GCSE Religious Studies podcasts - Islam

Ben: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m Ben Hurst, a presenter and journalist, and host for this series where we’ll be going over the key beliefs and practices for your GCSE on Islam. In this episode we’re tackling what Islam teaches about Allah. We’ll cover Allah’s influence on Muslim life, worship, worldview and values.

And I’m joined by the fantastic broadcaster Mehreen Baig. Hi Mehreen! Mehreen, can you tell us about yourself?

Mehreen: Hi Ben! Yeah, I grew up in a Muslim household, and I am a practising Muslim. My day job is working on documentaries often covering topics around British Asian and Muslim communities, but I also used to be a teacher. So, working with GCSE students and breaking things down for them, helping them grow in confidence, is my favourite thing to do and I'm very excited about this series.

Ben: I think that makes you perfect for being my co-host. Now, it might be a good idea to grab a pen and paper (or open the notes app on your phone) for making notes as you’re listening.

Mehreen: And then we’ll round off with a quick quiz.

Ben: Remember you can find a full range of podcasts covering loads of GCSE subjects, like Physics, as well as Religious Studies - just go to BBC Sounds and search for Bitesize GCSE.

Mehreen: Let’s dive in!

Ben: Before we look at the question ‘What does Islam teach about Allah?’ let’s start with some background information on Islam and a few key phrases that might be useful for this series.

Mehreen: Yes, of course. Did you know that as of 2020 Islam is the world’s fastest-growing religion and is the second-largest religion in the world after Christianity with over 2 billion followers.

Ben: That’s good context. And what exactly does the word Islam mean?

Mehreen: It literally means ‘submission to the will of Allah’. For me, submission is about freely choosing to devote your heart and mind to Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) because of the love you have for Him and the trust you have in His wisdom and trying to shape your whole life around that commitment.

Ben: And you used the phrase Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala there - what does that mean?

Mehreen: Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala means “Glory be to Him, and He is Most High” - Muslims often say it after mentioning Allah’s name to show reverence.

Ben: And what about the Qur'an, the holy book of Islam?

Mehreen: There are other important holy books recognised in Islam, but the Qur’an is the main source of wisdom in Islam. This is because most Muslims believe the Qur’an is unique: it’s seen as the unchanged, direct word of Allah, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him) gradually over 23 years.

Ben: Like many other religions, Islam has different branches, or groups, that share the same core faith but have some differences in belief and practice. Is that right Mehreen?

Mehreen: That’s right. In this series we’ll mainly discuss Sunni Muslims, who make up the majority, and Shi’a Muslims, who are the next largest group.

Ben: Let’s talk about the beliefs for Sunni and Shi’a Muslims in context of what Islam teaches about the nature of Allah.

Mehreen: Absolutely.

Ben: The main beliefs for Sunni and Shia Muslims are set out in different ways, aren’t they?

Mehreen: Exactly. For Sunni Muslims, the Six Articles of Faith define their core beliefs, while the key principles for Shi’a Muslims are defined through the Five Roots of Usul al-Din.

Ben: Belief itself is central in Islam, isn’t it?

Mehreen: Yes! Belief is fundamental. In fact, the most important belief for both denominations is Tawhid.

Ben: Tawhid is a really important word to keep in mind when we ask what Islam teaches about Allah, isn't it? What does Tawhid mean?

Mehreen: Tawhid is the belief that there is only one God.

Ben: Let’s dig into Tawhid next.

Mehreen: Tawhid is all about Allah’s oneness. Put simply, Islam teaches that there is only one God. The belief that there is only one God is called monotheism, and this shapes every part of Islamic faith and practice.

Ben: So, it’s like the starting point for the whole religion?

Mehreen: Yes, the idea of oneness helps Muslims see Allah as the focus of life. Surah 112, verse 1 in the Qur’an puts it simply:

“He is Allah, the One”.

Ben: What is the significance of Tawhid to Muslims?

Mehreen: Tawhid highlights three important ideas about Allah: that Allah is the only true God so worship is focused on Him alone; that Allah deserves the highest respect as the ultimate divine being; and that Allah brought the universe into existence and maintains it.

Ben: So, it would be against Islamic beliefs to believe in other gods?

Mehreen: Yes. Worshipping anything alongside Allah is called shirk, and it is viewed as the ultimate sin.

Ben: How does this impact Muslim belief and practice?

Mehreen: Believing in one God gives many Muslims a strong sense of trust in Allah. This encourages humility and modesty, helping people avoid jealousy and arrogance.

Ben: Ok. Are there other key beliefs about Allah’s nature that are significant?

Mehreen: Yes, many, but let’s focus on five: omnipotence, mercy, immanence, transcendence, and beneficence.

Ben: Omni means all and potent means powerful. So, all powerful?

Mehreen: Correct. All power belongs to Allah.

Ben: How is this belief put into practice?

Mehreen: By praying regularly and trusting Allah, especially during difficult times.

Ben: What’s another key belief about Allah?

Mehreen: Allah is merciful. He shows compassion, is kind, and is willing to forgive.

Ben: And that belief influences how Muslims treat others?

Mehreen: Exactly. It encourages kindness and forgiveness.

Ben: What about the other beliefs about Allah’s nature?

Mehreen: Immanence means Allah is very near to people. Qur’an 50:16 says:

“We are closer to him than his jugular vein.”

Ben: Which encourages compassion towards others?

Mehreen: Absolutely. For example, giving Zakah which means charity.

Ben: And the final two beliefs?

Mehreen: Transcendence means Allah is beyond full human understanding. Beneficence means Allah is deeply loving and generous.

Ben: Allah has many other different characteristics?

Mehreen: Yes, Islam teaches there are 99 names for Allah.

Ben: Three central ideas are: Tawhid, Allah is omnipotent, and Allah is merciful.

Ben: Now let’s consider the significance of the Prophet Muhammad.

Mehreen: Muslims believe He was the last prophet sent by Allah, the ‘Seal of the Prophets’.

Ben: Why do you say “peace be upon Him” after his name?

Mehreen: It is a sign of respect.

Ben: Is the Prophet Muhammad an integral part of the Muslim faith?

Mehreen: Absolutely. Most Muslims believe the angel Jibril appeared to Him with the first revelation of the Qur’an.

Ben: And most Muslims today try to emulate his life?

Mehreen: Yes. They are encouraged to show qualities he demonstrated – leadership, restraint, courage, honesty, reliability and self-control.

Ben: All important characteristics.

Mehreen: Yes. Many Muslims try to follow His example in practical ways – praying, fasting, and giving to those in need.

Ben: It’s time for a quick quiz. Mehreen come on - you can test me!

Mehreen: Alright Ben, this is a quick-fire recap. You ready?

Ben: Let’s do it.

Mehreen: Ok. Who is the final Prophet sent by Allah?

Ben: Prophet Muhammad.

Mehreen: Nice! Ok. Name one significant belief about Tawhid taught by Islam?

Ben: Allah is the one and only God.

Mehreen: Correct! Name two beliefs in the nature of Allah.

Ben: Allah is omnipotent and Allah is merciful.

Mehreen: Perfect!

Ben: Thanks for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast.

Mehreen: In the next episode we’ll be covering the Five Pillars of Islam.

Ben: Don’t forget, there are loads of podcasts to help you with your GCSEs. Just search for Bitesize GCSE on BBC Sounds. See you next time!

Ben: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m Ben Hurst. I'm a broadcaster and journalist, and host for this series where we’re exploring the key beliefs and practices for your GCSE on Islam.

And in this episode, we’re exploring how faith is lived out through the Five Pillars of Islam. We’ll look at different ways they’re practised, and how it expresses submission to Allah and shapes daily life. And I’m here with TV and radio presenter Mehreen Baig. Hi Mehreen!

Mehreen: Hi Ben! Thanks for having me. I’m also a former GCSE teacher, and a practising Muslim, so I’m very happy to be part of this and break down some learning about Islam.

Ben: Great to have you here! Before we start, don’t forget to grab a pen and paper or use the notes app on your phone for writing down key points as you’re listening.

Mehreen: And we’ll finish off with a quick quiz.

Ben: Remember - download the Sounds app for things to entertain you, as well as many more GCSE revision podcasts. Search ‘Bitesize GCSE’.

Mehreen: Let’s get started!

Ben: Before we talk about the Five Pillars of Islam, it’s important to remember there are different branches within Islam, including Sunni and Shi’a, which are the two largest branches. They have a lot in common, but there are some differences.

Mehreen: That’s right. In Sunni Islam, the key religious duties are known as the Five Pillars of Islam. In Shi’a Islam, religious duties are structured around the Ten Obligatory Acts. These include the main duties found in the Five Pillars, along with additional duties.

Ben: So, two different sets of duties, but they both aim to set up the guidelines for Muslims to follow to lead a good life?

Mehreen: Correct.

Ben: Mehreen, can you give us a quick overview for both before we go into detail?

Mehreen: Absolutely. For Sunni Muslims, the Five Pillars are:

• Shahadah, which is the declaration of faith
• Salah, is regular prayer
• Zakah, is giving to charity
• Sawm, is fasting
• Hajj, is the pilgrimage to Makkah

For Shi’a Muslims, the Ten Obligatory Acts include many of these same duties:

• Prayer
• Fasting
• Giving to charity
• Pilgrimage

But they also include additional differences:

• Jihad - striving in the way of Allah
• Khums - an additional charitable tax

They also cover:

• Encouraging what is good
• Forbidding what is wrong
• Showing loyalty to those who do good
• Distancing oneself from those who oppose justice and righteousness

Ben: Let's break down the Five Pillars that Sunni Muslims follow and we’ll go on to explore them each in turn. We’ll also point out where Shi’a Muslims follow the same practice, as we go through them.

Ben: Let’s start with the First Pillar.

Mehreen: This is Shahadah, the Muslim declaration of faith - basically saying I believe in one God and Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him). Shahadah involves reciting the words, ‘I bear witness that there is no deity but Allah and Muhammad is His messenger’.

Ben: And Shahadah is the foundation of the Five Pillars of Islam?

Mehreen: Yes. In Shi'a Islam, Shahadah sits outside of the Ten Obligatory Acts as an additional duty and they sometimes add the sentence: 'I bear witness that Ali is the friend of Allah.' However, they do not believe this is a requirement to be a Muslim.

Ben: How is Shahadah practised in Muslim communities?

Mehreen: Shahadah runs all the way through a Muslim’s life. It’s said when someone chooses to become Muslim, often in front of witnesses. It’s whispered to a newborn baby, so the first thing they hear is the core belief of the faith.

Ben: Is it just said at the beginning of a Muslim's life?

Mehreen: No, it’s repeated every day in prayer, and if possible, it becomes the last thing a Muslim says before they die.

Ben: Shahadah is a daily reminder of Tawhid, which is the oneness of Allah?

Mehreen: Yes, that’s right.

Mehreen: Salah is the Second Pillar of Islam, which most Sunni Muslims follow - it’s the duty of prayer.

Ben: And it’s also the first of the Ten Obligatory Acts in Shi’a Islam isn’t it?

Mehreen: It is. Salah offers many Muslims a steady pattern of worship throughout the day and is one of the most important ways they feel close to Allah. It’s expected of Muslims who have reached puberty and are physically and mentally able to pray.

Ben: What does Salah involve?

Mehreen: Salah involves praying five times a day, at fixed points between early morning and nighttime. They stop, face the Ka’aba in Makkah, the holiest city in Islam, and pray. They also recite verses from the Qur’an.

Ben: And is that where the call to prayer comes in?

Mehreen: Yes. In some countries, Muslims hear the Adhan, which is the name for the call to prayer.

Ben: What does the act of prayer involve?

Mehreen: In prayer, Muslims go through a sequence of actions, known as rak’ah, including standing, bowing and prostrating. These movements express submission to Allah and remind Muslims that Allah comes before everything else.

Ben: And the duty of prayer, or Salah, is an important part of Muslim life, isn’t it? And as Salah is the second Pillar of Islam, we know it's very important.

Mehreen: Absolutely. As a Muslim, Salah keeps me connected to Allah, encourages self-discipline, and reminds me of my purpose on this earth and to be grateful.

Ben: Are there any differences between Sunni and Shi’a prayer?

Mehreen: There are some differences. Shi’a Muslims may combine certain prayers, meaning they still perform the five daily prayers but sometimes pray them at three set times instead of five separate times. They also prostrate on something natural, for example, a piece of earth in the form of a clay tablet that many Shi’a Muslims carry.

Ben: Let’s move on to the next Pillar of Islam.

Mehreen: Listen to this reading from the Qur’an, chapter 2 verse 110:

“Establish prayer and give Zakah.”

Ben: That reading emphasises the importance of prayer and Zakah. Let’s explore Zakah a bit more.

Mehreen: Zakah is the third of the Five Pillars in Islam. Muslims see wealth as a blessing given by Allah and believe it should be used responsibly. Those who can afford to are therefore expected to give a fixed proportion of their wealth to specific categories of eligible recipients set out in the Qur’an.

Ben: Zakah is also the third Obligatory Act for many Shi’a Muslims, meaning it applies to all Muslims that have enough money to do this.

Mehreen: That’s right. The word Zakah is linked to the idea of purification. It’s about cleaning the heart of selfishness and greed. By giving in this way, Muslims both help people who are struggling and show obedience to Allah.

Ben: The Fourth Pillar of Islam (and the second Obligatory Act for Shi’a Muslims) is Sawm. What does that mean?

Mehreen: Sawm is the duty to fast from just before dawn until sunset. Muslims carry out this fast in the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, in the holy month of Ramadan.

Mehreen: That drumming you hear is a Ramadan drummer, a traditional fixture of Ramadan in Turkey.

Ben: Tell us more about Ramadan, Mehreen.

Mehreen: Ramadan is the month when most Muslims believe the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him) on Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power. The Qur’an teaches Muslims to fast in this month, so fasting becomes a powerful act of worship and obedience.

Let me read this to you from the Qur’an, chapter 2 verse 183:

“Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may be mindful of Allah.”

Mehreen: This quote is a reminder to Muslims of why fasting is obligatory. During Ramadan, Muslims who are physically able and not exempt are required to fast from dawn to sunset.

Ben: How do you experience Ramadan?

Mehreen: When I was younger, Ramadan felt like a midnight feast or a party. But as I've gotten older, I've learnt that Ramadan is really not about starving yourself and behaving the same in every other aspect of your life. It's a time of reflection and to be the best version of yourself.

Ben: What else does Ramadan involve?

Mehreen: Many Muslims cut down on distractions and spend more time praying, reading the Qur’an, going to the mosque and supporting others.

Ben: Let’s look at Hajj - the final and Fifth Pillar of Islam and the fourth Obligatory Act for most Shi’a Muslims.

Mehreen: Hajj is a pilgrimage, a special journey with religious meaning. Adult Muslims who are healthy and can afford it are expected to make this journey at least once in their lives. Taking part in Hajj can deepen a Muslim’s faith and give a sense of belonging to the worldwide Muslim community.

Ben: Make sure you listen to our episode where we talk about why Hajj is significant to Muslims. Mehreen also talks about her experience of taking her family!

Mehreen: That’s right!

Ben: We covered how the Five Pillars influence Sunni Muslims to submit to Allah and make sacrifices which allow faith to be lived out in daily life. Let’s look at the Ten Obligatory Acts we’ve not covered yet.

Mehreen: Yes, duties like prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage overlap. But the Ten Obligatory Acts also include some extra duties that are important in Shi’a Islam.

Ben: Let’s talk about these in more detail.

Mehreen: One important duty in Shi’a Islam is Jihad. Jihad means ‘struggle’, and it applies to all Muslims. The most important type is the Greater Jihad — the personal struggle to live a good and faithful life every day.

Ben: Then we have Khums.

Mehreen: Khums is an additional financial obligation. Shi’a Muslims give a set proportion of their surplus income, which is then distributed to support religious authorities, the wider community, and those in need.

Ben: And the final four Obligatory Acts for Shi'a Muslims come in pairs, don't they?

Mehreen: That’s right. Amr bil Ma’ruf is about encouraging what is good. Nahi Anil Munkar is about speaking out against what is wrong.

Ben: And the last two of the Ten Obligatory Acts?

Mehreen: Tawallah is about showing love and loyalty to good and righteous people. Tabarra means rejecting injustice and distancing yourself from wrongdoing.

Ben: So why are the Ten Obligatory Acts significant for Muslims, Mehreen?

Mehreen: Together they bring worship, generosity and ethical behaviour under one umbrella.

Ben: That’s a great summary.

Mehreen: And don’t forget - the Five Pillars and Ten Obligatory Acts focus on how many Muslims practise their faith.

Ben: It’s time for a quick quiz. Mehreen come on. Test me!

Mehreen: Alright Ben, this is a quick-fire recap. You ready?

Ben: Let’s do it.

Mehreen: Name any two of the Five Pillars of Islam followed by Sunni Muslims.

Ben: Shahadah and Salah.

Mehreen: Yes Ben! Ok. Name any two of the Ten Obligatory Acts followed by Shi’a Muslims.

Ben: Tawallah and Tabarra.

Mehreen: Yes! In what month do many Muslims practice Sawm?

Ben: Ramadan.

Mehreen: Nice work!

Ben: Thanks for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast.

Mehreen: In the next episode we will be exploring all about Hajj.

Ben: Remember there are loads of podcasts to help you with your GCSEs, just search for Bitesize GCSE on BBC Sounds. See you next time!

Ben: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m a journalist, broadcaster, and your host Ben Hurst. In this series we’ll be going over the key beliefs and practices for your GCSE on Islam.

And in this episode, we’re finding out why Hajj is significant to Muslims. We’ll explore its influence on belief and unity, and how it affects Muslims spiritually and socially.

And joining me is fellow broadcaster Mehreen Baig. Hi Mehreen!

Mehreen: Hey Ben! Thanks for having me. I used to teach GCSE students, and as a Muslim myself, I’m really looking forward to sharing my very special experience of Hajj in this episode. Not just the practical side, but also the impact it had on me as a Muslim.

Ben: Brilliant. Now, if you’ve got a pen and paper, or notes app on your phone, get it ready for some quick notes as we go.

Mehreen: At the end, we’ll have a short quiz to help you check what you remember.

Ben: Don’t forget you can find a full range of podcasts covering loads of GCSE subjects, like History, as well as Religious Studies. Just go to BBC Sounds and search for Bitesize.

Mehreen: Right, let's get started!

Ben: Hajj is the last of the Five Pillars of Islam and the third of the Ten Obligatory Acts and it is a vital act of worship that all Muslims, who are financially and physically able to, are expected to complete once in their life.

Mehreen: Yeah, Hajj is a really significant part of many Muslims’ lives. Every year more than a million Muslims make the pilgrimage to Makkah (or Mecca) in Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj.

Ben: Now remember a pilgrimage is a special journey made for religious reasons to a sacred site.

Mehreen: That’s right. Makkah is the city where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him) was born. Hajj can have a big influence on strengthening many Muslims’ faith, obedience and community.

Ben: And certain actions take place when you get to Makkah.

Mehreen: Absolutely. The pilgrimage includes a series of rites and rituals, formal, symbolic acts of worship, many of which are performed in a specific order.

Ben: Let's look in more detail at Hajj. Tell me about what it means to perform Hajj, Mehreen.

Mehreen: Performing Hajj is about community and social bonds, and it allows Muslims to demonstrate the depth of their faith.

Ben: Why is Hajj significant to you personally?

Mehreen: I always wanted to take my parents to perform hajj, so I saved up my money for nearly 10 years and finally took them in 2019. It is, in my eyes, my greatest achievement. I knew it would be special, but actually, in the end, for me, it was really life-changing.

Ben: And Hajj has to happen at a particular time of year, doesn’t it?

Mehreen: That’s right. Hajj happens every year during Dhul Hijjah, which is the twelfth and final month in the Islamic year. This is because the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him) began the Hajj approximately 1400 years ago, during the month of Dhul Hijjah.

Ben: And we talked about Hajj taking place in Makkah - why is this location so important?

Mehreen: It’s the holiest city in Islam and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him). Makkah is considered the centre of the Islamic faith.

Ben: And something else significant happened here too, didn’t it?

Mehreen: Yes. Islam teaches that Allah commanded the Prophet Ibrahim to take his wife Hajira and their son Isma’il to the desert valley of Makkah. Ibrahim was then instructed to leave them there with only a small amount of food and water.

Ben: What happened next?

Mehreen: When the water ran out, Hajira ran back and forth between the two hills of Safa and Marwah in search of help. Unable to find any, she prayed to Allah, and the well of Zamzam sprang from the ground to provide water.

Ben: And this forms the basis of the rituals pilgrims take part in during Hajj?

Mehreen: It does and the first one is Ihram. Ihram is the physical state, wearing specific clothing, and mental state, having the intention to perform Hajj.

Ben: A way of getting into the right head space?

Mehreen: That’s right. It’s the special state Muslims enter at the start of Hajj.

Ben: Tell us more about Ihram Mehreen.

Mehreen: Firstly, Pilgrims begin at a point just outside Makkah called the Miqat, which is a point where Pilgrims prepare by washing, praying, stating their intention, and changing into simple white clothing.

Ben: And that clothing is part of the symbolism?

Mehreen: Yes, wearing the same simple clothes shows that everyone is equal before Allah. It doesn’t matter where you’re from, how much money you have, or who you are - everyone is united. You are part of the Ummah which means the Muslim community.

On my own journey, I personally saw people from a range of backgrounds all dressed exactly the same, praying shoulder to shoulder. It was beautiful.

Ben: So next we’re going to hear what happens once you pass the Miqat.

Mehreen: The journey starts when the pilgrims arrive at the holy mosque of Masjid al-Haram - Islam's most important mosque and holiest site which surrounds the Ka’aba.

Ben: And why is the Ka’aba significant?

Mehreen: When the prophet Ibrahim returned to his wife and son, he was commanded to build a stone building called the Ka’aba as a shrine dedicated to Allah where worship would take place. And this forms the centre of worship during Hajj.

Ben: And what happens here?

Mehreen: A key ritual, called Tawaf, which involves walking around the Ka’aba seven times in worship.

Next a drink is taken from the Zamzam Well in remembrance of Hajira’s search for water. This shows Muslims’ dependence on Allah.

Ben: This sounds like they are preparing for something?

Mehreen: Yes - the ritual of Sa’y, where pilgrims move back and forth between the Safa and Marwah hills seven times, retracing Hajira’s search for water.

Ben: Is this about copying the actions of Hajira?

Mehreen: Well remembered! It represents Hajira’s perseverance and her faith in God’s help. Then the pilgrims perform Wuquf which means asking for forgiveness. They do this gathered on top of Mount Arafat which is a few kilometers from Makkah.

Ben: Why at this particular spot?

Mehreen: This is where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him) gave one of his final sermons and it’s where many Muslims believe the Day of Judgement will take place.

Ben: What do we mean by Day of Judgement?

Mehreen: Islam teaches that on the Day of Judgement, everyone will be raised and judged by Allah.

Ben: Got it. Ok, what happens next?

Mehreen: Pilgrims then spend the night at a place called Muzdalifa where they collect pebbles.

Once they arrive at Mina the following day, they throw pebbles at three stone pillars, called the Jamarat.

Ben: Remember you’ll find more information on Hajj on the Bitesize website - just search 'Bitesize GCSE Religious studies, Hajj'. This is so interesting. Tell me about the end of the journey?

Mehreen: The final stage is marked by Id/Eid-ul-Adha, the Festival of Sacrifice. It’s celebrated by many Muslims all over the world, not just those on Hajj.

After that, pilgrims return to Makkah to complete the final rituals, including circling the Ka’aba again.

Ben: It sounds physically demanding.

Mehreen: It can be, especially as it's usually very hot with little shade. But personally I would describe it as deeply transformative. Plus they have people who spray you with water!

Take a listen to this from the Qur’an, chapter 2 verse 196:

“And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah.”

Mehreen: So, in this episode we have explored what Muslims do when performing Hajj and why it matters. We have looked at the specific stages of Hajj and explained why they are significant for Muslims.

Ben: It’s time for a quick quiz - want to test me, Mehreen?!

Mehreen: Alright Ben, this is a quick-fire recap. You ready?

Ben: Let’s do it.

Mehreen: Where does Hajj take place each year?

Ben: Makkah (or Mecca).

Mehreen: Really nice! Name two rituals performed at Hajj.

Ben: Tawaf which is when pilgrims circle the Ka’aba anticlockwise seven times. And Sa’y which is the act of running between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times.

Mehreen: Correct! Name one way Hajj is significant to many Muslims spiritually.

Ben: Many Muslims believe that the pilgrimage can lead to forgiveness of sins by purifying the soul.

Mehreen: Correct!

Ben: Thanks for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast.

Mehreen: Next time we’ll be exploring why Id/Eid and other festivals matter in Islam.

Ben: Remember: there are loads of podcasts to help you with your GCSEs, just search for Bitesize GCSE on BBC Sounds. See you next time!

Ben: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m journalist and broadcaster Ben Hurst. I am also your host for this series where we’ll be looking at the key beliefs and practices for your GCSE on Islam.

In this episode we’re breaking down festivals in Islam and how they help shape faith. We’ll explore how festivals link to Islamic principles and rituals, and how they build things like unity and gratitude.

And I’m really pleased to be joined by Mehreen Baig. Mehreen, over to you!

Mehreen: Thanks, Ben! Hi everyone, I’m Mehreen Baig - presenter, former teacher, and proud practising Muslim. I’m here to help you understand more about Islam and show how it connects to my life as a Muslim.

Ben: Love it. Before we begin, you might want to keep a pen and paper handy, or open your notes app, so you can jot down anything useful along the way.

Mehreen: And then we’ll finish with a short quiz.

Ben: Remember you can find a full range of podcasts covering loads of GCSE subjects, like Chemistry, as well as Religious Studies - just go to BBC Sounds and search for Bitesize GCSE.

Mehreen: Ok. Ready to go!

Ben: Mehreen, what are the most significant Muslim festivals?

Mehreen: There are a few significant festivals and holy days that most Muslims around the world of all denomination, whether Sunni, Shi’a or others celebrate each year - Id/Eid ul-Fitr, which marks the end of Ramadan, and Id/Eid ul-Adha, which takes place after the Hajj pilgrimage, are the most significant. The word 'Eid' (E-I-D), sometimes spelled I-D, is the Arabic word for celebration or festival.

Ben: Let’s start with Id/Eid-ul-Fitr.

Mehreen: Id/Eid-ul-Fitr comes right at the end of Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar, when Muslims who are able to fast, do so each day. Fasting, or sawm, is one of the Five Pillars in Islam for Sunni Muslims and part of the Ten Obligatory Acts in Shi’a belief. The festival itself takes place in the first days of Shawwāl, the month that follows Ramadan.

Ben: You can hear more about Ramadan in the episode about the Five Pillars of Islam. And definitely look for Id/Eid playlists on BBC Asian Network! Let’s hear a little more about Id/Eid-ul-Fitr.

Mehreen: Let me read you this from chapter 2 verse 185 of the Qur’an:

“You should complete the number and glorify Allah for what He has guided you to.”

Mehreen: This verse really captures the mood of Id/Eid-ul-Fitr. After a month of fasting, it’s a chance for people to reconnect, relax together and thank Allah for getting them through Ramadan.

Ben: Sounds like it’s about connection as much as celebration?

Mehreen: It is - because people share meals, they visit relatives and just enjoy spending time together. It also helps me connect with my faith and my heritage, and it really emphasises this sense of community.

Ben: What else is important about Id/Eid?

Mehreen: It’s also about generosity and forgiveness. People exchange good wishes and gifts, try to repair relationships, and start afresh.

Id/Eid-ul-Fitr also highlights the idea of the ummah, the global Muslim community, emphasising that Muslims share beliefs and responsibilities towards one another.

Ben: And charity is important too?

Mehreen: Absolutely. Many Muslims pay Zakat ul-Fitr, where a small payment is made so that people who are struggling financially can still enjoy Id/Eid. It’s normally given near the end of Ramadan and, in many communities, before the Id/Eid prayer so those in need can share in the celebrations.

Ben: When is Id/Eid-ul-Fitr celebrated?

Mehreen: Id/Eid-ul-Fitr starts when the new moon is seen, and in practice it can last anywhere from one to three days. Different Muslim countries follow different moon-sighting decisions. For example, many Sunni Muslims go by the official moon sighting announcement made by religious authorities in Saudi Arabia, while many Shi’a Muslims use the moon sighting made by religious authorities in their own country. So even people living in the same city might celebrate on slightly different days.

Ben: Remember there are different branches of Islam, including Sunni and Shia. And is Id/Eid-ul-Fitr a public holiday too, Mehreen?

Mehreen: Yes. In many Muslim-majority countries, such as Saudi Arabia, Iran, and Egypt, Id/Eid is marked as an official holiday and life slows right down. In places like the UK, Muslims often book time off school or work, so they can join family prayers and celebrations.

Ben: How do Muslims celebrate Id/Eid-ul-Fitr?

Mehreen: Muslims usually come together for special Id/Eid prayers, often in a mosque or a large outdoor space, and listen to a sermon that focuses on themes like thankfulness and forgiveness. People greet one another with ‘Id/Eid Mubarak’, which means ‘have a blessed Id/Eid’. In other countries they might have different greetings.

Ben: Id/Eid is celebrated all over the world. So different cultures have their own traditions?

Mehreen: That’s right. In Nigeria, people might say ‘Barka da Sallah’, which means happy Id/Eid, while in Malaysia Id/Eid is known as Hari Raya Aidilfitri, and people greet each other with ‘Selamat Hari Raya’.

Ben: The message is the same, even if the words change?

Mehreen: Yes. Id/Eid is also a time of remembrance. Many Muslims visit cemeteries to pray for family members who have died.

Ben: And it’s a big celebration too, isn't it?

Mehreen: Absolutely. Around the world, families mark Id/Eid in different ways. Many put on new or favourite outfits, tidy and decorate their homes, share big meals, swap cards or presents and, in some cultures, you’ll see intricate henna patterns and lively community events.

Ben: And many of these forms of celebration are also repeated during Id/Eid-ul-Adha, aren’t they?

Mehreen: Yes, that’s right.

Ben: That sounds like the perfect cue to explore the festival of Id/Eid-ul-Adha!

Ben: Id/Eid-ul-Adha is also known as The Festival of Sacrifice or Greater Id/Eid. When does it take place?

Mehreen: Id/Eid-ul-Adha begins on the 10th day of Dhū al-Ḥijjah - the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar - and lasts for 3 days.

As a Muslim I’m taught that this is a very significant event in the Muslim calendar and marks the end of Hajj in Makkah, the final Pillar and third Obligatory Act. Although Id/Eid-ul-Adha is also important for those not participating in Hajj.

Ben: Why is Id/Eid-ul-Adha so significant?

Mehreen: The festival remembers and honours Prophet Ibrahim who was willing to sacrifice his son Isma’il for Allah.

Let me read you this from the Qur’an, chapter 37 verse 102:

“My son, indeed I have seen in a dream that I (must) sacrifice you. He said, ‘O my father, do as you are commanded’”.

Mehreen: Id/Eid-ul-Adha is linked to the story of Prophet Ibrahim, who had a dream that he should sacrifice his son Isma’il as an act of obedience to Allah. When Ibrahim went to carry this out, Allah stopped him and provided an animal to sacrifice instead.

Ben: Allah was testing Prophet Ibrahim?

Mehreen: Yes, he was. Many Muslims see this story as showing just how committed Ibrahim was to obeying Allah, even when it was incredibly difficult.

Ben: What happens during this festival?

Mehreen: The festival usually starts with a congregational prayer in the morning. Muslims come together, often in big prayer halls or open spaces, and listen to a talk, sometimes called a sermon.

Ben: And that sermon focuses on the story of Ibrahim?

Mehreen: Yes. It talks about Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice what mattered most to him, which in turn can influence many Muslims’ commitment to Allah. The lesson is that faith isn’t just about belief. It’s about action and devotion.

Ben: Sounds like a festival with a strong message?

Mehreen: Yes. Id/Eid-ul-Adha is a time for communal worship, celebration and helping those people who are most in need. It’s also a moment to demonstrate and emphasise total devotion to Allah.

Ben: And as it’s a festival of sacrifice, are Muslims expected to sacrifice something during this period?

Mehreen: In some countries, it might be an animal sacrifice. The meat is divided up between the community - particularly the poor and needy. Everyone tries to help who they can.

Ben: Does your family celebrate in any particular way, Mehreen?

Mehreen: We celebrate both Ids/Eids in similar ways, wearing new clothes and taking a day off, having family come over. But for Id/Eid-ul-Adha, we pay for an animal to be sacrificed in Pakistan and the meat to be shared amongst the needy.

Ben: Thank you, Mehreen. Let’s look at some of the other festivals and holy days shared by many Muslims globally.

Mehreen: Absolutely. A significant moment is in the first month of the Islamic New Year. But it’s not celebrated in the same way other cultures or religions might mark new year. It tends to be about quiet reflection for different reasons for Sunni and Shi’a Muslims.

Ben: Any other festivals?

Mehreen: Ashura is also significant. For many Shi’a Muslims, it is a day of mourning for Imam Husayn, commemorating his martyrdom at the Battle of Karbala. Sunni Muslims, on the other hand, may fast on this day as an act of devotion.

Ben: Is it an important day for both branches, but marked differently?

Mehreen: Yes. Another key night is Laylat al-Qadr, the Night of Power, which falls during the last part of Ramadan. It marks the beginning of the Qur’an’s revelation to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and is believed to be one of the holiest nights in the Islamic calendar.

Ben: How do Muslims mark this particular night?

Mehreen: Although the Night of Power lasts for one night, many Muslims spend extra time in worship, praying, reading the Qur’an, or making personal supplications. However, they are not required to worship for the entire night.

Ben: But the two major festivals in Islam are Id/Eid-ul-Adha and Id/Eid-ul-Fitr?

Mehreen: Yep! It’s easy to muddle the two Ids/Eids, so here’s a quick way to tell them apart. ‘Adha’ is linked to sacrifice, while ‘Fitr’ is about breaking the fast. You can remember with ‘Fitr equals feast after fasting’ to help.

Ben: All the Fs - feast after fast for Fitr!!

Ben: It’s time for a quiz Mehreen! Come on test me!

Mehreen: Alright Ben, this is a quick-fire. You ready?

Ben: As I’ll ever be!

Mehreen: Ok. Id/Eid-ul-Fitr and Id/Eid-ul-Adha are both examples of what?

Ben: They’re festivals. Id/Eid means festival in Arabic.

Mehreen: Yes Ben! When do these two festivals happen?

Ben: Id/Eid-ul-Fitr happens at the end of Ramadan and Id/Eid-ul-Adha occurs at the end of Hajj. You can remember it as Adha is for sacrifice and Fitr means to break fast.

Mehreen: Fantastic. Can you name two values or actions that both festivals encourage?

Ben: Community bonding and charity.

Mehreen: Perfect! You could also have said generosity and forgiveness.

Ben: Thanks for listening to this episode of the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast.

Mehreen: In the next episode we’ll be covering Exam Skills!

Ben: Remember there are loads of podcasts to help you with your GCSEs. Just search for Bitesize GCSE on BBC Sounds. See you next time!

Ben: Hello and welcome to the Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast. I’m your host, journalist and broadcaster Ben Hurst. In this series we’ve been covering the key beliefs and practices for your GCSE on Islam.

In this episode, we’re pulling everything together and we’re aiming to help you build your exam skills using what you’ve learned for your Religious Studies exam. Also joining me is Mehreen Baig. Hi Mehreen!

Mehreen: Thanks, Ben! Hi everyone. I’m Mehreen Baig. I’m a TV presenter and a former teacher, but I’m also a practising Muslim, so I hope I can bring a bit of an informed perspective here!

Ben: Mehreen, as a former teacher at GCSE level, you must have some tips for students.

Mehreen: My biggest tip is, it's never too late to start revising. Do a little bit every day and you can succeed. Don't give up!

Ben: Fantastic advice. Firstly we'll look at different question types and how to respond to key command words.

Mehreen: Next, we’ll talk through how the command words might be used in your exams, depending on the type of questions and the number of marks available.

Ben: And finally, we’ll look at how you can support some of the answers you write with quotes with religious sources of wisdom - like the Qur’an or religious teachings.

Mehreen: We’ll be talking through things from previous episodes in the series, and you can use all that information in your exam prep. Make sure you grab your pen and paper (or open your notes app) for making notes as you are listening, because this episode is all about helping you feel confident and prepared for the exam.

Ben: Remember you can find a range of podcasts covering GCSE subjects on the BBC Sounds app. Just search for Bitesize GCSE to find them. Right, let's get started!

Ben: Before we dig into example questions, we’re going to share some advice on how to approach them first. One of the most important things to do in exams is to work out what the question actually wants you to do.

Mehreen: And in order to work that out, it’s really helpful to understand command words. Command words are verbs or short phrases at the start of questions that guide you on how to respond.

Ben: We can't cover every command word, but some examples which might appear in your exam are: ‘Describe’, ‘Explain’ or ‘Evaluate'.

Mehreen: Before you write anything, here’s a useful tip: read the question carefully, circle the command word, underline key parts of the question, and think about how to answer the question according to the command word.

Ben: A good way to ensure your answer is tailored to the question is to keep checking back on the question as you write to make sure you’re on track!

Mehreen: Now, different exam boards may ask questions differently so this is not about predicting what will come up in your exams, it’s about giving you a broad explanation of question types.

Ben: We've discussed command words, now let's talk about how they might be used in your exams.

Mehreen: Once you've spotted the command word, think about what that word wants you to do when you are answering the question.

Ben: Lower mark questions are short answer questions asking you to recall some key knowledge. Mid-mark questions ask you to explain ideas in more detail. And higher mark questions want you to weigh up different viewpoints and reach a conclusion.

Mehreen: We’re going to look at command words in action using examples from Islam that we’ve already covered in this series.

Ben: And remember it will be the number of marks that will give you clues to the approach you should take to the question and how long you spend answering it! Let’s start with lower mark questions, which often use command words like ‘describe’.

Mehreen: ‘Describe’ questions are mainly about ‘what’ rather than ‘why’, and they focus on remembering key facts. They’re often worth fewer marks and need short, clear, factual points rather than long explanations.

Ben: For example: Describe two beliefs about Allah’s nature.

Mehreen: You might write something like: “Muslims believe that Allah is omnipotent, meaning all-powerful. They also believe that Allah is merciful, meaning He is forgiving and compassionate.”

Ben: Correct. This answer gives facts. It’s short and to the point. OK, let’s move on to questions that start with the command word ‘Explain’. Explain means give reasons so you’ll use words and phrases like ‘because’, ‘therefore’, or ‘this means that’, to link cause and effect.

Mehreen: These questions require more detail and are usually worth more marks.

Ben: Here’s an example question for you to try: “‘Explain two Muslim teachings about Tawhid.” A strong answer to a question like this doesn’t just give reasons, it also develops beyond the reason, and it will link belief to meaning.

Mehreen: Here’s an example answer: “Tawhid is central to Islam because the Shahadah declares that there is no god but Allah, demonstrating belief in one God. This means Muslims reject shirk and believe that only Allah deserves worship. Tawhid also teaches that Allah alone is the creator and sustainer of the universe. Therefore, Muslims believe everything happens according to His will and that they should trust and submit to Him completely.”

Ben: That answer isn’t just listing reasons. It’s also using terms like ‘because’ to explain the reasons.

Mehreen: To do well in this type of question, you will need to give clear reasons and some extra detail that shows you understand why those reasons matter.

Ben: So instead of just saying what Muslims do or believe, you explain in your answer why it’s important to them.

Ben: Ok Mehreen, let’s move onto the higher mark questions. You might see the command word ‘Evaluate’.

Mehreen: These questions are asking you to give points in support of the statement and the counter view. So, you need two sides with evidence and examples for each side, and a conclusion.

Ben: This will probably need quotes from sources of wisdom, so these types of questions will have longer answers.

Mehreen: Sources of wisdom are foundational guides for Islamic beliefs and practices like verses from the Qur’an, Hadiths or sayings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon Him), or teachings.

Ben: Here’s an example question for you: ‘Salah is more important than Hajj for Muslims today. Evaluate this statement.’ How would you tackle that Mehreen?

Mehreen: Ok. First I’d think about the points to support the statement and then the counter view because I want to cover both sides of the argument and give evidence for both.

My possible statements that support the view that Salah is more important than Hajj are:

Salah is one of the five Pillars of Islam for Sunni Muslims and an Obligatory Act for Shi’a Muslims.

Salah is considered by many Muslims to be the most important way of worshipping Allah.

It is practised five times daily, unlike Hajj which can be once in a lifetime.

Without Salah, Muslims cannot perform Hajj.

Ben: These are just points to illustrate what you could include in an answer to this question - for your exams remember to give more detail and write in full sentences. And make sure you include definitions for words like Salah in your answer. Let’s hear your points that counter the statement.

Mehreen: And then my points which counter the statement might be:

Hajj is also a Pillar of Islam and an Obligatory Act.

The Qur’an, Chapter 2 verse 196 says “And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah.”

Salah focuses more on the personal relationship between Muslims and Allah, whereas Hajj creates unity and equality.

Many Muslims believe the experience of Hajj can bring a deep spiritual transformation, being closer to Allah.

Many Muslims believe that the pilgrimage can also lead to forgiveness of all past sins, unlike Salah.

Ben: Fantastic. And then you should finish with a justified conclusion based on the evidence you’ve presented.

Ben: Another important part of GCSE Religious Studies is learning and using religious sources of wisdom. You don’t have to memorise loads of long quotes from these sources of wisdom, just a few short, meaningful ones that you understand can make a huge difference. For higher mark questions, it's a good idea to include a source of wisdom to get higher marks.

Mehreen: OK Ben, I'm going to give you some example exam-style questions on certain topics, and you give me quotes which you could use in an answer to that question. Let’s start with “Describe what Islam teaches about Tawhid.”

Ben: I might use the quote chapter 112 verse 1 from the Qur’an: “He is Allah, the One.”

Mehreen: Great. In another episode we covered the Five Pillars of Islam and the Ten Obligatory Acts. A question for this might be: “Explain why Zakah is a significant Pillar of Islam and an Obligatory Act.”

Ben: Here I might use the Qur’an again, this time chapter 2 verse 110: “Establish prayer and give Zakah.”

Mehreen: Brilliant. Let’s move on. We have also explored in another episode why performing Hajj is significant. Here, I might be asked to evaluate the following statement: ‘Hajj is the most significant practice within the Muslim Faith.’

Ben: Ok. I would probably use this quote: “And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah” from chapter 2 verse 196 of the Qur’an.

Mehreen: Well done. And finally, we covered why festivals in Islam matter. An example question might be: “Describe the significance of Id/Eid-ul-Fitr and Id/Eid-ul-Adha, and how these festivals link to key Islamic beliefs.”

Ben: Here I might quote from chapter 2 verse 185 from the Qur’an: “You should complete the number and glorify Allah for what He has guided you to.”

Mehreen: Fantastic. And don’t forget - when you use a quote, the key is not just writing it, you also need to show why it’s relevant to the question.

Ben: Here’s an example question that needs a source of wisdom: ‘Explain two reasons why it is important for Muslims to celebrate Id/Eid.’

Mehreen: And your answer might be: The Qur’an requires Muslims to complete a number of acts to show submission towards Allah. Chapter 2, verse 185 says “You should complete the number”. This means Islam teaches that Muslims must finish the full 30-day fast (called Ramadan) and “glorify Allah for what He has guided you to”. This is inviting Muslims to thank Allah for Islam, fostering gratitude.

Ben: Well done Mehreen. This answer uses the quote to explain the importance of celebrating Id/Eid.

Ben: And that’s it! In this episode we’ve covered command word, exam question types and finally how to use sources of wisdom in your answers.

Mehreen: Thank you for listening to this Bitesize GCSE Religious Studies podcast series on Islam. Please listen as many times as you need to!

Ben: And remember whether it's Islam or another major religion you are studying for GCSE, Bitesize has other podcasts to help you with your revision. Just search for Bitesize GCSE on BBC Sounds.

Mehreen: Good luck with your exams, you can do this!

Ben: Thanks for listening. Catch you next time!