GED 101 Islamic Culture Coursework Instructions assignment help

GED 101 Islamic Culture Coursework Instructions with sample solution
 

Section 1: Course Information

Section 2: Coursework Information

Section 3: Coursework Details

Section 4: Submission Details

Discussion Topics

1-Sawm (Fasting)

"Sawm is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and Understanding these pillars provides insight into the core beliefs and practices of Islam."

In the light of this, Write an essay covering all of the following points. (1000 – 1200 words)

1- Different types of fasting. 2- The significance of fasting. 3- The physical and spiritual benefits of fasting. 4- The misconceptions about fasting by anti-Islam movements.

2-Concept of Quality in Islam

"Many people believe that the concept of quality is one of the Western concepts that have emerged recently, but quality is an authentic Islamic principle emanating from the Qur'an and Sunnah and present in all Islamic teachings."

In the light of this, Write an essay covering all of the following points. (1000 – 1200 words)

1- What is meant by quality from the general perspective and the Islamic perspective? 2- The compatibility between the principles of total quality management and the principles of Islam. 3- Give examples on how to apply quality in human daily life.

Note: This report is provided as a sample for reference purposes only. For further guidance, detailed solutions, or personalized assignment support, please contact us directly.

Islamic Culture - Class Discussion

GED 101

Dr. Rania Mahmoud ELSakhawy

Topic 1: Sawm (Fasting)

Sawm, or fasting, stands as one of the Five Pillars of Islam, representing a fundamental practice that shapes the spiritual and physical lives of Muslims worldwide. This sacred obligation, particularly observed during the holy month of Ramadan, encompasses far more than mere abstention from food and drink. It represents a comprehensive spiritual discipline that purifies the soul, strengthens faith, and fosters a deeper connection with Allah. Understanding the multifaceted nature of fasting provides profound insight into Islamic practices and the holistic approach Islam takes toward worship, self-discipline, and community solidarity.

Different Types of Fasting

Islamic jurisprudence recognizes several distinct categories of fasting, each serving different purposes and carrying varying degrees of religious obligation. The primary category is obligatory fasting (Fard), which includes the fasting of Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Every adult Muslim who is physically and mentally capable must observe this fast from dawn until sunset throughout the entire month. This obligation is so central to Islamic practice that breaking this fast without valid reason is considered a major sin requiring expiation.

Beyond Ramadan, there are other obligatory fasts, including the compensatory fasting (Qada) for missed days of Ramadan due to illness, travel, or other valid exemptions, and expiatory fasting (Kaffarah) required as atonement for breaking certain oaths or committing specific violations of Islamic law. Kaffarah often involves fasting for two consecutive months and represents a serious form of spiritual and physical discipline aimed at purification and repentance.

Voluntary fasting (Nafl) represents another important category, offering Muslims opportunities to gain additional spiritual rewards beyond their obligatory duties. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) regularly practiced voluntary fasting and encouraged his followers to do likewise. Notable examples include fasting on Mondays and Thursdays, which the Prophet observed regularly, explaining that deeds are presented to Allah on these days. The white days (13th, 14th, and 15th of each lunar month) are also recommended for fasting, as are the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, particularly the Day of Arafah for those not performing Hajj.

The Day of Ashura, the 10th of Muharram, holds special significance. The Prophet initially made it obligatory before the commandment of Ramadan was revealed, and it later became a highly recommended voluntary fast. Muslims are encouraged to fast on this day along with either the day before or after it to distinguish this practice from other traditions. Additionally, six days of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan, are highly recommended, as fasting these days along with Ramadan is said to be equivalent to fasting the entire year.

The Significance of Fasting

The significance of fasting in Islam extends far beyond ritualistic observance, embodying profound spiritual, social, and moral dimensions. At its core, fasting serves as a direct means of achieving taqwa (God-consciousness or piety), as explicitly stated in the Quran: "O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous" (2:183). This verse establishes the fundamental purpose of fasting as a tool for developing heightened awareness of Allah and cultivating righteousness in all aspects of life.

Fasting serves as a powerful demonstration of submission to Allah's will, manifesting the essence of Islam itself, which means submission. By voluntarily abstaining from permissible pleasures such as food, drink, and marital relations during daylight hours, Muslims demonstrate their willingness to prioritize divine commands over personal desires. This act of submission strengthens the relationship between the servant and the Creator, fostering humility and recognition of complete dependence on Allah for sustenance and survival.

The social significance of fasting cannot be overstated. Ramadan creates a unique sense of community and solidarity among Muslims worldwide, as they simultaneously participate in this spiritual journey regardless of geographical, cultural, or economic boundaries. This collective experience fosters empathy and compassion, particularly for those who regularly suffer from hunger and poverty. When affluent Muslims experience the pangs of hunger and thirst, they develop a deeper understanding of the struggles faced by the less fortunate, which often translates into increased charitable giving and social consciousness.

Furthermore, fasting serves as an annual opportunity for spiritual renewal and moral reformation. The intensified worship during Ramadan, including increased Quranic recitation, night prayers (Tarawih), and supplications, creates an environment conducive to self-reflection and repentance. Muslims use this month to break bad habits, strengthen good ones, and recommit themselves to Islamic principles. The Prophet Muhammad described Ramadan as a month whose beginning is mercy, middle is forgiveness, and end is emancipation from hellfire, emphasizing the transformative potential of this sacred period.

The Physical and Spiritual Benefits of Fasting

The benefits of fasting encompass both spiritual elevation and physical wellbeing, reflecting Islam's holistic approach to human welfare. Spiritually, fasting purifies the soul and elevates one's consciousness of Allah. The act of restraining physical desires strengthens spiritual will and demonstrates mastery over the lower self (nafs). This discipline extends beyond the fast itself, as Muslims are required to guard their tongues from lying, backbiting, and harsh speech, their eyes from inappropriate gazing, and their hearts from negative emotions such as envy and malice. The Prophet stated that fasting is not merely abstaining from food and drink, but also from vain speech and foul language, emphasizing the comprehensive moral dimension of this practice.

Fasting cultivates patience, self-control, and emotional resilience. By enduring hunger and thirst while maintaining composure and kindness, Muslims develop the ability to control impulses and manage desires more effectively in other aspects of life. This enhanced self-discipline proves invaluable in resisting temptations and maintaining ethical behavior even in challenging circumstances. The month of Ramadan essentially serves as a training ground for developing the spiritual strength necessary to live righteously throughout the year.

The spiritual rewards of fasting are immense. The Prophet Muhammad said that every good deed is multiplied ten to seven hundred times, except fasting, for which Allah says it is for Him and He will reward it without measure. The month of Ramadan offers additional blessings, including Laylat al-Qadr (the Night of Power), which is better than a thousand months. During this night, which falls in the last ten days of Ramadan, the Quran was first revealed, and worship performed during this night carries extraordinary spiritual merit.

From a physical perspective, modern scientific research has validated numerous health benefits associated with intermittent fasting, the pattern followed during Islamic fasting. These benefits include improved metabolic health, enhanced insulin sensitivity, reduced inflammation, and potential longevity benefits. Fasting allows the digestive system to rest and repair, promotes cellular autophagy (the body's process of cleaning out damaged cells), and may improve cardiovascular health by reducing risk factors such as high blood pressure and cholesterol levels.

The cognitive benefits of fasting are also noteworthy. Studies suggest that fasting may enhance brain function, improve mental clarity, and protect against neurodegenerative diseases. Many Muslims report increased focus and productivity during Ramadan, particularly in spiritual and intellectual pursuits. Additionally, the disciplined eating patterns during Ramadan can help reset unhealthy dietary habits, promote weight management, and foster a more mindful relationship with food.

The Misconceptions About Fasting by Anti-Islam Movements

Despite the well-documented benefits and profound significance of Islamic fasting, various anti-Islam movements have propagated numerous misconceptions designed to portray this practice as harmful, oppressive, or irrational. One common misconception claims that fasting is detrimental to health and potentially dangerous, particularly in extreme climates or during long summer days. Critics often ignore the built-in exemptions Islam provides for those who might be harmed by fasting, including the sick, elderly, pregnant or nursing women, travelers, and menstruating women. Islamic law prioritizes preservation of health and life above ritualistic observance, demonstrating the religion's practical wisdom and compassion.

Another misconception portrays Ramadan fasting as a form of self-torture or excessive asceticism that undermines productivity and social functioning. This characterization fundamentally misunderstands the nature and purpose of Islamic fasting. Unlike extreme forms of asceticism that reject all worldly pleasures, Islamic fasting is a temporary discipline that actually enhances appreciation for Allah's blessings and teaches moderation. Muslims continue their daily activities during Ramadan, including work, study, and social engagement, demonstrating that fasting strengthens rather than weakens one's ability to function effectively.

Some critics falsely claim that Islamic fasting is imposed forcefully and that Muslims, particularly women and children, are coerced into participating against their will. This misconception ignores Islamic teachings that emphasize sincere intention and voluntary submission as prerequisites for valid worship. Children are not required to fast until they reach puberty, and even then, they are gradually introduced to the practice. Women have multiple exemptions based on their physical condition and circumstances. The Quran explicitly states there is no compulsion in religion, and forced fasting would hold no spiritual value in Islamic theology.

Another misleading narrative suggests that fasting promotes irrationality or hinders intellectual development by depriving the brain of necessary nutrients. This claim is contradicted by both historical evidence and contemporary research. Islamic civilization produced its greatest scientific, philosophical, and literary achievements during periods when Ramadan observance was universal and strict. Modern studies on intermittent fasting demonstrate that it can actually enhance cognitive function rather than impair it. The claim reflects ignorance of both Islamic history and nutritional science.

In conclusion, Sawm represents a comprehensive spiritual practice that cultivates piety, strengthens character, promotes health, and fosters social solidarity. The various types of fasting offer Muslims multiple opportunities to draw closer to Allah and develop self-discipline. The significance of fasting extends beyond individual spirituality to encompass community building and moral development. Both the spiritual and physical benefits of fasting are profound and well-documented, while the misconceptions propagated by anti-Islam movements reflect either ignorance or deliberate misrepresentation of Islamic teachings and practices. Understanding the true nature of Islamic fasting reveals it as a sophisticated spiritual discipline that balances physical wellbeing with spiritual growth, individual development with community solidarity, and divine worship with practical wisdom.

Topic 2: Concept of Quality in Islam

The concept of quality, often perceived as a modern Western management principle, has deep and authentic roots in Islamic teachings that predate contemporary quality management theories by over fourteen centuries. Islam established comprehensive principles of excellence, perfection, and continuous improvement long before the industrial revolution and the formalization of quality management systems. The Quran and Sunnah are replete with injunctions emphasizing ihsan (excellence), itqan (perfection), and commitment to performing every task with utmost care and competence. Understanding the Islamic perspective on quality reveals that excellence is not merely a business strategy but a fundamental religious obligation that encompasses all aspects of life, from worship to work, from personal conduct to social interactions.

Quality from the General Perspective and the Islamic Perspective

From a general perspective, quality is typically defined as the degree to which a product, service, or process meets specified requirements and satisfies customer expectations. Contemporary quality management focuses on characteristics such as reliability, durability, performance, conformance to specifications, and customer satisfaction. Various quality theorists have contributed to this understanding: W. Edwards Deming emphasized continuous improvement and statistical process control, Joseph Juran focused on fitness for use and the cost of quality, and Philip Crosby advocated for zero defects and doing things right the first time. The ISO 9000 family of standards defines quality as the degree to which a set of inherent characteristics fulfills requirements, emphasizing systematic approaches to achieving consistent quality outcomes.

Modern quality management encompasses several key dimensions: quality planning, quality assurance, quality control, and quality improvement. Organizations implement quality management systems to establish policies, set objectives, identify processes, allocate resources, monitor performance, and pursue continuous enhancement. The philosophy underlying these systems recognizes that quality is everyone's responsibility, requires leadership commitment, benefits from employee involvement, depends on factual decision-making, and thrives through continuous learning and adaptation.

The Islamic perspective on quality, while encompassing these practical elements, provides a much deeper and more comprehensive framework rooted in religious obligation and accountability before Allah. The concept of ihsan stands at the heart of Islamic quality consciousness. The Prophet Muhammad defined ihsan as worshipping Allah as if you see Him, and while you do not see Him, knowing that He sees you. This profound definition establishes that quality in Islam is fundamentally about consciousness of divine observation and the desire to please Allah through excellence in all endeavors.

The Quran repeatedly emphasizes excellence and perfection. Allah describes His own creation with the words, "You see no fault in the creation of the Most Merciful. So return your vision to the sky; do you see any breaks? Then return your vision twice again. Your vision will return to you humbled while it is fatigued" (67:3-4). This verse establishes the divine standard of perfection and implicitly calls believers to emulate this standard in their own work within human capacity. Another verse states, "And Allah loves those who do good" (3:134), directly linking divine pleasure to excellence in conduct and action.

The Prophet Muhammad explicitly commanded excellence in all actions, stating, "Indeed, Allah has prescribed ihsan in everything." This comprehensive directive applies to all aspects of life without exception. He also said, "Allah loves that when any of you does something, he does it with perfection." These teachings establish that quality is not optional or limited to certain contexts but is a universal obligation applying to worship, work, family relations, business transactions, and all human activities. The Islamic concept of quality thus transforms every action into an act of worship when performed with sincere intention and excellence.

Islamic quality consciousness differs from secular approaches in several fundamental ways. First, it is motivated by religious duty and accountability before Allah rather than merely profit, competition, or customer satisfaction. While these latter motivations are not rejected, they are secondary to the primary motivation of seeking divine pleasure. Second, Islamic quality extends beyond tangible outputs to include intentions, methods, and ethical considerations. A product may meet all technical specifications but fail Islamic quality standards if produced through exploitation, dishonesty, or harm to others. Third, Islamic quality encompasses both this worldly excellence and preparation for the hereafter, recognizing that ultimate accountability lies beyond temporal success.

The Compatibility Between the Principles of Total Quality Management and the Principles of Islam

Total Quality Management (TQM) represents a comprehensive approach to organizational improvement based on principles that remarkably align with Islamic teachings. Examining this compatibility reveals that Islam not only supports but enriches quality management principles with deeper spiritual and ethical foundations. The first principle of TQM, customer focus, finds strong resonance in Islamic emphasis on service, justice, and fulfilling rights. The Prophet Muhammad said, "The best of people are those who are most beneficial to people." Islamic business ethics mandate fair dealing, honest representation of products, and commitment to customer satisfaction as religious obligations rather than mere business strategies.

Leadership commitment, a cornerstone of TQM, directly parallels the Islamic concept of responsibility and accountability. The Prophet stated, "Each of you is a shepherd and each of you is responsible for his flock." This hadith establishes that leadership is a trust (amanah) that requires dedication, competence, and accountability. Islamic leadership emphasizes leading by example, consulting with others (shura), making informed decisions, and prioritizing collective welfare over personal gain. These principles create the foundation for the transformational leadership essential to successful quality management.

Employee involvement and empowerment, central to TQM, align perfectly with Islamic teachings on human dignity, consultation, and collective responsibility. The Quran commands believers to conduct their affairs through mutual consultation (42:38), and the Prophet regularly sought advice from his companions, demonstrating that organizational success depends on harnessing collective wisdom and capability. Islam recognizes individual worth regardless of position and emphasizes that every person's contribution matters. This perspective creates an organizational culture where everyone feels valued and motivated to contribute to excellence.

The TQM principle of process approach finds clear support in Islamic emphasis on proper methodology and systematic action. Islam encourages believers to plan carefully, execute diligently, and trust in Allah for results, as expressed in the saying, "Tie your camel and trust in Allah." This balance between taking proper means and relying on divine will creates a mindset that values both strategic planning and spiritual confidence. Islamic teachings about organization, prioritization, and time management provide practical frameworks for process optimization.

Continuous improvement (Kaizen), a fundamental TQM concept, is deeply embedded in Islamic spirituality through concepts like tawbah (repentance) and muhasabah (self-accountability). The Prophet encouraged constant self-improvement, stating, "The wise person is one who controls himself and works for what comes after death, and the incapable person is one who follows his desires and has wishful thinking about Allah." Islam views life as a continuous journey of growth, learning, and refinement, with the ultimate goal of becoming closer to Allah through ever-improving character and conduct.

Evidence-based decision making, emphasized in TQM, corresponds to Islamic principles of seeking knowledge, verification, and avoiding assumptions. The Quran commands, "And do not pursue that of which you have no knowledge" (17:36), and encourages believers to seek evidence and think critically. Islamic civilization's historic contributions to mathematics, science, and empirical methodology demonstrate the religion's commitment to factual analysis and rational inquiry. This intellectual tradition supports quality management's emphasis on data-driven improvement.

The TQM principle of mutually beneficial supplier relationships reflects Islamic business ethics emphasizing fairness, honesty, and mutual benefit in commercial transactions. The Prophet warned against fraud, deception, and exploitation in business dealings and encouraged traders to be truthful and generous. Islamic contract law requires transparency, consent, and equitable terms, creating an ethical foundation for sustainable business relationships. The concept of barakah (blessing) in business comes not merely from profit but from conducting transactions with integrity and care for all stakeholders.

Furthermore, Islam adds dimensions to quality management that secular frameworks may overlook. The emphasis on intention (niyyah) ensures that quality efforts are motivated by noble purposes rather than mere profit maximization. The principle of balance (wasatiyyah) prevents quality obsession from becoming counterproductive perfectionism. The focus on sustainable practices aligns with Islamic stewardship of resources and prohibition of waste. The integration of ethical considerations ensures that quality never comes at the expense of justice, honesty, or human dignity.

Examples on How to Apply Quality in Human Daily Life

The application of Islamic quality principles in daily life transforms routine activities into opportunities for excellence and spiritual growth. In personal worship, quality manifests through attentiveness, proper performance, and sincerity. When performing the five daily prayers, a Muslim practicing ihsan focuses completely on the prayer, perfects the physical movements, reflects on the meanings of recitations, and maintains humble awareness of standing before Allah. This transforms prayer from mechanical ritual into profound spiritual experience. Similarly, when reciting the Quran, quality means proper pronunciation (tajweed), understanding meanings, implementing teachings, and approaching the text with reverence and contemplation.

In family life, quality principles create harmony, love, and mutual respect. A parent applying ihsan invests time in understanding each child's unique needs, provides appropriate guidance, demonstrates patience and affection, and models good character. Rather than merely fulfilling minimal obligations, quality parenting involves active engagement, effective communication, and continuous learning about child development and educational methods. Similarly, in spousal relationships, quality means treating one's partner with kindness, maintaining open communication, sharing responsibilities fairly, and continuously working to strengthen the bond through small acts of love and consideration.

In professional work, Islamic quality consciousness means performing duties with competence, honesty, and dedication regardless of supervision. A quality-conscious employee arrives punctually, completes tasks thoroughly, maintains professional standards, seeks continuous improvement, and treats colleagues and clients with respect. This applies equally to all professions: a teacher prepares lessons carefully and engages students effectively; a physician diagnoses accurately and treats compassionately; a craftsman produces durable and beautiful work; a merchant deals honestly and provides value to customers. The motivation comes not from fear of managers but from consciousness that Allah observes all actions and will hold everyone accountable.

In education and learning, quality means approaching knowledge with dedication, critical thinking, and practical application. A student practicing ihsan attends classes attentively, completes assignments thoroughly, seeks understanding rather than mere grades, asks questions when confused, and applies learned knowledge beneficially. Teachers applying quality principles prepare lessons effectively, explain concepts clearly, assess fairly, support struggling students, and continuously improve their pedagogical methods. This transforms education from credential accumulation into genuine intellectual and character development.

In social interactions, quality manifests through excellent character (akhlaq). This includes speaking truthfully, keeping promises, respecting others, controlling anger, offering help generously, maintaining good appearance, being punctual, and treating everyone with dignity regardless of their status. The Prophet described the purpose of his mission as perfecting good character, emphasizing that excellence in social conduct is central to Islamic life. Quality in speech means being truthful, kind, and constructive; avoiding gossip, slander, and harsh words; and speaking clearly and appropriately for each context.

In community service and charity, quality means giving not only wealth but time, effort, and expertise to benefit others. Rather than merely fulfilling the minimum obligation of zakat, quality-conscious Muslims actively seek opportunities to help those in need, volunteer their skills for community betterment, support beneficial causes, and strive to make lasting positive impacts. This includes being thoughtful about which charities to support, ensuring donations reach intended beneficiaries, and following up to verify effectiveness.

In environmental stewardship, quality consciousness leads to sustainable practices, resource conservation, and prevention of waste. Islam prohibits israf (wastefulness) and encourages appreciation of Allah's creation. Practical applications include conserving water and energy, reducing unnecessary consumption, recycling and reusing materials, maintaining clean surroundings, and making environmentally conscious choices. Quality in this domain recognizes that humans are stewards (khalifah) of the earth with responsibility to preserve it for future generations.

In health and personal care, quality means maintaining physical and mental wellbeing through balanced nutrition, regular exercise, adequate rest, and stress management. The Prophet emphasized moderation in eating, encouraged physical activity, and taught that the body has rights over the individual. Quality health practices recognize that the body is an amanah from Allah that must be cared for properly to fulfill life's purposes effectively.

In financial management, quality involves earning through halal means, spending wisely, avoiding debt when possible, planning for the future, and fulfilling financial obligations promptly. It means being neither extravagant nor miserly, but finding the balanced middle path that Islam encourages. Quality financial practices also include keeping accurate records, paying zakat properly, and ensuring one's wealth benefits both personal needs and community welfare.

In conclusion, the concept of quality in Islam represents a comprehensive framework for excellence that encompasses both spiritual and worldly dimensions of life. While modern quality management theories offer valuable methodologies and tools, Islamic teachings provide the deeper purpose, ethical foundation, and spiritual motivation that transform quality from a business strategy into a way of life. The compatibility between Total Quality Management principles and Islamic teachings demonstrates that excellence is a universal value with deep religious roots in Islam. Practical application of quality principles in daily life offers Muslims a path to fulfill their religious obligations with ihsan, serve their communities effectively, and achieve success in both this world and the hereafter. Understanding and implementing Islamic quality consciousness can benefit not only Muslims but all of humanity by promoting excellence, ethics, and continuous improvement in every aspect of human endeavor.