What you'll learn
The central beliefs of Islam and the key articles of faith.
The nature of God
- Tawhid: the absolute oneness of Allah — the most important belief in Islam.
- Allah's characteristics: omnipotent, merciful, transcendent; the 99 names.
- Shirk (associating partners with God) is the gravest sin.
Prophethood and holy books
- Risalah (prophethood): prophets including Adam, Ibrahim, Musa and Isa; Muhammad is the final prophet (the Seal of the Prophets).
- The Qur'an is the literal word of Allah, revealed via the angel Jibril.
- Angels (Malaikah) and earlier scriptures.
Predestination and the afterlife
- Al-Qadr (predestination) — Allah's control over destiny.
- Akhirah (life after death): judgement, Paradise (Jannah) and Hell (Jahannam).
- Sunni and Shia differences (e.g. the Imamate).
Exam tips
- Use Arabic key terms accurately (Tawhid, Risalah, Akhirah).
- Reference the Qur'an and Hadith as sources of authority.
Common mistakes
- Confusing the Five Pillars (practices) with beliefs.
- Misusing 'shirk' or treating Muhammad as divine.