Introduction
Islam is one of the world’s major monotheistic religions, with over 1.9 billion followers globally, making it the second-largest religion after Christianity. The term Islam means “submission” in Arabic—specifically, submission to the will of Allah, the Arabic word for God. A follower of Islam is called a Muslim, which means “one who submits.”
Founded in the 7th century CE in Mecca (in present-day Saudi Arabia), Islam emerged as both a spiritual and socio-political revolution under the Prophet Muhammad. It has since evolved into a vast and diverse civilization influencing culture, law, science, philosophy, and global affairs.
The Life of the Prophet Muhammad
Muhammad ibn Abdullah was born around 570 CE in Mecca, a commercial and religious center in the Arabian Peninsula. Orphaned at a young age, he was raised by his grandfather and later by his uncle. Known for his honesty and trustworthiness, he earned the title Al-Amin (“the trustworthy”).
At the age of 40, during a period of retreat in a cave on Mount Hira, Muhammad received the first of many revelations through the Angel Gabriel (Jibril). These revelations continued over 23 years and were eventually compiled into the Qur’an, Islam’s holy book.
Muhammad preached monotheism, social justice, and moral responsibility, urging Meccans to abandon idolatry, care for the poor, and prepare for the Day of Judgment. His teachings initially met strong resistance from the powerful elite of Mecca. After years of persecution, he and his followers migrated to Medina in 622 CE—an event known as the Hijrah, marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar.
In Medina, Muhammad established the first Muslim community (ummah), governed by a set of ethical and legal principles. Over the next decade, he gained political and military strength, eventually returning to Mecca peacefully and cleansing the Kaaba of idols. He died in 632 CE, leaving behind a united Arabian Peninsula under the banner of Islam.
Core Beliefs of Islam: The Six Articles of Faith
Muslims believe in six essential articles of faith:
- Belief in One God (Allah)
Allah is unique, eternal, and without partner or equal. He is the creator and sustainer of the universe. - Belief in Angels
Angels are spiritual beings who carry out God’s commands. Gabriel is known for delivering revelation. - Belief in Divine Books
Muslims believe in the holy scriptures revealed to various prophets, including the Torah (to Moses), Psalms (to David), Gospel (to Jesus), and finally the Qur’an (to Muhammad), which is considered the final and complete revelation. - Belief in Prophets
Islam teaches that God sent prophets to all nations. Key prophets include Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad—the final prophet (Seal of the Prophets). - Belief in the Day of Judgment
All humans will be resurrected and judged based on their deeds. The righteous will enter Paradise (Jannah), and the wicked will face Hell (Jahannam). - Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar)
God’s knowledge and control extend over everything. Human beings have free will, but nothing happens outside God’s divine plan.
The Five Pillars of Islam: Core Practices
Islamic practice is centered on five pillars, which serve as the foundation of Muslim life:
- Shahada (Faith)
The testimony of faith: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.” This declaration is the entry point into Islam. - Salat (Prayer)
Muslims are required to pray five times daily facing Mecca. These prayers involve physical prostration, recitation of Qur’anic verses, and a deep connection with God. - Zakat (Charity)
Muslims must give a portion (usually 2.5%) of their savings annually to the poor and needy. Zakat purifies wealth and promotes social equality. - Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan)
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset—abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs—to develop self-discipline and empathy for the less fortunate. - Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)
Muslims who are physically and financially able must perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage involves rituals tracing the footsteps of Abraham, Hagar, and Muhammad.
The Qur’an and Hadith
The Qur’an
The Qur’an is the holy book of Islam, consisting of 114 chapters (surahs) revealed in Arabic. It covers spiritual, ethical, legal, and social topics. Muslims believe the Qur’an to be the literal word of God, preserved without alteration.
The Hadith
The Hadith are records of the sayings, actions, and approvals of the Prophet Muhammad. While the Qur’an is the primary source of Islamic belief, the Hadith offers practical guidance on worship, ethics, and law. Collections such as those compiled by Bukhari and Muslim are highly respected.
Branches of Islam
While Islam is unified by core beliefs and practices, there are different schools of thought and sects, the most prominent being:
- Sunni Islam – Represents the majority of Muslims (about 85–90%). Sunnis follow the Sunnah (tradition) of the Prophet and recognize the first four caliphs as rightful successors.
- Shia Islam – Believes that leadership should have remained within the Prophet’s family, particularly with Ali, his cousin and son-in-law. Shia Islam has various branches, including Twelvers, Ismailis, and Zaidis.
Despite historical and theological differences, both Sunnis and Shias share the same Qur’an, core beliefs, and pillars of practice.
Islamic Law and Ethics (Sharia)
Sharia is the moral and legal code derived from the Qur’an and Hadith. It covers every aspect of life—from personal conduct and family matters to business transactions and criminal justice.
Key principles of Sharia include:
- Justice (adl)
- Mercy (rahma)
- Public welfare (maslaha)
- Human dignity (karamah)
Sharia is interpreted through various schools of fiqh (jurisprudence), such as Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali. Not all Muslim countries enforce Sharia in the same way—its application varies widely across cultures and legal systems.
Contributions to Civilization
Islamic civilization flourished between the 8th and 14th centuries, a period often called the Golden Age of Islam. During this time, Muslim scholars made remarkable contributions in:
- Science and Medicine – Advances in algebra, astronomy, optics, and medicine
- Philosophy and Theology – Integration of Greek philosophy with Islamic thought
- Literature and Art – Poetic works like those of Rumi, and stunning architectural achievements such as the Alhambra and Blue Mosque
- Education – Establishment of libraries, universities, and centers of learning like Al-Azhar and Bayt al-Hikma (House of Wisdom)
This intellectual heritage has had a lasting impact on global culture and knowledge.
Islam in the Modern World
Today, Islam is practiced in every continent, with significant populations in Asia, Africa, Europe, and the Americas. It adapts to diverse cultures while preserving its core tenets.
However, Islam faces challenges:
- Stereotypes and Islamophobia—due in part to media portrayals and extremist groups that do not represent the faith
- Internal reform and renewal—addressing issues such as gender roles, governance, and modern ethics
- Interfaith dialogue—Muslims increasingly participate in conversations with Jews, Christians, and people of other faiths to promote peace and understanding
At its heart, Islam calls for submission to God, compassion for others, and a life of righteousness and balance.
Conclusion
Islam is more than a religion; it is a comprehensive way of life that integrates spiritual devotion, ethical conduct, community values, and social justice. Its emphasis on monotheism, moral responsibility, and universal brotherhood continues to shape the lives of nearly a quarter of the world’s population.
Despite misunderstandings and misrepresentations, the essence of Islam—like the message of its Prophet—is one of peace, mercy, and guidance. The greeting “As-salamu alaykum” (“Peace be upon you”) serves as a daily reminder of its core values.
In an increasingly interconnected world, understanding Islam is not just a matter of religious literacy but of cultural awareness and global harmony.
