What is islam
Islam is a monotheistic faith that means “submission to the will of Allah (God).” It is not just a religion but a complete way of life, guiding spiritual, social, and ethical aspects of human existence.
Islam is not a new religion. It is the same truth that God revealed to all His prophets throughout history. Islam is both a religion and a complete way of life. Muslims follow a religion of peace, mercy and forgiveness that should not be associated with acts of violence against the innocent.
Core Beliefs in Islam
Islam is built upon six fundamental beliefs:
- Belief in Allah – The one and only God, without partners or equals.
- Belief in Angels – Created by Allah to carry out divine tasks, such as Jibreel (Gabriel) delivering revelations.
- Belief in Holy Books – The Quran (final revelation), Torah, Psalms, Gospel, and Scrolls of Abraham.
- Belief in Prophets – Allah sent prophets, from Adam to Muhammad (PBUH), to guide humanity.
- Belief in the Day of Judgment – Every soul will be held accountable for its deeds.
- Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar) – Everything happens by Allah’s knowledge and wisdom.
What is the Quran?
The Quran is the record of the exact words revealed by God through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad. It was memorized by Muhammad and then dictated to his companions. The text of the Quran was cross-checked during the life of the Prophet. The 114 chapters of the Quran have remained unchanged through the centuries.
The Five Pillars of Islam
The foundation of Muslim life is built upon five essential acts of worship:
- Shahada (Faith Declaration) – “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.”
- Salah (Prayer) – Performing five daily prayers to connect with Allah.
- Zakat (Charity) – Giving 2.5% of savings to support the needy.
- Sawm (Fasting in Ramadan) – Abstaining from food, drink, and desires from dawn to sunset.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage to Makkah) – A spiritual journey required once in a lifetime for those abl
The Quran: The Final Revelation
The Quran is the holy book of Islam, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) over 23 years. It is considered the final and unchanged word of Allah, providing guidance on all aspects of life, including:
- Worship and devotion to Allah.
- Ethics and morality.
- Laws and justice.
- Science and knowledge.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): The Final Messenger
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the last and final messenger of Allah, sent as a mercy to mankind. His teachings (Hadith) explain the Quran and demonstrate the best way to live. He emphasized:
- Kindness and Mercy – Treating others with love and respect.
- Justice and Honesty – Standing for truth and fairness.
- Family and Community – Strengthening family bonds and caring for society.
- Equality and Brotherhood – Teaching that all humans are equal regardless of race or status.
Islamic Way of Life
Islam provides a comprehensive way of life, coverings
- Spirituality – Prayer, supplication, and remembrance of Allah.
- Ethics & Morality – Truthfulness, patience, humility, and generosity.
- Social Responsibility – Helping the poor, maintaining justice, and spreading peace.
- Family Values – Respecting parents, raising children with good manners, and fostering love.
- Business & Finance – Encouraging fairness, honesty, and interest-free financial dealings.
Islam and Peace
The word “Islam” comes from the Arabic root “Salaam,” meaning “peace.” Islam teaches that true peace is achieved through submission to Allah and living a righteous life. It prohibits violence, injustice, and oppression while promoting harmony, justice, and goodwill among people.
Life After Death & The Hereafter
Islam teaches that life is temporary, and the ultimate goal is to seek Allah’s pleasure and prepare for the Akhirah (afterlife). Every action will be judged, and people will either enter:
- Jannah (Paradise) – A place of eternal joy, peace, and rewards.
- Jahannam (Hell) – A place of purification and consequences for wrongdoings.
The Beauty of Islam
Islam is a complete system that provides guidance for every aspect of life. It calls for faith, worship, good character, and service to humanity. The path to success in this life and the next lies in following Allah’s commandments and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
What about the American Muslim community?
There are an estimated 7 million Muslims in America. The Muslim community in America is made up of people from a wide variety of ethnic backgrounds and national origins. There are almost 2,000 mosques, Islamic schools and Islamic centers in America. Muslims are active in all walks of life. Islam is one of the fastest growing religions in this country and around the world.
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