Islam

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Test: Islam

Identification (25 points)

Identify five of the following terms as completely as possible. Give not only the definition, but provide examples when relevant and provide any other information that would show your understanding of the term. (5 points each)

Qur’an Hadith Sufism
suras Mihrab jihad
prophethood imam Shia (Shiites)
Mecca Ramadan  
Kaba umma  

Short Answer ( 50 points)

Explain two of the following four stories or concepts. In both questions you must not only describe the concept or story, but explain the significance.

The Night Journey (or Muhammed in the presence of God)

Husayn’s martyrdom

The Five Pillars of Islam

Essay (25 points)

Answer one of the following two essays. Support your general statements with examples.

1. Explain the differences between the Shia and the Sunni. What is the origin of their differences? How do we see the origins reflected in the modern conceptualizations of these sects (ex: Shiite Iran)?

2. What is Sufism? Why do the religious authorities of Islam see it as a dangerous movement? What happened to Al-Hallaj who claimed, "I am the Real?"