explored. Mosque in the Sahara Desert

14 6 Notes

15 Focus on Islam 7 2 BACKGROUND Muslim historians refer to the period prior to the birth of Muhammad in Arabia as the Jahiliyyah - the time of ignorance or darkness. By way of contrast, the period during and following Muhammad is described as the era of the light of God. At the time of Muhammad s birth, Arabia was occupied by hundreds of nomadic tribes. These tribes shared a common geographical world and spoke the same language, Arabic. No specific religion ruled the day and polytheism was part of the acceptable culture and tradition of their society. According to Arabian tradition there were hundreds of gods and goddesses. Three goddesses were worshipped: Monat, Allat and Al Uzza. The most esteemed god of the Arabian pantheon or family of deities was known as Allah. Muhammad s birth coincided with an atmosphere of spiritual disillusionment among the Arabian people. They were already dissatisfied with the prevailing polytheism of the day and were open for religious change. A spiritual void regarding a true revelation of God has thus developed in Arabia merely 800km from Jerusalem.

16 8 Introduction Jerusalem, Egypt and Mecca Mecca is located in Saudi Arabia. Muslims regard Mecca (also called Makkah) as the holiest city in Islam, followed by Medina. Medina is also located in Saudi-Arabia some two hundred and fifty kilometres from Mecca. The most important mosques are also the ones located in Mecca, Medina and Jerusalem - in that order. The city of Mecca was looked upon as the spiritual centre of the Arabian world even before the era of Muhammad. In the heart of Mecca was a very important religious centre - a pantheon called the Ka aba. The Ka aba was a cube-shaped sanctuary that hosted 360 idols, one for each day of the Arabian year. The most important god in the pantheon was called Allah.

17 Focus on Islam 9 Mecca also played a vital role in the calendar year of the Arabian people. The various nomadic tribes (in Arabia) were in constant conflict with one another, except for one month of the year, which was regarded as holy. During this particular month a moratorium or suspension of hostilities was mutually agreed upon, so that the tribes could gather in Mecca to worship their different gods. It appears as if Muhammad carried this tradition over into the new religion and gave fresh meaning to this, an age-old practice. Every year Muslims worldwide commemorate a holy month called Ramadan as a special time of fasting, devotion and gathering at Mecca. INFLUENCE OF THE CHRISTIAN FAITH The above-mentioned events in Arabia occurred at a time when the Church was in a most favourable position to model a positive influence on the way of life in the Middle East. Unfortunately the Church did not grasp the opportunity to introduce the Living God to Muhammad and the Arabian people. The church was in survival mode and could not see the opportunities at hand. It was not mission minded, but divided and suffered from ill-fated theological doctrines. It can be stated quite categorically that Christianity (or rather its relevant absence) contributed to the birth, rise and expansion of Islam. In the days of Muhammad s thirst for the truth, he had many discussions with and befriended many Christians and Jews.

18 10 Introduction The presence of certain Christian practices in Islam is very evident. The Bible clearly influenced the life and sayings of Muhammad as well as on the composition of the Qur an. The problem lies in the interpretation thereof. The Christians who lived in Arabia were not always well-versed in the Bible. Most of them were also divided into opposing groups such as the Monophysites and the Nestorians. This division was based mainly on doctrinal differences as emphasised by their clergy. Some of these groups with whom Muhammad interacted, taught a rather strange doctrine regarding Jesus Christ and Mary. The Qur an s remark that Christians worship Mary and Jesus as gods besides God Himself (Sura 5:119), can be attributed to these Christian s veneration of Mary on the one hand and Muhammad s contact with these same sectarian Christian groups on the other. Muhammad also married an Egyptian slave who was a Christian. He loved her in a very special way. She was Muhammad s eight wife and his contact with Christian doctrine was further facilitated by this relationship. Certain writers also believe that Muhammad was on friendly terms with a Syrian (Christian) monk who incidentally conducted Muhammad s first wedding. THE INFLUENCE OF JUDAISM The influence of Judaism was also felt in Arabia. Muhammad came into contact with various Jewish schools of thought and many narratives based on the Old Testament and Jewish legends are also included in the Qur an and the Hadith.

19 Focus on Islam 11 3 MUHAMMAD Muhammad, the founder of Islam, was born in the city of Mecca in 570 AD. His family belonged to the Quraish tribe. At the time of his birth this tribe was seen as the custodian of the Ka ba. Muhammad had a very difficult childhood. These memories stayed with him all his life and at times positively influenced his theology. His father, Abdullah, died two months before Muhammad was born and his mother Amina passed away when he was only six years old. He was placed under custody of his grandfather Abd Al-Muttalib. When the latter died Muhammad s parental uncle, Abu-Talib a poor Meccan merchant, took care of him. According to some writers Muhammad started to suffer from convulsions when he was young - something that plagued him throughout his life. From his twelfth year on Muhammad accompanied merchant caravans to Jerusalem and Syria, where he came into contact with Judaism and Christianity. He also became an esteemed member of the merchant guild at Mecca. As mentioned the years of poverty and orphanhood had a positive influence on Muhammad s theology later in his life.

20 12 Introduction The Qur an places special emphasis on the Muslim s responsibilities to provide for the poor, orphans and widows. Muhammad s circumstances later improved after he met Khadidja, a rich widow fifteen years his senior. He managed her caravans and she was so impressed by him that she eventually offered to married him. Muhammad was twenty-five years old when he married Khadidja. She remained Muhammad s only wife until her death twenty-five years later in 618 AD. After her death he married a further twelve women, thereby effectively sanctioning polygamy. Through his marriage with Khadidja, Muhammad became a person of status. He now had the resources and time to spend on meditation and religious matters. The Ka aba in Mecca

21 Focus on Islam 13 MUHAMMAD S CALLING Muhammad was interested in religious matters from an early age. He was strongly opposed to the polytheism of the day and continually searched for new religious directions amongst the other religions of the day. At times he withdrew to Mount Hira to meditate. In 610 AD Muhammad testified that he had had an exceptional spiritual experience. According to Muhammad the angel Gabriel appeared to him holding a cloth on which something was written and said; Recite! or Igra the word from which the Qur an is derived. Muslim tradition teaches that the angel Gabriel communicated the first part of the Qur an to him during this meeting. As a result of this experience, Muhammad went through a period of spiritual struggle. He was uncertain whether it was indeed God who had called him or whether it was a djinn (demon), which had appeared to him. His wife Khadidja supported him during his spiritual struggle and convinced him of his prophetic calling. Two years later the revelations and vision reappeared. His wife, Ali (nephew) and later his son Zaid, were his first converts and disciples.

22 14 Introduction CONFLICT AND OPPOSITION Muhammad s rejection of polytheism in Mecca led to hostility from its residents. There was also significant resistance to Muhammad s teaching about the true god Allah and the warning of a coming judgement. The Meccan merchants were also resistant to his religious opinions. Their reaction was not one of religious conviction but rather a financial consideration. The annual rally of the tribes at the Ka aba was a lucrative source of income to them. This dissatisfaction of the merchants later gave rise to persecution and eventually led (616 AD) to the flight of some of Muhammad s disciples to the Christian centre of Abyssinia. Muhammad however, remained in Mecca under protection of his uncle Abu Talib. His wife s position and financial influence also provided the necessary protection that lasted until her death. In 619 AD his uncle, as well as his wife Khadidja, died and the tension surrounding his ministry increased. After thirteen years of persecution in Mecca, Muhammad fled (622 AD) to Yathrib that is now called Medina. Approximately 100 of his followers joined him in this flight. This exodus from Mecca is referred to as the Hijrah (flight) and has since been the beginning of the Muslim calendar. Muhammad was initially recognised and welcomed as a leader in Medina. Both Christians and Jews tolerated his teaching as it emphasised the unity of God and condemnation of idolatry.

23 Focus on Islam 15 At first Muhammad was tolerant and lenient towards the views of Christians and Jews. Through special revelation Jerusalem was given as the direction Muslims should face when praying. After a while he was opposed by a number of strong Jewish tribes in Medina. They failed to recognise him as a prophet and did not take kindly to the religious practises of Islam. Muhammad subsequently received another revelation changing the direction of prayer back to the Ka ba in Mecca. This was an important time in the history of Islam. It was in Medina that he and his followers established the brotherhood of Islam (Ummah). It was here that his sayings (later to become the Qur an) were recognised as the final and superior revelation. The daily prayer, with preliminary washing, now became obligatory. Friday was established as the day of common worship and Ramadan as the month of fasting. The opposition in Medina eventually led to conflict from which Muhammad eventually emerged victoriously. The foundation was laid for Muhammad to become prophet, statesman, legislator and judge. In order to provide some livelihood, Muhammad and his followers waylaid merchant caravans and robbed them of their merchandise. The Meccans attacked Muhammad and his followers three times, but Muhammad gained the upper hand. In 642 AD Muhammad s forces gained a decisive victory at the Battle of Badr.

24 16 Introduction He decided to share the booty and this swung the military battle in his favour. He used this opportunity to declare his struggle against the infidels as a religious duty or djihad (holy war) in which all Muslims had to participate. RETURN TO MECCA Muhammad s military successes paved the way for his final conquest of Mecca in 628 AD. The idols of the Ka aba were destroyed and Allah was proclaimed as the only true God. From then on Mecca became the centre of the annual pilgrimage (Hajj) for Muslims. Since then Mecca has become and been the Qibla, or the direction in which all Muslims throughout the world would face when praying. Within eight years Muhammad s armies succeeded in conquering the whole of Arabia, unifying the people and proclaiming Islam as the only religion. MUHAMMAD S LAST DAYS Muhammad died in 632 AD at the age of sixty-two, shortly after the conquest of Mecca. He was probably poisoned by one of his wives and was buried in Medina. Muslims still visit his grave regularly during the Hajj or pilgrimage. In Medina there is also an empty grave kept for Jesus, the son of Mary. According to Muslim tradition Jesus (presently in heaven) will come back to rule on earth. He will then die and be buried alongside Muhammad.

25 Focus on Islam 17 Abu Bakr succeeded Muhammad, not as prophet but as the first Caliph. Abu Bakr was Muhammad s most faithful disciple. Under his reign Islam was consolidated into a stable power.

26 18 Notes

27 Focus on Islam 19 4 GEOGRAPHIC EXPANSION AD The phenomenal growth of Islam, especially during the early years, cannot be overlooked. As already mentioned, the initial growth of Islam was mainly due to military action. Abu Bakr defeated the Byzantine army but it was his successors that really established Islam as a religious power. Umar succeeded Abu Bakr as Caliph. Caliph Uthman (644 AD) succeeded him a year later. During this time Iraq, Persia and Egypt were conquered. By 656 AD the boundaries of Islam had reached Afghanistan in the east, Libya in the west and the Caucasus mountains in the north. The advance through Spain and France was halted in 732 AD.

28 20 Introduction AD This was a period of consolidation and even stagnation for Islam. The rise of the Mongolians in Central Asia, the battle of Tours (732 AD) that checked the expansion of Islam in Spain, and the Crusades contributed to impede the geographical expansion of Islam AD During this time Islam spread to large areas of North

29 Focus on Islam 21 Africa, the Middle East and parts of Central Asia. The fall of Constantinople (Istanbul) in 1453 AD was important for Islam. This event led to the extensive persecution of Christians in Turkey and surrounding areas AD The twentieth century is characterised by the revival and growth of national Muslim states and the establishment of Islam as an international religion AD and Beyond Since the end of the last millennium Islam has truly been perceived as an international religion. Islam has become a religious, economic and political force that has given notice of its presence in all facets of the global arena.

30 22 Notes

31 Focus on Islam 23 5 REASONS FOR THE GROWTH OF ISLAM Islam has become a global religion and in the process generated a wealth of literature, culture and a highly effective religious framework. It would be simplistic and incorrect to assign the growth of Islam entirely to one of military expansion. Other factors (combined and individually) played an important role in the formation of Islam. Some are still evident today and are contributing towards the growth of Islam: SIMPLISTIC Islam is a religion that is easy to understand. They serve one God. They have one book. To become a Muslim you have to say one creed. Religious practices are fixed and easy to understand. Compared to other religions this comes across with ease. Christians talk about the Trinity, a term that is confusing to people not conversant with Christian doctrine. In Eastern religions, as practised by Hindus, they relate to a multitude of gods, rituals and manuscripts.

32 24 Introduction BIOLOGICAL GROWTH. Islam is well established in the developing Two Thirds World. Here, in contrast with the developed First World, the birth rate is high. Islam endorses polygamy and therefore the expansion through biological birth and polygamy is inevitably greater than in the Christian First World. CUSTOMS Most non-western people perceive religious rituals as an integral part of any religious practice. While the Church in the First World has practically been stripped of all rituals, Islam still practises certain rituals such as public prayer five times per day, fasting, circumcision and the annual slaughtering of goats and sheep. These rituals render a mystical element to Islam that is noticeably absent in many Christian Churches. Not only are people attracted by these practices, it also reflects the presence of Islam in the community. THE UMMAH (Brotherhood) One of the most important sustaining and nourishing elements of Islam is the Ummah or brotherhood. Theoretically every convert to Islam irrespective of colour, position or descent, becomes a member of a universal brotherhood. It provides a sense of belonging and unity. When men pray together in a mosque they rub shoulders, kneel in unison and experience the idea of belonging to a wider family.

33 Focus on Islam 25 People feel welcome, safe and cared for within the ummah. Yet they also fear rejection from the ummah when leaving the religion of Islam. This is a matter that the Church should dearly take into consideration when reaching out to Muslims. FINANCIAL POWER Islam s financial power cannot be underestimated. Petro dollars have changed the face of Islam at the turn of the century. This has given Muslims position and power in the West and at the same time modernised traditional Muslim countries. Today Muslim governments possess military hardware that rank among the best in the world. The financial muscle of the Muslim is also used to propagate Islam and the world-wide proliferation of mosques, visibility in the media and influence in the money market bear witness of this. ANTI-COLONIAL Islam rides very comfortably on the back of a strong anticolonial and anti-western sentiment throughout the world. As Muslims look upon life holistically they are normally active in the politics of the day. Islam is quite successfully marketed as the religion of the liberator. In turn it causes an anti-christian sentiment because of the perception that the former colonial powers were acting in the name of Christianity. Muslims very often refer

34 26 Introduction incorrectly to Christianity as the white man s religion, forgetting that Jesus was a Jew - from the Middle East. TRAINING Muslims insist that their children receive a thorough grounding in the Qur an and the Islamic faith. It is not unusual for a Muslim child to receive between six to eight hours religious tuition (Madressa) per week. It is also a special achievement for a Muslim to memorise the whole Qur an (approximately three-quarters the size of the New Testament). TERRITORIAL Islam is a territorial religion. Once property belonged and was sanctified they consider that irreversible. This is partly the crisis in the Middle East as the Palestinians see Israel as their (now) territorial inheritance. Likewise they believe all people were born Muslim. People thus do not convert to Islam but merely revert back to their creational status. IDENTITY Much can be said about the numerous incidences of terrorism, war and suicide bombings. What should not be ignored is that many Muslims find their identity in such actions and follow role models that are willing to die for what they believe. To be a Muslim today has a totally different meaning than it had 100 years ago.

35 Focus on Islam 27 POST RELIGIONS Islam is the only major post-christian religion. For that matter it is the only religion that has presented itself on the global scene since in the last 1300 years. It is therefore also post-hinduism and post-buddhism. Being the latest religion is no big issue in itself. However it sends a clear message to existing religions that they are wrong. It addresses the plurality of the pantheistic religions, questions the concept of the Trinity in Christianity and sees itself as the fulfilment of Christianity and Judaism. ooooooooooo

36 QUESTIONS: How did Islam start? What would have happened if Muhammad became a Christian? Why and how did Islam grow? Would you die for what you believe?

37 Focus on Islam 29 2 SECTION 2 Islam as a religion Five Pillars of Islam Six Articles of faith Concepts and Terms

38 30 What they believe

39 Focus on Islam 31 6 ISLAM - THE RELIGION OF MUSLIMS Islam is a way of life, practised and expressed by its followers called Muslims. Care should be taken not to insult Muslims by calling them Mohammedans. They are not followers of their prophet Muhammad but of Allah, through the religion of Islam. Islam, as a religion, teaches them about their god Allah, the purpose of the creation and the life hereafter. It also provides guidance regarding the personal, social, political, economic, moral, religious and spiritual aspects of life. Its holy books are the Qur an and the Hadith. Islam is a monotheistic religion (believe in one God), with a creator God, a revelation and the prophets. God is the centre of all and all has been created by God. In this chapter we will look at an outline of Muslim beliefs, their writings, practises and information about their prophet Muhammad. We will also be looking at the five pillars of Islam and the six articles of faith, general religious concepts and practices.

40 32 What they believe MUSLIMS AND WHAT THEY BELIEVE ISLAM Islam is the name of the religion of Muslims. The word Islam is derived from an Arabic word meaning a total submission to the divine will. It also has connotations of purity and peace. MUSLIM A Muslim is the person submitting to the will of Allah and believes in Islam. An adherent of the religion of Islam would therefore be called a Muslim. As mentioned above it is incorrect to refer to Muslims as Mohammedans because they worship Allah and not Muhammad. To become a Muslim one must merely confess that Allah, and He alone, is God. ALLAH Allah is the Arabic word used by Muslims for what we will call God. Muslims do not question the existence of God. Muslims confess Allah as creator and maintainer of the world and the one and only God. Like Christians they believe that Allah is (and was and shall be) one. The oneness (singleness) of God forms the first article of faith of the kalima: There is no deity but Allah (la ilah ill Allahu). To believe in the existence of other gods or to claim that Allah had a son is regarded by Muslims as the greatest sin (shirk) possible. Muslims reject the doctrine of the Trinity and see it as a form of polytheism.

41 Focus on Islam 33 Muslims prefer to use the word Allah rather than God. The word Allah is gender neutral and is neither male nor female. No one knows the nature or appearance of Allah. The name Allah in Arabic is the same as the Hebrew El or Elohïm in the Old Testament. Christian Arabs also use the name Allah for God in their Bible. MUHAMMAD Muslims regard Muhammad as the last and greatest prophet of Allah. Other prophets recognised by Islam are among others, Jesus, David, Moses, Abraham and Adam. Islam was revealed to the prophet Muhammad by the angel Gabriel (Jibrail). When Muslims use the name of the prophet Muhammad they add the words peace be upon him as a sign of respect.

42 34 What they believe THE QUR AN The Qur an is the scripture (holy book) of Muslims and is regarded by them as Allah s final revelation to humanity. According to tradition the original Qur an was recorded in heaven and in Arabic. The contents thereof were revealed bit by bit to Moses, David, Jesus and finally (totally) to Muhammad. Due to corruption and neglect the original scripts shared with the other prophets became distorted. Allah then sent the angel Gabriel to convey the Qur an as the final revelation. This was done orally to Muhammad. The Qur an is approximately three-quarters the size of the New Testament, consisting of 114 suras or chapters. HADITH Besides the Qur an, the Hadith (traditions) are regarded as Islam s most authoritative books. These are five recognised omnibus books of the so-called authentic traditions, dealing with the words and behavioural patterns of the prophet Muhammad. The Hadith is also known as the Sunnah. The revelations in the Qur an are supplemented by the Sunnah. These two books together form the basis for practises in the religion of Islam. ooooooooooo

43 Focus on Islam 35 THE FIVE PILLARS OF ISLAM Every Muslim is expected to maintain the Five pillars of Islam. The maintenance of these five pillars is a reflection of Muslims devotion to their religion. The Five Pillars: SHAHADA or confession of belief - In order to become a Muslim a person must confess that there is no other god but Allah and that Muhammad is his prophet. I bear witness that there is no god but Allah and bear witness that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the messenger of Allah. SALAT or ritual prayer must be performed five times a day, at fixed times, in an appointed position and with fairly standard content. The Qiblah, or prayer direction, faces Mecca. Prayers are preceded by the washing of your mouth, hands, face and feet. The other form of prayer is called duas. They are supplications to Allah and can be expressed at any time, anywhere, audibly or silently. RAMADAN - A time of fasting, lasting approximately 30 days (from new moon to new moon), from sunrise to sunset, during which no food or drink or smoking is allowed. ZAKAAT - Alms should be given as an act of worship and not as charity. Such alms amount to approximately 2,5% of a person s income.

44 36 What they believe HADJ - A pilgrimage to Mecca should be undertaken at least once during the lifetime of those who can afford and be able to do it. Muslims gather on the plains of Arafat that is near Mecca. They are all dressed in the same simple white clothing to create a feeling of unity, oneness and brotherhood. MORE ARTICLES OF FAITH There are six articles of faith that all Muslims must believe in. They are their god Allah, Angels, Books, Prophets, Day of Judgement and Predestination. We have already covered one of them namely Allah. The Qur an, as the infallible and final revelation, was also mentioned but there are more recognised books, which will also be noted. ANGELS Angels form a very vivid part of the Muslim world-view. The Qur an teaches that they are created beings (made of

45 Focus on Islam 37 light) and are the messengers of Allah. They watch over human beings, record their actions and deeds. They also surround the throne of Allah to sing praises. The more important archangels are Jibrial (Gabriel) who revealed the Qur an to Muhammad. He is also called the Rul ul Amin or Holy Spirit and the one who strengthened nabi Isa - the prophet Jesus. The others are Mikail the provider, Israfil the announcer of doom and Izrail who cares for the faithful at death. The angels are contrasted with other created beings called jinn. They are destructive spirits created out of smokeless fire. The jinn are a very real matter to most Muslims and they take extreme care to protect themselves from possible attacks. The devil is regarded both as an angel and a jinn. The names used by Muslims are Iblis and Shaytan. BOOKS The Qur an stands alone as the final revelation for all Muslims. They do however recognise three other scriptures, but these should be read through the eyes of the Qur an. The three scriptures are the book given to Moses - that is the Taurah or Pentateuch. Then there is the Zabur or Psalms that came through David. Finally the Injil or gospel (New Testament) as presented by Jesus. Placed apart from these books is the Hadith. The Hadith is

46 38 What they believe placed second only to the Qur an and is a collection of traditions recording the words and deeds of Muhammad. The Hadith gives detailed instructions of the Muslims religious practises and daily life. Where the Qur an or Hadith is not clear regarding certain practises, rules are then derived by consensus of the religious leaders (ijma) and reasoning (qiyas). The combination of the Qur an, Hadith, ijma and qiyas, have been used by Muslim scholars to create an immensely detailed body of rules, guidelines and regulations known as the Shariah - or Islamic law. PROPHETS Muslims believe that Allah has always been involved in human history through prophets. Nine of these prophets are regarded as major prophets. With the exception of Muhammad, these prophets are all recorded in the Bible. They are Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Jacob, Joseph, Job and Jesus. According to Islamic teaching these prophets have all received the basic message revealed to Muhammad. However Muhammad is the seal of the prophets. DAY OF JUDGEMENT The day of judgement is a major theme within Islamic teaching. It resembles Christian and Jewish teaching. A very vivid description is given to the time prior to this day - a time of natural disasters, the coming of the anti-christ (Dajjal), darkening of the sun and the second appearance of nabi Isa (Jesus).

47 Focus on Islam 39 Then follows the time when all people s deeds will be evaluated or weighed (mizan). All people will then have to cross a bridge (sirat). Muslims will cross the bridge safely but the infidels will fall of and remain in hell forever. SACRED PLACES Prayers are generally performed in a mosque. Muslims may refer to it as a masjid. The basic requirement for a mosque is only a hall and a small niche in front facing Mecca. There might also be a small platform in front for Friday lectures. Friday and not Sunday is their day of reverence. The floor in the hall must provide for places to kneel and prostrate. Mosques vary in size and splendour. PREDESTINATION One of the overriding characteristics of Muslims is their belief in the absolute supremeness of Allah who has sovereign power over all things. It is expected of a Muslim to submit to Allah s will irrespective of the circumstances. This can be perceived as a very positive aspect of the Muslim s belief. However, the absolute application of this doctrine can lead to manipulative interpretation of predestination resulting in fatalism. Concepts such as maktub (it is written), magdur (it is decided) and kismat (it is my lot) underline the confinements concealed in the Muslim worldview.

48 40 What they believe SPECIAL EVENTS, CLOTHES AND HALAAL EID-UL-ADHA This is an annual religious ceremony commemorating the devotion of Abraham who was willing to offer his son as sacrifice. Normally the extended family will gather on an open piece of ground where an animal is slaughtered (neck is slit) and divided into three parts. The next three days are part of the Eid-ul-Adha. EID -UL- FITR Eid-ul-Fitr marks the end of Ramadan. It is celebrated as a day of victory over passion. It takes place early in the morning. Special food is prepared and families gather together to eat and be joyous. SHABE BARAAT Shabe Baraat is a night set aside for prayer and repentance. DRESS CODE Clothing must reflect modesty. It should cover certain areas for example men should be covered from the naval to the knees. The whole body of a woman should be covered with the possible exception of the face, hands and feet. HALAAL The best way to view the Muslims definition of lawful food is to compare that with the Jewish practise of eating

49 Focus on Islam 41 Kosher foods. It is permissible to eat food that fall within the broader definition of halaal. Lawful food is called halaal and unlawful food is haraam. Certain foods and substances are considered haraam : Pork Carrion The flesh of animals slaughtered without invoking the name of Allah and basically not asking forgiveness for taking life so that we can live All forms of drugs and intoxicants Also included in this list should be any object obtained by an unlawful means All halaal foods carry the Islamic symbol of the crescent. ooooooooo The Islamic Symbol

50 42 Notes

51 Focus on Islam 43 7 GENERAL RELIGIOUS CONCEPTS FORGIVENESS Although Allah forgives sins and rewards good deeds, Muslims do not know for sure whether this will in fact be sufficient to ensure individual salvation. They have to wait for Judgement Day to find out. SALVATION Salvation for a Muslim means deliverance from hell by obeying the law and not through a personal relationship with God. The Qur an presents three ways by which salvation can be obtained: good life (Sura 7:8-9), predestination (sura 5:20) and forgiveness (Sura 3:31). SIN The greatest sin for Muslims is polytheism (shirk) i.e. the veneration and worship of beings other that the true God. This sin is unforgivable. Sin will be discussed in greater detail in chapter III.

52 44 What they believe HEAVEN Heaven is a place where eternal peace and bliss reign. A.L. Ghazzali, one of Islam s greatest theologians, gives a rather mundane and sensual character to heaven which he describes as a place where the believer will be permitted to marry wives. HELL Hell is a place of intense heat. According to some writers people s clothes are saturated with burning tar. Snakes and scorpions also continually attack and scare them. WOMEN IN ISLAM The role of Islamic women is one of total submissiveness to her husband. According to Islamic law a man is allowed to have four wives simultaneously. This is not practised in all Muslim countries. The Qur an also makes it clear that a Muslim might have more than one wife if he can care for them on an equal basis - emotionally, financially and sexually. Women find their role in marriage and religion, amongst others and by being obedient to their husbands. The Muslim women will never disgrace her husband in public. Wives and their daughters are not allowed to worship in the mosque with the male members of the family. The mosque is reserved mainly for men. Women are allowed on the galleries in some mosques or in separate rooms.

53 Focus on Islam 45 They are in a certain sense placed on the same level as Christians and Jews as being second-class citizens. There are many rules that favour men also on issues such as inheritance, compensation and legal matters. In general woman do not have the same human rights as men. There are however movements within Islam to try and correct this phenomenon. Veiled Muslim Woman

54 46 Notes

55 Focus on Islam 47 8 GENERAL PRACTICES SHARIAH The Shariah or Islamic law was already mentioned. This is however such an important aspect of Islam that we need to look at it in depth. The Shariah regulates every aspect of the Muslims spiritual and daily life. It also dictates the ruling of an Islamic state. Implementation of the Shariah is via very strictly applied laws. Certain crimes such as thievery will be punished by the amputation of a person s hand. A woman caught in adultery will be stoned. This sounds very inhuman to many civilisations, and so it is, but many Muslims scholars defend the Shariah by explaining that it started in the eight century when similar practises were conducted by many cultures. The problem is that it has not changed since. Any attempt to deviate from or modernise the Shariah is resisted by the more radical factions within Islam. Moderates can be classified as heretics or apostates and be killed.

56 48 What they believe A direct result of the application of the Shariah is fear. The fear of leaving the Islamic religion for any other is an important factor that missionaries have to deal with. Becoming a Christian will be seen as an act of treason against the (Islamic) state and is punishable with death. DHIMMI People of a lower standing than Muslims are called dhimmi. Christians living in traditional Muslims states are treated as such. There are a number of restrictions that they have to adhere to, as reinforcement of their second-class status. They also have to pay additional taxes (jizya). Any Muslim accepting the teaching of another religion will at least be accorded with the status of dhimmi. DJIHAD OR HOLY WAR Muslims are permitted to conduct holy wars, when they are oppressed or if it can lead to the expansion of Islam. Certain traditions also teach that people who die in the process of performing a djihad, will be favoured by Allah and will go straight to heaven. It is therefore not surprising that Muslims, and even their children, are almost fanatical about participation in a djihad because this gives them a degree of certainty that they can win Allah s favour.

57 Focus on Islam 49 MUSLIM YEAR The Muslim calendar is different from the worldwide Christian calendar. Their calendar starts in 632 A.D. the year of hijrah or flight of Muhammad to Medina. The years are also lunar years with 354 days. The months alternate sequence with 29 and 30 days and adjustments are made in the twelfth month. The ninth month of every year is the month of Ramadan when all Muslims are called to observe the fast. Because it is shorter than the current world calendar, Ramadan will start eleven days earlier every year. DENOMINATIONS Islam is not without inner divisions and factions. Three mainstreams within Islam are the Sufi, Shiites and Sunni. Sunni Muslims represent 90% of the Muslims and have been known to persecute minority groups such as the Shiites who live mainly in Iran.

58 50 What they believe The Sufi is also small in number and is not as geographically bound, as the Shiites would be. They are much more mystic in their beliefs and are called the charismatics of the Muslim world. The Shiites and Sunni split originated twenty years after Muhammad s death. The fourth caliph to succeed Muhammad was Ali, the husband of Muhammad s daughter Fatima. His appointment was not unilaterally accepted and he was murdered five years later. His two sons were also killed in the process of exercising leadership. The people that shared the same convictions as Ali, became the Shiite Muslims. Shiites still believe that only descendants of Ali can become Imams. ooooooooo

59 Focus on Islam 51 QUESTIONS: How do you become a Muslim? How do you become a Christian? Describe a day in the life of a Muslim. What would attract Muslims to Christ? What would attract Christians to Islam?

60 52 Notes

61 Focus on Islam 53 SECTION 3 Islam, Theology and Practices The Bible and Qur an Jesus in Islam Muhammad - Prophet of God?

62 54 Theology and Practices

63 Focus on Islam 55 9 INTRODUCTION This is most probably the most sensitive chapter in this book as it deals with issues relating to the holy book of Islam and their prophet Muhammad. In dealing with a comparison of beliefs and absolutes one can normally expect any of three reactions from Muslims. First they might want to debate these issues, as most Muslims are well equipped in their understanding of Islam. Many are also schooled in the basics of Christianity and enjoy exchanging ideas. Please note that mental exercises of this nature usually lead nowhere and normally only serve as a platform to practise and verbalise ones own beliefs. Secondly Muslims might listen because of a genuine desire to know the truth. Inherently they (like most people) are aware of a greater power than themselves and if approached correctly will open up for honest discussions. Thirdly they might become violent. This last reaction normally stems from respect for Allah and fear. Fear that Allah might punish them for listening to someone that has a different set of religious views. Fear that their religion could be exposed and fear that the truth might confront them with very uncomfortable choices. Fear is a major component in sustaining Islam as a religion.

64 56 Theology and Practices The reader thus has to be very sensitive in dealing with Muslims on contentious issues. ISLAM AND THE REST The study of Islam is very interesting as it is the only major post Christian religion. It is also the only religion that therefore refers to Christians (the people of the book) and Jesus (Nabi Isa) in their literature. It shares in some of the belief systems of Christians and yet it is also planets apart when it comes to crucial issues such as the position of the human being, sin, salvation, the Bible and the deity of Jesus. In a certain sense Islam may be classified as (a) type of anti-christ - but with qualification. The Greek word for anti has a distinct meaning to be representing or in the place of and not only to be against. Islam as a religion falls into this category. It presents a religion that seemingly replaces all other religions. In the same fashion the Qur an is believed to be in the place of the Bible and Muhammad surpasses Jesus as the final revelation. Understanding the basic theology within Islam is thus the key for unlocking the heart and mind of the Muslim. ooooooooooo

65 Focus on Islam THEOLOGY and PRACTICES From the outside it may seem as if Islam and Christianity have a lot in common - and in part it does. We both serve one God, we all have our sacred books, we fast, pray and have religious rituals. There is also a common belief in life hereafter, a day of judgement and the return of Jesus. Once we go beyond the veneer of similarities we discover that there are marked differences. Some of these will be small, while others might be difficult to comprehend and the rest just plain impossible to enter into compromise. As we meditate on these it is important to distinguish between what we perceive as absolute truths and that which is culturally, socially and politically dear to us. Let us look at some of the similarities, distinctions and contentious issues. ONE FATHER - ABRAHAM Islam shares the same Middle Eastern cultural birth-bed as Jews and Christians do. It also takes its lineage back to Abraham, who is considered to be the first Muslim. Where we as Christians and Jews draw their family tree via Isaac the son of Abraham and Sarah, Muslims make their connection with Abraham through his son Ishmael, born of Hagar.

66 58 Theology and Practices Muslims look towards the promises God made to Abraham as inclusive for them as well. This in part explains the problem relating to the State of Israel. Islam does not recognize the exclusive claims of the Jew to this geographical state. They therefore see no problem or contradiction in sharing the same promises and the country of Israel - something that orthodox Jews and many Christians find difficult to accept. It is important to reflect on this matter albeit in summation. God made a promise to Abraham that through him the nations will be blessed - it is God s desire that all people will come into a living relationship with him. But My covenant I will establish with Isaac... -Genesis 18:21 He also promised Abraham that the messiah will come through his offspring - through the line of Isaac. To Ishmael God promised: I will make him a great nation. - Genesis 21:18. ONE COUNTRY The country of Israel is a different matter all together. God promised the Jews a place of their own. Israel was however also destined to be the country where God would become human, to die on a cross and reconcile our sins. It is also the country from where the anti-christ and false prophet will deceive the masses. It is also the place to where Jesus will return and rule.

67 Focus on Islam 59 ONE SACRIFICE Another contentious piece of common heritage is the sacrifice Abraham was required to make. Both the Christian and Jewish scriptures (Torah) are clear that Abraham s son Isaac was the one to be sacrificed. The Qur an is silent about this matter but Muslim scholars have interpreted Islamic literature to conclude that Ishmael was actually chosen as the one to be sacrificed. It is commonly agreed by all three religions that Abraham had to sacrifice his son. There is however no common ground regarding the reason for doing so, or consensus on who was to be sacrificed and neither agreement as to the implication thereof. These matters however touch on the heart of the differences among the three religions. These will again be discussed in this chapter (see Atonement). Muslims see Muhammad as a descendent of Ishmael - hence the reference to Muslims as Ishmaelites. Islam has since its inception, grown way beyond the realm of tribal identification and geographical area of the Middle East. Today there are more Muslims in the Far East (non Arab) than in the Middle East (Arabic). CREATION In the Qur an the word create implies to reshape existing objects. It does not mean to create something from some non-existent substance. This is not entirely different from the Biblical version where God created from nothing and then brought order (reshaping) to what already existed.