The five roots of Shi’a Islam
Within The word 'Shi'a' comes from a phrase meaning 'followers of Ali'. Shi'a Muslims believe that Ali succeeded the Prophet Muhammad. Islam there are five key principles. These are often referred to as the five roots of Shi’a Islam or the five roots of Usul ad-Din. Using the image of roots shows that these principles are the foundations of the faith.
The five roots are:
- The belief in the oneness of Allah. It is acknowledged in the First Pillar of Islam: There is no god but God. - This is the belief that God is one, he is almighty and only he is worthy of worship.
- Adalat (divine justice) - Shi’a Muslims believe that Allah is always right and just. Sometimes Allah may act in ways that are beyond our understanding, but ultimately the world has been created to be fair and just. All Muslims believe there will be a The last day, when God judges all of humanity according to how they have lived., when they will have to account for their faith and deeds.
- Prophets chosen by Allah to deliver his message to humanity. (the Someone believed to give messages from God.) - The prophets provide guidance from God and should be respected. This is especially so for The last messenger of Allah, and founder of Islam, called ‘Seal of the prophets’ in the Qur’an., as he was God’s final prophet and communicated the The Recitation or Reading. Allah’s eternal utterance revealed to the Prophet Muhammad by the Angel Jibril as his final revelation to humankind. to human beings.
- Imamate (authority of theA Muslim religious figure who leads the communal prayer and is also a leader in the local community and mosque. In Shi'a Islam, the title is given to a line of descendants of Muhammad (twelve in all) who are believed to be exemplary human beings.) - The Twelve Imams were chosen by God to lead Islam after Muhammad. Shi’a Muslims believe that leaders such as imams protect the religion and help to guide Muslims along the right path.
- Al Ma’ad (Day ofIn Islam the belief that on the last day all humankind will be raised from their graves to face judgement before Allah.) - Muslims will be resurrected and judged by God.
Question
Identify two beliefs that are shared by Sunni and Shi’a Muslims.
Your answer could include any of the following:
- Allah is the one true God.
- The holy books should be respected. Sunni and Shi’a Muslims have the same holy books.
- The prophets should be respected. Sunni and Shi’a Muslims believe in many of the same prophets.
- Angels passed on messages to the prophets.
- There will be a Day of Judgement.
