Overview Of Islam






What does 'Islam' mean?
The word Islam in Arabic comes from the word Salam, the word Salam means peace, that the word Islam means: make peace.

What were the origins of the Muslim religion?
The origin of Islam is generally accredited to the prophet Muhammad but to the devout Muslim, Islam began long before Muhammad ever walked the earth. The Qur'an was dictated by Muhammad but, according to the Qur'an, it did not originate with Muhammad. The Qur'an testifies of itself that it was given by God through the angel Gabriel to the prophet Muhammad. "This is a revelation from the Lord of the universe. The Honest Spirit (Gabriel) came down with it, to reveal it into your heart that you may be one of the warners, in a perfect Arabic tongue" (Sura 26:192-195). "Say, 'Anyone who opposes Gabriel should know that he has brought down this (the Qur'an) into your heart, in accordance with God's will, confirming previous scriptures, and providing guidance and good news for the believers'" (Sura 2:97).

How was it different from religious beliefs in Arabia pre-Mohammed? It was multi-god and goddess worship like most everywhere else before judaism kicked in


How does someone become a Muslim? To convert to Islam and become a Muslim a person needs to pronounce the below testimony with conviction and understanding its meaning (This article talks about joining Islam in more detail)
I testify “La ilah illa Allah, Muhammad rasoolu Allah.”
The translation of which is:
“I testify that there is no true god (deity) but God (Allah), and that Muhammad is a Messenger (Prophet) of God.”


How do Muslims practice their religion?
They worship God (Allah) the one and only one God, with no partner, no ssociate, no son, no resemblance
They do good deeds for the benefit of themselves, family, community, environment, and mankind.
They follow good conducts and morals
They follow Quran guides and prophet Muhammad (PBUH) teachings
They observe God in their doings and hence they strive in their doings to satisfy God


What is the Ka'ba?
A cube shaped building in Mecca, it is the most sacred site in Islam


What were the highlights of the life of Mohammed? How did he become  a prophet?


What is the Quran?
The sacred readings of Islam revealed to the prophet Mohammed in Mecca


Are there any other sacred sources?


What is jihatd?
The spiritual struggle within oneself against sinm, it is the fifth pillar of Islam