Understanding Islam: A Monotheistic Faith of Social Justice and Community
Islam is a religion that believes in one God Allah. The word “Islam” comes from an Arabic word that means “surrender”, “submission”, “commitment”, and “peace”. The religion was revealed to Muhammad Ibn Abdullah (PBUH) between 610 and 632 during 632 of the Common Era. The holy book of Islam is called the Qur’an, and it introduced the term “Islam“.
The Quran 03:19 (Surah al-Imran)
“Islam means to achieve peace – peace with God, peace within oneself, and peace with the creations of God – through wholly submitting oneself to God and accepting His guidance”.
ISLAM IS FASTEST GROWING RELIGION IN THE WORLD
Islam is considered the fastest growing religion in the world due to several factors. One of the main reasons is its universal appeal, as Islam is a faith that transcends race, ethnicity, and nationality. Additionally, the strong sense of community and belonging that Islam provides has attracted many people looking for a supportive and inclusive social network.
The emphasis on social justice and humanitarian efforts within Islamic teachings has also resonated with many individuals seeking a faith that aligns with their values and desire to make a positive impact on the world. Furthermore, the widespread availability of information and resources about Islam through media and the internet has contributed to the growth of the religion, allowing individuals to learn about and connect with the faith from anywhere in the world.
BIGGEST RELIGION IN THE WORLD IN 2023
Largest religious groups
| Religion | Followers (billions) | Cultural tradition |
|---|---|---|
| Christianity | 2.4 | Abrahamic religions |
| Islam | 2 | Abrahamic religions |
| Hinduism | 1.2 | Indian religions |
| Buddhism | 0.5 | Indian religions |
ISLAM IS NOT A NEW RELIGION
Islam is not a new religion, but rather the last expression of the fundamental idea of oneness with God which was also present in earlier monotheistic religious practices. While it is classified as a religion, Islam is more than just a set of beliefs and rituals. It is a complete way of life that focuses on bringing God to the forefront of one’s mind and actions.
ISLAM IS OUR LIFESTYLE
Islam is a total lifestyle that covers all aspects of daily life. Islam does not leave a step unturned when it instructs humanity how to act in all areas of life, including individual material, social moral ethical, legal, economic, political, cultural and the world.
Islam has been practiced for more than 1,400 years and embraces one God, Allah, with Muhammad (PBUH) serving as His representative on Earth. Islam translates into “submission or surrender to the will of God”, not just through verbal declaration but in every aspect of a person’s being.
BELIEF IN ONE GOD ALLAH
Islam’s foundational principle is the belief in one God. Muslims believe Allah to be the sole creator and creator of everything around us. Allah created this universe and everything like stars, moons, sky etc, but no one created Allah. This principle is underscored throughout the Quran, Islam’s holy book: in Surah Al-Ikhlas (112) it states:
This verse emphasizes believing only in Allah as one entity and emphasizing His oneness with this statement.
LAST PROPHET OF ALLAH
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is widely revered as one of Allah’s final messengers sent to guide humanity. Over 23 years, he received Quranic revelations which helped spread Islam. Muslims look up to his life as an exemplar for how to lead an upright and godly existence and strive to emulate his teachings and behaviors in their everyday lives.
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: Muslims practice their religion through prayer, charity, fasting and pilgrimage. Prayer forms the central component of Muslim worship and must be performed five times each day facing Mecca as it is considered the holiest site in Islam. Charity (zakat) is another aspect of Islamic practice in which Muslims must give part of their wealth away to those in need. Additionally, fasting during Ramadan (from sunrise to sunset, abstaining from food and beverages while focusing on spiritual purification) is another significant component. Finally, Hajj pilgrimages (Hajj) are mandatory obligations upon those physically and financially capable of making such journeys.
ISLAM’S PRINCIPLE
One of the core principles of Islam is kindness and generosity toward others, with Surah Al-Hujurat 49 verse 13 emphasizing this aspect:
This verse reinforces this value as all humans are equal in His sight.
CONCLUSION
Islam is a religion that emphasizes belief in one God, doing good deeds and practicing righteous conduct, treating others with kindness and compassion, building strong familial ties, promoting justice and fairness throughout life and maintaining strong familial ties. These teachings can all be found within the Quran which serves as the main source of guidance for Muslims worldwide. Therefore it is vital that one understands these teachings to get an accurate depiction of what Islam really stands for and its effect on those that practice it.
In the end, Islam is practiced by a fifth of the world’s population, and it is based on the belief in one God and adherence to His teachings. In essence, Islam is a global view of the world that shapes how its followers live their lives.
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