Islam and politics can be a confusing and heated topic and so it is important that we approach it with a godly attitude. We need to learn how to listen well and hear the grievances and concerns of others, how to speak calmly and sensibly, know what to say, and how to give others resources so that they can make their own decision. This is not easy to do! As Christians we are to love everyone and work for peace; this will be discussed more in the video, but in the political arena we often find ourselves in confusing and difficult discussions about Islam. This preparation section will focus on understanding these difficult issues. Important Islamic Political Words: Dawah, Jihad, and Shariah Dawah is the promoting of Islam. This can be done through sharing the Islamic message on TV, radio, print, and internet; university Islamic Awareness weeks, mosque open days, building mosques, Islamic banking, marriage, political representation, Islamic departments at universities, Islamic schools, and gifts. Dawah may be done by individuals, groups, and all Islamic governments have a dawah department. Q1. Have you seen dawah in practice? If so where? How should a Christian respond to dawah? Jihad - The word jihad means “struggle” and the Islamic struggle is to make Islam dominate world affairs. There are three levels of jihad. • The first jihad is the personal struggle to accept what Muhammad is telling you to do. • The second jihad is the struggle against nominal or hypocritical Muslims who do not follow all of Allah and Muhammad’s commands. (Qur’an 9:73) • The third jihad is the struggle to conquer the non-Muslim world and subjugate it under Islamic rule and make dawah the only voice. (Qur’an 9:29ff) Apologists for Islam often say that the greater jihad is the personal struggle and that fighting for Islam is the lesser jihad. However, this idea is rejected by the Qur’an and Hadith.1 Muhammad trained, organised, and sent out jihadist armies, not missionaries, and he taught that the military jihad is the greatest jihad. The second jihad, against hypocritical Muslims, is important to understand because we often see Muslims killing Muslims and blowing up mosques, and think this type of behaviour means they are not following Islam. But this not the case. They are following Islam. Muhammad commanded warfare on Muslims he considered hypocrites and had their mosque destroyed.2 Shariah - The goal of jihad is the introduction of Islamic law which is called shariah. The shariah is based on the Qur’an, the example of Muhammad, Islamic scholars, and the consensus of the community. It covers every aspect of life: prayer, food, and how to wash, as well as punishments and who to conquer. It is a theocracy, an Islamic state, a political system. Islam is a political ideology. There are several competing versions of shariah used throughout the world.The problem when talking about shariah is that most people do not know what it teaches, and others are in denial about

1. Introduction to Islam
This course provides a comprehensive overview of
Islam, designed to equip students with the knowledge
necessary for effective evangelism. It delves into the
rich history, core beliefs, and practices of Islam,
contrasting them with Christian doctrines to foster
understanding and respectful dialogue. The course
also emphasizes the importance of building positive
relationships with Muslim neighbors and sharing the
Gospel of Christ with sensitivity and respect.
by Seid Shumye

2. Course Description and Objectives
Comprehensive
Curriculum
The course covers the
prophet Muhammad's
biography, the spread of
Islam in Ethiopia and
globally, and theological
discussions between
Muslims and Christians.
Interactive Learning
Employing a variety of
teaching methods,
including lectures, group
discussions, and
presentations, the course
encourages active
participation.
Peaceful Coexistence
It addresses the Christian
community's
responsibility to live
harmoniously with
Muslims and to witness
the Gospel of Christ to
them.

3. Course Learning Outcomes
1 Historical Insight
Students will gain a thorough understanding of the origins and
expansion of Islam.
2 Theological Discernment
Identify and articulate the fundamental theological differences between Islam and
Christianity.
3 Strategic Engagement
Learn methods and strategies for both understanding Islam's growth and sharing the
Christian gospel with Muslims.

4. Required and Additional Readings
Foundational Texts
The course includes
essential readings such as
the English Bible and Anne
Cooper's 'Ishmael my
Brother' for a Christian
perspective on Islam.
Expanding Knowledge
Additional literature like
Collin Chapman's 'Cross
and Crescent' and Gerhard
Nehls' works provide
deeper insights into
Christian-Islamic dialogues.
Historical Context
Texts by authors like
Heribert Busse offer a
historical and theological
comparison of Islam,
Judaism, and Christianity.

5. Introduction to Islam
Islam is one of the world's major religions, known for its rapid growth and
extensive global presence. With a rich history and diverse interpretations,
Islam's influence spans across various cultures and societies.
Understanding Islam is crucial for fostering interfaith dialogue and
addressing the challenges and opportunities it presents in the
contemporary world.

6. Global Presence of Islam
1.3B
Followers
Approximately 1.3 billion people globally
identify as Muslims, making up about
20.1% of the world's population.
42
Nations
There are 42 Muslim-majority countries,
with Muslims represented in virtually every
part of the world.

7. Islam in Ethiopia
1 Early Presence
Islam has been present in Ethiopia since its earliest times, playing a
significant role in the nation's history.
2 Coexistence
There is a history of peaceful coexistence with Christianity, despite Ethiopia
being known as an "Island of Christianity."
3 Current Developments
Exploring the current developments in Ethiopia is essential to understand the
dynamics of Islam in the region.

8. Challenges to Christian Churches
1 Expansion
Strategic expansion of Islam poses challenges to Christian churches in various regions.
2 Persecution
There have been instances of persecution, raising concerns about religious freedom.
3 Socio-Political Issues
Socio-political issues arising from religious differences have also been a point of contention.

9. Islamic Extremism
Global Challenge
Islamic extremism has become a significant global challenge, affecting both
Islamic and non-Islamic nations.
Terrorist Groups
Groups like the Taliban, Islamic State, Boko Haram, and Al-Shabab have
contributed to this perception.
Internal Struggle
The challenge also extends to the religion itself, with internal debates on
extremism and its impact on Islam's image.

10. Missional Purpose
Good Neighbors
Muslims are our
neighbors, and as
such, we should
engage with them and
share the message of
God's Kingdom.
Understanding
Beliefs
Learning about their
beliefs and practices
enables effective
communication of the
gospel.
Common Ground
Finding common
ground can help in
fostering mutual
respect and
understanding between
faiths.

11. What is Islam?
Submission
In Arabic, 'Islam' means
submission, and a
'Muslim' is one who
submits to the will of
Allah.
Peace
The term 'Islam' is also
associated with peace,
safety, and security,
reflecting the religion's
essence.
Way of Life
Islam is considered a
complete way of life,
guiding followers on
matters of existence,
destiny, and morality.

12. Who are the Muslims?
Belief in Allah Angels Prophets
Sacred Books Day of Judgment Five Pillars of Islam

13. Is Islam Monolithic?
Diverse Branches
Islam is not monolithic; it
encompasses a variety of
branches, movements,
and interpretations.
Unity and Division
While there is a sense of
unity, political conflicts
and theological debates
have led to divisions
among Muslims.
Five Faces of Islam
Islam's diversity is
reflected in its five
different expressions:
Traditional, Folk, Sufi,
Fundamentalist, and
Modernist.

14. Understanding Islamic Diversity
1
Traditional Islam
Seeks to preserve Islamic beliefs
and practices against modern
influences. 2 Folk Islam
Incorporates local traditions and
is practiced mainly in rural areas.
3
Sufi Islam
Emphasizes a mystical
connection with God, often
through revered Sufi guides. 4 Fundamentalist Islam
A response to political
challenges, advocating for a
return to Islam's original form.
5
Modernist Islam
Strives to adapt Islamic faith to
the modern world, embracing
change and reinterpretation.

15. Muhammad, the Prophet
of Muslims
Muhammad, a central figure in Islam, was born in the year 570 AD, entering the
world as an orphan with his father having passed away prior to his birth. His
early years were marked by further loss when his mother, Amina, died while he
was only six years old. These formative years were characterized by a series of
guardianships, as he was cared for by his grandfather and later his uncle Abu
Talib.
Despite the early hardships, Muhammad's upbringing was rooted in simplicity
and resilience. He was no stranger to work from a young age, contributing to
his family's sustenance. His exposure to broader horizons came through travels
with his uncle's trading caravan, journeys that took him into the heart of the
Christian Byzantine Empire in Syria. It was in this diverse cultural and religious
landscape that Muhammad may have first encountered the concept of
monotheism, a pivotal element in his future spiritual journey.

16. Early Life and Travels
1 Orphaned Early
Muhammad's childhood was shadowed by the absence of his parents. His
father's death before his birth and his mother's demise when he was six left
him in the care of his grandfather.
2 Guardianship Changes
After his grandfather's death, Muhammad's upbringing was entrusted to his
uncle Abu Talib, who provided for him within their modest means.
3 First Encounters with Trade
Accompanying Abu Talib, Muhammad gained early exposure to trade and
the diverse religious beliefs in Syria, which were to shape his later life.

17. Prophetic Prelude
Monastic Meeting
Legend speaks of
Muhammad's encounter with
Bahira, a Christian monk in
Syria, who, after a profound
discussion and examination,
foresaw Muhammad's
prophetic destiny.
Sign of Prophethood
Bahira is said to have
discovered a mark between
Muhammad's shoulder
blades, a sign that in his
tradition indicated
prophethood.
Protective Counsel
Heeding Bahira's prophecy,
Abu Talib was advised to
shield Muhammad from
potential harm, a counsel
that underscored the
significance of the young
man's future.

18. Family Background and Early Life
1 Hashim Clan
Muhammad belonged to the influential Hashim clan of the Quraysh tribe, with his
uncle Abu Talib as a clan chief and his grandfather Abd al Mutalib as the guardian
of the Ka'ba.
2 Orphaned Early
Orphaned from a young age, Muhammad was raised by his grandfather and later
by his uncle Abu Talib, leading to a life of simplicity and hard work.
3 Exposure to Monotheism
During his travels with Abu Talib's caravan to Syria, Muhammad encountered the
Christian Byzantine Empire, which may have introduced him to monotheistic
beliefs.

19. Marriage with Khadijah
Khadijah's Trust
Muhammad worked for a
wealthy widow named
Khadijah, who placed great
trust in him due to his
honesty and reliability.
Union of Support
Their marriage was one of
mutual respect and support,
with Khadijah being a
source of comfort and
encouragement for
Muhammad.
Family Life
Together, they had six
children, and through this
union, Muhammad gained a
more influential position in
Meccan society.

20. Call to Prophethood
1 First Revelation
At the age of 40, Muhammad received his first revelation in the cave of Mount Hira,
marking the beginning of his prophetic mission.
2 Confusion and Confirmation
Initially confused, Muhammad eventually recognized the messages as divine
revelations from the angel Gabriel, with Khadijah's reassurance.
3 Public Preaching
He began preaching the messages he received, which would later be compiled into
the Qur'an, the holy book of Islam.

21. Core Messages of Islam
Tawhid
The central tenet of
Islam, Tawhid,
emphasizes the oneness
of God and the rejection
of idolatry, challenging
Meccan society's
religious practices.
Social Justice
Muhammad's teachings
called for caring for the
vulnerable, including
orphans, widows, and the
poor, confronting the
indifference of the
wealthy.
Afterlife
He warned of the reality
of hell for those who
ignored his message,
urging people to abandon
ignorance and embrace
Islam.

22. Early Followers and Persecution
First Converts
Khadijah, his cousin Ali,
and friend Abu Bakr were
among the first to
embrace Islam, along with
the poor and some
powerful individuals.
Rising Opposition
As the number of Muslims
grew, so did the opposition
from the Quraysh tribe,
leading to ridicule and
persecution of
Muhammad's followers.
Seeking Refuge
In 615 AD, facing
increased hostility,
Muhammad sent some of
his followers to seek
asylum in Abyssinia,
marking the first Hijra.

23. Revelation and Compromise
1 Controversial Verses
Muhammad faced a crisis when he proclaimed verses that seemed to
acknowledge pagan deities, causing a temporary cessation of persecution.
2 Retraction
He later declared these verses were inspired by the devil and retracted
them, restoring the monotheistic message of Islam.

24. Migration to Medina
Invitation from Yathrib
Muhammad received an
invitation from the city of
Yathrib, seeking a leader to
resolve disputes and unite
the community.
Hijra
In 622, Muhammad's
emigration to Yathrib, later
named Medina, marked the
start of the Islamic calendar
and a new chapter in his
life.
Political Ascendancy
As the religious and political
leader of Medina,
Muhammad established the
first mosque and crafted a
written constitution for the
city.

25. Battles and Expansion
1 Caravan Raids
The early Muslims, in need of resources, began raiding Meccan caravans, which
evolved into a religious duty and the concept of Jihad.
2 Key Battles
Significant battles at Badr, Uhud, and the Ditch shaped the early Muslim
community, with victories and defeats strengthening their resolve.
3 Conflict with Jewish Tribes
Suspicions led to the expulsion and massacre of Jewish tribes in Medina,
consolidating Muhammad's authority.

26. Return to Mecca and Legacy
Hudaybiya Treaty
The treaty of Hudaybiya paved the way for Muhammad's eventual return to
Mecca, with a promise of non-violence leading to a peaceful conquest.
Idol Destruction
Upon entering Mecca, the Muslims destroyed the idols in the Ka'ba,
transforming it into a monotheistic place of worship.
Final Years
Muhammad continued to lead raids for the submission of Arab clans and
passed away in 632 AD, leaving a profound legacy without naming a
successor.

27. Muhammad's Place in Islamic Culture
and Theology
1 Veneration of the
Prophet
Muhammad's
profound influence
runs deep in the veins
of Islamic culture, with
an unwavering
veneration that is
more intense than for
any other figure.
2 Emulating the
Prophet
Every aspect of a
Muslim's life is guided
by Muhammad's
sayings (Hadith) and
actions (Sunnah),
shaping their daily
practices and spiritual
beliefs.
3 Islamic Law
Foundation
The Sharia, Islamic
law, is founded on the
Quran, Hadith,
consensus of the
community (ijima), and
analogical reasoning
(qiyas), all rooted in
prophetic tradition.

28. Impacts on Islamic Culture
Prophetic Traditions
The Hadiths serve as a
source of inspiration,
unifying Islamic culture
across diverse communities
and geographies.
Radical Emulations
Some followers adopt
extreme measures to
emulate Muhammad's life,
such as avoiding foods he
never consumed,
demonstrating their deep
devotion.
Western Influence
Islamic civil law faces
challenges with the
influence of Western culture
and the rise of reformist
groups within Islam
advocating for change.

29. Impacts on Islamic Theology
Human Messenger
Muhammad is
considered a human
chosen by Allah as the
final messenger, with a
special place in Islamic
theology.
Prophetic Honor
His honor as the "last
and greatest of all
prophets" is a belief that
can be radicalized, yet
remains central to Islamic
thought.
Popular Beliefs
Popular Islam sometimes
attributes to Muhammad
beliefs that extend
beyond the Quran, such
as intercession on the
Day of Judgment.

30. The Spread of Islam
1 Rightly Guided Caliphs
The formative history of Islam revolves around the first four successors of
Muhammad, who led the Muslim community with wisdom and vision.
2 Abu Bakr's Leadership
Abu Bakr unified the Arab tribes and initiated the collection of Muhammad's
pronouncements, contributing to the creation of the Quran.
3 Umar's Expansion
Umar ibn al-Khattab expanded Islam beyond Arabia, formalized religious
practices, and laid the foundation for Sharia Law.
4 Uthman's Reign
Uthman bin Affan standardized the Quran and faced challenges due to favoritism
and moral decline during his rule.
5 Ali's Caliphate
Ali ibn Abu Talib's rule was marked by internal conflicts and his devotion to
Muhammad's teachings and the Quran.

31. Abu Bakr: The First Caliph
Close Companion
Abu Bakr was among
Muhammad's closest
companions, playing a
crucial role in the early
days of Islam and its
unification.
Quran Compilation
He initiated the compilation
of the Quran, ensuring the
preservation of
Muhammad's teachings for
future generations.
Military Success
Under his leadership,
Muslim armies achieved
significant victories,
including the capture of
Damascus.

32. Umar ibn al-Khattab: The Second
Caliph
10
Years Ruled
Umar's decade of leadership brought order
and expansion to the Islamic world.
634
Caliphate Began
Appointed by Abu Bakr, Umar's rule started in
634, marking a new era of Islamic governance.

33. Uthman bin Affan: The Third Caliph
Early Convert Uthman was among the first to embrace
Islam, showing his early commitment to the
faith.
Quran Standardization He was responsible for standardizing the
Quran, a significant milestone in Islamic
history.
Controversial Rule His favoritism and the subsequent moral
decline led to rebellion and his eventual
assassination.

34. Ali ibn Abu Talib: The Fourth Caliph
Prophet's Kin
Ali was Muhammad's
cousin and son-in-law,
deeply embedded in the
Prophet's family and early
Islamic history.
Knowledge of Quran
His profound understanding
of the Quran and
adherence to Muhammad's
Sunnah were hallmarks of
his leadership.
Conflict and Legacy
Ali's rule was fraught with
battles and disputes, yet his
commitment to Islam left an
enduring legacy.

35. Reflections on Islamic Leadership
Eyewitnesses
The Rightly Guided Caliphs were eyewitnesses to Muhammad's life,
paralleling the apostles of Jesus in their foundational roles.
Guidance and Expansion
They guided the Muslim community and expanded its territories, shaping the
course of Islamic history.
Enduring Influence
Their decisions and actions continue to influence Islamic thought and
governance to this day.

36. Spread of Islam under
Islamic Empires
The Islamic Empires have left an indelible mark on history, with their
influence spreading far and wide across continents. From the Umayyad
and Abbasid dynasties to the Gunpowder Empires, each played a pivotal
role in the dissemination of Islam and the shaping of world history. This
presentation delves into the expansion of Islam under these empires,
exploring the historical, cultural, and religious impact they had on the
world.

37. Umayyad Dynasty (661-750)
1 Foundation and Expansion
The Umayyad Dynasty, founded by Muawiya, saw the capital of Islam move
from Medina to Damascus. Despite internal strife, the empire expanded
significantly, reaching from Spain to India.
2 Naval Power
Their formidable naval power led to the invasion and capture of Sicily, posing
a threat to Rome and marking an era of unprecedented growth that surpassed
ancient empires.
3 Cultural and Religious Impact
The Umayyad period was also marked by the construction of significant
mosques, showcasing artistic excellence and becoming centers of community
and culture.

38. Abbasid Dynasty (750-1258)
Golden Age
The Abbasids marked the
beginning of the Golden
Age of Islamic civilization,
with advancements in art,
science, and philosophy.
Religious
Developments
During their reign, the four
schools of Sunni law were
established, and Muslim
mysticism, or Sufism, saw
significant developments.
Political
Fragmentation
Despite cultural flourishing,
the Abbasid era also
experienced fragmentation,
with multiple caliphates and
dynasties coexisting.

39. Internal Strife and Expansion
1 Religious Schism
The martyrdom of Husain at Karbala led to the enduring division between Sunni and
Shia Islam, creating a lasting impact on the Islamic world.
2 Political Ambitions
The Umayyad rulers' focus on politics and luxury over religious piety sowed seeds of
discontent, ultimately leading to their downfall.
3 Unstoppable Growth
Despite internal conflicts, the Islamic religion continued to expand, demonstrating the
resilience and appeal of its teachings and culture.

40. The "Gunpowder Empires"
Safavid Empire
The Safavid Dynasty in
Persia unified the region
under Shia Islam and
reached its zenith under
Shah Abbas I, before
succumbing to external
pressures.
Mughal Empire
India's Mughal Empire,
founded by Babur, saw
cultural and architectural
achievements, notably
under Akbar the Great and
Shah Jahan.
Ottoman Empire
The Ottoman Empire, the
longest-lived of the
gunpowder empires,
reached its peak under
Suleyman the Magnificent
and had a profound impact
on Christian-Muslim
relations.

41. Crusades and Islamic Empires
Crusades Initiation Launched by Pope Urban II to reclaim Jerusalem
Abbasid Response Marked a period of conflict between
Christians and Muslims
Cultural Center Cairo emerged as a hub of Arab culture and
economy
Spanish Umayyads Maintained independence from Baghdad
until expelled in 1492

42. Impact on Christianity
1453
Fall of Constantinople
The capture of Constantinople by the
Ottomans marked a significant blow to Eastern
Christianity and the Byzantine Empire.
300000
Armenian Genocide
Under Sultan Abdul Hamid II, the Ottoman
Empire carried out a brutal campaign against
the Armenian population.

43. Reflection on Expansion and Strife
The expansion of Islam throughout history has been a complex interplay of religious fervor, political
ambition, and cultural exchange. Despite internal strife, the Islamic empires managed to spread
their influence and religion across vast territories. The question of how Islam continued to flourish
despite internal conflicts invites us to consider the strength of its message and the strategic
prowess of its leaders. This historical journey underscores the resilience and adaptability of Islamic
civilization through the ages.

44. The Beliefs and
Practices of Islam
The Islamic faith is rich with traditions, beliefs, and practices that have
been observed by millions across the world. This presentation will delve
into the core tenets of Islam, exploring the Five Basic Beliefs that provide
the foundation for a Muslim's faith and way of life. These beliefs
encompass the oneness of Allah, the significance of the Last Day, the role
of angels, the reverence for holy books, and the lineage of prophets.

45. Belief in Allah
Tawhid
The doctrine of Tawhid
represents the oneness
of Allah, who is the
creator and sustainer of
the universe. This
fundamental belief sets
Islam apart as a
monotheistic religion,
emphasizing that Allah is
the only deity worthy of
worship.
99 Names
Allah is known by 99
names, each reflecting
His attributes and
qualities. These names,
considered the most
beautiful, encompass His
eternal nature and His
roles as the gracious, the
King, the First and the
Last.
Divine Will
Central to Islamic belief is
the acceptance of Allah's
will. Muslims submit to
His divine decree,
acknowledging His
absolute freedom to act
as He pleases. This
submission is a core
aspect of the Islamic
faith.

46. Belief in the Last Day
Day of Judgment
The Qur'an describes the Last Day as a time
when individuals will be judged for their
deeds. Those who have done good will
receive their reward, while those who have
done evil will face their punishment.
Heaven and Hell
Belief in the afterlife is characterized by the
existence of heaven and hell. Heaven is
depicted as a place of physical and sensual
pleasures, while hell is a place of suffering for
unbelievers and evildoers.

47. Belief in Angels
1 Spiritual Beings
Angels in Islam are spiritual beings created from light. They serve as messengers of
Allah, praising Him and carrying out His commands.
2 Jibreel
The angel Jibreel is revered for bringing the Qur'an to Muhammad. He is considered
a bringer of glad tidings and plays a significant role in Islamic theology.
3 Jinn and Satan
Islamic belief also includes the existence of Jinn, invisible creatures created from fire.
Among them is Satan, who fell from grace due to his refusal to worship Adam.

48. Belief in the Holy Books
1 Tawrat, Zabur, Injil
Muslims believe in the holy scriptures given to previous prophets, including the
Torah, Psalms, and Gospel. These texts are respected within Islam but are
believed to have been superseded by the Qur'an.
2 Qur'an's Supremacy
The Qur'an is considered the final and perfect revelation. Muslims hold that other
scriptures have been altered, whereas the Qur'an remains uncorrupted and a
guide for all of humanity.
3 People of the Book
Jews and Christians are acknowledged as "People of the Book," and the Qur'an
exhorts them to adhere to their scriptures, which, if followed, promise blessings.

49. Belief in Prophets
Divine Guidance
Prophets in Islam are seen as the means through which Allah imparts His
guidance to mankind, urging them to worship Him alone and follow the
straight path.
Continuity of Message
All prophets, from the time of creation, brought the same essential message
of monotheism, calling people to return to the worship of Allah alone.
Muhammad
Muhammad is revered as the final prophet, the "Seal of the Prophets," whose
coming confirms and completes the messages of all previous prophets.

50. Questioning the Scriptures
The Qur'an and the Bible offer differing narratives and teachings. While the Bible is a compilation
of texts written over centuries by various authors, the Qur'an is believed to have been revealed to
one person over decades. A critical question posed within Islamic thought is the integrity of the
Bible's text and the circumstances surrounding any potential alterations. This inquiry challenges
the authenticity of the scriptures and seeks to understand the historical context of their
transmission.

51. Notes on Islam
Belief Description
Allah's Oneness The core belief in the singular nature of
God.
Last Day The day of judgment and the afterlife.
Angels Spiritual beings serving as messengers.
Holy Books The scriptures given to prophets before the
Qur'an.
Prophets Individuals chosen to convey Allah's
message.

52. The Muslim Practices
The Five Pillars of Islam represent the foundational duties that shape the
life of every Muslim. These practices, drawn from the Hadith, are
essential for aligning one's life with the divine will. They are performed
regularly, correctly, and sincerely, infusing the believer's life with religious
piety. The pillars include the Creed, Compulsory Prayers, Welfare
Contributions, Fasting during Ramadan, and Pilgrimage to Mecca. For
some, Jihad is considered an additional pillar. These acts of devotion are
not just rituals but are meant to energize and guide the faithful in their
daily lives.

53. The Creed (Shahada)
1
Tawhid
The oneness of Allah, a fundamental aspect of
the Islamic creed.
1
Risalah
The belief that Muhammad is the messenger
sent by Allah.
The Shahada, or the declaration of faith, is the first pillar of Islam. It is a simple yet profound
statement that encapsulates the core beliefs of a Muslim. The creed is recited daily, whispered into
the ears of the newborn, and serves as the final words for the dying. It is also the declaration that
converts to Islam must pronounce sincerely and publicly.

54. Compulsory Prayers (Salat)
1 Preparation
Before prayer, Muslims perform ritual washing to achieve purity.
2 Direction
Prayers are performed facing Mecca, the holy city.
3 Ritual
The prayer involves a series of actions including standing, bowing, and
prostrating.
Salat is the second pillar, consisting of five daily prayers that are a form of worship with defined
rituals. These prayers are performed at specific times throughout the day, and they require a
state of cleanliness, both physically and spiritually. The act of praying in Arabic reinforces the
unity of the Muslim community worldwide.

55. Times of Prayer
Fajir
Performed between dawn
and sunrise.
Duhhr/Zuhr
Performed between
midday and mid-afternoon.
Asr
Between mid-afternoon
and sunset.
Maghrib
Immediately after sunset.
Isha
After sunset and before
midnight.
The five daily prayers, known as Salat, are spread throughout the day, each with its own
significance and timing. The practice of these prayers reinforces discipline and mindfulness in a
Muslim's daily routine.

56. Welfare Contributions (Zakat)
1 Almsgiving
Zakat is a mandatory charitable contribution, earmarked for specific beneficiaries in
need.
2 Purification
It represents the purification of wealth and acknowledgment that all blessings come
from Allah.
3 Unity
Zakat fosters a sense of community and ensures the welfare of all members of society.
Zakat, the third pillar, is a compulsory payment made annually by Muslims. It is not just charity
but a form of worship and an economic principle that ensures the fair distribution of wealth
within the Islamic community.

57. Fasting during Ramadan (Sawm)
Discipline
Fasting from dawn to dusk,
abstaining from food, drink,
and other physical needs.
Equality
Encourages feelings of
equality and brotherhood
among all Muslims.
Spirituality
Enhances moral and
spiritual standards, focusing
on devotion and self-
control.
The fourth pillar, Sawm, involves fasting during the month of Ramadan. It is a time for self-
reflection, spiritual growth, and increased devotion. Fasting is seen as a way to cleanse the soul
and develop empathy for those less fortunate.

58. Ramadan Observances
1
Start
The sighting of the crescent moon
marks the beginning of Ramadan.
2 Practice
Daily fasting from sunrise to sunset,
with a focus on prayer and charity.
3
Eid al-Fitr
The conclusion of Ramadan with a
celebration of feasting and giving.
The observance of Ramadan is a deeply spiritual time for Muslims, culminating in the joyous
celebration of Eid al-Fitr. This period of fasting and prayer serves to strengthen the community and
individual faith.

59. Pilgrimage (Hajj) to Mecca
Unity
Hajj represents the unity of Muslims worldwide, coming together in worship.
Rituals
Complex rituals over several days, including circling the Ka'ba and the symbolic stoning
of the devil.
Commitment
A demonstration of devotion and the fulfillment of one of the five pillars of Islam.
The fifth pillar, Hajj, is the pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim must undertake at least
once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able. It is a time of deep religious
significance and a demonstration of the Muslim's commitment to Allah.

60. Hajj: A Spiritual Journey
Equality
The white robe worn during
Hajj symbolizes the equality
and humility of all pilgrims.
Reflection
Standing at Mount Arafat
represents a day of
reflection, akin to the Day of
Judgment.
Rejection of Sin
The ritual of stoning the
pillars is a symbolic rejection
of temptation and sin.
Hajj is not only a physical journey but a spiritual one that encompasses various rituals, each with
its own significance, reflecting the pilgrim's dedication to their faith and the rejection of worldly
temptations.

61. Additional Pillar: Jihad
While not universally acknowledged as a pillar, some Muslims consider
Jihad, or the struggle in the way of Allah, as an additional duty. This can
be interpreted in various ways, from personal spiritual struggle to the
defense of the Muslim community.

62. How to Evangelize a
Muslim
Evangelizing to Muslims requires a deep understanding of the Christian
faith and a respectful approach to dialogue. This presentation will explore
key strategies for sharing the Gospel with Muslim individuals,
emphasizing clarity, respect, and love in communication. Each section will
delve into specific aspects of evangelism, providing a comprehensive
guide for those seeking to witness to Muslims.
By Seid Shumye

63. Understanding the Gospel and Islam
Scripture Integrity
Defend the Scriptures with
confidence, emphasizing their
uncorrupted nature and
reliability as a witness to
Christ.
Contrasting Beliefs
Understand the Quran's
contradictions to biblical
Christianity, particularly
regarding the nature of God
and the person of Christ.
Common Ground
Focus on the shared religious
history and use it as a starting
point for discussing the
unique truths of the Gospel.

64. Engaging in Conversation
Ask Questions
Use classic evangelistic questions to engage Muslims in a discussion about
salvation and certainty of faith.
Stay Focused
Keep the conversation centered on the Gospel, avoiding distractions and
tangents.
Be Patient
Answer questions clearly but don't feel pressured to address every query in
one sitting.

65. Communicating the Gospel
1 Clarity is Key
Present the Gospel as it is, using clear biblical terminology and avoiding Christian
jargon.
2 Respectful Tact
Be sensitive and charitable in your approach, especially when discussing sensitive
topics like sin and judgment.
3 Direct Titles
Do not shy away from using Jesus' direct and indirect titles to convey the truth about
His identity and work.

66. Building Relationships
Compassion
Be understanding and
compassionate, especially
if Muslims have had
negative experiences with
Christians in the past.
Kindness
Many Muslims act out of
ignorance rather than
malice; approach them with
kindness and courtesy.
Friendship
Establish genuine
relationships and
friendships, treating
Muslims as individuals with
care and concern.

67. Evangelism Strategy
1 Non-Argumentative
Focus on leading Muslims to Christ rather than winning arguments about religious
differences.
2 Long-Term Commitment
Understand that evangelism is a process that includes pre-evangelism, conversion, and
ongoing discipleship.
3 Continual Prayer
Pray for wisdom, opportunities, and the growth of the church in reaching out to Muslims.

68. Utilizing Resources
Scripture Quoting Use direct quotations from the Bible to
communicate its truths.
Providing Materials Offer Bibles and other helpful resources to aid
in understanding Christianity.
Music and Worship Showcase Christian hymns and songs that are
rooted in Scripture.

69. Addressing Challenges
14
Polemics
Separate the task of evangelism from theological
debates among different Christian traditions.
23
Patience
Know when to step back if your Muslim friends
are not receptive, and trust in God's timing.

70. Respecting the Process
1 Initial Contact
First conversations about the Gospel are just the beginning of a longer
journey of faith.
2 Conversion
Conversion is a significant milestone, but it is not the end of evangelism.
3 Discipleship
True evangelism continues with discipleship, baptism, and integration into
the church community.

71. Final Encouragements
1 Unchanging Message
Remain steadfast in sharing the unaltered truth of the Gospel, trusting in the Holy
Spirit's work.
2 Heavenly Worship
Invite Muslims to experience the joy of Christian worship and the promise of eternal
singing in heaven.
3 Scriptural Foundation
Emphasize the factuality of Christianity, grounded in the historical actions and words
of Jesus.