What is Islam

Islam is one of the world’s major religions, with over 1.9 billion adherents globally. It is a monotheistic faith that emphasizes submission to the will of Allah (God), adherence to divine guidance, and the pursuit of righteousness. The Arabic root word s-l-m, which signifies peace, submission, or surrender, is where the word “Islam” itself originates. A Muslim is a person who adheres to Islam and represents a person who submits to Allah’s will.

This article explores the fundamental beliefs, practices, historical context, and the significance of Islam, drawing from primary sources and scholarly works.

1. Core Beliefs in Islam

The foundation of Islam is the conviction that God is one, or Tawheed. It teaches that the cosmos was created, sustained, and ruled by Allah alone. The following tenets summarize the major ideas of Islam:

1.1 The Six Articles of Faith

1. Belief in Allah: The cornerstone of Islam is monotheism. Allah is unique, without partners or equals, as described in Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1-4).
2. Belief in Angels: Angels are created from light and serve Allah’s commands. Notable angels include Jibreel (Gabriel) and Mikaeel (Michael).
3. Belief in Divine Books: Muslims believe in the scriptures revealed by Allah, including the Torah, Psalms, Gospel, and the Quran, which is the final revelation.
4. Belief in Prophets: Allah sent numerous prophets, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is regarded as the final messenger.
5. Belief in the Day of Judgment: Muslims believe in life after death, resurrection, and accountability for one’s deeds.
6. Belief in Divine Decree (Qadr): Allah’s knowledge encompasses all that happens, and nothing occurs without His will.

1.2 The Quran

The Quran, Islam’s holy book, is considered the literal word of Allah revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) over 23 years. IIt addresses religion, law, ethics, and personal behavior and is written in Arabic. It is the ultimate instruction for Muslims. Renowned Islamic scholar Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall describes the Quran as “a living book, which shapes the lives of those who believe in it.”

1.3 Hadith and Sunnah

The sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad, known as Hadith, alongside his lifestyle, or Sunnah, are second only to the Quran in guiding Muslims. Collections such as Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim are among the most authentic sources of Hadith.

2. Pillars of Islam

Islam emphasizes practice as much as belief. The Five Pillars of Islam form the framework for a Muslim’s life:

1. Shahada (Declaration of Faith): “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.” This proclamation affirms belief in monotheism and prophethood.
2. Salah (Prayer): Muslims perform five daily prayers facing the Kaaba in Mecca, fostering a direct connection with Allah.
3. Zakat (Almsgiving): A mandatory charity that purifies wealth and supports the needy.
4. Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan): Muslims fast from dawn to sunset during the holy month of Ramadan, abstaining from food, drink, and immoral acts.
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca): A once-in-a-lifetime journey for those who are physically and financially able, commemorating the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).

Embark on your journey to Quranic education and discover the profound wisdom and guidance of the Quran.

3. Historical Context of Islam

3.1 Early Life of Prophet Muhammad

Prophet Muhammad PBUH was a member of the Quraysh tribe and was born in Mecca around 570 CE. He was noted for his honesty and integrity, gaining the epithet Al-Amin (the trustworthy), despite having been orphaned at a young age. His prophetic career began when he was 40 years old and received the first revelation at the Cave of Hira.

3.2 The Spread of Islam

Islam first encountered strong hostility in Mecca. The first Islamic state was founded in Medina (Hijra) in 622 CE after Muhammad and his supporters moved there. Islam unified tribes under a common religion throughout the course of the following ten years as it expanded throughout the Arabian Peninsula.

3.3 The Caliphate Era

Prophet Muhammad PBUH died in 632 CE, and the Rashidun Caliphs (Rightly Guided Caliphs) took over as rulers. Islam quickly spread throughout Persia, Byzantium, and North Africa during this time.

4. Diversity in Islamic Practice

Islam is not monolithic. It encompasses various schools of thought and interpretations:

1. Sunni Islam: The largest denomination, Sunnis adhere to the teachings of the Prophet and the first four caliphs.
2. Shia Islam: Shias believe that leadership should remain within the Prophet’s family, beginning with Ali, his cousin and son-in-law.
3. Sufism: Sufis emphasize spiritual closeness to Allah through practices like dhikr (remembrance) and meditation.

5. Ethical and Social Principles

Islam emphasizes a comprehensive ethical framework:

1. Justice: Islam promotes fairness in all dealings (Surah An-Nisa, 4:135).
2. Equality: All humans are equal before Allah, regardless of race, nationality, or wealth (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:13).
3. Compassion: Caring for the less fortunate is central, as demonstrated through Zakat and Sadaqah (voluntary charity).

6. Modern Relevance of Islam

In today’s world, Islam continues to influence various aspects of life, including law, politics, and culture. It offers guidance on contemporary issues like environmental sustainability, social justice, and global peace.

Islamic scholars have addressed modern challenges through reinterpretation of classical teachings. For instance, Maqasid al-Shariah (Objectives of Islamic Law) provides a framework for balancing tradition and modernity.

7. Challenges and Misconceptions

Islam is often misunderstood, particularly in Western media. Common misconceptions include associating Islam with extremism. However, Islamic teachings explicitly condemn violence and promote peace. Surah Al-Maidah (5:32) states, “Whoever kills a soul…it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one…it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.”

8. Conclusion

Islam is a comprehensive way of life that integrates faith, practice, and ethics. Rooted in submission to Allah, it provides a framework for achieving spiritual and societal harmony. Despite challenges, Islam’s teachings remain a source of guidance and inspiration for billions.

References

1. The Holy Quran (Translation by Abdullah Yusuf Ali)
2. Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim (Collections of Hadith)
3. The Sealed Nectar by Safi-ur-Rahman Mubarakpuri
4. What Everyone Needs to Know About Islam by John L. Esposito
5. Islam: A Short History by Karen Armstrong
6. Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence by Mohammad Hashim Kamali

These sources offer deeper insights into Islamic teachings and history, providing a well-rounded understanding of the faith.