Islam

Islam is a monotheistic religion that believes in one God (Allah in Arabic) and follows the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. It is the second-largest religion in the world, with over 1.9 billion followers, known as Muslims.

Core Beliefs

  1. Tawhid (Oneness of God) – Islam teaches absolute monotheism; God has no partners, children, or equals.
  2. Prophethood – Muhammad is the last and final prophet in a line that includes Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.
  3. The Qur'an – Islam’s holy book, believed to be the literal word of God revealed to Muhammad.
  4. The Day of Judgment – Muslims believe in an afterlife where everyone is judged based on their deeds.
  5. Divine Decree – Everything happens according to God’s will, but humans still have free will and responsibility.

The Five Pillars of Islam (Core Practices)

  1. Shahada (Faith) – The declaration: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.”
  2. Salah (Prayer) – Muslims pray five times daily facing Mecca.
  3. Zakat (Charity) – A portion of wealth (2.5%) is given to the needy each year.
  4. Sawm (Fasting) – During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset.
  5. Hajj (Pilgrimage) – If physically and financially able, Muslims must visit Mecca at least once in their lifetime.

Sacred Texts

  • The Qur'an – Islam’s holy book, considered the final revelation.
  • Hadith – Sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad, used to understand and interpret Islamic teachings.
  • Sunnah – The way of life of Muhammad, providing guidance for Muslims.

Major Branches

  • Sunni Islam – About 85–90% of Muslims; follow the Sunnah and believe leadership should be chosen by the Muslim community.
  • Shia Islam – Believe leadership should have stayed within the Prophet Muhammad’s family, specifically through his cousin and son-in-law, Ali.
  • Sufism – A mystical branch of Islam focused on spiritual closeness to God through meditation and devotion.

Islamic Practices & Culture

  • Halal (Permissible Food & Actions) – Includes dietary laws (e.g., no pork, no alcohol) and ethical behavior.
  • Modesty – Both men and women are encouraged to dress modestly and behave humbly.
  • Friday Prayer (Jumu'ah) – A special weekly prayer service held in mosques.
  • Islamic Holidays
    • Eid al-Fitr – Celebration marking the end of Ramadan.
    • Eid al-Adha – Festival of sacrifice during Hajj, honoring Abraham’s devotion to God.
    • Ramadan – A holy month of fasting, prayer, and reflection.

Common Misconceptions

  • Islam is not a violent religion – The vast majority of Muslims live peacefully, and Islam emphasizes compassion and justice.
  • Muslims do not worship Muhammad – He is highly respected as a prophet but not divine.
  • Islam is not just for Arabs – Only about 20% of Muslims are Arab; Islam is practiced worldwide, with large populations in Asia, Africa, and Europe.