What Is Islam?

"The Muslim is obligated to recognize his responsibility to all the communities of man; he cannot forget that in promoting his own cause. He must have a healthy regard for the destiny of other people. He must also contribute to the worthwhile and noble endeavors of others. He is to support, compliment, congratulate and feel happy about the progress of others who are not of his religion. This kind of attitude is healthy for anybody, and it is an obligation for the Muslim. "

Imam W. Deen Mohammed
An African-American Genesis, 1986

The literal meaning of Islam is peace; surrender of one’s will i.e. losing oneself for the sake of G-d and surrendering one’s own pleasure for the pleasure of G-d.

The message of Islam was revealed to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings on him) over 1, 400 years ago. It was revealed through angel Gabriel (on whom be peace) and was thus preserved in the Holy Qur'an. The Holy Qur'an carries a divine guarantee of safeguard from interpolation and it combines the best features of the earlier scriptures.

The primary message of Islam is the Unity of G-d, that the Creator of the world is One and He alone is worthy of worship and that Muhammad (peace and blessings on him) is His Messenger and Servant. The follower of this belief is thus a Muslim.

Muslim’s also believe in: G-d’s angels, previously revealed Books of G-d, all the prophets, from Adam to Muhammed (peace & blessing be on them all), the Day of Judgment and indeed the decree of G-d.

A Muslim has five main duties to perform, namely; bearing witness to the Unity of G-d and Muhammad (peace and blessings on him) as His Messenger, observing the prescribed prayers, payment of Zakat, keeping the fasts of Ramadan and performing the pilgrimage to Mecca.

Islam states that each person is born pure. The Holy Qur'an tells us that G-d has given human beings a choice between good and evil and to seek G-d’s pleasure through faith, prayer and charity. Islam states that G-d created mankind in His image and by imbuing the attributes of G-d on a human level mankind can attain His nearness. Islam encourages mankind to worship G-d and to treat all G-d’s creation with kindness and compassion. Rights of parents in old age, orphans and the needy are clearly stated. Women’s rights were safeguarded over 1,400 years ago when the rest of the world was in total darkness about emancipation. Islamic teachings encompass every imaginable situation and its rules and principles are truly universal and have stood the test of time. In Islam virtue does not connote forsaking the bounties of nature that are lawful. On the contrary one is encouraged to lead a healthy, active life with the qualities of kindness, chastity, honesty, mercy, courage patience and politeness. In short, Islam has a perfect and complete code for the guidance of individuals and communities alike. As the entire message of Islam is derived from the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (the traditions and practices of the Holy Prophet, peace and blessings on him) it is immutable in the face of change in time and place. It may appear rigid to the casual eye, however it is certainly an adaptable way of life regardless of human changes. Islam teaches that the path to spiritual development is open to all. Any individual can seek nearness to G-d through sincere and earnest worship; it is central to establishing a relationship with the Almighty. This positive message for humanity fills hearts with hope and courage.

At present there are 1.5 billion Muslims worldwide and they form the majority in more than 50 countries of the world. Today Islam is the fastest growing faith in the world its beautiful message is reaching millions in the far corners of the earth.