Question 1

What are the differences between Sunni and Shi’a Islam?

Accepted Answer

The main difference is over who should lead the Muslim community after Prophet Muhammad’s death. Sunnis believe leaders should be elected from among the community (the first four caliphs), while Shi’as believe leadership should stay within the Prophet’s family, specifically through Ali and the Imams. This leads to differences in religious authority: Sunnis follow the Six Articles of Faith, while Shi’as follow the Five Roots of Usul ad-Din, which includes Imamah (belief in the Imams). There are also minor differences in prayer practices and how they interpret certain Hadith.

Question 2

Why do Muslims fast during Ramadan?

Accepted Answer

Muslims fast during Ramadan (the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar) as one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Fasting (Sawm) is an act of worship to obey Allah’s command in the Qur’an (Surah 2:183). It helps Muslims develop self-discipline, empathy for the poor, and spiritual closeness to Allah. It also commemorates the revelation of the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad. Fasting involves abstaining from food, drink, smoking, and sexual relations from dawn to sunset, with exceptions for the sick, elderly, pregnant, and travellers.

Question 3

What is the significance of the Hajj pilgrimage?

Accepted Answer

Hajj is the pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim who is physically and financially able must perform at least once in their lifetime. It is the fifth pillar of Islam and takes place during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. Hajj commemorates the trials of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family, including the near-sacrifice of his son Ismail. Rituals include circling the Kaaba (Tawaf), standing at Arafat (where pilgrims pray for forgiveness), and stoning the devil at Mina. Hajj symbolizes unity, equality, and submission to Allah, as millions of Muslims from all over the world gather together.

Question 4

How do Muslims view Jesus?

Accepted Answer

Muslims respect Jesus (Isa) as one of the greatest prophets, but they do not believe he is the Son of God or part of a Trinity. In Islam, Jesus was born miraculously to Mary (Maryam), performed miracles by Allah’s permission, and was not crucified but was raised to heaven by Allah. Muslims believe he will return before the Day of Judgement to defeat the false messiah (Dajjal). The Qur’an has a whole chapter named after Mary (Surah Maryam) and emphasizes Jesus’s role as a messenger of monotheism.

Question 5

What is the role of women in Islam?

Accepted Answer

In Islam, men and women are considered spiritually equal before Allah, but they have different roles and responsibilities. Women have the right to education, work, own property, and inherit, though shares may differ from men. The Qur’an and Hadith emphasize modesty for both genders, often leading to practices like wearing the hijab. However, interpretations vary widely: some Muslim-majority countries have laws that restrict women’s rights (e.g., in dress or travel), while others have female leaders and equal opportunities. The key is to distinguish between cultural practices and core Islamic teachings.

Question 6

What is the difference between the Qur’an and the Hadith?

Accepted Answer

The Qur’an is the holy book of Islam, believed to be the literal word of Allah revealed to Prophet Muhammad through the angel Jibril (Gabriel). It is the primary source of Islamic law and guidance. Hadith are collections of sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad, recorded by his companions. They explain and complement the Qur’an, providing details on how to practice Islam (e.g., how to pray). While the Qur’an is considered infallible, Hadith are classified by scholars as authentic (sahih), good (hasan), or weak (da’if) based on their chain of transmission.

Component 3 (Route A): Study of a World Faith — Option 3: Islam

Topic Overview

Key Concepts

What You Need to Demonstrate

Marking Points

Examiner Tips

Common Mistakes

Frequently Asked Questions

Before You Start

Key Terminology

Ready to test yourself?

Related Topics in WJEC GCSE Religious Studies

Component 1 (Route A): Religious Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World — Theme 1: Issues of Relationships

Component 1 (Route A): Religious Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World — Theme 2: Issues of Life and Death

Component 1 (Route A): Religious Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World — Theme 3: Issues of Good and Evil

Component 1 (Route A): Religious Philosophical and Ethical Studies in the Modern World — Theme 4: Issues of Human Rights

How to Revise Component 3 (Route A): Study of a World Faith — Option 3: Islam — WJEC GCSE Religious Studies

Examiner Tips for Component 3 (Route A): Study of a World Faith — Option 3: Islam

Common Mistakes in Component 3 (Route A): Study of a World Faith — Option 3: Islam

Key Marking Points