Islam at a Glance

Islam is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes submission to the will of Allah (God). It is based on the teachings of the Quran, which Muslims believe to be the final revelation of God, and the Hadith, which are the sayings and actions of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). With over a billion followers worldwide, Islam is the second-largest religion.

Islam at a Glance | The Core Beliefs of Islam

Tawheed (Oneness of God)

The most fundamental belief in Islam is the concept of Tawheed, which means the absolute oneness of Allah. The Quran states:

قُلْ هُوَ ٱللَّهُ أَحَدٌ ١

“Say, ‘He is Allah, [who is] One. Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent.'” (Quran 112:1-4)

Belief in Prophethood

Muslims believe in all the prophets sent by Allah, from Adam to Muhammad (peace be upon them all). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is regarded as the last and final messenger. The Quran affirms:

“Muhammad is not the father of any one of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the last of the prophets.” (Quran 33:40)

Belief in the Hereafter

Islam teaches that life in this world is temporary and that there will be a Day of Judgment where every individual will be held accountable for their deeds. The Quran states:

“And We place the scales of justice for the Day of Resurrection, so no soul will be treated unjustly at all.” (Quran 21:47)

The Five Pillars of Islam

Islam is built upon five essential acts of worship that every Muslim is required to observe.

1. Shahada (Faith Declaration)

The Shahada is the testimony of faith: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.” This declaration affirms a Muslim’s belief in Tawheed and the prophethood of Muhammad (PBUH).

2. Salah (Prayer)

Muslims perform five daily prayers as an obligation to Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“The first matter that the slave will be called to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer. If it is sound, then the rest of his deeds will be sound.” (Hadith, Tirmidhi)

3. Zakat (Charity)

Muslims are required to give 2.5% of their savings to the needy each year. The Quran states:

“And establish prayer and give zakah, and whatever good you put forward for yourselves – you will find it with Allah.” (Quran 2:110)

4. Sawm (Fasting in Ramadan)

Fasting during the month of Ramadan is obligatory for adult Muslims. It involves abstaining from food, drink, and sinful behavior from dawn to sunset. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:

“Whoever fasts Ramadan with faith and seeking reward, his past sins will be forgiven.” (Hadith, Bukhari & Muslim)

5. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)

Hajj is a pilgrimage that Muslims must perform at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able. The Quran states:

“And [due] to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House – for whoever is able to find thereto a way.” (Quran 3:97)

The Quran and Hadith as Sources of Guidance

The Quran – The Word of Allah

The Quran is the holy book of Islam, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) over 23 years. It serves as a complete guide for life. Allah says:

“Indeed, this Quran guides to that which is most suitable and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds.” (Quran 17:9)

The Hadith – Sayings of the Prophet

The Hadith complements the Quran by providing practical examples of how the Prophet (PBUH) implemented divine guidance. The Prophet said:

“I have left among you two things; you will never go astray as long as you hold fast to them: the Book of Allah and my Sunnah.” (Hadith, Muwatta Malik)

The Ethical and Social Teachings of Islam

Kindness and Compassion

Islam promotes kindness to all of creation. The Prophet (PBUH) said:

“The best among you are those who have the best manners and character.” (Hadith, Bukhari)

Justice and Equality

Islam emphasizes justice, regardless of race, status, or background. The Quran states:

“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allah, witnesses in justice.” (Quran 4:135)

Family and Community Values

Islam encourages strong family ties and caring for relatives and neighbors. The Prophet (PBUH) said:

“He is not a believer whose stomach is filled while his neighbor is hungry.” (Hadith, Muslim)

Conclusion

Islam is a comprehensive way of life that offers spiritual guidance, ethical values, and a structured way of living. Its teachings, based on the Quran and Hadith, encourage faith, worship, justice, and compassion. By understanding Islam at a glance, one can appreciate its depth and the universal values it upholds.

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