Session One

Inside Islam

Introduction: We begin this course with reading chapters 1-3 Islam: Faith and History. These chapters cover the early origins of Islam, prophethood and revelation in the Quran (Koran) and the elements of Muslim faith and worship. Then we will look at modern Islam since the tragic events of 9-11 as depicted in the film "Inside Islam." This film provides a balanced, objective introduction to the great faith traces its roots back to Abraham and explains the main tenets of Islam, the Five Pillars that all Muslims must adhere to. What the Qur'an has to say about war, violence and suicide is explained by leading Muslim scholar.

After having completed the readings for this session and reviewed the accompanying video you may choose - on a purely optional basis - to answer the study questions and submit them at etwimber@hotmail.com or to contact Dr. Wimberley by phone or email to request a time for dialogue about what you have learned. You may do so by phone or dialogue via Skype or Facetime. Dr. Wimberley's phone number is 239.405.4164. We may convene group meetings of the class using the Zoom application on our computers. You can enroll in this course by emailing etwimber@hotmail.com or by texting Dr. Wimberley at 239.405.4164.

Readings: Islam: Faith and History, Chapters 1-3.

Video: Inside Islam

Study Questions:

  1. What does the word Islam mean?
  2. Who is a Muslim? How does one become a Muslim?
  3. What does the word “shahadah” mean?
  4. What religions predated Islam?
  5. In the time of Muhammad what was the Ka’Bah in Mecca (Makkah)?
  6. Why is it believed that Muhammad received the Koran and didn’t write it?
  7. Was Muhammad a monotheist?
  8. Was his theology similar to Christianity in any significant way?