Study Guides

Unit Summary

In this unit pupils will learn about key beliefs in the worldview of Islam such as the nature of Allah, prophethood and the role of texts. They will gain a critical understanding of Islamic theology and key stories that underpin it.

Lesson Summary

You will learn to explain the five roots of Usul ad-Din, their importance and how they link to other key beliefs in Islam.

Key Notes

• The five roots of Usul ad-Din are foundational beliefs for Shi'a Muslims.
• There is crossover between the five roots and the six articles of faith.
• Tawhid, prophets and the last day are common to Sunni and Shi'a Muslims.
• The five roots also include divine justice and the Imamate.

Vocabulary To Learn

• adalat: God's fairness; one of the five roots of Usul ad-Din
• imamate: the authority of the Imams as chosen guides after the prophets, starting from Ali as a member of the Prophet's household
• resurrection: when someone is raised again after death
• Shi'a Islam: Muslims who believe in the successorship of Imam Ali and other Imams from the Prophet Muhammad's bloodline
• tawhid: belief in Allah's oneness and unity

Common Mistakes To Avoid

• That Shia Muslims do not believe the beliefs held in the Six Articles of Faith.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

More Lessons In This Unit

• Authority of other sacred texts in Islam Study Guide
• Human responsibility and accountability Study Guide
• Life after death in Islam Study Guide
• Nature and role of angels Study Guide
• Predestination and human freedom Study Guide
• Revelation and authority of the Qur'an Study Guide
• Role and importace of Muhammad Study Guide
• Role and importance of Adam Study Guide
• Role and importance of Ibrahim Study Guide
• Tawhid Study Guide
• The imamate in Shi'a Islam Study Guide
• The Last Day: resurrection and judgement Study Guide
• The nature of Allah Study Guide
• The six articles of faith Study Guide