Question 1: Describe the significance of the Shahada in Islam and what it represents for Muslims.

Answer: The Shahada is the Islamic declaration of faith, stating 'There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.' It signifies the believer's acceptance of the oneness of God and Muhammad as His prophet, forming the foundation of a Muslim's faith.

Question 2: List the Five Pillars of Islam and briefly explain the purpose of each.

Answer: The Five Pillars are: 1) Shahada - declaration of faith, 2) Salat - performing the five daily prayers, 3) Zakat - giving to charity, 4) Sawm - fasting during Ramadan, 5) Hajj - pilgrimage to Mecca. They are acts of worship that strengthen faith and obedience to Allah.

Question 3: Explain what the Kaaba is and why it is important in Islamic worship.

Answer: The Kaaba is a cuboid-shaped building located in Mecca, considered the holiest site in Islam. Muslims face the Kaaba during prayer and it is the focal point of the Hajj pilgrimage, symbolizing unity and the direction of worship.

Question 4: Describe the meaning and significance of the Islamic prayer ritual, Salat.

Answer: Salat is the ritual prayer performed five times daily, involving specific physical movements and recitations. It is a direct link between Muslims and Allah, emphasizing submission, discipline, and devotion.

Question 5: Sketch a diagram showing the general layout of a typical Muslim prayer space inside a mosque. Label key features such as the mihrab, minbar, and prayer mats.

Answer: A correct sketch would depict a rectangular prayer hall with rows of prayer mats facing the mihrab (a niche indicating the qibla, or direction of Mecca). The minbar (pulpit) is usually positioned to the right of the mihrab, used for sermons.

Question 6: What is the significance of Ramadan in Islam? Explain how Muslims observe this month.

Answer: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, commemorating the revelation of the Quran to Prophet Muhammad. Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs, to develop self-discipline and spiritual reflection.

Question 7: Identify and explain two symbols commonly associated with Islam.

Answer: Two symbols are: 1) The Crescent Moon and Star, which are often used to represent Islam and are seen on flags and architecture. 2) The Kaaba, which symbolizes unity in worship and the spiritual center of Islam.

Question 8: Describe the role of the Prophet Muhammad in Islam and how his life influences Muslim practices today.

Answer: Prophet Muhammad is regarded as the last messenger of Allah, whose life serves as a model for Muslims. His teachings and actions (Sunnah) guide daily life, worship, and ethical conduct, emphasizing compassion, justice, and submission to Allah.

Question 9: Explain what the Hajj pilgrimage involves and its importance for Muslims.

Answer: Hajj is the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, required once in a lifetime for Muslims who are physically and financially able. It involves rituals such as walking around the Kaaba, standing at Arafat, and stoning the devil, symbolizing renewal of faith and unity among Muslims.

Question 10: Reflect on how the beliefs and practices of Islam promote community and social justice among Muslims.

Answer: Islam emphasizes the Ummah, or global Muslim community, fostering a sense of brotherhood and support. Practices like Zakat promote social justice by aiding the poor, while communal prayers and festivals strengthen social bonds and shared identity.