Islam Nairobi Kenya Islam 10 40 Window The

Islam Nairobi, Kenya

Islam & 10 -40 Window The 10/40 Window is an area of the world that contains the largest population of non-Christians in the world. The area extends from 10 degrees to 40 degrees North of the equator, and stretches from North Africa across to China. Most of the people groups are Muslim and Folk Muslim

Islam World Status • Islam: 1. 3 Billion • 22% of world population • Second largest world religion • Christianity 32% (2 Billion) • Hinduism 15% • Secular/Non-religious 14%

Historical Development • Muhammad • Born 570 near Mecca • Orphaned at age six and raised by his grandfather and then his uncle – Abu Talib • Grew up in idolatrous life and religious diversity • Jews, Christians & Zoroastrianism • Hanif – “pious one” worship one God • Bible not in Arabic yet • Most probably illiterate

Historical Development • Muhammad • Tradition of a journey to Syria with his uncle’s caravan (582) • Prophecy of a Syrian monk, Bahira • Mark of prophet between shoulder blades, don’t let the Jews know • Married a wealthy widow (Khadija) and prospered in trade

Historical Development • Mohammad – First vision to the Hijra (610 -22) • First revelation 610 • While meditating in a cave on the Mount of Light overlooking the plain of Arafat outside Mecca • Gabriel spoke to him and said “Recite”. • Became a uncompromising prophet

Historical Development • Mohammad – First vision to the Hijra (610 -22) • Began his prophetic work in Mecca • Arabia – Main thoroughfare for commerce, lots of contact with other peoples and religions • Mecca – Major oasis for trade, 360 idols in temple • On entrance could see Allah’s three sensuous daughters (al-Lat, al -Manat, and al-Uzza) • Ka’ba (cube) cubed shaped shrine dedicated to the main God of the shrine, Hubal. Built into the side was a meteorite, sacred from heaven. • Sacred well of Zamzam

Historical Development • Mohammad – First vision to the Hijra (610 -22) • Three primary points of his message • Oneness of God - there is only one God to whom people must submit (tawid – oneness) • Warner - the day of judgment is coming to judge whether people obeyed God or not • Care for orphans and elderly • Hijra (Emigration) to Ethiopia (615) • Protection of Christian nation because of persecution

Historical Development • Mohammad – First vision to the Hijra (610 -22) • Compromise (Satanic verses) • At this time he was under a lot of pressure to compromise with the Meccan polytheistic ways • Gave recognition to other deities in Sura 53 • Salman Rudhdie’s book, The Satanic Verses, based on the deleted phrase, “Have you thought of al-Lat and al-‘Uza and Manat the third, the other? … These are the exalted Gharaniq [birds? ] whose intercession is approved. ” • Now reads “Have ye seen Lat and Uzza and another; the third, Manat? What! For you the male sex, and for Him, the female? Behold, such would be indeed a division most unfair! These are nothing but names which ye have devised—ye and your fathers— For which Allah has sent down no authority. ” • Not a Christian source as only comes from Muslim sources • Muslim writer Al-Tabari (923) argued Satan put it on Muhammad’s tongue • Some deny its existence or interjected by bystanders

Historical Development • Mohammad – First vision to the Hijra (610 -22) • Death of Khadija and his Uncle (619) • Protection by his uncle as clan leader now gone • New leader Abd al-Uzza ibn Abd al-Muttalib or nickname Abu Lahab (Father of Flames) • Negative view of Abu Lahab and his wife in Sura 111

Historical Development • Mohammad – First vision to the Hijra (610 -22) • Fled to Yathrib (Madina), is call the “hijra” (flight) • After ten years had a sizable following • Referred to their belief as “Islam” meaning “submission to God, ” Muslims are “those who submit to God” • Conflict with Mecca, 622 the city fathers of Mecca expelled them, they were bad for business at the shrines • First contact with Yathrib (Madina) • First oath of al-‘Aqaba (oath of women) • Not bound to fight for Muhammad • Second oath of al-‘Aqaba (622) • Umma was born – an independent Muslim community • Islamic calendar is begun from this date “anno hegirae” (July 16, 622)

Historical Development • Yathrib Hijra to the Submission of Mecca: 622630 • Madina (622) • Attempted assassination of Muhammad by one man from each clan of the Quraysh tribe • Escaped with Abu Bakr to Madina • Set up home and first Mosque • New name Madina al-Nabi (City of the prophet) or Madina • Constitution • • Emigrants – Muhammad’s followers from Mecca Helpers – Muhammad’s followers from Madina Law codes for Arabs and Jews Freedom of religion if acknowledge his authority

Historical Development • Yathrib Hijra to the Submission of Mecca: 622630 • Nakhla raid success and beginning of (624) • Raided Meccan caravans that came near Madina (razzia – caravan raiding a common practice between Arab groups) • Nakhla raid took place during a sacred month so broke Arab tradition • Muhammad announce a new revelation to justify it (Sura 2: 217) • Cemented division between Meccans and Muhammad • Raiding became a religious duty (Jihad), transcending Arab customs (Jihad – to strive or struggle) • More people were attracted to Muhammad

Madina – first community of Islam Mecca – captured by Muhammad and his forces in A. D. 630

Historical Development • Yathrib Hijra to the Submission of Mecca: 622630 • Battle of Uhud: paradise to those killed in Jihad (625) • Muhammad defeated because followers failed to follow his direction • Idea became entrenched to if Muslims stay true to Islam they will succeed • Failure is the loss of Allah’s favor • Promise of Paradise (Sura 3: 169; context of battle 3: 159) • Also, promise of forgiveness of sins

Historical Development • Yathrib Hijra to the Submission of Mecca: 622630 • Siege of Madina (627) • Battle of the Ditch • Not much of a battle as the cavalry could not go to the city because of ditch • Water the issue and only available in the city so Meccans returned • Massacre of Qurayza Jews • Jews charged with leaking Muhammad’s plans • 600 -700 men beheaded; property taken and women and children taken into slavery

Historical Development • Yathrib Hijra to the Submission of Mecca: 622630 • Pilgrimage failure (628) • Not welcomed so returned • Captured Mecca and cleansed it of idol (630) • Ka’ba was emptied of idols • Submission of Mecca to Muhammad’s death: 630 -632 (2 years) • Battle of Hunayn; defeat of Hawazin (630) • Muhammad’s “Greater Pilgrimage” (March 632) • Death of Muhammad (June 8, 632 )

Ka’ba

Ka’ba

Historical Development • Division of Islam • Death of Muhammad caused a search for the new caliph (Caliph – viceroy or successor to enforce Koran) • No sons from wives, prophet allowed more (Sura 33: 50) • Two primary ones • His son-in-law of his favorite daughter (Fatima), Ali ibn Abu Talib (Muhammad’s uncle, married his daughter) • His father-in-law and close friend, Abu Bakr • Father of Aisha, Muhammad’s favorite wife • The majority preferred Abu Bakr • General consensus (Sunna) chose Abu Bakr – thus the Sunni branch -- Sunnites • The minority (Shi’a) went with Ali – Shi’ites

Historical Development • Division of Islam - Four rightly guided Caliphs • Abu Bakr (632 -634) • Follower of many years even to Madina • Father-in-law to Muhammad, favorite wife Aisha • Convinced people their allegiance was to Islam, not Muhammad • Initiated the process of collecting Muhammad’s teachings which would eventually make-up the Qur’an

Historical Development Four Rightly Guided Caliphs Abu Bakr (632 -634) – Muhammad’s Viceregent

Historical Development Four Rightly Guided Caliphs • Division of Islam - Four rightly guided Caliphs • Umar (634 -644) • • His daughter, one of Muhammad’s wives; with him on the Hijra to Madina Accomplishments • Times of prayer; Details of the pilgrimage; Rules related to Ramadan fast formalized; Laid foundation for Shari’a law • Only five or six hundred out of 6, 000 have any bearing on Shari’a & most of those are related to Ka’ba ritual and pilgrimage; very little legislative material

Historical Development Four Rightly Guided Caliphs • Division of Islam - Four rightly guided Caliphs • Umar (634 -644) • Accomplishments • • Holistic religion created New calendar begins with Hijra to Madina as year 1 (= 622) Spread of Islam: North – Syria; East – Mesopotamia (Persian and Christian Byzantine gave way); West – North Africa beyond Alexandria Umar murdered by poison; probably by supporters of Ali ibn Abu Talib (Christian slave or Persian captive)

Historical Development Four Rightly Guided Caliphs Umar (634 -644) – Commander of the Faithful

Historical Development Four Rightly Guided Caliphs • Division of Islam - Four rightly guided Caliphs • Uthman (644 -656) • • Umayyad clan from Mecca; not a Hashmite like Muhammad and the first two Caliphs Accomplishments • • • Islam continued to expand by war Plunder no longer kept by soldiers but revenues to go to Islamic state Uthman collected the sayings of Muhammad and issued the authoritative edition of the Qur’an. Cause more division as he appointed more Meccans to positions of power Appointed his nephew, Mu’awiya as governor of Syria Uthman stabbed to death

Historical Development Four Rightly Guided Caliphs Uthman (644 -656) – The Generous

Historical Development Four Rightly Guided Caliphs • Division of Islam - Four rightly guided Caliphs • Ali ibn Abu Talib (656 -661) • Son of Abu Talib, Muhammad’s uncle and married to Fatima, Muhammad’s daughter • • Defeated Aisha’s (Muhammad’s wife) army – Battle of the Camel Mu’awiya brought an army Arbitration between the two but because Ali failed to take revenge for the murder of Uthman both became Caliphs • • He had been view by many as the true successor from the beginning Two Caliphs: Ali and Mu’awiya After Ali’s death Mu’awiya leader and brings the beginning of the Umayyad Caliphate.

Historical Development Four Rightly Guided Caliphs Ali ibn Abu Talib (656 -661) – Commander of the Faithful

Historical Development • Succession Leading to Division of Islam • Sunni • Abu Bakr (622 -634) died of illness Ali Ibn Abu Talib • Muhammad’s father-in-Law • Umar (634 -644) poisoned • Uthman (644 -656) stabbed to death • Shi’a branch begins • Ali succeeded Uthman (656 -661) • Ali and Mu’awiyah armies arrayed against each other but when Ali sought to mediate the conflict his followers killed him • Hashemite clan • Mu’awiyah upholds Sunni branch (661 -680) • Mu’awiyah – governor of Syria • Umayyad clan caliphate last almost 100 years

Four Rightly Guided Caliphs • 1 st – Abu Bakr (Muhammad’s father-in-law; father of his favorite wife, Aisha, and follower of many years) • 2 nd – Umar (his daughter had been one of Muhammad’s wives and he had been with him on the Hijra to Madina) • 3 rd – Uthman (from Mecca and Umayyad clan not the Hashimite) • 4 th – Ali ibn Abu Talib (son of Abu Talib, Muhammad’s uncle and married to Fatima, Muhammad’s daughter) – Hashimite Clan

Islam’s Main Divisions The Quraysh Tribe Muhammad Umayyad Clan Hashimite Clan Three Rightly Guided Caliph Line of son-in-law of Muhammad Abu Talib Uthman Ali (656 -661) Minister Leader Prophetic Sunni Shi’a Sufis Thought comprimised with Umayyad by allowing government positions Authoritative The Kharijis

Historical Development • Shi’a succession Ali Ibn Abu Talib • Ali succeeded by Hasan, grandson of Muhammad • Husayn took up the mantle after Hasan abdicated and was shortly poisoned. • Husayn battled the Sunni at Karbala in 680 but was defeated and his head thrown over the city wall • The Shi’ites celebrate this day each year (10 th day of Muharram) with reenactment and whipping themselves and may be a day of revenge (NOTE: this was the day when the radicals took the U. S. embassy personnel hostage in Teheran on Nov. 4, 1979).

Historical Development • Shi’a succession • Follow the line of Husayn • Each successor receives the “‘ilm” – designation of succession, “nass”- supernatural spiritual knowledge to carry on the prophetic leadership. • Successors are called “imams” • Can just refer to prayer leader in a Sunni mosque • Also refers to the spiritual and political leader of the Shi’ites • Imam’s interpretation of the Qur’an is considered infallible and may imply sinlessness. • First three caliphs are cursed on Friday in the services at the mosque • Further divisions according to how many Imams each division recognized.

Historical Development • Shi’a succession - Twelvers (Imamites) • Recognize twelve Imams of succession. The last is Muhammad al-Muntazar who disappeared at five years old and is said to live in concealment but will someday return to be known as the “Mahdi” and establish universal Islamic rule. Until the Mahdi – Imams rule as caretakers Hierarchy • • Imam – has divine guidance and infallible Ayatollahs (limited number) – authority over shi’a community and gives legal decisions on their own knowledge of the law Mullahs (many) – teachers of law Imam’s decisions on any issue, religious, social, or political is binding. Majority of Iran (90%) and Iraq (63%; Sunni 34%) Lebanon (36%, Sunni – 22%)

Leadership of Islam Muhammad 570 -610 Sunni Abu Bakr (622 -634)* Umar (634 -644)* Uthman (644 -656) 1 st Umayyad* Shi’a Ma’awiya (661 -680) Umayyad Dynasty (661 -750) 5. Zaidites Abbasid Dynasty (750 -909) Seljuk Turks (1055 -1243) Saladin and Mamelukes Ottoman Turks (1326 -1917) 7. Ishmail Ishmalites Fatimids (909 -1171) Twelvers (Imamites) • Ali (656 -661)* • Hasan (d. 669) • Husayn (d. 680) • Alizain-al-Abidin (d. 712) • Muhammad-al-Bakir (d. 731) 6. Ja’far-al-Zadiq (d. 765) 7. Musa-al-Kazim (d. 797) 8. Ali-al-Rida (d. 818) 9. Mhuammad-al-Mawad (d. 835) 10. Ali-al-Hadi (d. 868) 11. Hasan-al-Askari (d. 847) 12. Muhammad-al- Muntazar (d. 878) * Four “rightly guided Caliphs”

Historical Development • Shi’a succession • Fivers (Zaidites) • • • Smaller group located primarily in Yamen Less radical Seveners (Ismailites) • • • Most radical theologically Found in India, Pakistan and East Africa True seventh imam was Ismail, incarnation of Allah which unacceptable to other Muslims. It was Ismail who went into concealment and will return Ascendancy over all of Islam through the Fatimid dynasty from 909 to 1171

Historical Development • Sunni succession • Umayyads (661 -750) • • Sunni leadership represented the majority of Muslims. The Umayyad tribe kept leadership until A. D. 750 with its capital at Damascus. Empire included all the Middle East extending through Persia (Iran), Egypt, North Africa, and Spain. Lull in divisional strife Frequent attempts to capture Constantinople Into Europe through Spain; stopped in France Dynasty falls after civil war with Muhammad’s uncle al-Abbas

Historical Development Umayyads (661 -750)

Historical Development • Sunni succession • Abbasid Dynasty to (750 -909) • • • Baghdad the center High luxury from conquests Revival of the “true faith” Height of the culture Translated Egyptian, Persian, Greek and Roman works Fatimids – Shi’ite (909 -1171) Seljuk Turks Saladin and Mamelukes Ottoman Truks to 1917

Historical Development Abbasid Dynasty to (750 -909)

Historical Development Islam Today – Sunni and Shia Map

Islam Worldview Allah Spiritual Realm Physical Realm

Islam Transcendent Worldview • World created by a sovereign transcendent God • God rewards and punishes • God demands submission and obedience • God not influenced by His creation • People exist in obedience to God • Linear material world to eternal existence

Islam – Spiritual Reality • Ultimate reality • Allah, Referred to in the plural (We, Us, Our) • Referred to as: Lord, The One, The Mighty, The Powerful, The King, The Overcomer, The Avenger, The Dominator, The Slayer, The Provider, The Compassionate, The Merciful, The Forgiving, Also presented as loving • Ninty-nine names for God • Described as: • Absolute unitary (3: 1, 4, 16; 6: 101 -102; 16: 1 -3; 21: 22; 25: 1 -2; 37: 4 -5; 73: 9; 112: 1 -4) • All-seeing (6: 59, 103; 18: 25); All-hearing (2: 257; 44: 5) • All-speaking (18: 109; 31: 26) • All-knowing (2: 27; 6: 58; 31: 22; 33: 54; 58: 7 -8) • All-willing, i. e. irresistible (6: 35; 13: 33; 16: 2, 9; 76: 31; 85: 16); All-powerful (2: 19; 3: 159; 55: 16 -17)

Islam – Spiritual Reality Allah, Referred to in the plural (We, Us, Our) The Quran like the Holy Bible, uses plural pronouns for God. §Surah al-Anbiya’ 21: 104 -107 “And We did not send you (O Muhammad) except as a mercy to the world. ” §This is part of the tidings of the things unseen, which We reveal unto thee (O Apostle!) by inspiration: You were not with them when they cast lots with arrows, as to which of them should be charged with the care of Mary: Nor were you with them when they disputed (the point). S. 3: 44 Y. Ali §And no soul can die except by ALLAH's leave, - a decree with a fixed term. And whoever desires the reward of the present world, WE will give him thereof; and whoever desires the reward of the Hereafter, WE will give him thereof; and WE will surely reward the grateful. S. 3: 145 Shakir

Islam – Spiritual Reality • Spiritual beings • Angels (malak) • Devil (Iblis) • Demons (jinns) • Type of spiritual existence • Heaven – sensual joy (52: 17 -22; 56: 12 -23) Garden of Felicity (37: 43) Young & beautiful chaste women (37: 48; 52: 20; 56: 22; 55: 72; 44: 54) • Hell – torment and punishment (14: 34; 18: 28; 20: 76) • Relationship to humanity • Generally transcendent • Not personal • Sovereign

Five Pillars of Islam Prophets Books Primary Beliefs Judgment PILGRIMAGE ALMSGIVING Angels Spirits FASTING PRAYER CONFESSION God Decrees

Islam – Physical World Belief system – Five Pillars • Mainly about practice – Five Pillars are Essential but not exhaustive. • Confession (shahada) • “There is no God but God, and Muhammad is the apostle of God. ” • Speaking this confession and meaning it is all one needs to do to become a Muslim • First step to salvation but no guarantee

Islam – Physical World Belief system – Five Pillars Prayer (salat) • • Five times a day • Call to prayer at appropriate time by muezzin • Now have an i-phone that reminds them of the time for prayer and which direction Mecca is. • • Anywhere but preferably in a Mosque for men Ritual washing before prayer • Wash hands, feet, eyes, ears, nose, mouth • Avoid bodily excretions and opposite sex

Islam – Physical World Belief system – Five Pillars Prayer (salat) video Main hall for prayer by putting head to floor • Women in balcony or backroom • Niche in main room indicated direction of Mecca but originally toward Jerusalem, change after conflict with Jews at Medina • Pulpit and Qur’an on a stand • • • Remove shoes before entering hall Pray rug put down sanctifies the spot Stand in rows and get in different positions as called out by prayer leader After prayer people greet each other Friday has prayer & sermon for family worship

Islam – Physical World Belief system – Five Pillars Fasting (sawm) • • During month of Ramadan • Muhammad received his first revelation during that month • Sunup to sundown • No sexual relations • Not a sip of water • Eid-al-fitr – special service first day after Ramadan with mosque service, families decorate home and exchange presents.

Islam – Physical World Belief system – Five Pillars • Almsgiving (zakat) • Practice regular charity according to the Qur’an but not specified how • In the shari’a the commandment has been formalized and may be an obligation, 1/40 of net profit or 2. 5%.

Islam – Physical World Belief system – Five Pillars • Pilgrimage (hajj) • If possible, a Muslim should travel to Mecca at least once. • The last month of the Islamic calendar is set aside for the pilgrimage.

Islam – Physical World Belief system – Five Pillars • Pilgrimage (hajj) • Other holy cities • • • Medina – Muhammad buried there Jerusalem – Muhammad ascended into heaven there once; Dome on the Rock marks the spot Shi’ites – have Qum and Karbala May pilgrimage to graves of holy men Someone can go in another’s place After going receives and honorary title, hajji and may have his house marked some way and wear some symbol, e. g. different hat

Islam – Physical World Belief system – Five Pillars Pilgrimage (hajj) – Seven Stages 1. Preparation – arrival at Jidda on coast and purity washing; Men shave their heads and wear two triangular pieces of cloth. 2. Tawaf – entering Mecca and walking around the Ka’ba seven times ending with touching the sacred meteorite stone. 3. Running between Marwa and Safa – where Hagar ran until an angel provided water. The grand mosque incorporates this sight with a long hallway. Conclude by drinking at the well of Zamzam.

Islam – Physical World Belief system – Five Pillars Pilgrimage (hajj) – Seven Stages 4. 5. 6. 7. Assemble at Plain of Arafat at foot of Mt. of Mercy where Muhammad delivered his last sermon. From afternoon till sunset stand meditating praying and reading Qur’an (high point of hajj) Sacrifice at Mina – sacrifice a sheep or goat and have a feast. It commemorates Abraham’s sacrifice of an animal in place of Ishmael (note not Isaac). Stoning the devil – throw nine rocks at three pillars representing the devil. Final tawaf – back in Mecca to walk around Ka’ba one time to complete pilgrimage.

Islam – Primary Beliefs • • • Oneness of God Angels & Spirits Prophets Books Judgment Decrees of God

Islam – Primary Beliefs Oneness of God • • • There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger (prophet) Historical origin points to Allah as God of Abraham Theologically Allah may not be same • • • Unitarian, no trinity God is mostly transcendent To identify God with any finite or created being is “shirk” (idolatry)

Islam – Primary Beliefs Oneness of God • • Blessed be He who has sent down salvation upon His servant, that he may be a warner to all beings; to whom belongs the Kingdom of the heavens and the earth; and He has not taken to Him a son, and He has no associate in the Kingdom (Surah 25: 2). Say; He is God, One, God, the Everlasting Refuge who has not begotten, and has not been begotten and equal to Him is not anyone (Surah 112)

Islam – Primary Beliefs Power of God • Omnipresent, Omniscient, Omnipotent Creator of the universe • • Surely your Lord is God, who created the heavens and the earth in six days then sat Himself upon the Throne, covering the day with the night it pursues urgently and the sun, and the moon, and the stars subservient, by His command. Verily, His are the creation and the command. Blessed be God, the Lord of all Being (Surah 7: 54). Is also characterized as by justice and mercy

Islam – Primary Beliefs • • Angels & Spirits Gabriel and three other archangels and many other angels (malak) Evil spirits (jinn) lead by the devil • • • Cause physical harm Tempt to compromise obedience to Allah Folk Islam more concerned with keeping evil spirits away

Islam – Primary Beliefs Prophets • At times God reveals his will to prophets because they have overcome their struggle with sin. • Directed by God’s inspiration • Prophet is an apostle if he provides a book for his community. • Prophet preaches submission to the one God and the coming judgment.

Islam – Primary Beliefs Prophets • Qur’an mentions some biblical prophets visited on his journey to heaven (seven levels) • • Adam Noah Abraham Moses David Jesus & John the Baptist Line of prophets complete when the Mahdi returns to setup universal Islam Sunni Muslim most accepted is that Muhammad was the final prophet

Islam – Primary Beliefs Books • Prophets produce books • Jews, Christians, and Zoroastrians are “people of the book” • “People of the book” upon paying taxes were protected in theory but not always in practice but Muhammad left room for their entrance into heaven

Islam – Primary Beliefs Judgment • Appointed day only God knows • Trumpet will sound - General resurrection • Everyone confronted with the deeds they have done in life. • Righteous receive the book of their deeds in their right hand while the wicked in their left hand (unclean hand)

Islam – Primary Beliefs Judgment • Those who have submitted to Allah’s will received heaven • Allah is most gracious and merciful and may forgive devout people certain sins. • Heaven and Hell – physical pleasure and torment, highly sensual • Garden of Felicity (37: 43) • Young & beautiful chaste women (37: 48; 52: 20; 56: 22; 55: 72; 44: 54) • Assurance of entry into heaven is considered presumptuous and dictating to God.

Islam – Primary Beliefs Decrees of God • • Allah is sovereign Allah’s will comes to pass Fairly deterministic Arguments over free will as to whether the sovereignty of God precludes free will

Islam – Other Beliefs • Categories of ethical actions • Fard – obligatory actions • Haram – prohibited actions, e. g. idolatry • Halal – permitted actions • Diet • Pork prohibited • Alcohol prohibited • Prohibitions • Gambling • Usury

Islam – Other Beliefs • Modesty of dress • • Both men and women The robes with only the eyes showing is not from the Qur’an Woman is not to dress in away that showsoff her beauty • • • Interpretation requires her body be covered including arms and legs, hair and sides of face covered Men not to expose above elbows

Islam – Other Beliefs • Marriage and status of women • • Male dominate Can divorce by public statement three times, usually at different times, “I divorce you. ” Do have a right to inheritance and cannot be divorced penniless Qur’anic practice and reality diverge

Islam – Jihad • • Holy War (jihad- “ struggle on the behalf of God”) Five principles of holy war • • • Physical violence cannot be used to further Islam is to be propagated by reason and persuasion Islamic country is justified in attacking if attacked. If a non-Islamic country uses physical force to repress the exercise of Islam it constitutes physical aggression Any country that was Islamic cannot revert, any attempt to do so can be met with a jihad.

Islam – Jihad • Islam and the view of humanity • • • Dar al-Islam – land of those who have submitted to Allah, Muslim community (umma). Dar al-harb – land of war or conflict in which non-Muslims dwell Property of infidel belong to the umma – Jihad seeks to reclaim all property and bring it into the Dar al-Islam (this is seen as the only godly way to bring harmony)

Islam – Jihad • Interpretations • • • Struggle to bring their own hearts and lives in conformity to the will of God. Anyone not of Islam that is seen as a threat may bring a jihad to bear on it Interpretation can be that if the emissaries go to a country and ask them to join them and they refuse, then they are suppressing the spread of Islam.

Islam – Jihad • Martyrs • • • Guaranteed a place in paradise Paradise a place of fulfilling desires Virgins promised (Sura 55: 47 -59; 37: 48; 52: 1720; 56: 17, 22)

Qur’an • Sacred writings - Koran or Qur’an • • Uthman and his associates collected saying of Muhammad recorded by others Kept what was authentic and destroyed the rest That is the Qur’an even today Ultimate source of Islamic authority • • Given to Muhammad by angel Gabriel Earthly version of the heavenly book (um-al-kitab = mother of all books) Muhammad was privileged to convey the earthly version with specific instructions. Only authoritative in Arabic, no translation can be authentic

Qur’an • Content of Qur’an • • • About the size of New Testament 114 chapters called suras divided into verses “ayat” Arranged from longer to shorter suras which does not put it in chronological order (closer to reverse order) All but one sura begins with “in the name of Allah, the most gracious and most merciful. ” Many references to biblical materials (see sura 2 on Adam’s sin)

Writings of Islam • Sunna and hadiths • • Any issues not addressed by the Qur’an the prophet’s life and informal sayings are the authority. Hadiths – traditions which were collected in the first generation, these are sunna (consensus) – hadiths point to Muhammad’s actual life as indications of how Muslims should act.

Shari’a Law • Shari’a • • • Qur’an and hadiths must be interpreted correctly therefore shari’a developed – “Islamic law” Four schools of law in Sunni Islam Shi’a is a fifth school where the Imam is the final point of authority and rejects the hadiths.

Sufism • • Mystical tradition Islamic mystics – Sufis Arose in the 8 th century Direct experience of Allah Famous Sufis ‘ Rumi Persian Poet and al. Ghazali who provided a comprehensive theology of Sufism Example “whirling dervishes”

Islam & Christianity • Christian references • • • Dozens of references to Christ See him as a prophet Teaches his virgin birth (3: 45 -47) Speaks of his miracles (3: 49) Mentions his ascension (4: 158)

Islam & Christianity • • Christian references Two non-negotiable points on Jesus • Jesus Christ cannot be God (5: 116) • • Polytheistic ideas Christ did not die on the cross (4: 157) • • • God would not let his prophet suffer that way Reject substitutionary atonement as barbaric and contrary to the nature of God. Believe Jews were deceived in believing the crucified Jesus or actually crucified Simon of Cyrene.

Islam and Christianiy • Trinity (Surah 4: 171) • Against the concept of Trinity in the sense of tritheism • Elevate Jesus from prophet to divine status (Surah 9: 30, 31) • Jesus was incorrectly elevated by people to divine status • May be a reaction to adoptionism and Arianism • belief that Jesus was born merely human and that he became divine later in his life • Jesus was not of one substance with the Father and that there had been a time before he existed • Surah 19: 37 “the sects are divided concerning Jesus” • Son of Mary • Equates worship of Mary and Christ

Islam and Christianiy • Contact with Christianity? • Nestorians who fled to Arabia (two natures of Christ not united) • Monophysites who fled to Arabia (divine nature obliterates human nature) • Chalcedon council (451) condemned heresies • Allah begetting (Surah 19: 35; 112: 3; 72: 3) • Shirk (idolatry) passages (Surah 17: 11) • Allah has no partner in his kingdom • What does partner mean? • Reaction to polytheism that may have been assumed to be a part of Christianity

Bridges to Muslims • • • Prayer to God is highly valued God as the God of Abraham Importance of Isa (Christ and His teaching) Following the words of the prophets Judgment Day Spiritual realm Importance of family Hospitality Moral living as taught in the Bible God’s goodness, love, reliability, and care for his servants.

Biblical Themes that Appeal to Muslims • Prayer to God, for protection and healing • God’s goodness, love, reliability, and care for his servants. • God’s guidance of history towards good ends as he works through events to oppose evil, to train his servants in righteousness and truth, and to fulfill his good purpose for his people. • The portrait of Jesus himself: his kindness, devotion, wisdom, power, self-sacrifice and ongoing reign as Savior and King. (His death is and issue)

Biblical Themes that Appeal to Muslims • The love and forgiveness exhibited by true followers of Jesus. • The offer of personal forgiveness and acceptance by God. • The offer of assured and complete salvation from hell and acceptance into God’s kingdom. • The offer of a personal relationship with the Lord, fully realized in the next life. • The offer of inner cleansing and renewal through God’s power (role of Holy Spirit can raise issues)

Biblical Themes that Appeal to Muslims • The offer and example of grace to live a godly life through the strengthening and guidance of the God. • Power to resist and repel Satan and evil spirits in Jesus’ name. • Christian ethical standards

Suras 33: 50 • [50] O Prophet! surely We have made lawful to your wives whom you have given their dowries, and those whom your right hand possesses out of those whom Allah has given to you as prisoners of war, and the daughters of your paternal uncles and the daughters of your paternal aunts, and the daughters of your maternal uncles and the daughters of your maternal aunts who fled with you; and a believing woman if she gave herself to the Prophet, if the Prophet desired to marry her-- specially for you, not for the (rest of) believers; We know what We have ordained for them concerning their wives and those whom their right hands possess in order that no blame may attach to you; and Allah is Forgiving, Merciful. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 6: 101 -103 • [101] Wonderful Originator of the heavens and the earth! How could He have a son when He has no consort, and He (Himself) created everything, and He is the Knower of all things. [102] That is Allah, your Lord, there is no god but He; the Creator of all things, therefore serve Him, and He has charge of all things. [103] Vision comprehends Him not, and He comprehends (all) vision; and He is the Knower of subtleties, the Aware. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 6: 59 • [59] And with Him are the keys of the unseen treasures-- none knows them but He; and He knows what is in the land the sea, and there falls not a leaf but He knows it, nor a grain in the darkness of the earth, nor anything green nor dry but (it is all) in a clear book. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 21: 104 -105 • [104] On the day when We will roll up heaven like the rolling up of the scroll for writings, as We originated the first creation, (so) We shall reproduce it; a promise (binding on Us); surely We will bring it about. [105] And certainly We wrote in the Book after the reminder that (as for) the land, My righteous servants shall inherit it. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 52: 17 -20 • [17] Surely those who guard (against evil) shall be in gardens and bliss [18] Rejoicing because of what their Lord gave them, and their Lord saved them from the punishment of the burning fire. [19] Eat and drink pleasantly for what you did, [20] Reclining on thrones set in lines, and We will unite them to large-eyed beautiful ones. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 37: 39 -48 • [39] And you shall not be rewarded except (for) what you did. [40] Save the servants of Allah, the purified ones. [41] For them is a known sustenance, [42] Fruits, and they shall be highly honored, [43] In gardens of pleasure, [44] On thrones, facing each other. [45] A bowl shall be made to go round them from water running out of springs, [46] White, delicious to those who drink. [47] There shall be no trouble in it, nor shall they be exhausted therewith. [48] And with them shall be those who restrain the eyes, having beautiful eyes; The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 56: 15 -22 • [15] On thrones decorated, [16] Reclining on them, facing one another. [17] Round about them shall go youths never altering in age, [18] With goblets and ewers and a cup of pure drink; [19] They shall not be affected with headache thereby, nor shall they get exhausted, [20] And fruits such as they choose, [21] And the flesh of fowl such as they desire. [22] And pure, beautiful ones, The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 3: 45 -47 • [45] When the angels said: O Marium, surely Allah gives you good news with a Word from Him (of one) whose name is the '. Messiah, Isa son of Marium, worthy of regard in this world and the hereafter and of those who are made near (to Allah). [46] And he shall speak to the people when in the cradle and when of old age, and (he shall be) one of the good ones. [47] She said: My Lord! when shall there be a son (born) to I me, and man has not touched me? He said: Even so, Allah creates what He pleases; when He has decreed a matter, He only says to it, Be, and it is. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 3: 49 • [49] And (make him) a messenger to the children of Israel: That I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, that I determine for you out of dust like the form of a bird, then I breathe into it and it becomes a bird with Allah's permission and I heal the blind and the leprous, and bring the dead to life with Allah's permission and I inform you of what you should eat and what you should store in your houses; most surely there is a sign in this for you, if you are believers. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 4: 156 -158 • [156] And for their unbelief and for their having uttered against Marium a grievous calumny. [157] And their saying: Surely we have killed the Messiah, Isa son of Marium, the messenger of Allah; and they did not kill him nor did they crucify him, but it appeared to them so (like Isa) and most surely those who differ therein are only in a doubt about it; they have no knowledge respecting it, but only follow a conjecture, and they killed him not for sure. [158] Nay! Allah took him up to Himself; and Allah is Mighty, Wise. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 5: 116 • [116] And when Allah will say: O Isa son of Marium! did you say to men, Take me and my mother for two gods besides Allah he will say: Glory be to Thee, it did not befit me that I should say what I had no right to (say); if I had said it, Thou wouldst indeed have known it; Thou knowest what is in my mind, and I do not know what is in Thy mind, surely Thou art the great Knower of the unseen things. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 4: 171 • [171] O followers of the Book! do not exceed the limits in your religion, and do not speak (lies) against Allah, but (speak) the truth; the Messiah, Isa son of Marium is only a messenger of Allah and His Word which He communicated to Marium and a spirit from Him; believe therefore in Allah and His messengers, and say not, Three. Desist, it is better for you; Allah is only one Allah; far be It from His glory that He should have a son, whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth is His, and Allah is sufficient for a Protector. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.

Suras 19: 35 • [35] It beseems not Allah that He should take to Himself a ! son, glory to be Him; when He has decreed a matter He only says to it "Be, " and it is. The Quran (M. H. Shakir, Ed. ). Medford, MA: Perseus Digital Library.