01. What are Islam's Teachings?
“Islam” is derived from the Arabic word “salam,” which means peace and submission.
Key Beliefs
- Monotheism: Islam emphasizes God’s absolute oneness. There is no other deity or idol to be worshipped except Allah.
- Prophets: The prophet’s line starts with Adam and includes Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. It culminates with Muhammad (SAW), who is the final prophet.
- Scripture: The Quran is the literal word of God revealed to Muhammad. It is the central text of Islam and guides all aspects of life.
- Angels: Muslims believe in angels who serve as messengers and intermediaries between God and humanity.
- Predestination: Allah has knowledge of all things and has predetermined everything that will happen, but humans still have free will and are accountable for their actions.
- Last Day and Judgment: There is a final Day of Judgment where everyone will be resurrected and judged by God based on their deeds.
Five Pillars of Islam:
These are five fundamental practices considered obligatory in Islam:
- Shahada: The declaration of faith, stating, “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God.”
- Salat: Five daily prayers performed at specific times facing the Kaaba in Mecca.
- Zakat: Giving alms to the poor and needy from your earnings after the year has passed by those who qualify for it.
- Sawm: Fasting during the month of Ramadan.
- Hajj: Pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a lifetime by those eligible for it.
- Ethics and Morality: Islam emphasizes good character, compassion, justice, honesty, and respect for all people.
- Legal framework: Sharia is the Islamic legal system derived from the Quran and Sunnah (teachings and practices of Prophet Muhammad).
- Diversity of interpretations: While core principles remain constant, there are diverse interpretations and schools of thought within Islam, leading to different practices and perspectives.
02. Challenges in Learning Islam?
Like any religious or cultural undertaking, Islamic education comes with challenges. These challenges vary depending on the individual circumstances and the learning environment.
- Language Barriers: Primary Islamic texts, including the Quran and Hadith, were initially written in Arabic. Translations are available in every primary world language; however, they may only partially capture the richness of the Arabic language.
- Cultural Differences: Islam is practiced in diverse cultural contexts worldwide. Understanding its cultural nuances and practices can be challenging for the new Muslims.
- Misinterpretation and Misrepresentation: Media misrepresentation of Islam creates stereotypes and misunderstandings. Finding unbiased and accurate sources to learn about the religion is a challenge.
- Diverse Interpretations: Islam has various interpretations leading to differences in religious practices. It’s essential to approach the subject with an open mind and appreciate the diversity within the Muslim community.
- Access to Knowledge: Islamic education may be limited in certain regions due to a lack of qualified teachers and resources, which can hinder learning.
03. Who should join this Course?
This course is designed for a broad spectrum of individuals, irrespective of their background or prior knowledge of Islam.
- Muslims Seeking to Reconnect to Islam or Enhance Their Understanding: This course offers a systematic way to learn about Islam’s theology, jurisprudence, and history.
- New Converts: It can be a foundational base for the newly converted Muslims. Since all our courses are designed for individual needs, it will be a good start for a new Muslim.
- Non-Muslims Curious About Islam: This course can educate individuals from diverse backgrounds who wish to understand Islam, its beliefs, and practices comprehensively from an academic point of view.
- Parents and Educators: It can effectively help parents and educators impart religious knowledge to the younger generation.
04. Levels of the Course?
- Beginner Level: It includes the basics of Islam, covering topics such as the five pillars, beliefs, and the life of Prophet Muhammad. It provides a foundation for more advanced studies.
- Intermediate Level: Students progress to a deeper exploration of Islamic teachings, including studying the Quran, Hadith (sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad), and basic Islamic jurisprudence.
- Advanced Level: At this stage of the course, students delve into more intricate aspects of Islamic theology, jurisprudence, and history
05. What will you Learn in this Course? (Key Highlights and Course Outline)?
- Introduction to Islamic Teachings & Their Relevance.
- Exploring the Five Pillars of Islam.
- Detailed Study of Tawheed (Monotheism).
- The Life & Teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Understanding the Quran: Themes & Messages.
- Dive into Hadith: Collection, Authenticity & Interpretation.
- Islamic Ethics & Morality in Daily Life.
- Islamic Jurisprudence (Fiqh): Principles & Rulings.
- History of the Caliphs & Key Islamic Events.
- Islamic Social Values: Family, Community & Brotherhood.
- Modern Challenges & Islamic Solutions.
- Interfaith Dialogues: Islam in Global Context.
- Continuous Learning: Exploring Further Islamic Disciplines
06. Objectives of the Course
- To develop a deeper understanding of Islam.
- To reconnect you with Islam and make you a better Muslim.
- To study Islam for your academic pursuits
07. Conclusion
Islam, a religion of peace and balance, has a large following of diverse individuals worldwide. Despite the challenges one may face in their journey to learn about Islam, the fulfillment and enrichment that can be gained is immeasurable. Onlinemadrasa.org is leading the Islamic education industry by providing modern online teaching services. Our highly qualified teachers and supportive communities in our groups will make your spiritual journey fruitful and pleasant. By embracing Islam with an open mind, a critical spirit, and a willingness to learn, one can navigate the challenges and discover this faith’s profound richness and beauty.
