Did you know? Islam is a vibrant and global faith practiced by over 2 billion people around the world, making it one of the world's largest religions! From the bustling cities of Asia to the sun-drenched landscapes of Africa and the Middle East, Islam is a way of life for millions across 26 countries.
The global population is surging, and Islam is growing faster than ever. By 2050, Muslims are projected to make up a significant portion of the world's population, with a remarkable 73% increase. This signifies a dynamic and growing faith community.
The Qur'an is the holy book for Muslims. It remains in its original form preserved in the exact language revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (p). Qur'an is the direct words of God.
The Glorious Qur'an is memorized by millions (word for word, cover to cover) in every generation since the time of the Holy Prophet (p) and in our own time.
Throughout history, there has been a universal tendency among people from diverse backgrounds and regions to seek and yearn for a Creator. This innate inclination, referred to as "fitra" in Arabic, suggests a fundamental aspect of human nature. Even in the absence of recorded religious teachings or prophets, individuals have felt drawn to a higher power, often expressing this through various forms, such as idol worship. This innate yearning highlights a pervasive aspect of human spirituality across cultures and time periods.
Islam's core principle emphasizes belief in the Oneness of God, recognizing Him as the sole Creator, Preserver, and Nourisher. Yet, this belief extends beyond mere acknowledgment; it entails the exclusive worship of God, refraining from associating others with Him in worship. Central to Islamic doctrine is the understanding that God transcends familial or tribal affiliations; He stands as the universal God of all humanity, unmatched and incomparable. This principle underscores the rejection of idolatry and emphasizes the unity and uniqueness of God within Islam.
The Quran, Islam's sacred text, highlights the falsehood of worshiping man-made objects or celestial bodies. It questions the logic of worshiping idols crafted by human hands, reminding believers that it is God (Allah) who created both them and their handiwork. Through the story of Abraham, the Quran illustrates the futility of worshiping stars, moons, or the sun, as each fades or sets. Abraham's realization leads him to reject polytheism and affirm his belief in the singular Creator of the heavens and earth. This narrative emphasizes the importance of monotheism and the rejection of idolatry within Islam.
Throughout history, the Creator has selected individuals to convey His messages to humanity. These messages ultimately culminated in Islam, with Muhammad (P) being the final Prophet. Islam is portrayed in the Quran as the continuation and fulfillment of prior revelations, not a new religion. It is described as the religion of Abraham (p), Jacob (p), Moses (p), Jesus (p), and other prophets (p). Islam represents the last divine message delivered through Prophet Muhammad (p), chosen by the Creator to convey His comprehensive and final revelation to humanity.
In the annals of human history, certain figures stand out not just for their deeds but for the profound impact they've had on shaping the course of civilization. Among them, Prophet Muhammad (p) shines brightly as a beacon of inspiration, revered by billions worldwide for his unparalleled legacy. In Michael H. Hart's groundbreaking book "The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History," Muhammad (p) ascends to the apex, hailed as the greatest man to ever walk the earth. But what makes him deserving of such a lofty title?
At the heart of Muhammad's (p) greatness lies his transformative influence on religion. As the founder of Islam, his teachings laid the foundation for one of the world's major faiths, guiding the lives of countless individuals with profound spiritual wisdom. His message of monotheism, compassion, and social justice resonates across time and space, offering solace and guidance to seekers of truth.
Yet, Muhammad's (p) impact extends far beyond the realm of religion. In the tumultuous landscape of 7th-century Arabia, he emerged not only as a spiritual guide but also as a visionary leader and statesman. His leadership in establishing the early Muslim community in Medina showcased his remarkable ability to unite diverse tribes under a common cause, laying the groundwork for a just and egalitarian society.
Moreover, Muhammad's (p) cultural contributions are nothing short of monumental. The Quran, the sacred scripture revealed to him, serves as a cornerstone of Islamic civilization, inspiring generations of poets, scholars, and artists. From the breathtaking architecture of mosques to the exquisite calligraphy of Quranic verses, his influence permeates every facet of Islamic culture, enriching the tapestry of human creativity.
But perhaps most significantly, Muhammad's (p) legacy transcends geographical boundaries, encompassing a global community of believers united by their devotion to Islam. Through centuries of conquest and trade, the message of Islam spread far and wide, leaving an indelible mark on the collective consciousness of humanity. Today, over a billion Muslims worldwide look to Muhammad (p) as a paragon of virtue, drawing inspiration from his exemplary life and teachings.
In a world beset by strife and division, the story of Prophet Muhammad (p) offers a timeless reminder of the power of faith, compassion, and unity. His legacy serves as a guiding light for all who seek to build a better world, reminding us that greatness lies not in wealth or power, but in the service of humanity.
As we reflect on the enduring legacy of Prophet Muhammad (p), let us draw inspiration from his example and strive to emulate his noble virtues in our own lives. For in the words of Michael H. Hart, it is Muhammad's (p) unparalleled influence on religion, politics, society, and culture that truly elevates him to the ranks of history's greatest men.
download the biography of prophet Mohamed(p) (The Sealed Nectar)
The story of Prophet Muhammad (p) is one of profound significance, transcending time and space to offer guidance and inspiration to billions of people around the globe. Born in the city of Mecca in 570 CE, Muhammad's (p) life journey would become a testament to the power of faith, perseverance, and compassion.
As a young man, Muhammad (p) was known for his honesty, integrity, and kindness, earning him the title of "Al-Amin," or the trustworthy. His deep contemplation of the societal injustices and moral decay prevalent in Meccan society led him to seek solitude in the mountains, where he would reflect upon the greater purpose of life.
It was during one of these solitary retreats in the Cave of Hira that Muhammad (p) received his first revelation from God through the Angel Gabriel. Over the next 23 years, these divine revelations would continue, culminating in the completion of the Quran, the holy book of Islam.
Despite facing persecution and opposition from the Meccan elites, Muhammad (p) remained steadfast in his mission to spread the message of Islam. In 622 CE, he made the momentous journey to Medina, where he found refuge and support among its inhabitants. This event, known as the Hijra, marks the beginning of the Islamic lunar calendar and symbolizes the birth of the Muslim community.
In Medina, Muhammad (p) not only served as a spiritual guide but also as a wise and just leader, implementing social reforms and fostering a sense of unity among the diverse tribes of the city. His exemplary character and teachings laid the foundation for a society based on justice, compassion, and mutual respect.
Over the next decade, Muhammad's (p) influence continued to grow, as Islam spread throughout the Arabian Peninsula and beyond. His leadership in various battles against the Meccan forces was characterized by mercy and compassion, exemplifying the Islamic principles of just warfare.
In 632 CE, Prophet Muhammad (p) delivered his farewell sermon during his pilgrimage to Mecca, emphasizing the importance of unity, equality, and social justice. Months later, he passed away, leaving behind a legacy that would shape the course of human history for centuries to come.
Today, Prophet Muhammad's (p) teachings continue to serve as a source of guidance and inspiration for Muslims worldwide. His life story exemplifies the values of faith, humility, and service to humanity, reminding us of the timeless principles that unite us all as members of the human family.
As we reflect on the biography of Prophet Muhammad (p), let us draw inspiration from his example and strive to embody the noble virtues he espoused. For in his life, we find a beacon of guidance illuminating the path towards a more just, compassionate, and harmonious world for all.
download the biography of prophet Mohamed(p) (The Sealed Nectar)
Are you contemplating embracing Islam but unsure of its requirements? The initial step is to grasp the fundamental beliefs of Islam, which include:
These beliefs form the foundation of being a Muslim. If you affirm these principles, you are prepared to embrace Islam. To formally become a Muslim, you only need to declare the testimony of faith, known as the shahada in Arabic.
Ash Hadu An Laa Elaaha Illa Allah (I bear witness that there is no God except Allah)
Wa Ash Hadu Ana Muhammadan Rasul Allah (And I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah).
The Shahada is the first pillar of Islam and is what makes one a Muslim. The five pillars of Islam (found here) consist of:
Congratulations, you are now a Muslim. We are Happy for you. Let us Know About you.
Immediately upon becoming a Muslim, you should take a shower or bath as a form of purification. This is a symbolic act that signifies the washing away of the past and of emerging from darkness to light.
Muslims believe in one God who created the universe and has power over everything within it. He is unique and exalted above everything He creates, and His greatness cannot be compared to His creation. Furthermore, He is the only one deserving of any worship and the ultimate purpose of all creation is to submit to Him. The Islamic understanding of God is distinct from all other religions and beliefs in various respects since it is based on a pure and clear understanding of monotheism. This essentially captures the concept of God in Islam
Muslims commonly use the name Allah to refer to God, which is universal and not exclusive to Islam. This name is related to Aramaic and Hebrew names for God, affirming His singularity and uniqueness without partners or equals. Allah cannot be pluralized or limited to a specific gender, emphasizing the oneness of God. Muslims prefer this Arabic name as it perfectly expresses God's unique qualities.
The Quran emphasizes God's mercy and forgiveness by repeatedly using the names Al-Rahman (Most Gracious) and Al-Rahim (Most Merciful) at the beginning of chapters. This signifies that God's love and compassion are vast and ever-present, even for those who have done wrong. Essentially, it's a message of hope and acceptance for anyone who seeks forgiveness and turns to God.
Moral truths exist, independent of human opinion or cultural norms. Morality is rooted in the unchanging and perfect nature of Allah. Actions are seen as inherently good or bad based on Allah's commands, rather than something humans discover on their own. Morality is a set of divine rules dictated by Allah the All Knowing, the All Wise.
The Shahadah, "There is none worthy of worship except God (Allah), and Muhammad (p) is the messenger of God," is a fundamental declaration of faith in Islam. It signifies the belief that life's purpose is to serve and obey God, with guidance provided through the teachings and practices of the Last Prophet, Muhammad (p).
Prayer in Islam involves performing obligatory prayers five times a day, serving as a direct connection between the worshipper and God. Unlike hierarchical structures, Islam lacks priests, with prayers led by knowledgeable individuals chosen by the congregation. These prayers, occurring at dawn, mid-day, late-afternoon, sunset, and nightfall, structure the rhythm of the entire day and include verses from the Quran recited in Arabic. While it's preferred to pray in congregation at a mosque, Muslims can pray anywhere, emphasizing the centrality of prayer in daily life.
In Islam, the principle of zakah emphasizes that all wealth ultimately belongs to God, entrusted to humans as stewards. Zakah, meaning both "purification" and "growth," involves setting aside a portion of one's wealth for those in need and for the betterment of society. Similar to pruning plants, this practice purifies possessions and encourages new growth. Each Muslim calculates their own zakah, typically amounting to 2.5% of their capital annually, excluding primary residence, car, and professional tools.
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast daily from dawn until sundown, refraining from food, drink, and sexual relations with their spouses. Exceptions to fasting include individuals who are sick, elderly, traveling, menstruating, pregnant, or nursing, who can make up missed days later if healthy. Children typically begin fasting and observing prayers at puberty, though some may start earlier.
The pilgrimage to Mecca, known as Hajj, is obligatory only for those physically and financially capable. Yet, over two million people from worldwide travel to Mecca annually, fostering a unique global gathering. Hajj commences in the twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Pilgrims wear simple garments, erasing class and cultural distinctions, emphasizing equality before God.
The core principle of Islam is Tawhid, believing in one God (Allah) as the sole creator, sustainer, and ruler of everything. Just believing He exists isn't enough. Even idolaters acknowledged a supreme being but worshipped others alongside it. True belief requires acknowledging Allah as the only worthy of worship and abstaining from worshipping anything else. Muslims also believe Allah is without parents, offspring, or equals. He is the God of all humanity, not favoring any specific group.
Muslims revere prophets as messengers chosen by God to guide humanity. Each prophet brought a message relevant to their time, emphasizing the importance of worshipping one God and living virtuously. The Quran, mentions numerous prophets, including Abraham (p), Moses (p), and Jesus (p). Muslims believe in and respect all these prophets. So, honoring all prophets while recognizing the completion of prophethood in Prophet Muhammad (p) emphasizes the unity of God's message across time, delivered through chosen messengers for the betterment of humankind.
Angels are celestial creations formed entirely of light. They possess a vast range of abilities and fulfill diverse roles, though their exact number remains unknown. Unlike humans, angels are not immortal, but their lifespans far exceed our comprehension. While unseen by human senses in their natural state, angels play a vital role as God's messengers and servants. They faithfully carry out God's commands, and categorically reject worship or prayers directed towards them. It's important to remember that they are not God's partners or regional rulers, but rather servants of God.
The Quran, the holy scripture of Islam, was bestowed upon Muhammad (p), the final prophet in Islam. It acknowledges other divine books sent to prophets across history, including the Book of Abraham, the Torah (Taurat) to Moses, the Psalms (Zabur) to David, and the Gospel (Injeel) to Jesus. Islamic belief requires adherence to all four scriptures. Each was revealed by God to their respective prophets, who conveyed the divine message to their communities. The Book of Abraham is lost entirely, while the Psalms, Torah, and Gospel are believed to have undergone changes, additions, or distortions over time. In contrast, the Quran is upheld as the sole scripture preserved in its original form, as revealed to Prophet Muhammad (p).
In Islam, death is not considered the end but rather a transition back to God (Allah). Muslims believe in an eternal continuum where life after death is determined by one's actions in this world. This life is viewed as a test, with individuals accountable for their deeds. Those who comprehend this reality express gratitude for blessings and worship God humbly, striving to promote goodness in all aspects of life. Embracing a God-conscious lifestyle transcends mere worldly pleasures, providing a deeper sense of purpose.
In Islam, humans are regarded as God's supreme creation with a unique purpose: to worship Him. While granted free will to navigate life, our actions' outcomes are ultimately subject to God's will. Regardless of our efforts, if God does not decree something, it will not come to pass. Conversely, if God wills something, it will occur despite any attempts to prevent it. This belief underscores the omnipotence and sovereignty of God in shaping human destiny.