WhatsApp Us at: +1(323)283-8111
Email us at: aplusgradewriters2@gmail.com
Emergence of Islam
Emergence of Islam Describe the emergence of Islam and its core beliefs. How the death of the Prophet Muhammad led to a schism within the new religion? ,How did the spread of Islam compare with the initial growth of Christianity and Buddhism?
Islam emerged in the early 7th century CE in the Arabian Peninsula, founded by the Prophet Muhammad. Born in Mecca around 570 CE, Muhammad received revelations from Allah (God) through the Angel Gabriel, which were later compiled into the Quran.
Emergence of Islam
Central to Islam are the Five Pillars: the declaration of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salah), almsgiving (Zakat), fasting during Ramadan (Sawm), and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj). These pillars form the framework of a Muslim’s faith and practice, emphasizing monotheism, community, and ethical behavior.
The death of Muhammad in 632 CE marked a significant turning point. Lacking a clear successor, the Muslim community faced disputes over leadership, leading to a schism between two major sects: Sunnis and Shiites. Sunnis believed that the community should select its leaders, resulting in the election of Abu Bakr as the first caliph. In contrast, Shiites believed leadership should remain within Muhammad’s family, specifically favoring Ali, Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-law. This division had profound implications for the development of Islamic theology and governance, persisting to this day.
Emergence of Islam
Comparing the spread of Islam with the growth of Christianity and Buddhism reveals both similarities and differences. Islam expanded rapidly through military conquests, trade, and missionary activities, reaching parts of Asia, Africa, and Europe within a few decades. In contrast, Christianity grew initially through peaceful means, spreading via preaching and community building, particularly in the Roman Empire, despite periods of persecution. Buddhism similarly spread through missionaries and traders, establishing itself in regions like Asia through cultural exchange and royal patronage.
Overall, while all three religions experienced significant growth, the methods and contexts of their expansion varied, influenced by political, social, and economic factors in their respective eras.
