Varieties of meaning of jihad The literal meaning of jihad is struggle or exertion and it need not always take the form of violence. In English we also have a variety of meanings attached to the word war. War in English has its primary and literal meaning as armed, violent struggle, but it is also sometimes used metaphorically—war on poverty, war on drugs etc. In Arabic jihad has a similar range of meanings and can mean struggle, effort or exertion or at times war. In today’s media, jihad is often called “holy war”—but this is too narrow a meaning of the word Jihad. In matters of Shariah law later jurists distinguish four kinds of jihad. 1. Jihad of the heart—this is the struggle of the heart against Satan. It requires a resistance and struggle against satanic deception. Muhammad refers to this in a hadith and calls this struggle the “greater jihad.” 2. Jihad of the tongue—this is a persuasive battle. A person is to show exertion in speech in urging people to practice Islam and to submit to the will of Allah. 3. Jihad of the hand—matters of charity and justice. It refers to choosing to do what is right and to combat injustice and what is wrong with positive action. 4. Jihad of the sword—armed struggle From the Qur’an Fight for the sake of God those that fight against you, but do not attack them first. God does not love the aggressors. Slay them wherever you find them. Drive them out of the places from which they drove you. Idolatry is worse than carnage . . . fight against them until idolatry is no more and God’s religion reigns supreme. (2:192) [4:91] You will find others who wish to make peace with you, and also with their people. However, as soon as war erupts, they fight against you. Unless these people leave you alone, offer you peace, and stop fighting you, you may fight them when you encounter them. Against these, we give you a clear authorization. [4:92] No believer shall kill another believer, unless it is an accident. If one kills a believer by accident, he shall atone by freeing a believing slave, and paying a compensation to the victim's family, unless they forfeit such a compensation as a charity. If the victim belonged to people who are at war with you, though he was a believer, you shall atone by freeing a believing slave. If he belonged to people with whom you have signed a peace treaty, you shall pay the compensation in addition to freeing a believing slave. If you cannot find a slave to free, you shall atone by fasting two consecutive months, in order to be redeemed by GOD. GOD is Knower, Most Wise. [4:93] Anyone who kills a believer on purpose, his retribution is Hell, wherein he abides forever, GOD is angry with him, and condemns him, and has prepared for him a terrible retribution. 1 [4:94] O you who believe, if you strike in the cause of GOD, you shall be absolutely sure. Do not say to one who offers you peace, "You are not a believer," seeking the spoils of this world. For GOD possesses infinite spoils. Remember that you used to be like them, and GOD blessed you. Therefore, you shall be absolutely sure (before you strike). GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do. From the Hadith--Muhammad’s charge to warriors whenever he sent them out: Combat only those who disbelieve in God. Do not cheat or commit treachery, nor should you mutilate anyone or kill children. Whenever you meet your polytheist enemies, invite them first to accept Islam. If they do so, accept it and let them alone. . . If they refuse (to accept Islam), then call upon them to pay the jizya (poll tax); if they do leave them alone. It is narrated by Miqdad bin Aswad (Radhiallaho anho): that he said," Messenger of Allah (sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallam), you just see (here is a point): If I encountered a person amongst the infidels (in the battlefield) and he attacked me and struck me and cut off one of my hands with the sword. Then he (in order to protect himself from me) took shelter of a tree and said: I become Muslim for Allah's sake. Messenger of Allah, can I kill him after he had uttered this?" The Messenger of Allah said: Do not kill him. I (the narrator) said: Messenger of Allah, he cut off my hand and uttered this after amputating it; should I then kill him? The Messenger of Allah said: Don't kill him, for I you kill him, verily he would be in a position where you had been before killing him and verily you would be in a position where he had been before uttering (kalima). Muslim Vol. 1 : No. 173 From the Shariah--Four characteristics of jihad as spelled out in the diverse elements of Classical Islamic law as understood by the jurists. 1. Jihad has a communal nature; it is the responsibility of a community. a. For extremists Jihad is understood in terms of a perpetual conflict enmity between the sphere of Islam (dar al-Islam) and the world outside of Islam, the “sphere of war” (dar al-harb). 2. Before battle there is a summons (da wah) to be issued. The summons requires a call to convert to Islam and the war is to be fought within certain rules. 3. There is a division between modernist and fundamentalist Muslims on the question of offensive and defensive jihad. 2 a. Classical Shariah law emphasizes the defensive nature of a jihad, saying only defensive jihad is permissable. Defense of Islam requires that the Islamic community respond when attacked. Each individual has a duty to fight a defensive war. b. Extremists reject that Jihad needs to be defensive. For them Islam is a universal revolutionary struggle. A difficult issue with the fundamentalist (extremists) position is the lack of a legitimate ruler (either political or religious) to declare a jihad. (A defensive jihad is required without anyone to “declare jihad;” it calls all Muslims to struggle; an offensive jihad can not occur without someone to declare it—a Mahdi.* * Some think that the Mahdi can designate someone with the authority to issue a call to arms. The Madhi is seen as a Messianic type political figure who will come to establish Islam. 4. There are some notions of jihad that do not apply to the world outside of Islam. Political armed struggle can occur between Islamic nations for several reasons including, punishment and correcting rebels. In the Islamic community who has the authority to declare war? 1. In the early formation of Islam, Muhammad as both prophet and head of state had the authority to declare war. 2. Later successors to the prophet were called caliphs (literally deputy or successor). Each caliph was also considered an imam. 3. Disputes arose over who was a proper successor—the Shi-ites upheld to the third caliph Ali saying that 1) the prophet had in fact designated his true successor (a blood relative) and 2) only a person (like the prophet) who received direct divine guidance could legitimately lead a Muslim community. a. After the death of Ali, and the later death of a grandson of Muhammad, for the Shi-ites no one bore the prophetic mantle. They continued to accept the political rule (so far as the spirit of Islam was not violated) but claimed that there was a lack of religious authority. b. They held that true authority lay only in the imam—who passed his authority on to the next. c. This continued on until 874, the Twelfth Imam “disappears” and will not reappear until the end of the world. He will return as a Mahdi. (Presumably, the Mahdi, should he appear will have the spiritual authority to declare war). 4. For the Sunni—the succession of the caliphs is legitimate. In practice though they have come to be seen as increasingly political figures and the spiritual authority of imam gradually passed over to the religious leaders. Today Imam, in the Sunni tradition, has come to mean someone who leads in prayer at the local mosque. Question: Is Osama Bin Laden justified in his attack on the World trade center according to Islamic notions of jihad? 1. Bin Laden is not an elected leader or a recognized imam. 2. The attack is an offensive war, rather than a defensive one. 3 3. The attack targeted Muslims and non-Muslims. 4. The attack targets women and children. 5. There was no warning or summons prior to the battle. Part of the contemporary debate in Islam is the question of whether there is a legitimate Islamic state. Some (on the extreme maintain that there is none) they say that the world is in a state of dar al harb (world of war). From this anarchic state there needs to emerge a dar al Islam (world of peace). 4 There are interesting parallels between jihad and just war theory (as was developed in European thought in the Christian West). In just war theory—there are some wars that are just and some that are unjust. Jus ad bellum (just reasons to go to war) Jus in bellum (just behavior in war) SCRAM CIA (A checklist for just war theory) Success—in order for a war to be justified there must be a reasonable chance of victory. (Since lives will be lost, property damaged etc.—it should not be undertaken without a reasonable chance of achieving the goal) Cost—the benefits expected from the war must be expected to exceed the costs that the war will incur. There must be a serious wrong that is systematic and widespread that will be corrected by the war. Resort—war must be the last resort. All other means of settling the conflict (diplomatic pressure, economic pressure etc.) must be exhausted. Announcement—to be just a war must be declared and announced by the proper authorities. Only legitimate governments can declare war, not individual citizens. The announcement of the war should also contain a clause that says the conditions under which war may be avoided. Means—Just means must be used in fighting the war. There is to be no deliberate targeting of non-combatants. Prisoners of war are to be well treated. Surrendering combatants are to be spared. Cause—the cause of the war should be just. “We wage war for the sake of peace.” A war of defense is traditionally seen as a just cause. Intention—The intention of the war is not to be aggrandizement of wealth or expansion of territory. The intention to kill an entire ethnic group is also not a just cause. (Some add expansion of religion of religion as one of the impermissible aims of war—the Christian West has waffled on this. During the height of the Crusades, for example, some claimed that the Pope had the authority to declare war.) Authority--On the notion of just authority—The war must be declared by someone or some body who has legitimate authority. Christian views of war 1. Pacifism of the early Christians (also Quakers, Amish, Mennonites) 5 2. Just war theory Jewish views of war---Hebrew Bible/Old Testament notions of a war with God’s approval Nine characteristics of war in the Old Testament 1. Holy war as war fought at God’s command • Ancient Israel • (Parallel with English Puritans) • Modern Zionism (?) 2. Holy war as war fought on God’s behalf by his duly authorized representative • David or Joshua i. Parallels: 1. Crusades, authorized by the Pope 2. Jihad, Muhammad 3. Holy war as fought by God himself. • Holy war as a phenomenon recognized during or after the fact as an absolute miracle. • God aiding the good, not personally fighting but strengthening all the good 4. Holy war as war fought to defend religion against its enemies, without and within • A defensive war 5. Holy war as war fought to propagate right religion or to establish a social order in line with divine authority 6. Holy war as war fought to enforce religious conformity and or to punish deviation • War against heresy 7. Holy war in which the participants themselves are ritually and/or morally holy 8. Holy war as the militant struggle of the faith by means of arms alongside nonviolent means 9. Holy war as warfare under religiously inspired charismatic leadership 6 1 Islamic views of Jesus: Before starting to expound on Islamic views of Jesus, I’ll begin with a story. I knew the Imam at the Bowling Green mosque, he was good to me and my family. He was very kind to my son who had become interested in Islam. My son had struggled with drug addiction for a part of his life; he found the Muslim prayer services helpful and the mosque encouraged him in his resolve to keep clean. The Imam told me many things but one thing he returned to again and again, was how he loved Jesus. He also taught that all Muslims ought to love Jesus. Jesus was a prophet of God, dear to God and Muslims don’t get to pick and choose their prophets by a preference apart from the divine preferences. (Below you can find the verse from the Qur’an that supports this (4: 148) The Imam was an immigrant from Bosnia, as were many of his congregation. His fatherin-law was a soldier and was killed by Christians as part of the ethnic cleansing. The Imam was a patriotic American and flew the flag proudly, grateful that his family and served and fought alongside those American soldiers who worked against the ethnic cleansing. He expressed great anger at Osama Bin Laden. He would say I hate what he did more than most Americans because not only did he do terrible things in killing people, he also sullied the name of Islam by claiming it was done on behalf of Islam, He was a dynamic person, he had been educated in Egypt at the famous Al Azahr University, one of Egypt’s most prestigious centers of Islamic learning. Islamic views of Jesus: 1. Jesus is considered a prophet and though the Qur’an encourages people not to pick and choose among prophets; however, despite that Jesus is on the list of prophets who seems to have a special status and whose work is emphasized. a. Jesus, for example, appears to be one of the few prophets that will emerge at judgment day to judge his followers. (Often this is implied as a caution to Christians not to add anything to Jesus’ teaching.) b. Many of the stories about the prophets have a plot that runs like this, prophets preach, they are scorned, Allah vindicates them. 2. Titles for Jesus in the Qur’an. The following titles are used of Jesus a. Son of Mary b. Word from God i. This use of the word from God is obviously different from John’s gospel where the Word or logos is seen as eternal. The Qur’an seems to hold a different view than John but still holds that Jesus is a word sent from God c. A “Spirit” from God d. Messiah—Jesus is seen as the prophet sent from God to preach the gospel to the Jews and return them to God, they reject Jesus as a messenger and hence in the view of the Quran, they reject God. 3. Common elements with Christian belief 2 a. Jesus’ is seen as a prophet and a miracle worker; typically, though the stress in the Quran is on the power of God working through Jesus—rather than Jesus “working the miracles himself.” b. Virgin birth is accepted as a miraculous (fatherless) birth; however, the meaning of the virgin birth is different than Christian understanding—for Muslims Jesus is seen as a creature created out of dust, no different than Adam. From the Qur’an Remember the angels’ words to Mary. They said: God has chosen you. He has made you pure and exalted you above womankind. . . . The angels said to Mary: ‘God bids you to rejoice in a Word from Him. His name is the messiah, Jesus, son of Mary. He shall be noble in this world and in the world to come.”(3:46ff) This revelation, and this wise admonition We recite to you. Jesus is like Adam in the sight of God. He created him from dust and then said to him ‘Be’ and he was. (3:58) c. Jesus is seen as a messenger from God sent to preach the gospel. The Muslim understanding of the gospel will be different from the way Christians understand it, however, the word gospel (good news) is seen as part of Jesus preaching. d. Jesus ascends to heaven (but without a crucifixion) From the Qur’an God lifted him up to himself. (4:158). Comments on this verse. Jesus was set to go to the cross and his enemies intended that he would be put on it. However, in the Islamic tradition God lifts him out of this and someone is substituted and dies. Jesus’ enemies though believe they have killed him. e. Jesus declares that he does not know what God knows, this is more accentuated in the Qur’an, but in the New Testament Jesus declares that he does not the day of the judgment—only the Father knows. In the Qur’an, there is an emphasis on the limitations of what Jesus knows. In the Qur’an, God knows more than Jesus knows. 4. Things about Jesus not found in common Christian belief a. Alternate stories (stories about Jesus in the Qur’an that are not in the bible) i. The miracle of the Table—the Quran speaks of a time when Jesus’ disciples ask for a sign that Jesus is from God. Miraculously a table laden with food appears. 3 ii. A childhood miracle in which Jesus makes a clay dove and breathes life into it1--see 3:49 (p.54) iii. Preaching from the cradle And remember when the angels said, "O Mary, God sends you the good news of a Command of His: his name shall be Messiah, Jesus son of Mary. He will be highly honored in this world and in the Next World and he will be among those favored by God. He will speak to the people alike when in the cradle and when grown up, and he will be among the righteous." Hearing this, Mary said, "How, O Lord, shall I have a son, when no man has ever touched me?" "Thus shall it be,"44 was the answer. God creates whatever He wills. When He decrees a thing, He only says, "Be" and it is. "And God will teach him the Book and wisdom, and give him the knowledge of the Torah and the Gospel, and appoint him as His Messenger to the children of Israel." 3:45-49 5. Places of divergence between Muslim and Christian understandings of Jesus. a. The crucifixion of Jesus is denied as happening. From the Qur’an They (the Jews?) denied the truth and uttered a monstrous falsehood against Mary. They declared: ‘We have put to death the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, the apostle of God.’ They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, but they thought they did.2 Those that disagreed about him were in doubt concerning him; they knew nothing about him that was not sheer conjecture; they did not slay him for certain. God lifted him up to Himself. There is none among the People of the the Book but will believe in him before his death; and on the Day of Resurrection he will bear witness against them (4:155-58). i. I heard one well taught Imam, interpret this scripture to me in this way. He believed that at the last judgment, when all the dead are raised and judged, the Christians will see Jesus and Jesus will instruct them that he is not equal to God. They will, be given a The story in the Qur’an has an ancient source as well in the infancy narratives in the Infancy Gospel of Thomas, written perhaps in 150 CE: III. 1 Now Jesus made of that clay twelve sparrows: and it was the Sabbath day. And a child ran and told Joseph, saying: Behold, thy child playeth about the brook, and hath made sparrows of the clay, which is not lawful. 2 And he when he heard it went and said to the child: Wherefore doest thou so and profaneth the Sabbath? But Jesus answered him not, but looked upon the sparrows and said: Go ye, take your flight, and remember me in your life. And at the word they took flight and went up into the air. And when Joseph saw it he was astonished. From: The Infancy Gospel of Thomas, Greek Text B The Apocryphal New TestamentM.R. JamesTranslation and Notes, Oxford: Clarendon Press, 1924 2 The translator notes here literally, ‘he was made to resemble another for him.” Islamic commentators differ here some holding that there is a substitution of someone for Jesus and that a crucifixion occurred (just not Jesus) and others denying that any crucifixion happened at all. 1 4 chance to renounce the claim that Jesus is equal to God. The Imam saw this is as a hopeful gesture offering Christians a chance at salvation, even on the last day. Knowing I was a Christian, he also seemed to offer this to me as a hope. b. According to the Qur’an, Jesus denies that he taught that he was equal to God; the Qur’an also denies that there is a Trinity. From the Qur’an Then God will say: “Jesus, son of Mary, did you ever say to mankind: ‘Worship me and my mother as gods beside God?’ ‘Glory be to you,’ he will answer, ‘I could never have claimed what I have no right to. If I had ever said so, You would have surely known it. You know what is in my mind, but I do not know what is in Yours. You alone know what is hidden. I told them only what you bade me. I said: ‘Serve God, my Lord and your Lord.’ I watched over them while living in their midst, and ever since You took me to Yourself, You have been watching them. You are the witness of all things. If You punish them, they surely are Your servants; and if you forgive them, You are mighty and wise. (5:114ff, The Table). People of the Book, do not transgress the bounds of your religion. Speak nothing but the truth about God. The Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, was no more than God’s apostle and His Word which he cast to Mary: a spirit from Him. So, believe in God and His apostles and do not say: ‘Three.’ Forbear, and it shall be better for you. God is but one God. God forbid that he should have a son.” (Surah 4: 177, The Women). c. Christians are presented as squabbling and Jesus’ mission to them was a constant attempt to keep them in line. Christians, like Jews, are seen as sectarian and destined for mutual antagonism. d. However, even among these there are some Christians and Jews who keep to Jesus’ teachings and these will be vindicated on the day of Judgment Warnings against Trinitarian theology in the Quran Those who say ‘the Lord of Mercy has begotten a son’ preach a monstrous falsehood, at which the very heavens might crack, the earth split asunder, and the mountains crumble to dust. That they should ascribe a son to the Merciful, when it does not become the Lord of Mercy to beget one! (19:87). Other verses from the Qur’an On Prophets (generally) • Those that deny God and His apostles, and those that draw a line between God and His apostles, saying ‘We believe in some, but deny others,’-thus seeking a middle way-these indeed are the unbelievers. For the unbelievers We have prepared a shameful punishment. -4:148 5 o This verse supports treating all prophets equally On Jesus o They denied the truth and uttered a monstrous falsehood against Mary. They declared: ‘We have put to death the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, the apostle of God.’ They did not kill him, nor did they crucify him, but they thought they did. -4:I55 o Those that disagreed about him were in doubt concerning him; they knew nothing about him that was not sheer conjecture; they did not slay him for certain. God lifted him up to Himself; God is mighty and wise. There is none among the People of the Book but will believe in him before his death; and on the Day of Resurrection he will bear witness against them. o Of these emissaries We have exalted some above others. To some God spoke directly; others He raised to a lofty status. We gave Jesus son of Mary indisputable signs and strengthened him with the Holy Spirit. Had God pleased, those who succeeded them would not have fought against one another after the veritable signs had been given them. But they disagreed among themselves; some had faith and others had none. Yet had God pleased they would not have fought against one another. God does what He will. -2:253 o People of the Book, do not transgress the bounds of your religion. Speak nothing but the truth about God. The Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, was no more than God’s apostle and His Word which He cast to Mary: a spirit from Him. So believe in God and His apostles and do not say: ‘Three.’ Forbear and it shall be better for you. God is but one God. God forbid that He shall have a son! His is all that heavens and the earth contain. God is the all-sufficient protector. The Messiah does not disdain to be a servant of God, nor do the angels who are nearest to Him. Those who through arrogance distain His service shall all be brought before Him. -4:171-4:172 o Those who say: ‘The Lord of Mercy has begotten a son,’ preach a monstrous falsehood, at which the very heavens might crack, the earth split asunder, and the mountains crumble to dust. That they should ascribe a son to the Merciful, when it does not become the Lord of Mercy to beget one! o Then God will say: “Jesus, son of Mary, did you ever say to mankind: ‘Worship me and my mother as gods beside God?’ Glory be to you,’ he will answer, ‘I could never have claimed what I have no right to. If I had ever said so, You would have surely known it. You know what is in my mind, but I do not know what is in Yours. You alone know what is hidden. I told them only what you bade me. I said: ‘Serve God, my Lord and your Lord.’ I watched over them while 6 living in their midst, and ever since You took me to Yourself, You have been watching them. You are the witness of all things. If You punish them, they surely are Your servants; and if you forgive them, You are mighty and wise. (5:114ff, The Table). o There is none in the heavens or on earth but shall return to the Merciful utter submission. He has kept strict count of all His creatures, and one by one they shall approach Him on the Day of Resurrection. -19:85-19:95 People of the Book (Jews and Christians) o Because of their inquiry, We forbade the Jews wholesome things which were formerly allowed them; because time after time they have debarred others from the path of God; because they practice usury-although they were forbidden it-and cheat others of their possessions. Woeful punishment have We prepared for those that disbelieve. But those of them that have deep learning, and those that truly believe in what has been revealed to you and what has revealed before you; who attend to their prayers and render the alms levy and have faith in God and the Last Day-on these We shall bestow a rich recompense. -4:155-4:162 Some hopeful Ecumenical statements from the Qur’an The verses below echo a theme in the Qur’an that God is in charged. He has sent different prophets to different times and nations. In any one tradition that person should keep to the tradition and practice the right living taught by the messenger. The last verse against compulsion in religion has marked parts of the history of Islam, when tolerance of Jews and Christians was/is practiced. • Believers, Jews, Christians, and Sabeans-whoever believes in God and the Last Day and does what is right-shall be rewarded by their Lord; they have nothing to fear or to regret. -2:62 • There shall be no compulsion in religion. True guidance is now distinct from error. He that renounces idol-worship and puts his faith in God shall grasp a firm handle that will never break. God hears all and knows all. -2:256 Keith Ellison took his oath of office on a copy of the Quran that belonged to Thomas Jefferson. Islamic Writings Qur’an Hadith Shariah Qu’ran • The Qu’ran is the holiest book in the Islamic tradition. Its authority derives from the inspiration given to Muhammad (via an angel) over the course of his life. Its individual chapters (surahs) were revealed at many different points in Muhammad’s life and shortly after the end of his life were compiled not in chronological order but from the longest chapter to the shortest. Oral Tradition and the Qur’an Narrated 'Umar bin Al-Khattab (Radhiallaho anho): • I heard Hisham bin Hakim bin Hizam (Radhiallaho anho) reciting Surat-al-Furqan in a way different to that of mine. Allah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallam) had taught it to me (in a different way). So, I was about to quarrel with him (during the prayer) but I waited till he finished, then I tied his garment round his neck and seized him by it and brought him to Allah's Messenger and said,"I have heard him reciting Surat-al-Furqan in a way different to the way you taught it to me." The Prophet ordered me to release him and asked Hisham to recite it. When he recited it, Allah s Messenger said, "It was revealed in this way." He then asked me to recite it. When I recited it, he said, "It was revealed in this way. The Qur'an has been revealed in seven different ways, so recite it in the way that is easier for you." • Bukhari Vol. 3 : No. 601 Qur’an • Seen by Muslims as without the defects found in the Hebrew bible or Christian scriptures • The Earthly Qur’an --a copy of the heavenly Qur’an • Given through the inspiration of Muhammad First Revelation Surah 96 The Clot In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Recite! in the name of thy Lord and Cherisher, Who createdCreated man, out of a mere clot of congealed blood: Proclaim! And thy Lord is Most Bountiful,He Who taught (the use of) the pen,Taught man that which he knew not. Mt. Hira First Revelation Surah 96 The Clot, Recite! Indeed, man transgresses in thinking himself his own master for to your Lord all things return. Observe the man who rebukes Our servant when he prays. Think: does he follow right guidance or enjoin true piety? Think: if he denies the Truth and pays no heed, does he not realize that God observes all? No let him desist, or We will drag him by the forelock, his lying sinful forelock, Mt. Hira First Revelation Surah 96 The Clot, Recite! Then let him call his helpmates. We will call the guards of hell. No, never obey him! Prostrate yourself and come nearer. Mt. Hira Last Revelation (5:3) Surah 5 The Table “This day have those who reject faith given up all hope of your religion: yet fear them not but fear Me. This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” (5:3) Qur’an and other scriptures • People of the book are also part of God’s plan • Defects of Previous scriptures – Rebelliousness of Christians and Jews – Christian scriptures verge on sin of shirk (placing gods beside God) Qur’an and other scriptures • "To thee We sent the Scripture in truth, confirming the scripture that came before it, and guarding it in safety: so judge between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, diverging from the Truth that hath come to thee. To each among you have we prescribed a law and an open way. If Allah had so willed, He would have made you a single people, but (His plan is) to test you in what He hath given you: so strive as in a race in all virtues. The goal of you all is to Allah. it is He that will show you the truth of the matters in which ye dispute” (5:48). Qur’an and other scriptures “And this (He commands): Judge thou between them by what Allah hath revealed, and follow not their vain desires, but beware of them lest they beguile thee from any of that (teaching) which Allah hath sent down to thee. And if they turn away, be assured that for some of their crime it is Allah's purpose to punish them. And truly most men are rebellious” (5:49). Qur’an: On Inspiration “It is not vouchsafed to any mortal that God should speak to him except by revelation (wahy— inspiration), or from behind a veil, or through a messenger sent and authorized by Him to make known His will. Exalted is He, and wise. Thus we have inspired you (Muhammad) with the spirit of Our will when you knew nothing of faith or scripture, and made it a light whereby we guide those of Our servants whom we please.” (42:51-52) Written in Arabic “ “We have revealed the Qur’an in the Arabic tongue that you may understand its meaning. It is a transcript of the eternal book in our keeping, sublime and full of wisdom.” (43:1) Compilation of the Quran • The Quran was revealed piecemeal, according to the needs of the time. Angel Jibrail [PBUH] brought it to the Prophet [PBUH] who would memorize it. Afterwards, it was preserved in two ways. • First, through memorization, there were a number of early Muslims who would memorize each revelation as soon as it was revealed and thus had the whole Quran memorized at the time of the final revelation. • Second, the Quran was preserved through writing. Whenever any revelation took place, it was written at once on tablets, palm branches, shorn of leaves, or animal skin. This was done primarily by Zaid bin Thabit, who was the main scribe out of the 42 scribes of the revelation. Abu Bakr, the first caliph of Islam, compiled the Quran, and Uthman, the third caliph, made numerous copies and sent one copy to each state capital. A hadith about transmission of the Qur’an • Narrated Kharija bin Zaid (Radhiallaho anho): • Zaid bin Thabit (Radhiallaho anho) said, "When the Quran was compiled from various written manuscripts, one of the Verses of Surat Al-Ahzab was missing which I used to hear Allah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallam) reciting. I could not find it except with Khuzaima bin Thabjt Al-Ansari (Radhiallaho anho), whose witness Allah's Messenger regarded as equal to the witness of two men. And the Verse was:-- "Among the believers are men who have been true to what they covenanted with Allah." (33.23) • Bukhari Vol. 4 : No. 62 Hadith and the Qur’an • After the Qur’an Muslims also recognize another sacred text, namely the hadith. These are the accounts taken from the life of Muhammad. However it is clearly second rank when compared to the Qur’an. For example, many scholars ritually cleanse themselves before reading or reciting the Qur’an, but they do not do so before studying the hadith. Hadith • Hadith—literally hadith means traditions (plural ahadith); in connection with Islam, the hadith are the stories which circulated about Muhammad. Since everything the prophet did was proper, his example serves as a guide for living. All in all there are thousands of hadith, each is graded (for reliability and attestation) and assembled into a large body. A hadith • Narrated by Abu Huraira The Prophet said, "Allah says: 'I am just as My slave thinks I am, and I am with him if He remembers Me. If he remembers Me in himself, I too, remember him in Myself; and if he remembers Me in a group of people, I remember him in a group that is better than they; and if he comes an inch nearer to Me, I go a yard nearer to him; and if he comes a yard nearer to Me, I go a distance of two outstretched arms nearer to him; and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running.' " --Bukhari vol. 9, book 93, no. 502 Who were the authors of the early hadiths? • Who were the authors of the early hadiths? – Religious scholars (ulama or fuqaha) Who did they narrate from? – Narratives from the prophet – Narratives from Sahabi (pious companions of the prophet) – Narratives from Tabi’i (those considered as spiritual successors of the companions • There are also successors of successors (and so on) – Narratives from ancient religious lore of Jewish and Christian traditions Hadith and its grade • Each hadith is given a weight based on its chain of attesters (some of the earliest and best sources trace their way back to Muhammad’s daughters. They are graded as “genuine” “fair” or weak” • After two centuries the Islamic community attempt to decide which of the traditions about the prophet’s life were authentic. The early historians also attempted to be objective—for example they include some account of the “alleged Satanic verses” and do realistically note difficulties in accounts. Bukhari collection • The most highly regarded is the collection by Bukhari (d. 870) he examines 600,000 sayings and narrows it down to 7,725. Six collections of Hadith emerge • The Sunni canon of hadith took its final form two to three centuries after the death of Muhammad. Later scholars may have debated the authenticity of particular hadith but the authority of the canon as a whole was not questioned. This canon includes: • Al-Bukhari (d. 870) included 7275 hadiths • Muslim b. al-Hajjaj (d.875) included 9200. • Abu Da'ud (d. 888) • al-Tirmidhi (d. 892) • al-Nasa'i (d. 915) • Ibn Maja (d. 886). How the Hadith are used to Interpret the Qur’an • • • • • • • Distribution of Water - 10th Dhul-Qa'da 1426 Narrated 'Abdullah (bin Mas'ud) (Radhiallaho anho): The Prophet (sallallaahu'alaihi wasallam) said, "Whoever takes a false oath to deprive somebody of his property will meet Allah while He will be angry with him." Allah revealed: 'Verily those who purchase a little gain at the cost of Allah's covenant, and their oaths.'(Surah 3 : Ayat 77) • • Al-Ash'ath (Radhiallaho anho) came (to the place where 'Abdullah was narrating) and said, "What has Abu 'Abdur-Rahman (i.e. Abdullah) been telling you? This verse was revealed concerning me. I had a well in the land of a cousin of mine. The Prophet asked me to bring witnesses (to confirm my claim). I said, 'I don't have witnesses.' He said, 'Let the defendant take an oath then.'I said, 'O Allah's Messenger! He will take a (false) oath immediately.' Then the Prophet mentioned the above narration and Allah revealed the verse to confirm what he had said." • Bukhari Vol. 3 : No. 546 Shariah—the Islamic law • Over the years religious scholars and jurists have rendered a series of laws (and commentary on law) that are also normative. By now the rulings of the Courts have established over a thousand years of law and legal cases that are considered normative for Islam though these will vary with different nationalities and traditions. Over the years Shariah has grown. Legal scholars in Islam continue to add to it by issuing fatwas (legal decrees or rulings). The interpretation of this law becomes very involved. Five pillars of Islam Shahadah: Also called the Witness • There is no God but God and Muhammad is his prophet. • "Ashhadu Alla Ilaha Illa Allah Wa Ashhadu Anna Muhammad Rasulu Allah" • Sung Shahadah • It is a rational claim, many Muslims claim that it does not rest on authority, rather one can look into its source and affirm it. Pillar: Salat--prayer • (I)Allah is Great. • (A) Praise and glory be to you O Allah. Blessed be Your Name, exalted be Your Majesty and Glory. There is no God but You. • (B) I seek Allah's shelter from Satan, the condemned. • (C) In the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful. Islamic Prayer • (D) Praise be to Allah, The Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds; Most Gracious, Most Merciful; Master of the Day of Judgement Thee do we worship, and Thine aid we seek, Show us the straight way, the way of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace, Those whose(portion) is not wrath, And who go not astray. • (E) "Glorified is my Lord, the Great". Islamic Prayer Islamic Prayer • (F) Allah Listens to him who praises Him" • (G) "Our Lord, praise be for you only". • (H) "Glorified is my Lord, the Exalted" • (I) O my Lord forgive me and have Mercy on me" Islamic Prayer • (J) "All our oral, physical and monetary ways of worship are only for Allah. Peace, mercy and blessing of Allah be on you, O Prophet. May peace be upon us and on the devout slaves of Allah. I testify that there is no God but Allah and I testify that Muhammad is His slave and messenger". Islamic Prayer • (K) "O God send your mercy on Muhammad and his posterity as you sent Your mercy on Abraham and his posterity. You are the Most Praised, The Most Glorious". Qiblah: The interior of the Prophet's Mosque at Medina • (L) "Our Lord, grant us the good of this world and that of the Hereafter and save us from the torture of hell. • (M) Peace and mercy of Allah be on you". Islamic Prayer • http://www.islamicity. com/Mosque/salat/sala t9.htm Islamic Prayer Pillar: Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca) • Preparations: Prayers, ablutions, unsewn cotton, shaving head Hajj: Day one on arrival • First visit to Haram, a plain outside of Mecca, visit the Ka’ba walk around seven times • To Safa and Marwah—seven times back and forth jogging (in memory of Hagar’s quest for water in the desert— drink from the well of zamzam) Second day • Journey to Arafat a few miles away, sunset prayer service (salat)—Muhammad’s last sermon • 8 miles to Mina—throw pebbles at three pillars that represent Satan • Buy a sheep or goat and sacrifice • Change to regular clothes • Return to the Ka’ba • End of pilgrimage, but many visit Medina and especially the prophet’s tomb Pillar: Ramadan • This holiday is on a lunar calendar. It commemorates the prophet’s observance of Ramadan and also the night on which he receives the first revelation. • During Ramadan it is expected that from sun up to sundown that there will be no eating or drinking (exceptions to the rule are made for medical necessity, children etc.). Ramadan • After sundown there is a feast to celebrate the breaking of the fast—it is expected that at the breaking of the fast the poor will be invited. Charity during this time is especially encouraged. Being hungry, reminds of human weakness and encourages taking care of others who may be hungry. • No fighting is allowed during Ramadan • At the end of the month there is grand feast—Eid. Pillar: Zakat • 2% of total wealth • Given to charity at discretion of the believer Instructions for EACH assignment Islam Reflection Paper The reflection paper should be an evaluation of something within the religion that interests you. It should not just summarize what was taught; instead it should reflect up the value of what is learned. What is true, good or beautiful. You should give reasons supporting why it is true, good or beautiful. The reasons behind you evaluations are what is most important. Push your self to evaluate. Similarly if you find something false, evil or ugly--give your reasons. (1.5-2.5 pages) Class Reflection Paper This class was a religion class. Please do the reflection on the Islam portion and how learning about it affected you, and how you plan to use it in the real world. The reflection paper should be an evaluation of something within the religion that interests you. It should not just summarize what was taught; instead it should reflect up the value of what is learned. What is true, good or beautiful. You should give reasons supporting why it is true, good or beautiful. The reasons behind you evaluations are what is most important. Push your self to evaluate. Similarly if you find something false, evil or ugly--give your reasons. (1.5-2.5 pages) Discussion Post Post your thoughts, reactions, questions and comments on the material covered in week four including. (3-4 sentences) 1. Islamic Scriptures 2. Five Pillars 3. Overall view of the class 4. Jihad Student Responses to answer ( 3-4 sentences) 1. Patricia Cox My thought about what Jihad really means to what I thought it meant is ridiculous. I thought it was a group like the Republican Guard during the Gulf war. I don't even know where I got that idea from. But, I am glad to know the true meaning. Struggles, we all have them but I like how they are named specific to a situation; Jihad of the heart, struggling against Satan, as well as all the others. Patty 2. Carlos Arzate COLLAPSE Islam is the peace that grows out of submission to God. If the pillars are strong in a person, then submission to God will happen and peace will follow. What is interesting is how these pillars bring everyone together to acomplish them. It seems to them, religion is a group effort. They do prayer together, fasting together, the Hajj together. Even though they it occurs individually they do it at the same time together. It seems like there is a great emphasis on the community and it is a group effort. • Extra Credit Islam • ▪ The Message https://www.imdb.com/title/tt0074896/ This epic historical drama chronicles the life and times of Prophet Muhammad and serves as an introduction to early Islamic history.In accordance with the prohibition of presenting images of Muhammad, the entire move is made without ever seeing Muhammad. 1. 2. What are your thoughts on the movie Ghandi Instructions Your title for the paper should include the name of the movie you watched. To get extra credit watch one of the movies recommended. Then write a reflection paper on what you have seen. Reflections should include your evaluations and not just be a plot summary. You are reflecting when you are giving the reasons why something in the movie is good, true or beautiful. (You are also reflecting is you give reasons to support the claim that something in the movie is false, evil or ugly. Suggested length--1.5 pages.
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