1.
Which of the following is NOT one of the Pillars of Islam?
Correct Answer
C. Being baptized
Explanation
Being baptized is not one of the Pillars of Islam because baptism is a Christian sacrament, primarily practiced in Christianity. The Pillars of Islam are the essential religious duties that every Muslim is obligated to fulfill, including giving to charity (Zakat), fasting during Ramadan (Sawm), and making a pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj). Baptism, on the other hand, is a ritual in Christianity symbolizing purification and initiation into the Christian faith.
2.
What city is important not only to Muslims, but to Jews and Christians as well?
Correct Answer
B. Jerusalem
Explanation
Jerusalem is an important city not only to Muslims, but also to Jews and Christians. It is considered a holy city by all three major Abrahamic religions. For Muslims, it is the third holiest city after Mecca and Medina, as it is the site of the Al-Aqsa Mosque and the Dome of the Rock. For Jews, it is their holiest city, as it is the site of the Western Wall, which is the last remnant of the Second Temple. For Christians, it is significant because it is the place where Jesus was crucified, buried, and resurrected. Therefore, Jerusalem holds immense religious and historical importance for all three faiths.
3.
Who of the following is NOT regarded as a prophet by Muslims?
Correct Answer
B. Paul
Explanation
Muslims do not regard Paul as a prophet. While Jesus, Abraham, and Mohammed are all recognized as prophets in Islam, Paul is not considered a prophet by Muslims. Paul is a central figure in Christianity, known for his writings and teachings, but his role as a prophet is not recognized in Islamic belief.
4.
An important cultural contribution of the Muslims would be the
Correct Answer
B. Preservation of ancient Greek and Roman texts
Explanation
The preservation of ancient Greek and Roman texts by Muslims is an important cultural contribution because it allowed for the knowledge and ideas of these ancient civilizations to be passed down and studied by future generations. This preservation effort helped to preserve and advance knowledge in fields such as philosophy, science, medicine, and mathematics. It also facilitated the transmission of these texts to Europe during the Middle Ages, contributing to the Renaissance and the revival of classical learning.
5.
When Muslims pray, they face
Correct Answer
B. Mecca.
Explanation
Muslims pray facing Mecca because it is the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad. The Kaaba, located in Mecca, is the most sacred site in Islam and serves as the focal point for prayer. Muslims around the world face towards the Kaaba during their daily prayers as a symbol of unity and devotion to Allah. This practice, known as qibla, is a fundamental aspect of Islamic worship and is followed by Muslims regardless of their geographical location.
6.
All of the following are scientific achievements of the Muslims EXCEPT:
Correct Answer
A. Invention of the compass
Explanation
The invention of the compass is not considered a scientific achievement of the Muslims. The compass was actually invented in ancient China during the Han Dynasty, long before the rise of Islam. It was later introduced to the Muslim world through trade and exploration, but it was not originally developed by Muslims. However, Muslims did make significant contributions to fields such as algebra, the adaptation of Arabic numerals, and medicine, which are considered important scientific achievements.
7.
Where did Islam begin?
Correct Answer
C. Arabian Peninsula
Explanation
Islam began on the Arabian Peninsula. This is where the Prophet Muhammad received revelations from Allah and began preaching the teachings of Islam. The Arabian Peninsula, specifically the city of Mecca, is considered the birthplace of Islam and the location of the Kaaba, the holiest site in Islam. It is from here that Islam spread throughout the region and eventually to other parts of the world.
8.
Who is the founder of Islam?
Correct Answer
A. Mohammed
Explanation
Mohammed is the founder of Islam. He was born in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, in the 6th century. He received revelations from Allah, which were later compiled into the holy book of Islam, the Quran. Mohammed preached monotheism and established the first Islamic state in Medina. He played a crucial role in spreading Islam and is considered the last prophet in Islam.
9.
What famous battle halted the spread of Islam into western Europe?
Correct Answer
B. Battle of Tours
Explanation
The Battle of Tours is the correct answer because it halted the spread of Islam into western Europe. This battle took place in 732 AD between the Frankish forces led by Charles Martel and the Umayyad Caliphate forces led by Abdul Rahman Al Ghafiqi. The Franks were victorious, stopping the advancement of the Islamic forces into Europe. This battle is considered significant as it prevented the expansion of Islamic influence and preserved Christianity in the region.
10.
Where did traders and merchants spread Islam?
Correct Answer
B. Southeast Asia
Explanation
Traders and merchants spread Islam in Southeast Asia. This region was a major hub for trade between the Indian Ocean and the South China Sea, attracting merchants from various parts of the world. These traders, particularly from the Arabian Peninsula and India, brought Islam with them and established communities in Southeast Asia. Over time, local populations in countries like Indonesia, Malaysia, and the Philippines embraced Islam, leading to its widespread adoption in the region. The spread of Islam in Southeast Asia was also facilitated by cultural and economic interactions, intermarriage, and the influence of Muslim scholars and missionaries.