Islam is the religion of Allah and Mohammed. It has core beliefs including belief in Day of Judgment, Paradise for followers of God's guidance and Hell for non-followers, belief in Angels of God, and belief in holy books revealed by God including the Quran. Rituals and rites of passage include reciting the Shahada at birth, simple marriage ceremonies followed by celebrations, and quick burials without coffins or grave markers. Symbols include the hijab for women, the minbar lectern in mosques, and the star and crescent symbol. The Quran and Hadith contain important stories and teachings. The Five Pillars of Islam outline duties for Muslims like prayer and fasting during Ramadan.

1. IslamThe religion of Allah and Mohammed

2. Core Beliefs of IslamBelief in Day of Judgment Paradise for those who follow God’s guidance.Hell for those who do not follow God’s help. Belief in Angels of God Muslims believe in angels.Angels are beings who worship God and do as he orders.Belief in Books of GodMuslims believe message of God has been revealed by holy books and writings in the Quaran.The Quran given to Muhammad by Allah, through the Angel Gabriel

3. Rituals and Rites of passage Birth and ChildhoodFirst word a new baby hears is Shahada. This is the first pillarand the profession of faithNo god but Allah and Muhammad is his messenger. MarriageMarriage and family are a big part of Islam.Marriage used to be arranged, but things have changed Ceremony is simple, celebrations are happy. DeathSee it as a release from suffering of life until last judgment.Funeral is simple prayers.Burial is quick.No coffin, no grave marker.

4. Symbols And Objects Hijab Islam culture says women have to cover their heads. Allah said that women should not show off their beauty.Minbar Found in a mosque, usually has stairs. Imam preaches Friday sermon here. Like a lectern in a church.Star and CrescentA principal symbol. Used on top of minarets and on flags and stamps.

5. Holy WritingsKoranHoly book for MuslimsMuslims look to it for guidance Written in ArabicHadithLife and teachings of Muhammad Models of his life for Muslims to live by Tools for understanding the Koran Five Pillars of IslamHoly writings telling duties for all who are MuslimLike 10 commandments, spiritual foundation for all to follow

6. Stories of origin and important people.Muhammad: Born in Mecca. The angel Gabriel came to him to start preaching the message that there is only one God, Allah. Abraham: With his son Ishmael, told by god to build a sanctuary near the well at Zamzam. This is known as the Ka’bah, the holiest place.Imam: Leads prayers and preaches. Not different from his followers but is trained and dedicated to Islam.

7. The Mosque: A holy place for worshipMuslims are called to prayer five times a day, ideally in the mosque. If necessary, facing Mecca wherever you are. Most mosques are built with minarets and domes. A minaret is a tower with an onion shaped top.The prayer room is the most important room in a mosque and always faces Mecca, the holy city, where the Ka’bah(holy stone) is located.

8. Celebrations and HolidaysRamadanIt is the 9th month in Islamic calendar, begins on the crescent moon of that month. Adults fast between dawn and sunset and eat only light snacks after that .Eid-Al-FitrIn Muslim countries it is a 3 day holiday that begins after Ramadan.They give presents and get together to rejoice. Give food and money to less fortunate to observe the holiday. Eid-Al-Adha4 day celebration after pilgrimage, or Hajj, to MeccahFestival of sacrifice, based on Abraham sacrificing IshmaelRecognizes the accomplishment of finishing pilgrimage