WJEC · GCSE · Religious Studies
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Key beliefs of Islam
This study guide provides a comprehensive overview of the Key Beliefs of Islam for WJEC GCSE Religious Studies. It focuses on the core tenets that candidates must understand, including the crucial distinctions between Sunni and Shi'a beliefs, to excel in the exam.
- 4 min read
- 2 worked examples
- 2 practice questions
- 6 key terms
Study Notes
Overview
This guide explores the foundational beliefs of Islam as required by the WJEC GCSE specification. A deep understanding of these concepts is essential, as they form the basis of all Islamic practice and are frequently tested. Examiners expect candidates to demonstrate precise knowledge of the Six Articles of Faith in Sunni Islam and the Five Roots of 'Usul ad-Din in Shi'a Islam. Marks are awarded for the ability to explain these beliefs, analyze their impact on a Muslim's life, and evaluate them using sources of wisdom and authority, particularly the Qur'an. This topic carries a significant weighting, with AO1 (knowledge) and AO2 (evaluation) being equally important. Mastering this content involves not just memorizing terms, but understanding the theological concepts behind them and the diversity of belief within the global Muslim community.
Key Beliefs: Sunni and Shi'a Islam
The Six Articles of Faith (Sunni Islam)
What it is: The foundational framework of belief for Sunni Muslims.
Why it matters: These six points summarize the core tenets that a Sunni Muslim must accept to be considered a believer. They provide a structure for understanding God, the unseen world, divine guidance, and the ultimate destiny of humanity. In the exam, candidates must be able to list and explain each article.
Specific Knowledge: Tawhid, Mala'ikah, Kutub, Risalah, Akhirah, Al-Qadr.
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The Five Roots of 'Usul ad-Din (Shi'a Islam)
What it is: The foundational framework of belief for Shi'a Muslims.
Why it matters: While sharing common ground with Sunni beliefs (like Tawhid), the Five Roots introduce distinctively Shi'a concepts, namely Adalat (Divine Justice) and the Imamate (Leadership). Contrasting these with the Sunni articles is a high-level skill that examiners credit.
Specific Knowledge: Tawhid, Adalat, Nubuwwah, Imamate, Mi'ad.
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Core Theological Concepts
Tawhid (The Oneness of Allah)
What it is: The absolute, indivisible oneness of God. This is the most important belief in Islam.
Why it matters: Tawhid defines Islam as a strictly monotheistic religion. It means Allah has no partners, no children, and no equal. The opposite of Tawhid is Shirk, the sin of idolatry, which is considered the most unforgivable sin. Candidates must be able to explain the implications of Tawhid for worship and life.
Specific Knowledge: Quote Surah 112 (Al-Ikhlas): "Say, ‘He is Allah, the One. Allah, the Absolute. He begets not, nor was He begotten. And there is none comparable to Him.’"
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Risalah and Nubuwwah (Prophethood)
What it is: The belief that Allah has sent messengers and prophets to guide humanity.
Why it matters: Prophets are the link between God and humans. They deliver God's message and show people how to live. Understanding the role of key prophets, especially Adam, Ibrahim, Musa, Isa, and the final prophet, Muhammad, is crucial.
Impact: The belief in Prophet Muhammad as the 'Seal of the Prophets' establishes the Qur'an as the final and complete revelation.
Akhirah and Mi'ad (The Afterlife)
What it is: The belief in a life after death, including the Day of Judgement, heaven (Jannah), and hell (Jahannam).
Why it matters: This belief provides a moral framework for a Muslim's life. The knowledge that they will be held accountable for their deeds by Allah is a powerful motivation for righteous living.
Impact: Influences daily actions, from prayer and charity to ethical conduct, as Muslims strive to earn a place in Jannah.
Check what you remember
Read the wording for your board, then hide it and explain Tawhid in your own words. Rough notes are fine. This is a self-check, with no mark or grade.
Reference: WJEC
The core Islamic belief in the absolute oneness and indivisibility of God (Allah).
Interactive Diagrams
1 interactive diagram to visualise key concepts
Conceptual Flow Outline
A diagram showing the different frameworks of belief in Sunni and Shi'a Islam.
Worked Examples
2 worked examples — open one to explore the question and available guidance.
Practice Questions
Try the question, then reveal an answer plan or example response
Describe the belief in Risalah (prophethood) in Islam. (5 marks)
Hint: Mention the purpose of prophets and name at least three key prophets, including the final one.
Explain two reasons why the belief in Akhirah (the afterlife) is important for Muslims. (8 marks)
Hint: For each reason, make a point, provide evidence/explanation, and explain the impact on a Muslim's life.
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Exam technique
How to turn what you know into marks
How to approach the question
1. **BUG** the question: **B**ox the command word (e.g., 'Explain', 'Discuss'). **U**nderline the key topic. **G**lance back at the number of marks. 2. Plan your paragraphs. 3. Write using P.E.E. (Point, Evidence, Explain).
How to structure your answer
- Essay questions
- (15 marks) Introduction setting out your argument. 2-3 paragraphs for your argument, using evidence. 1 paragraph for a counter-argument. A justified conclusion that answers the question.
- Source questions
- Not applicable for this topic.
- Explain questions
- Two or three well-developed P.E.E. paragraphs. Each paragraph should focus on a different aspect of the explanation.
Timing
Approximately 1.5 minutes per mark. For a 15-mark question, this means around 22-23 minutes.
Common pitfalls
- Confusing the Six Articles (Sunni) with the Five Pillars (practice).
- Failing to distinguish between Sunni and Shi'a beliefs, especially on the Imamate and predestination.
- Describing beliefs without explaining their impact on a Muslim's life.
- Not using specific Arabic terminology or quoting from the Qur'an.
What the command words want
- Describe
- Give a detailed account of a belief or practice.
- How useful
- Not applicable for this topic.
- Explain why
- Provide reasons for a belief. Use connective phrases like 'This is because...' and 'This leads to...'.
- How far do you agree
- This is the same as 'Discuss'. You must provide a balanced argument with a clear, justified conclusion.
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