STEP ONE Basic information about Islam

In order to gain a foundation of knowledge about Islam, travel through the following sections.  Be able to answer all questions listed in each section. (Recommendation:  Distribute the sections among your group and report results to one another.) Be sure to write down other questions that come up as you are working.

* Explain the Basic Tenets of Islam

1.  What does 'Islam' mean?
2.  What were the origins of the Muslim religion?
3. How was it different from religious beliefs in Arabia pre-Mohammed?
4.  How does someone become a Muslim?
5.  How do Muslims practice their religion?
6. What is the Ka'ba?
7. What were the highlights of the life of Mohammed? How did he become  a prophet?
8. What is the Quran?
9. Are there any other sacred sources?
10. What is jihad?

To answer these questions, visit the Resource section.

* Compare Islam with other religions.

1. How is Islam like Christianity and Judaism? In what ways are they different?
2. Do Islam and Christianity have different origins?
3. What does Islam teach about Jesus?  How does this differ from the Christian belief in Jesus?
4. What similarities and differences does Islam have with other religions and how does it teach tolerance for other beliefs?
5. Does Islam teach tolerance for other beliefs?

To answer these questions, visit the Resource section.

* The Geography of the Muslim World

1.  Approximately how much of the world's population is Muslim?
2.  What country has the largest Muslim population?
3.  In which country is the percentage of Muslims the highest?
4. How many Muslims are there in the United States? What percentage of the population?
5. In which continents do you find the greatest number of countries that have a Muslim majority?
6.  How did the spread of Islam affect the world?

To answer these questions, visit the Resource section.