This course is structured into five main units, covering the foundational beliefs (Iman), core practices (Ibadah/Pillars), key sources, the life of the Prophet Muhammad, and the ethical framework.
Unit 1: Introduction to Islam and its Core Beliefs (Iman)
Lesson 1: What is Islam?
- Meaning of the Arabic word "Islam" (Submission, Surrender, Peace).
- Meaning of "Muslim" (One who submits).
- Concept of Tawhid (Pure Monotheism) – the absolute Oneness of Allah.
Lesson 2: The Six Articles of Faith (Arkan al-Iman)
- Belief in Allah: His existence, Oneness, and Names/Attributes.
- Belief in Angels (Mala'ikah): Their nature and roles.
- Belief in Divine Books (Kutub): The revelation of scriptures, focusing on the Qur'an as the final revelation.
- Belief in Messengers (Rusul): The chain of Prophets, from Adam to Muhammad (SAW).
- Belief in the Day of Judgement (Akhirah): Life after death, accountability, Heaven (Jannah), and Hell (Jahannam).
- Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar): Understanding free will and Allah's absolute knowledge.
Unit 2: The Five Pillars of Islam (Ibadah)
This unit covers the essential ritual acts of worship and practice.
Lesson 3: The Testimony of Faith (Shahadah)
- Its two parts: La ilaha illAllah (There is no god but Allah) and Muhammadur Rasulullah (Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah).
- The gateway to becoming a Muslim.
Lesson 4: Prayer (Salah)
- The five daily compulsory prayers: timing and significance.
- Basic steps and requirements for ritual purity (Wudu and Ghusl).
- The spiritual and social importance of prayer.
Lesson 5: Charity (Zakat)
- Meaning and distinction between mandatory Zakat and voluntary charity (Sadaqah).
- The concept of wealth purification and social justice.
- Who is eligible to pay and who is eligible to receive.
Lesson 6: Fasting (Sawm)
- Fasting during the month of Ramadan: requirements and exemptions.
- Spiritual and physical discipline.
- The celebration of Eid al-Fitr.
Lesson 7: Pilgrimage (Hajj)
- The requirement for those who are able (physically and financially).
- Overview of the rites and their historical significance.
- The celebration of Eid al-Adha.
Unit 3: The Sources of Islam
Lesson 8: The Holy Qur'an
- The meaning and miraculous nature of the Qur'an.
- How it was revealed and preserved.
- Basic structure (Surahs and Ayahs).
Lesson 9: The Sunnah and Hadith
- Definition of Sunnah (the practice and example of the Prophet).
- Definition of Hadith (recorded sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet).
- The importance of the Sunnah as the practical implementation of the Qur'an.
Unit 4: The Life of the Prophet Muhammad (\text{peace be upon him}) (Seerah)
Lesson 10: Early Life and Prophethood
- Birth and upbringing in Mecca.
- The first revelation and the beginning of the message.
- The challenges faced by the early Muslims.
Lesson 11: The Establishment of the Muslim Community
- The Hijra (Migration) from Mecca to Medina and its significance.
- Establishing the first Islamic state and community.
- The Prophet's role as a leader, judge, and teacher.
Lesson 12: The Prophet's Character and Legacy
- Focus on his exemplary character (Akhlaq).
- His final sermon and the conclusion of the Prophethood.
Unit 5: Ethics, Morality, and Community (Akhlaq and Mu'amalat)
Lesson 13: Islamic Ethics and Morality (Akhlaq)
- Core values: truthfulness, justice, compassion, humility, and patience.
- The concept of Ihsan (perfection/excellence in faith and action).
Lesson 14: Social and Financial Transactions (Mu'amalat)
- General principles of halal (permissible) and haram (forbidden).
- Family structure, rights of parents, spouses, and children.
- Principles of business ethics and avoiding usury (interest).
Lesson 15: Diversity and Global Presence
- A brief overview of the historical spread of Islam.
- Introduction to major divisions (e.g., Sunni and Shia—focusing on their shared basics).
- Islam in the contemporary world.