- Why does John Green think we know so little about early Islamic History, and how does he think we should properly define, "our history."
- List three major religious traditions popular in the Arabian Peninsula prior to Islam
- What is the name of the Islamic Holy Book, that also mentions figures like Moses and Jesus as prophets?
- How is this text viewed differently from the Jewish Torah or the Christian Bible?
- What are the basic acts seen as required by all Muslims called?
- The first pillar is _______, stating: "There is no God but God and Muhammad is God's Prophet.
- What is the Arabic word for God whether you are Christian, Jewish, or Muslim?
- The second pillar is ______, requiring prayer toward Mecca five times per day.
- The third pillar is ______, requiring fasting during the month of Ramadan
- The fourth pillar is ________, or alms giving.
- The fifth pillar is _______, a pilgrimage to Mecca.
- What is the basis for the the "72 virgins" claim and how do most Muslims regard it?
- What term describes the Muslim legal tradition (that is not interpreted the same by everyone)?
History
- After his arrival in Medina, what sort of issues did Mohammed have to deal with that were different from other religious leaders like Moses or Jesus?
- Who was the first Caliph? (Hint: Spelling in the blue popup)
- Others wanted Mohammed's son in law, Ali, to rule. This created a division between what two groups of Muslims?
- Which group supported which leader?
- John Green argues that in this region, not only did people fight, but their wars represented the strength of their religions. Why might conquered people have converted to Islam - even if they weren't forced to do so?
