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Year 11 - Religious education

The five roots of Shi'a Islam

Muslim beliefs

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 Twelver and Sevener Shi'a 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 Imamah.
  • Two groups within Shi'a Islam are the Sevener and Twelver branches.

Vocabulary To Learn

  • adalat: God's justice, one of the five roots of Usul ad-Din
  • Imamah: the authority of the Imams as Allah's 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 Sevener Shi'a Muslims believe there have only been seven Imams.

3 Quick Questions (With Answers)

1. Explain the lesson in two key points.

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.

2. What does this key word mean in this lesson? 'adalat'

God's justice, one of the five roots of Usul ad-Din.

3. Correct this common mistake.

Mistake: That Sevener Shi'a Muslims believe there have only been seven Imams. Correction: The name Sevener comes from the recognition in Sevener Shi'a Islam of Imam Ismail as an Imam. Twelver Shi'a Islam recognises his brother, Musa, as the seventh Imam in contrast.

More Lessons In This Unit

Browse all guides in the Year 11 Religious education guide library.