Fundamental Beliefs and Practices of Islam and the Muslim Attitude Toward Non-Believers

DISCUSSION 9
1) What were the fundamental beliefs and practices of Islam?
The fundamental beliefs and practices of Islam are centered on the Five Pillars. These five pillars are: (1) Shahada or the profession of faith. This means that the people of Islam do not believe in gods other than God, and that they have faith in Muhammad, who is a prophet of God. (2) Salat or prayer. Muslims put prayers above other activities in their day-to-day lives. They have protected times to pray at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and after dark. (3) Zakat or alms. Muslims believe that it is virtuous and therefore in accordance to Muslim law that whoever has an abundance of resources must share to those in need. (4) Sawm or fasting. Muslims are known for fasting holidays and they do this for their belief in expressing gratitude to God by abstaining from drinking and eating. Finally, (5) Hajj or pilgrimage. Muslims believe that it is their duty to travel to the Mecca (Saudi Arabia) to pay respects to God, Abraham, and Muhammad (The Met Museum, 2013).
2) What were some of the obligations Muslims imposed on their non-Muslim subjects?
Muslims expect non-Muslim subjects to observe some of their trad...