1 (a) Name three of the Five Pillars of Islam - OCR - GCSE Religious Studies - Question 1 - 2018 - Paper 1

Khums is an Islamic tax that is typically paid annually, amounting to 20% of an individual’s surplus income after essential expenses have been deducted. Muslims calculate their Khums by assessing their total income and subtracting necessary living expenditures and debts. The remaining sum is subject to the Khums obligation, which is then divided into two halves: one half goes to the descendants of the Prophet Muhammad (Sadaat) and the other half is used for religious leaders or community needs.

Sadaqah refers to voluntary charity given by Muslims to help those in need. Muslims might give Sadaqah for several reasons, including:

• Compassion and Empathy: To alleviate the suffering of others and contribute positively to society.
• Spiritual Growth: To seek closeness to Allah and enhance their faith through acts of kindness.
• Community Support: To support community members in times of hardship, fostering a sense of unity and solidarity.

Ibrahim (Abraham) holds a significant place in Islam as a model of faith and obedience to Allah. His importance is emphasized in several ways:

1. Monotheism: Ibrahim is revered as the father of monotheism, rejecting idol worship and emphasizing the belief in one God.
2. Exemplar of Faith: His willingness to sacrifice his son Isma'il (Ishmael) in obedience to Allah's command showcases the ultimate act of faith and trust in God's plan, which is commemorated during Eid al-Adha.
3. Covenant: Ibrahim is recognized in the Quran as having a special covenant with Allah, leading to the formation of the Abrahamic faiths.
4. Patriarch of Prophets: Considered a patriarch, Ibrahim is influential to both Judaism and Christianity, illustrating a shared religious heritage.
5. Role Model: His life serves as a guiding story for Muslims, encouraging submission to Allah and commitment to righteousness.

The statement can be analyzed from various perspectives:

• Common Views: Many individuals argue that altruism is a universal value; it transcends religious beliefs, implying that actions of kindness hold intrinsic value regardless of the belief system.
  • Example: Acts of charity, like feeding the poor, are universally esteemed, fostering social welfare irrespective of the giver's faith.
• Divergent Views: Contrarily, some argue that belief is fundamental to the true essence of moral actions.
  • Example: In Islam, intentions behind actions (niyyah) play a crucial role; thus, deeds without belief might lack purpose.
• Sources of Wisdom and Authority: Islamic teachings emphasize both belief and action, as reflected in the Hadith: 'Actions are judged by intentions.' Thus, while helping others is vital, the underlying belief infuses actions with meaning and connection to divine principles.
• Conclusion: Ultimately, the interplay between belief and action suggests that while helping others is commendable, it is belief that enriches the act with moral and spiritual significance.