What is Islam?
Islam is a religion that teaches belief in only one God who is created everything. This is 100% truth there is no god but Allah. The word “Islam” means submission, showing that Muslims dedicate their lives to God. It is a complete way of living. That is teaches you how to live with humanity, justice, and respect for others. But this does not mean that we should bow our heads before anyone. We should only bow our heads before Allah.
Islam started in the 7th century in Arabia and spread across the world. It is based on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), who received messages from Allah through Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). Gabriel is the chief of the angels. These messages were later compiled into Islam’s holy book, the Quran. If you dont know how to read Quran then you can join online Quran acdemy & get online classes.
Islam promotes peace and justice. It encourages people to do good, care for others, and avoid negative behavior. Islam religion focus on living a balanced life, being honest, & preparing for afterlife. Because we believe that after death, we have to present ourselves before our Allah.
Today, over 1.9 billion people follow Islam religion, making it one of the largest religions in the world. It is practiced by people of all cultures and backgrounds.
H3: How many people follow Islam religion around the world?
Islam is a major world religion with a large number of followers. As of 2024, approximately 2 billion people follow the Islam religion. which is making it the second-largest religion globally. This means about one in four people worldwide are Muslims. Muslims live in many countries, with the largest populations found in Indonesia, Pakistan, India, and countries across the Middle East and North Africa.
Origins and Historical Development
Pre-Islamic Arabian Peninsula
Long before Islam started, the Arabian Peninsula was a special place. People lived in a dry and hot desert. They did not have one big country. Instead, many small tribes lived in different areas.
The desert was very tough. People had to work hard to survive. They moved from place to place looking for water and grass for their animals. Camels were very important. People used camels to travel, carry things, and get food.
Most tribes were not united. They fought with each other many times. Some tribes were strong, and some were weak. They had their own rules and leaders. Each tribe protected its own people and land.
Religion was different before Islam. People believed in many gods. They made statues and prayed to these stone figures. Some people worshipped the sun, moon, and stars. They thought these things had special powers.
Trade was important in the Arabian Peninsula. Cities like Mecca were busy places. Traders from different lands came to buy and sell things. Spices, silk, and other goods moved through these desert lands.
People lived in tents made from animal skin. They wore simple clothes to protect themselves from the hot sun. Families were very important. People respected their family and tribe more than anything else.
This was the world before Islam. A place of tribes, deserts, and hard life. But soon, everything would change with the arrival of a special prophet who would bring a message of peace and unity.
Life of Prophet Muhammad
Muhammad was born in Mecca around 570 CE. His parents died when he was very young, so his grandfather and later his uncle took care of him. He grew up in a poor family but was known for being honest and kind.
Early Life
As a young man, Muhammad worked as a trader. People called him “Al-Amin” which means “the trustworthy one”. He was known for always telling the truth and helping others. When he was 25, he married a successful businesswoman named Khadija.
First Revelation
When Muhammad was 40 years old, something amazing happened. While meditating in a cave near Mecca called Hira, he received his first message from God through the Angel Gabriel. This was the start of his journey as a prophet.
Prophethood
Muhammad began sharing God’s message. He told people to worship one God and be kind to each other. At first, only a few people listened to him. Many people in Mecca did not like his message because it challenged their old beliefs.
Migration to Medina
Because people in Mecca were angry with him, Muhammad and his followers moved to a city called Medina. This journey is known as the Hijra and happened in 622 CE. In Medina, more people started to follow his teachings.
Establishing the First Islamic State
In Medina, Muhammad created the first Islamic community. He made rules that protected people’s rights. Muslims, Christians, and Jews could live together peacefully. He showed that people from different backgrounds could respect each other.
By the time Muhammad died in 632 CE, most of Arabia had become Muslim. His life showed people how to live with compassion, honesty, and respect for others.
Expansion of Islam After Prophet Muhammad
After Prophet Muhammad died, his followers continued to spread his teachings. They wanted to share the message of Islam with more people. This was an exciting and important time in Islamic history.
Righteous Caliphates
Four leaders, called Caliphs, took charge after Muhammad. These leaders were special friends of the Prophet. They were known as the Righteous Caliphs. Each of them worked hard to keep the Muslim community strong and united.
Abu Bakr was the first Caliph. He made sure that all Muslims stayed together after Muhammad’s death. He stopped people who wanted to leave the faith. Omar was the next Caliph. He helped Islam grow even bigger. He conquered new lands and built new cities. Uthman came next. He collected all the copies of the Quran and made sure they were the same everywhere. Ali was the last Righteous Caliph. He was Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-law.
Islamic Empires
As time passed, Muslims created big and powerful empires. The Umayyad Empire was the first big Islamic kingdom. It stretched from Spain to India. People from different backgrounds lived together. They traded, shared ideas, and learned from each other.
The Abbasid Empire came next. It was even more amazing. Baghdad became a center of learning. Scientists, mathematicians, and writers from all over the world came to study there. They translated books from Greek, Persian, and Indian languages. They made big discoveries in math, medicine, and astronomy.
Spread Across Continents
Islam spread quickly to many parts of the world. Muslim traders traveled to Africa, Asia, and Europe. They did not just bring their religion. They also brought new ideas, technologies, and ways of thinking.
In Africa, people began to follow Islam. They built beautiful mosques and schools. In Central Asia, Islam mixed with local cultures. In India, many people became Muslims. The Mughal Empire became a powerful Muslim kingdom.
European countries also learned from Muslims. During the Middle Ages, Muslim scholars helped European students learn about science and math. They shared knowledge about medicine, astronomy, and philosophy.
Islam was not just about religion. It was about learning, sharing, and respecting different people. Muslims built great libraries, hospitals, and universities. They welcomed people from all backgrounds.
Today, Islam is the second-biggest religion in the world. Millions of people follow its teachings of peace, kindness, and understanding.
Fundamental Beliefs in Islam Religion: Tawhid (Oneness of God)
Tawhid is the very important concept in Islam. It means having faith in one God which is allah. It is our believe that Allah is the only true God. He is the powerful, and controls everything in the universe.
What is Tawhid?
Tawhid teaches that God is one and unique. All muslims do not believe in many gods. They believe Allah created everything. He is not like humans. He has no family and no shape. Allah is everywhere but different from his creation.
Three Main Parts of Tawhid
- Oneness of Lordship Muslims believe Allah is the only one who creates and controls the world. He decides everything that happens. No one else has this power.
- Oneness of Worship Muslims pray only to Allah. We do not pray to statues, people, or anything else. Only Allah deserves worship.
- Oneness of Names and Qualities Allah has special names and qualities. Muslims believe these qualities are perfect. They cannot be compared to anything in the world.
Why Tawhid is Important
Tawhid helps Muslims understand their special connection with God. It is like a big friendship between a person and Allah. This idea teaches Muslims many important lessons about life and how to be a good person.
Trusting in Allah
Muslims learn to trust Allah completely. They believe that Allah knows everything and has a plan for everyone. When something good or bad happens, they say “Alhamdulillah” which means “Thanks to God”. This helps them stay calm and peaceful.
Trust means believing that Allah will help them. If a Muslim is scared or worried, they remember that Allah is watching and will take care of them. This makes them feel strong and brave.
Being Thankful
Tawhid teaches Muslims to be thankful for everything they have. They learn that everything comes from Allah. When they wake up in the morning, they thank Allah for giving them another day. When they eat food, they remember to be thankful for having something to eat.
Being thankful helps people feel happy. It makes them understand that life is a gift. Muslims try to show thankfulness by helping others and being kind.
Living a Good Life
Through Tawhid, Muslims learn how to live a good life. They understand that Allah wants them to be:
- Kind to others
- Honest in everything they do
- Helpful to people who need help
- Respectful to parents and elders
- Good to animals and nature
Remembering Allah is Always Watching
Tawhid teaches Muslims that Allah sees everything. This helps them make good choices. They know that even when no one is looking, Allah knows what they are doing. This makes them want to do the right thing.
How Muslims Show Tawhid
Muslims show their belief in one God in many ways:
Daily Prayers
Muslims pray five times every day. During prayer, they face Mecca and talk to Allah. These prayers remind them that Allah is always with them.
Reading the Quran
The Quran is Allah’s special book. Muslims read it to understand Allah’s message. They learn how to be a good person by reading the Quran.
Helping People
Muslims believe helping others is a way to show love for Allah. They give money to poor people, help sick neighbors, and be kind to everyone.
Being Honest
Telling the truth is very important in Tawhid. Muslims try to be honest in school, at home, and with friends. They know Allah always knows the truth.
Avoiding Bad Actions
Muslims try to stay away from things that make Allah unhappy. They don’t lie, steal, or hurt others. They want to make good choices.
Tawhid: A Guiding Light
Tawhid is like a bright light that shows Muslims the right path. It helps them understand the world. When they are confused or sad, they remember Allah. This makes them feel happy and peaceful.
By believing in one God, Muslims learn to be good people. They understand that life is not just about themselves, but about helping others and making the world a better place.
Six Articles of Faith in Islam
What are the Six Articles of Faith?
In Islam, Muslims believe in six special things. These beliefs help them understand God and life. They are like six important rules that guide Muslims every day.
1. Belief in Allah
Muslims believe in one God called Allah. They think Allah is the most powerful being in the universe. Allah created everything – the sky, earth, people, and animals. He knows everything and sees everything. Muslims love and respect Allah more than anything else.
2. Belief in Angels
Angels are special creatures that Muslims believe God created. These angels cannot be seen, but Muslims know they exist. Angels have important jobs. Some angels write down people’s good and bad actions. Some angels protect humans. Aand some angels carry messages from God.
3. Belief in Holy Books
Muslims believe God sent many books to teach people. The most important book is the Quran. Muslims think the Quran is God’s final message to humans. Before the Quran, God sent other books like the Torah and Bible. But Muslims believe the Quran is the most complete book.
4. Belief in Prophets
Prophets are special messengers from God. Muslims believe many prophets came to teach people about God. Some important prophets include Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad. They think Muhammad was the last prophet who brought God’s complete message.
5. Belief in Day of Judgment
Muslims believe that one day, the world will end. On this day, God will judge everyone. People will be asked about their actions during their life. Good people will go to paradise, and bad people will be punished. This belief helps Muslims try to do good things.
6. Belief in Divine Predestination
This means Muslims believe God knows everything that will happen. Everything happens because God planned it. But humans still have the choice to make good or bad decisions. This belief helps Muslims stay calm and trust in God’s plan.
These six beliefs are like a roadmap for Muslims. They help people understand life, be good, and stay close to God.
Five Pillars of Islam
The Five Pillars of Islam are the most important practices in a Muslim’s life. They guide Muslims on how to live with faith, discipline, and kindness. Every Muslim must follow these pillars to strengthen their relationship with Allah and become better individuals.
Shahada (Faith): Believing in one God and Muhammad (PBUH) as His Prophet
Shahada is the first pillar of Islam. It means declaring your faith in one God, Allah. Muslims also believe that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is His last messenger. The words of Shahada are: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.”
This belief is the foundation of Islam. It reminds Muslims to worship only Allah and follow the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Saying Shahada with sincerity makes a person a Muslim. It also strengthens their faith and trust in Allah.
Salah (Prayer): Praying Five Times a Day
Salah is the second pillar of Islam. Muslims pray five times a day at specific times: Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha. These prayers connect Muslims with Allah and help them stay focused on their faith.
Muslims perform Salah facing the Kaaba in Mecca. They follow specific steps, like standing, bowing, and prostrating. Salah reminds Muslims to thank Allah for His blessings. It also teaches discipline and keeps their hearts pure.
Zakat (Charity): Giving to the Poor
Zakat is the third pillar of Islam. It means giving a part of your money to help the poor and needy. Muslims who earn enough must pay Zakat every year.
Zakat teaches Muslims to care for others. It helps reduce poverty and spreads kindness in society. By giving Zakat, Muslims purify their wealth and obey Allah’s command.
Sawm (Fasting): Fasting During Ramadan
Sawm is the fourth pillar of Islam. Muslims fast during the holy month of Ramadan. They do not eat or drink from dawn to sunset. Fasting teaches self-control and reminds Muslims of the poor.
During Ramadan, Muslims spend more time praying, reading the Quran, and doing good deeds. Fasting also brings them closer to Allah and helps them grow spiritually.
Hajj (Pilgrimage): Visiting the Kaaba in Mecca
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. It is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca. Every Muslim must perform Hajj at least once in their life if they can afford it.
During Hajj, Muslims wear simple white clothes to show equality. They visit the Kaaba and perform special rituals, like walking around it seven times. Hajj brings Muslims together and strengthens their faith in Allah.
Practices in Islam
Islam teaches Muslims how to live a meaningful and peaceful life. It provides daily practices and special acts that help Muslims stay close to Allah. These practices guide their actions and create a positive impact on society.
Daily Prayers and Worship
Muslims pray five times a day. These prayers, called Salah, help Muslims remember Allah and stay connected to Him. Each prayer has specific actions, such as bowing and prostrating, which show respect to Allah.
Prayers are a way to thank Allah for His blessings and seek His guidance. Muslims pray in mosques or at home. This daily worship strengthens their faith and helps them stay focused on living a good life.
Reading and Understanding the Quran
The Quran is the holy book of Islam. Muslims read it to learn about Allah’s teachings. The Quran is written in Arabic, but translations help people understand its meaning.
Muslims believe the Quran contains guidance for every part of life. They read it daily and try to follow its lessons. Understanding the Quran helps Muslims grow spiritually and become better individuals.
Following Islamic Laws (Halal and Haram)
Muslims follow Islamic laws to live according to Allah’s commands. These laws tell them what is allowed (Halal) and forbidden (Haram). Following these rules helps Muslims live disciplined and responsible lives.
What is Halal?
Halal means anything allowed in Islam. For example, eating certain foods like fruits, vegetables, and Halal meat is Halal. Earning money honestly is also Halal. Muslims choose Halal actions to please Allah and stay on the right path.
What is Haram?
Haram means anything forbidden in Islam. Eating pork or drinking alcohol is Haram. Cheating or stealing is also Haram. Muslims avoid Haram things to obey Allah and live pure lives.
Celebrating Islamic Festivals
Islam has two major festivals: Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Adha. These celebrations bring joy and remind Muslims of their faith.
Eid-ul-Fitr
Eid-ul-Fitr comes after the holy month of Ramadan. Muslims celebrate it by praying, giving charity, and sharing food with others. It is a time of happiness and gratitude to Allah for His blessings.
Eid-ul-Adha
Eid-ul-Adha honors Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice for Allah. Muslims offer special prayers and sacrifice animals. They share the meat with family, friends, and the poor. This festival teaches kindness and obedience to Allah.
Importance of Kindness, Honesty, and Helping Others
Islam teaches Muslims to be kind, honest, and helpful. Kindness includes treating everyone with respect and compassion. Honesty means speaking the truth and being trustworthy. Helping others, like giving charity or supporting those in need, is a key part of Islamic life.
These qualities make communities stronger and spread goodness in the world. Muslims believe these actions bring them closer to Allah and earn His blessings.
Islamic Way of Life
Islam guides Muslims on how to live a peaceful and meaningful life. It focuses on building strong families, treating others kindly, and creating a just society. The teachings of Islam aim to bring harmony and fairness to every part of life.
Family and Community in Islam
Family is very important in Islam. Muslims believe that family is the foundation of a strong society. Parents teach children good manners and Islamic values, while children respect and care for their parents.
Islam encourages Muslims to support their families and neighbors. Helping others and being a part of the community creates love and unity. Family and community bonds are essential for a happy and balanced life.
Rights of Women in Islam
Islam gives women many rights. Women have the right to education, property, and earning money. They are equal to men in the eyes of Allah. Islam teaches that women should be respected and protected in all aspects of life.
Women’s Role in Family and Society
Women play an important role in Islam. In the family, they raise children with care and teach them good values. In society, women contribute by working, helping others, and sharing knowledge. Islam honors women for their responsibilities and achievements.
Treating Others with Respect and Fairness
Islam teaches Muslims to treat everyone with respect, whether they are family, friends, or strangers. Speaking kindly, being honest, and showing fairness are key values in Islam.
Muslims believe in equality and justice. They avoid hurting others and try to solve problems peacefully. Treating others with respect brings blessings from Allah and creates a better society for everyone.
Misconceptions About Islam
Many people have misconceptions about Islam because of misinformation or lack of understanding. These misunderstandings often lead to negative thoughts about the religion. Islam encourages learning and understanding its true message of peace and compassion.
Common Misunderstandings
Some people think Islam promotes violence. This is not true. Islam teaches peace, kindness, and respect for all people. It forbids harming innocent people and values the safety of everyone.
Another misunderstanding is about women’s rights. Some believe Islam limits women’s freedoms, but Islam gives women the right to education, work, and ownership of property. These rights were established in Islam long before they became common in other cultures.
Explaining the True Message of Peace in Islam
Islam’s true message is about peace and harmony. The word “Islam” comes from the Arabic word “Salaam,” which means peace. Furthermore Islam teaches Muslims to live peacefully with others, regardless of their religion or background.
Muslims are encouraged to solve conflicts through dialogue and understanding. Helping those in need, treating others kindly, and avoiding harm are central to Islamic teachings. Sharing the true message of Islam can clear up misconceptions and promote better relationships between people.