Introduction to Islam
Overview
Islam is the second-largest religion in the world, with over 1.9 billion followers, known as
Muslims. It is a monotheistic Abrahamic faith that teaches complete submission to Allah
(God) and emphasizes a life of righteousness, compassion, and justice. Islam began in the
7th century CE in the Arabian Peninsula and has since spread across every continent,
shaping the spiritual, cultural, and political lives of diverse peoples.
Historical Origins
Prophet Muhammad (570–632 CE)
Islam was founded by Prophet Muhammad, who Muslims believe is the last prophet in a
long line of messengers sent by God, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.
Born in Mecca in present-day Saudi Arabia, Muhammad began receiving revelations from
Allah through the angel Jibrīl (Gabriel) in 610 CE at the age of 40.
These revelations continued for 23 years and were later compiled into the Qur’an, Islam’s
holy book. Muhammad’s message of monotheism, social justice, and moral accountability
attracted both followers and opposition. He migrated to Medina in 622 CE (an event known
as the Hijrah) and established the first Islamic community. By the time of his death in 632
CE, much of the Arabian Peninsula had embraced Islam.
Sacred Texts
1. The Qur’an
The Qur’an is considered the literal word of God, revealed in Arabic to Muhammad. It
contains guidance on every aspect of life: spiritual, moral, legal, and social. It is divided
into 114 chapters (sūrahs) and over 6,000 verses (āyāt).
2. Hadith
The Hadith are records of the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad. They
explain and supplement the Qur’an. Collections such as Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim
are among the most widely accepted.
Core Beliefs (Six Articles of Faith)
1. Tawḥīd (Belief in One God): Allah is the sole creator and sustainer of the universe.
2. Angels: Created by God from light, angels carry out divine tasks (e.g., Jibrīl).
3. Books of Revelation: Muslims believe in previous scriptures revealed to prophets
(e.g., Torah, Psalms, Gospel), though only the Qur’an is preserved in its original
form.
4. Prophets: God sent prophets to guide humanity; Muhammad is the final prophet.
5. Day of Judgment: All humans will be resurrected and judged for their deeds.
6. Divine Decree (Qadar): Everything happens according to God’s will and knowledge,
though humans have free will.
Five Pillars of Islam (Core Practices)
1. Shahādah (Declaration of Faith): “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the
Messenger of Allah.” This affirms monotheism and prophethood.
2. Ṣalāh (Prayer): Muslims pray five times a day facing Mecca. Prayer fosters
discipline and connection with God.
3. Zakāh (Charity): A fixed portion (usually 2.5%) of a Muslim’s wealth is given to the
poor and needy.
4. Ṣawm (Fasting in Ramadan): During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from
dawn to sunset to develop self-discipline and empathy for the less fortunate.
5. Ḥajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca): Required once in a lifetime for those who are physically
and financially able.
Islamic Law (Sharīʿah)
Sharīʿah is a comprehensive system of laws derived from the Qur’an and Hadith, guiding all
aspects of life—from personal behavior to social justice and criminal law. It includes:
• Ibādāt (acts of worship): Rules for prayer, fasting, etc.
• Muʿāmalāt (human interactions): Guidelines for trade, family, marriage, and
governance.
Different schools of thought (e.g., Hanafi, Shafiʿi, Maliki, Hanbali in Sunni Islam) interpret
Sharīʿah in diverse ways.
Branches of Islam
1. Sunni Islam
Roughly 85-90% of Muslims. Sunnis believe in the legitimacy of the first four caliphs
(successors) after Muhammad.
2. Shia Islam
Shias believe that Ali, the Prophet’s cousin and son-in-law, was the rightful successor. The
largest Shia group is the Twelvers, who follow a line of twelve Imams.
Other branches include:
• Sufism: A mystical tradition focused on inner spiritual development and love of
God.
• Ibadi Islam: Predominantly found in Oman; known for moderation and a strong
emphasis on justice.
Major Festivals
• Eid al-Fitr: Celebrated at the end of Ramadan, marked by communal prayers and
charity.
• Eid al-Adha: Commemorates Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son; involves
the sacrifice of an animal and distribution of meat to the poor.
• Mawlid an-Nabi: Celebration of the Prophet Muhammad’s birth (observed in some
communities).
Islamic Ethics and Society
Islamic ethics emphasize:
• Justice (`adl) and mercy (rahmah)
• Kindness to parents, neighbors, and the needy
• Honesty, humility, and patience
• Condemnation of oppression, lying, backbiting, and pride
The family is central to Islamic life, with clear roles and responsibilities. Islam encourages
modesty in behavior and dress and forbids intoxicants and gambling.
Islam in the World Today
Islam is practiced globally, with large populations in the Middle East, North Africa, South
Asia, Southeast Asia, and growing communities in Europe, the Americas, and Sub-
Saharan Africa.
Modern Muslim communities face diverse challenges and opportunities, such as:
• Islamophobia and integration in the West
• Religious reform and interpretation
• Social justice, gender roles, and interfaith dialogue
Despite these, Islam remains a living faith with rich traditions of scholarship, spirituality,
art, and community life.
Conclusion
Islam is a comprehensive faith rooted in submission to one God and the pursuit of justice,
mercy, and spiritual growth. It unites a diverse global community under a shared belief in
God’s guidance, revealed through Prophet Muhammad and the Qur’an. Islam continues to
shape and inspire millions around the world through its teachings of peace, purpose, and
devotion.
