Islam is an Arabic word which means peace, submission and obedience. It also means acceptance and commitment to abide by the teachings and guidance of God. One of the beautiful names of  God is As-Salam (The Peace). Islam also means to be at peace with God and His creatures. Being at peace with God implies complete submission to His will, Who is the source of all purity and  goodness. Being at peace with His creatures implies living in peace within one’s self, with other people and with the environment. Thus, Islam is a total system of living in peace. Islam is the same  message and guidance which God revealed through all His Prophets to every people throughout the history of mankind. One who follows Islam is called a Muslim (an Arabic word which means,  the one who submits to the will of God).

No! It is the same religion which was preached by all the prophets and is further elaborated through the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. God ordered him:

“Say: We believe in Allah and in that which was revealed to us, and in that which was revealed to Abraham and Ishmael and Isaac and Jacob and the tribes and in that which was given to Moses  and to Jesus and to other Prophets from their God; we make no distinction between any of them, and to Him we are Muslims.” [Quran 3: 84]

The religion of Islam is as old  as humanity itself. It was in  fact the religion of every prophet of God, who appeared in any part of the world. According to the Quran, Islam was the religion of  Adam, Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Moses and Jesus, peace be upon them all. However, it was revealed to Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, in its comprehensive, complete and  final form.

The major characteristic of Islam is that through believing in all the Prophets and God’s message revealed to each of them; it lays down the basis of peace and harmony among the people of the world. The great mission of Islam is not only to preach the above-mentioned truth, but also to correct those errors which had crept into the prevailing religions. Most important of all, Islam  gathers in one book all those truths which were contained in earlier Divine revelations granted to previous Prophets for the guidance of mankind, and to meet all the spiritual and moral  requirements of an ever-advancing humanity. Muslims are encouraged to cooperate with all those who are faithful and God-conscious people, namely those who received scriptures (Torah, Psalms and Gospel) through His Prophets. Christians and Jews are called the “People of  the Book (Scripture,)” and their Prophets and Scriptures are honored by the Muslims.

Islam teaches that diversity among human beings is a sign of God’s mercy and no one has superiority based on one’s color, language or nationality. Islam promotes the  brotherhood of man, toleration of one another, sympathy for the unfortunate and cooperation for general human happiness. If there is any one religion in the world which  has strove to eliminate racism, it is Islam. There is no distinction between men on account of mere birth in a particular family, particular profession, particular race or  particular country, and that all human beings are equal. God created people of different colors, nationalities, languages and ethnic origins so that we may recognize one another.

Muslims are those 1.9 billion people (per CIA World’s Facts Book in year 2000), from all races, colors, nationalities and cultures who believe in One God (Allah) and accept Muhammad, (peace be upon him,) as the last Prophet. The majority of Muslims live in Indonesia, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Iran, Turkey, Iraq, Syria, Jordan,  Palestine, Egypt, Libya, Algeria, Morocco, Bosnia and other parts of the continents of Asia and Africa. Significant minorities are in India, China, Russia, Europe, North  America (over.9.993 million in the USA) and South America. A Muslim is a person who freely and willingly accepts the supreme power of God and strives to organize his or  her life in accordance with His commandments. Hence a Muslim is any person anywhere in the world whose obedience, allegiance, and loyalty are to the One and Only God  (Allah), the Creator of the Universe, and as such submits to the Divine Laws following the Sunnah (traditions) of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.

Muslims believe in:

• One and Only God (Allah) with all His unique attributes;
• Angels created by Him;
• All the Holy Books originally revealed to the different Prophets, including  the Torah, Psalms, Gospel (Bible) and the Quran;
• All the Prophets through whom God sent His Message to mankind including Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob,  Joseph, Moses, David, Solomon, Jesus and Muhammad, peace be upon them all;
• The Day of Judgment (the Day of Resurrection – Life after Death) and individual’s accountability (reward and punishment) for good and bad deeds / actions; and
• Al-Qadar (God’s Pre-estimation), which means God knows everything. He knows what has happened and what will happen.

The word ‘Allah’ is the combination of two Arabic words ‘AL [lah’ which means “The God’; it is the proper name of the only Supreme Being Who exists necessarily by Himself. This word comprises all the attributes of perfection. This word is neither feminine nor plural and has never been applied to any other being. This word has no  corresponding word in English or in any other language of the world. Allah is the One and Only ‘True God’s personal name. Nothing or no one else can be called Allah. That is why Muslims use the word Allah, His personal name, and not God. It is interesting to note that Allah is also used for God in Aramaic, the language of Jesus, peace be  upon him, and that all Arab Jews and Christians also use the word Allah for God.

Anyone who believes in One God and does not consider any other deity worthy of  worship besides Him, all he or she has to do is to affirm  the belief in the last  Prophet of God  Muhammad, peace be upon him through saying: La  Ilaha Ilallahu Muhammadun Rasoolul llah. It means: ‘There is no deity (God worthy of Worshiping, or any other deity) except Allah (the One and Only one and True  God) and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah,” and then follow the Quran and traditions of the Prophet Muhammad,  peace be upon him. This is called the Shahadah (bearing witness to the Truth).

The Merciful and Loving God not only created human beings, but also arranged for their guidance through appointing Prophets throughout the ages from among the human beings. God revealed His will to the Prophets, peace be upon them all, and commissioned them to deliver that Message. In every known nation one or more Prophets were appointed. All the prophets of God were men of good character and high honor. Their honesty and truthfulness, their intelligence and integrity were beyond doubt.

The  appointment of these Prophets from God is a clear manifestation of a strong link between Heaven and Earth, between God and man. The purpose of Prophethood is to  confirm what mankind already knows or can know, and to teach them what they do not or cannot know by their own means. Such as: why we are created? What will happen  to us after death? Is there any life after death? Are we accountable for our actions? Similarly questions about God, Angels, paradise, and hell cannot be answered without  revelations from the Creator and Knower of the unseen. It is also to help man to find the Right Path, and to do what is right and shun what is wrong. Prophethood is an eloquent expression of God’s love for human beings and His will to guide them to the right way of belief and behavior. He provides true guidance to mankind, and then  holds them responsible for their deeds. He gave them warnings through His prophets about the consequences of their wrongful deeds, and the good news of rewards for  their good deeds.

The Source of Prophethood and the appointment of all the prophets is One and the Same: it is the One and Only God (Allah). The Prophet’s aim is to serve  God, to acquaint human beings with God and His Divine teachings, to establish truth and goodness, to help mankind realize the true purpose of their existence and to help  them in living their lives in a purposeful way. It is on this basis that the Muslims make no distinction among any of the Prophets and accept their teachings as consistent  and complementary to each other.

Who is Muhammad? Muhammad, peace be upon him, is the last Prophet of God appointed for the guidance of the whole of mankind. He is answer to the prayer of Prophets Abraham and Ishmael, peace be upon them:

“Our Lord, appoint from among them (residents of Makkah) a Messenger who shall recite to them Your Revelations  and teach them the Book and the Wisdom, and purify them; surely, You are the All Mighty, the Wise.” [Quran 2:129]

His appointment is foretold by the Prophet Jesus, peace be upon him:

“And remember when Isa ( Jesus) the son of Mary said: “O children of Israel! I am the Messenger of  Allah towards you, confirming the Torah which came before me, and giving you good news of a Messenger that will come after me whose name shall be Ahmad (another name of the Prophet Muhammad).” [Quran 61:6]

He was born in 570 AD in Makkah, Arabia. As he grew up he became known for his honesty and truthfulness and people used to call him Al-Ameen (the trustworthy) and Al-Sadiq (the truthful; the Truth teller). He was very calm and meditative. He had no ambition for becoming a leader. He used to go away from the city crowd and meditate in a cave called Hira on a nearby barren mountain.

It was in this secluded place where God sent him the first revelation through Angel Gabriel when he was forty years old. It is important to note that he could neither read nor write. Muhammad, peace be upon him, is a human being who was chosen by God and assigned the mission of leading humanity to righteousness, and serving as a model of moral conduct. In this role, Muhammad peace be upon him, did experience  the difficulties and trials which all Prophets before him experienced. Quran says: “O Prophet! Surely, We have sent you as a witness, as a bearer of good news and as a Warner, and to call the people towards Allah.”

As soon as he began to recite the revelations he received from God, he and his small group of followers suffered bitter persecution. Finally in the  year 622 A.D. (after 13 years of preaching), God gave him permission to immigrate from Makkah to a city over 200 miles away called Yathrib which is now known as Al-Madinah. This migration, called the Hira, marks the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

Of all the Prophets of Allah, Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, is the only one whose life is well documented in the historical records. Although Jesus, peace be upon him, lived only 2,000 years ago in an important part of the Roman Empire, the Empire was at its prime and had many eminent historians and writers recording every development, but no early historian mentioned the birth, the mission and the crucifixion of Jesus, peace be upon him. Only one Jewish historian, Josephus, made a  casual reference, which is considered to be a later addition.

It is part of human nature to look to someone higher and nobler for guidance to make him one’s role model. Muhammad, peace be upon him, is an exemplar. The life of Muhammad is like an open book from cover to cover; from his posthumous birth to his childhood, to his youth, to his Prophethood, to his being the ruler of Arabia and  finally right up to his death. One non-Muslim scholar, Lamartine, writes the following words about him:

“If greatness of purpose, smallness of means, and astounding results are the three criteria of human genius, who could dare to compare any great man in modern history with Muhammad. The most famous men created arms, laws and empires only. They founded, if anything at all, no more than material powers which often crumbled away before their eyes. This man moved not only  armies, legislation, empires, people and dynasties but millions of men in one-third of the then inhabited world; and more than that, he moved the altars, the gods, the  religions, the ideas, the beliefs and souls. On the basis of a Book, every letter of which has become law, he created a spiritual nationality, which blended together people of  every tongue and of every race. He has left for us as the indelible characteristic of this Muslim nationality, the hatred of false gods and the passion for the one and  immaterial God. Philosopher, Orator, apostle, legislator, warrior, conqueror of ideas, restorer of rational dogmas, of a cult without images, the founder of twenty terrestrial  empires and of one spiritual empire, that is Muhammad. As regards all standards by which human greatness may be measured we may well ask, is there any man greater  than he is?” Histoire de la turquie, Paris. VoL. IL, pp.276-277.

Sunnah is the sayings, actions and tacit approval of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. It is another source of Islamic Laws, rules and regulations, and ranks  second after the Quran. Sunnah is recorded in books of Hadith (narrations) and is important in understanding the meaning of the Quranic text, exploring the principles outlined in the Quran and showing how to understand and practice them. Examples of Prophet’s sayings:

1. When the leader of a  Community comes to you, receive him with  due respect.
2. Actions (and deeds) are judged (by God) based  on one’s intentions.
3. The best approach in everything is moderation.
4. This world ts a prison for the believer and paradise for the unbeliever.
5. In forgiveness of a king lies the survival of his  kingdom.
6. The upper hand (giving) is better than the lower hand (receiving).
7. True Muslim is the one  from whose tongue and  hands other Muslims are safe.

Islam requires the Muslims  to believe in all the prior  scriptures including Taurat (Torah) and Injeel (Gospel/Bible) that they  were the true revelations  from Allah. Because of not preserving in original  languages in written form  and translating them in various languages from oral  narrations through  centuries, human words  were mingled with Divine  Words, therefore, they lost  their pure forms. Relating  to this fact the Holy Quran  states:

“Then in the footsteps of  those Prophets (Abraham,  Isaac, Jacob, David, Moses  and others), We sent Jesus,  the son of Mary, confirming  whatever  remained intact from the  Torah in his time, and gave  him the Injeel  (Gospel/Bible) wherein was guidance and light, confirming what was revealed in the Torah; a  guidance and an  admonition to those who  fear Allah. Therefore, let the people who follow the Injeel (Gospel/Bible), judge by the Law which Allah has revealed therein; those who  do not judge by the Law  which Allah has revealed,  are indeed the  transgressors. To you (O  Muhammad), We have revealed this Book (Quran)  with the truth. It confirms whatever has remained intact from the Book which came before it (Gospel/Bible) and also to safeguard it. Therefore, judge between them according to Allah’s revelations and do not yield to their  vain desires, diverging from the truth which has come to you. We have ordained a law and a Way of life for each of you. If Allah wanted, He could have made all of you a single nation. But He willed otherwise in order to test you in what He has given you; therefore, try to excel one another in good deeds. (Ultimately) you all shall return to Allah; then He will tell you the truth of those matters in which you dispute [Quran 5:46-48]

Islam calls Jews and Christians as ‘the People of the Book/Scripture’ to whom came the great Prophets including Moses (Musa) and Jesus (Isa). Islam invites them to cooperate in  what is common between them and Islam. In the respective Prophets’ time they were also called Muslims as God Almighty said in the Holy Quran about Prophet Abraham,  the forefather of Moses and Jesus, peace be upon them, in the following words:

Say: “O people of the Book! Let us get together on what is common between us and you: that we shall worship none but Allah (the One and only True God); that we shall not associate any partners with Him; that we shall not take from among ourselves any lords beside Allah.” If they reject your invitation then tell them: “Bear witness that we are Muslims (who have surrendered to Allah).” O  people of the Book! Why do you argue with us about Abraham as to whether he was a Jew or a Christian? You know that the  Torah and the Gospel were revealed long after him? Have you no sense at all? So far, you have been arguing about things of  which you had some knowledge! Must you now argue about that of which you know nothing at all? Allah knows while you do not.  Abraham was neither a Jew nor a Christian but he was a Muslim, true in faith. He was not one of the Mushrikeen (who set up partners with Allah) [Quran 3: 64-67]

Muslims are required to believe in all the Holy Scriptures revealed to various Prophets in the following words:

Say: “We believe in Allah  and that which is revealed to us; and what was  revealed to Abraham,  Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and their descendants, and that  which was given to Moses,  Jesus and other Prophets from their Lord. We make  no distinction between any  of them, and to Him (Allah) we have surrendered  ourselves (in Islam).” So, if they believe (accept Islam)  like you have believed they shall be rightly guided, if they reject is, they will fall into dissension (divide into  differing factions); Allah  will be your sufficient  defender against them, and  He hears and knows everything. Baptism is the  baptism of Allah; and who is better than Allah in  baptizing? Him do we  worship. Say (O  Muhammad): “Would you  dispute with us concerning  Allah, who is our Lord and  your Lord as well? We shall be accountable to Him for  our deeds and you for yours; to Him Alone we are  devoted. Do you claim that  Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac,  Jacob and their  descendants were all Jews or Christians? Say: Are you more knowledgeable than  Allah?” Who is more unjust  than the one hides the  testimony received from  Allah? Allah: is not unaware of what you do” [Quran 2:136-140]

Muslims are allowed to eat  the food and marry chaste  women from the People of  the Book (Christian women & Jewish women). What  can be more intimate  relationship than husband  and wife – basic unit of future generations. God says in the Holy Quran:

“Today all good clean things have been made lawful for you; and the food of the People of the Book (Jews and Christians) is also made lawful for you and your food is made lawful for them. Likewise, marriage with chaste free believing women and also chaste women among the People who were given the Book before you is made lawful for you, provided that you give them their dowries and desire chastity, neither committing fornication nor taking them as mistresses. Anyone who commits Kufr with Iman  (rejects faith), all his good deeds will become void (zero) and in the hereafter, he will be among the losers” [Quran 5:5]

He that seeks guidance, that guidance shall be for his  own soul, but he that goes  astray does so to his own  loss. No bearer shall bear  the burden of another (on  the Day of Judgment), We do not inflict punishment until We send forth a Messenger (to make truth distinct from falsehood) [Quran 17:15]

In Islam Jesus, peace be upon him, was a Prophet of God the same as Noah, Abraham, David, Moses and Muhammad, peace be upon them all. He was a human being, son of Mary and born miraculously without a father. His example is like that of Adam born without a mother or father and so was Jesus, peace be upon him, born without a  father. These examples are from the signs of God to show mankind that He, the Almighty, does not need parents to create if He so Wills. Muslims believe in Jesus, peace be upon him, as a Prophet of God; they respect and revere him to the extent that they never mention him simply as Jesus but add the words ‘peace be upon him.’ There is a full  chapter in the Holy Quran called “Mary” (Chapter 19).

Mary, may Allah be pleased with her, is considered among the purest women in the whole world. As for Jesus, peace be upon him, God says in the Quran:

“These are the Messengers (which We have sent for the guidance of mankind). We have exalted some above others. To some Allah spoke directly; others He raised in ranks; to Isa (Jesus) the son of Mary, We gave Clear Signs and supported him with the Holy Spirit” [Quran 2:253]

The Holy Quran describes the  birth of Jesus, peace be upon him, and the miracles given to him as follows:

“Behold! When the angels said “O Mary! God gives you the good news with a Word from Him that you will be given a son: his name will be Messiah, Isa (Jesus) the son of Mary. He will be noble in this world and the Hereafter; and he will be from those who are very close to God. He will speak to the people in the cradle and in his old age and he will be among the righteous.” Hearing this, Mary said, “O my Lord! How can I have a son when no man has ever touched me?” He replied, “Even so, Allah creates however He wants; whenever He decides to do anything, He only says to it, ‘Be,’ and it is! God will teach your son  the Book, the Wisdom, the Torah, and the. Injeel (Gospel) and send him forth as a Prophet to the Children of Israel with this message: ‘I have brought you signs of my appointment from your Lord. I will make for you the likeness of a bird from clay; I will breathe into it and, with God’s leave, it will become a living bird. I will heal the blind and the lepers, and raise the dead to life,  by God’s leave. Furthermore, I will tell you what you have eaten and what you have stored in your houses. Surely these are the  signs to convince you if you are believers” [Quran 3:45-49]

About the status of Jesus, peace be upon him, God says:

“O People of the Book! Do not transgress the limits of your religion. Speak nothing but the Truth about God. The Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary was no more than a Prophet of God and His Word (Be) which He bestowed on Mary and a Spirit from Him (which  took the shape of a child in her womb). So, believe in God and His Prophet and do not say: “Trinity”.” Stop saying that, it is better  for you. God is only One Deity. He is far above from the need of having a son! To Him belong all that is in the Heavens and in the  Earth. God alone is sufficient for their protection” [Quran 4:171]

While pointing out the innovations  and changes made by the Jews and Christians in their religions and their claim about the divinity and crucifixion of Jesus, peace be upon him, the Holy Quran has stated the following facts:

They (Jews) went in their unbelief to such an extent that they uttered terrible slander against Mary. They even say: “We have killed the Messiah, Isa (Jesus), son of Mary, the Prophet of God.” Whereas in fact, neither did they kill him nor did they crucify him but they thought they did (because the matter was made dubious for them). Those who differ therein are only in doubt. They know nothing about it but follow mere conjectures, for they were not sure that they did actually succeeded in killing Jesus. Nay! The  fact is that God raised him up to Himself. God is Mighty, Wise. There are none of the People of the Book but will believe in this  before his death; and on the Day of Resurrection Jesus will bear witness against them “Quran 4: 156-159]

On the Day of Judgment God will ask Jesus, peace be upon him, to testify about his own statements and the misunderstandings attributed to him by the Christians; this  dialogue is documented in the Holy Quran in the following words:

(On the Day of Judgment) God will ask (For Jesus to speak of the truth about himself and his mother): “O Isa (Jesus) son of Mary, Did you ever say to the people, “worship me and my mother as gods beside Allah (God)?” He will answer: “Glory to You! How  could I say what I had no right to say? If I had ever said so, you would have certainly known it. You know what is in my heart, but I  know not what is in Yours; for You have full knowledge of all the unseen. I never said anything other than what You commanded  me to say, that is to worship Allah (God), Who is my Lord and your Lord. I was a witness over them as long as I remained among them; but when You recalled me, You were the Watcher over them and You are a Witness to everything. If You punish them they  surely are Your servants; and if You forgive them, You are Mighty, Wise.” [Quran 5: 116-118]

Our Lord, do not let our hearts deviate from the truth after you have guided us, and grant us Your own mercy; You are the Grantor of bounties without measure.

“Soon shall We show them Our signs in the universe and in their own souls, until it becomes clear to them that this Quran is indeed the Truth. Is it not enough that your Lord is a witness over everything?” [Quran 41:53]

Based on the sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and the teachings of the Quran, Muslims of the early period of the Islamic era became pioneers in  medicine, chemistry, physics, arts, astronomy, geography, navigation, poetry, mathematics, logarithms, calculus, architecture, literature, and history.

Arabic numerals, the concept of zero (which is vital to the advancement of mathematics) and algebra were developed and transmitted from Islamic states to Europe, which  contributed to the Renaissance of Europe and world civilization. Muslims also developed sophisticated instruments like the astrolabe, the quadrant and good navigational  maps.

In Islam each and every action which is done in accordance with God’s commandment is worship. Therefore, doing a job, raising a family, interaction with community are all  acts of worship if done in accordance with God’s commandments as acted upon and directed by the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Islam requires the individual to submit himself completely to Allah:

“Say, surely my prayer, my sacrifice, my life and my death are all for Allah, the Lord of the worlds, He has no partners; thus I am commanded, and I am the first of the Muslims.” [Quran 6:162-163]

The natural result of this submission is that one’s actions should conform to the instructions of the One to Whom the person is submitting. Islam requires that its followers  model their lives according to its teachings in every respect.

Islam does not teach ritualism. It places great emphasis on intention and action. To worship God is to love Him and to act upon His commands in every aspect of life, to  enjoin goodness and forbid wrongdoing and oppression, to practice charity and justice and to serve Him by serving mankind. The Quran presents this sublime concept in the following words:

“It is not righteousness that you turn your faces to the East or the West, but righteous is he who believes in Allah and the Last Day and the Angels and the Book and the  Prophets; and gives his wealth for love of Him to kinsfolk and to orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and to those who ask, and sets slaves free; and observes proper  worship and pays the Zakah. And those who keep their treaty when they make one, and they are patient in tribulation, adversity and time of stress; such are those who are  sincere. Such are the God-fearing.” [Quran 2:177]

Every action done with the awareness that it fulfills the Will of God is considered an act of worship in Islam. But five specific acts of worship termed as the Pillars of Islam  provide the framework of Muslim’s spiritual life. These are: declaration of Faith, Prayers, Alms giving, Fasting and Pilgrimage to Makkah for those who can afford to do so  physically and financially.

1. 1. The Declaration of Faith: “There is none  worthy of worship except One God (Allah),  and that Muhammad is  His messenger.”It is called Shahadah (to  bear witness). This is to  affirm that God is One  and that Muhammad,  peace be upon him, is one of His Prophets. In  other words, to make a  commitment that one  shall follow God’s commandments and the exemplary life of the  Prophet Muhammad,  peace be upon him, in each and every respect.
   2. Prayers (Salat) are prescribed five times a day as a duty towards God. Salat is the direct link between the worshiper and God. Salat and Zakat (2nd and 3rd pillar of Islam) have been mandatory in the Shari’ah (laws) of all prior prophets. The Holy Quran states the address of Jesus, peace be upon him, to his people at his birth:
      

      Whereupon the baby (Jesus) spoke out: “I am indeed a servant of Allah. He has given me the Book (Gospel) and made me a  prophet. He has made me blessed wherever I may be. He has commanded me to establish Salah (prayer) and give Zakah (obligatory charity) as long as I live” [Quran 19: 30-31]

      Salat (Prayer) is commanded for spiritual elevation of the individuals. It purifies the heart and controls temptation, wrongdoing, and evil. There is no priesthood in  Islam, so the collective prayers are led by a learned person who knows the Quran, and is chosen by the congregation. Prayers are offered the way the Prophet  offered his prayers. Prayers are said in Arabic which include: praise to God, a few verses from the Holy Quran, salutation to the Prophet and supplication for oneself,  one’s parents, children, and the rest of the world. Prayers are offered at dawn, afternoon, before sunset, after sunset and nightfall. Although it is preferable to offer the prayers in congregation in a mosque, a Muslim can pray at home or anywhere, such as in offices, factories and parks when it is the time to offer the prayer.

   3. Almsgiving (Zakat) means ‘purification’ and it also means growth. Wealth is purified through setting aside a specified portion of ones wealth for the poor, needy, those who suffer losses from incidents beyond their control and the general welfare to establish economic balance and social justice in the society. Muslims  are encouraged to spend in charity as much as they can beyond the mandatory requirement of Zakat which is called Sadaqah (voluntary charity).

      It is important to note that Zakat is on savings held for one full year and is not on the money in circulation. In other words Islam encourages the Muslims to put their money in circulation so that everyone in the community can benefit from it. Those who hold capital from circulation are hurting the poor and the community’s  welfare projects.

      Therefore, The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) ordered such persons to pay a minimum of one fortieth (two and a half percent) for the poor, needy and  community welfare projects.

      Zakat is an act of worship for the wealth of a believer and plays an important role in providing financial stability to the community. The Prophet Muhammad, peace  be upon him, said: “Zakah is the treasure (Something important, not the finance of!) of Islam.” One of the main reasons for poverty in the Muslim countries is neglecting this pillar of Islam.

   4. Fasting (Sawm) during the month of Ramadan: This means abstention from food, beverages, and sex from dawn to sunset, and curbing evil intentions, desires and actions. Those who are sick, on a journey, too old, and women who are in menstruation, pregnant or nursing are not required to observe the fasting but are required  to make up the missed days later in the year. All those who are physically unable to keep the fast, they must feed a poor or needy person (minimum of two meals that they would eat themselves) for every day missed. It inculcates sympathy for those who go hungry, and increases love, sincerity, devotion and obedience to  God’s commandments.

      Fasting requires the Muslims to live by the moral code of Islam. Without following this moral code during Ramadan, fasting is reduced to simple starvation without bringing any reward or spiritual benefit. Fasting develops patience, piety, self-restraint, God consciousness, and willpower to bear hardships. Its objective is to  develop a community of God-conscious people.

      It is the month of Ramadan in which the Quran is revealed, the Guidance for mankind, clear proofs and the criterion of Right and Wrong Surely, the noblest of you in  the sight of Allah, is he who is the most righteous The close of the month of Fasting is marked by a festival called Eid-al-Fitr which is celebrated through giving  charity to poor people in the community and congregational prayers.

   5. Pilgrimage (Hajj) to Makkah, once in a lifetime. It is an obligation only on those who are physically and financially able to undertake the journey.

      Over two million people go to Makkah each year from almost all the countries of the world. In fact it is a peace conference at the world level. It is meant to provide a meeting place for Muslims from the various parts of the world to exchange the progress of Islam in their respective countries and to suggest to each other working solutions of their mutual problems.

      Pilgrims are required to wear special dress to strip away the distinctions of class and culture. It provides practical training to know that the whole of mankind is a  single brotherhood, and that no one has superiority over the other based on language, color, race and ethnic background, except through piety and righteousness.

      Hajj is performed on the 9th day of the 12th month of Islamic Calendar called Zul-Haj’jah. The rites of Hajj include circling around the Ka’bah seven times counter  clockwise, walking and running between the two hills called Safa and Marwa as did Hagar, the wife of the Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him, in search of water  for her baby Ishmael.

      Walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa during pilgrimage — a tradition of woman (wife of the Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him) The pilgrims stand in  prayer together in the wide valley of Arafat near the ‘Mount of Mercy’ where Adam, peace be upon him, stood to repent for his sin of disobeying God as a result of  which he was expelled from paradise. God forgave his sin and now the children of Adam stand in the same place to seek forgiveness for their sins.

      The close of Hajj is marked by commemorating the tradition of the Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him, when he offered his son Ishmael, peace be upon him, in  sacrifice to God and God replaced his son with a lamb and accepted that great sacrifice. God mandated the followers of Abraham, peace be upon him, to sacrifice  an animal on that day (10th of Zul-Haj’jah, which is called Eid-al-Adha (Festival of Feast). It is celebrated with congregational prayers, sacrificing an animal (lamb,  goat, cow or camel) and the exchange of gifts in the family and Muslim communities all over the world.

The Ka’bah is the central place of worship for Muslims, located in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. This is the first House of God built by Adam (peace be upon him), the forefather of  mankind. This place of worship was demolished during the great flood of Noah, peace be upon him, and rebuilt by the Prophet Abraham and his son Ishmael, peace be upon them. This is a cube shape building in the center of sacred Mosque called Al-Masjid Al-Haraam.

This sanctuary can accommodate over one million worshipers at a time. Every year over three million worshipers visit the Ka‘bah during Hajj and Umrah (pilgrimage at  anytime other than the time of Hajj).

Islam clearly commands unqualified tolerance towards all human beings. In fact, Islam defends humanity against all criminal behavior including discrimination. The life,  honor and property of all citizens in an Islamic State are considered sacred.

Islam does not seek to restrict human rights or privileges to a geographical boundary. The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, reminded everyone saying: “O mankind  you are all the children of Adam and Adam was created from dust.”

Islam has laid down some fundamental rights for humanity as a whole, which are to be respected under all circumstances whether a person is at peace with the Islamic  state or at war. It opposes all those who exploit, oppress and deal unjustly with people. The Holy Quran very clearly states:

“O believers! Be steadfast for the sake of Allah and bear true witness and let not the enmity of a people incite you to do injustice;  do justice; that is nearer to piety. Fear Allah, surely, Allah is fully aware of all your actions.” [Quran 5:8]

Freedom of choice is laid down in the Quran, saying:

“There is no compulsion in religion.” [Quran 2:256]

This principle is the basis for establishing universal peace. Islam integrates races and colors and encourages tolerance, friendliness and compassion among human beings. This humanitarianism is easily discerned in the general Islamic principles. God says:

“O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you may despise each other)” [Quran 49: 13]

Islam protects all noble values and human rights. Freedom, equality, justice, and the right to life, liberty, and security of person are of prime concern in Islamic law.

“Whosoever kills a human being for other than manslaughter or corruption in the earth, it shall be as if he had killed all mankind, and whosoever saves the life of one, it  shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind. . .” [Quran 5:32]

Islam places  great emphasis on social justice and does not permit to oppress men, women, children, old people, orphans, the sick or the wounded. Women’s honor and  chastity are to be respected under all circumstances. The hungry person must be fed, the wounded and sick must be provided medical treatment irrespective of whether  they belong to the Muslim community or from among the enemies. Human rights have been granted by God, not by any king or legislative assembly. No legislative assembly or government has the right or authority to amend, change or abrogate the rights conferred by God. These rights include:

• • The Security of Life and Property
  • The Protection of Honor
  • Sanctity and Security of  Private Life
  • The Security of Personal Freedom
  • The Right to Protest Against Tyranny
  • Freedom of Expression
  • Freedom of association
  • Freedom of Conscience and Conviction
  • Protection of Religious  Sentiments
  • Protection from Arbitrary Imprisonment
  • The right to Basic Necessities of Life
  • Equality before Law —  Rulers are not above  Law
  • The right to participate  in the Affairs of State

God says in the Quran:

“And hold firmly to the rope of Allah all together and do not become divided. And remember the favor of Allah upon you – when you were enemies and He brought your hearts together and you became, by His favor, brothers. And you were on the edge of a pit of the Fire, and He saved you from it. Thus does Allah make clear to you His verses that you may be guided” [Quran 3: 103]

The verdict of the Holy Quran is very clear and  unequivocal:

“Those who do not judge by what God has sent down, they are the disbelievers … they are the transgressors  …they are the wrong doers.” [Quran 5:44, 46 – 47]

Islam stresses the use of justice, even if it be against one’s own interest. Here is what the Holy Quran says about justice:

“O believers! Stand firm for justice and bear true witness for the sake of Allah, even though it be against yourselves, your parents or your relatives. It does not matter  whether the party is rich or poor – Allah is the well wisher of both. So let not your selfish desires swerve you from justice. If you distort your testimony or decline to give it,  then you should remember that Allah is fully aware of your actions.” [Quran 4:135]

“O believers! Be steadfast for the sake of Allah and bear true witness and let not the enmity of a people incite you to do injustice;  do justice; that is nearer to piety. Fear Allah, surely, Allah is fully aware of all your actions. [Quran 5:8]

“..Cooperate with one another in righteousness and piety, and do not cooperate in sin and transgression. Have fear of Allah. Allah  is stern in punishment.” [Quran 5:2]

Islam stands for peace and peace cannot be achieved without establishing justice. Therefore, Islam requires all Muslims to strive for establishing justice in the land.

Islam commands Muslims to stand up against injustice, oppression, poverty, ignorance, racism, bigotry and intolerance everywhere in the world. Without justice, rights are  denied, victims are created, anger gives way to anarchy and extremism in its different forms gains more ground. We have had enough wars, crimes, terror and anger in  human history. Now, it is time to identify the root causes and find solutions without partiality and favoritism.

In Islam, peace is the rule while war is the exception. Peace is a preamble to the principle of harmony in the universe, the laws of life and the origin of man, while war is the  result of violations of harmony such as injustice, despotism and corruption. Islam eliminates almost all reasons that normally incite war and abolishes all wars for unjust gain and oppression.

Jihad, which is often confused with fighting and war, actually means “to struggle or to strive.” Jihad is of three kinds. The first and primary form of Jihad is ‘Jihad Alan-Nafs,’ the personal struggle against one’s own shortcomings. Second is ‘Jihad Al-Shaytan,’ the struggle against the temptations of Satan. Third is ‘Jihad Al-Kufr,’ the struggle  against those who do not let the Muslims live in accordance with the Commandments of God (Allah) and the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. Under this category of Jihad Islam allows the fighting in self-defense and in defense of religion or on the part of those who have been expelled forcibly from their homes.  Islam condemns fighting which is based on:

• • Racism, as contrary to the principles of the oneness of humanity.
  • Ambition and exploitation. It does not permit war which aims at capturing markets, acquiring materials or exploiting human labor and resources. In fact, Islam looks at humanity as one big cooperative family and a part of a universal unity. It ordains all believing people to cooperate in realizing universal welfare and in abstaining  from doing wrong. Islamic jurisprudence promises all humans absolute equality and justice regardless of race, sex, or creed.
  • Ostentation, the purpose of which is to magnify the pride and pomp of kings. Islam allows fighting as the last resort when human rights are violated, propagation of  God’s Message to mankind is obstructed and diplomatic solutions have failed to solve these oppression. Islam lays down strict rules of combat and prohibits  harming civilians, monks, priests, nuns, old people, women and young children who are unable to fight. Islam also prohibits destroying the crops, trees, livestock and looting which usually follows conquest:

“Fight in the cause of God with those who fight against you, but do not transgress the limits. God does not like the transgressors.” [Quran 2:190]

“If your enemy is inclined towards peace, do make peace with them, and put your trust in God. He is the One Who hears all and  knows all.” [Quran 8:61]

People usually discuss ‘hijaab’ in the context of women. However, the Quran, first mentions hijaab (dress code) for men before hijaab (dress code) for the women:

“Enjoin the believing men to lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that is chaster for them. Surely, Allah is well aware of their actions.” [Quran 24:31]

Then the hijaab for women is mentioned in the next verse:

“Likewise, enjoin the believing women to lower their gaze and guard their modesty; not to display their beauty and ornaments except what normally appears thereof; let them draw their veils over their bosoms and not display their adornment except to their husbands, their fathers, their fathers-in-law, their own sons, their stepsons, their own brothers, their nephews on either brothers’ or sisters’ sides, their own womenfolk, their own slaves, male attendants who lack sexual desires or small children who have no carnal knowledge of women. Also enjoin them not to strike their feet in order to draw attention to their hidden trinkets. And O believers! Turn to Allah in repentance, all of  you (about your past mistakes), so that you may attain salvation.” [Quran 24:31]

Islam requires both men and women to dress simply, modestly, and with dignity. A man must always wear loose and unrevealing clothes from his navel to his knee. This is  the absolute minimum covering required. He must never, for example, go out in public wearing a short which does not meet the minimum requirement. A woman must  cover all her body with loose and unrevealing clothing except her face and hands. When leaving the home she should also cover her hair obscuring the details of her body  from the public. The wisdom behind this dress code is to minimize sexual enticement and degradation in society as much as possible for both men and women.

In men’s clothing and adornment, Islam seriously considers the principles of decency, modesty, chastity and manliness. Any clothing or adornment incompatible with the  attainment, maintenance and development of these qualities are prohibited in Islam. Clothing materials, which stimulate arrogance or false pride, are strictly prohibited.  This is the reason why Islam warns men not to use certain clothing materials, such as pure silk, and wearing certain adornment, such as gold.

The Islamic dress code applies to both women and men. It sets expectations of moral and respectful interactions between the genders. As a result both men and women  are liberated from their baser instincts to focus on higher pursuits. Islamic dress takes on many beautiful forms, reflecting cultural diversity from all over the world.

Islam allows woman to use those things which are forbidden for men but are suitable for the feminine nature. When a girl reaches the age of puberty, she should cover her  body except face and hands. The manner in which women should dress, beautify, walk, talk and even look is a very delicate question, and Islam pays special attention to the matter. Islam teaches that the consequences of immodesty fall not only on the individual but also upon the society that permits women and men to mingle freely, display themselves, and compete or allure one another through sexual attraction.

Family in Islam is the foundation of society. The family provides security and opportunity for the spiritual and material growth of its members. The family bond entails  mutual expectations of rights and obligations that are prescribed by religion, enforced by law, and observed by the family members. Accordingly, the family members share  certain mutual commitments. These pertain to identity and provision, inheritance and counsel, affection for the young and security for the aged, and maximization of effort  to ensure the family continuity in peace. Children are considered to be the main treasure of the family.

Mutual alliance, clientele, private consent to sexual intimacy, and “common law” or “trial marriages” are not acceptable in Islam. Islam builds the family on solid grounds to provide reasonable continuity, true security, and mature intimacy. Islam recognizes that there is no more natural relationship than that of blood, and no more wholesome  pattern of sexual intimacy than one in which morality and gratification are joined.

Islam recognizes the religious virtue, the social necessity, and the moral advantages of marriage. The normal course of behavior for the Muslim individual is to be family  oriented and to seek a family of their own. There are many passages in the Quran and statements by the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, which go as far as to say  that when a Muslim marries, he or she has thereby perfected half of their religion; so let them be God-conscious and careful with the other half. Muslim scholars have  interpreted the Quran to mean that marriage is a religious duty, a moral safeguard, and a social commitment. As a religious duty, it must be fulfilled; but like all other duties  in Islam, it is enjoined only upon those who are capable of meeting the responsibilities involved.

Islam regards man and woman as two components  of humanity, one completing the other.  woman is half of humanity  and man is the other half. Both play a part in performing the functions of humanity and, in fact, one without the other is incomplete and cannot function properly for the purposes of humanity. Thus, both are complementary as well as supplementary to one another in life. Any program of life ignoring one of these components, man or woman, will be defective and incomplete. Therefore, it is not practical to form a society consisting of only women or only men. They are dependent on each other, man cannot become independent of  woman, nor can woman ever live a full and complete life without man. Both need each other, not only for sexual relationship, but also for emotional satisfaction, as well as  for companionship.

Seeking knowledge is the obligation of every Muslim, male or female. The type of knowledge that is most emphasized is religious knowledge. It is also required within a  society to have professionals of both genders available for the benefit of the public; such as doctors, teachers, counselors, social workers.

In Islam, a woman has the right to own, inherit and dispose of her property as she likes. At the time of marriage dowry given by groom to the bride is for her personal use  and she keeps her own family name rather than taking her husband’s. She has the right to vote and voice her opinion even in the affairs of government.

God enjoins good conduct toward women from birth to death. Verbal, psychological, emotional, sexual, and physical violence are forbidden, as are false allegations against  women’s chastity and honor. God has declared in the Holy Quran:

“Anyone who does righteous deeds, whether a male or a female – provided he or she is a believer – shall enter paradise and no injustice will be done to them, even to the size of a speck.” [Quran 4:124]

In Islam marriage is a simple legal contract between a man and a woman to live together as husband and wife. In this contract either party is free to include conditions. A  Muslim girl cannot be forced to marry against her will; parents simply suggest a young man that they think may be suitable for her, and she is free to choose.

Marriage is strongly encouraged and is based on mutual love and respect. It is both a legal agreement and a sacred bond. God has commanded in the Holy Quran:

“Get the singles among you married as well as those who are fit for marriage among your male slaves and female slaves. If they are poor, Allah will make them free from  want out of His grace: for Allah has boundless resources and is All-Knowing.” [Quran 24:32]

“And of His signs is that He created for you mates from among yourselves that you may find comfort with them, and He planted love and mercy for each other in your  hearts; surely, there are signs in this for those who think about it.” [Quran 30:21]

A woman has the same right to own property, earn wealth and spend it as a man has. Her wealth does not become the property of her husband after marriage or divorce. A  woman does not have to change her last name as a result of marriage. Husbands and wives are protectors of each other. They are equal partners and best of friends,  remaining faithful to one another. The husband provides, maintains, protects and is responsible for the family. He fulfills his duties with consultation and kindness. If couples are unable to live with’ one another peacefully, amicable divorce is permitted as a last resort. Divorce, even though permitted and simple, is not common in  Muslim families. In case of divorce mothers are given priority in the custody of young children and the father is required to provide child support.

The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, has said: “The best among the believers is he who is best in manner and kindest to his wife.”

Islam is for all societies and for all times to come,  therefore, it accommodates various different social  requirements. To have more than one wife is neither mandatory nor  encouraged, but merely permitted. The reason for permission to marry more than one is compassion and support toward widows and orphans. Even in such a situation, the permission is far more restricted than the normal practice, which existed at the time of the Prophet, peace be upon him, among the Arabs and other people who married  as many as ten or more wives.

Dealing justly with one’s wives is an obligation. This applies to housing, food, clothing and kind treatment. If one is not sure of being able to deal justly with more than one,  the Quran says:

“Then (marry) only one.” [Quran 4:3]

There was no restriction on marriages before this commandment. This commandment puts a restriction on the number of wives even in exceptional cases. The  requirement of justice between the wives ruled out the fantasy that a man can have as many wives as he pleases. God-conscious men do not marry more than one if they are unable to do justice between them. That’s why more than one wife is an exception among Muslims and not a general rule. Marriage in Islam is a legal contract and it is not valid unless both contracting parties consent to it. Thus no woman can be forced or ‘given’ to a man who is already married against her will.

Islam puts great emphasis on the status and honor of parents and elderly folk. Parents are next only to God Almighty when it comes to respect, obedience and honor. God  says in the Quran:

“Your Lord has decreed to you that: You shall worship none but Him, and you shall be kind to your parents; if one or both of them  live to their old age in your lifetime, you shall not say to them any word of contempt nor repel them and you shall address them in  kind words. You shall lower to them your wings of humility and pray: ‘O Lord! Bestow on them Your blessings just as they cherished me when I was a little child.’ Your Lord knows best what is in your hearts. If you do good deeds, certainly He is most  forgiving to those who turn to Him in repentance.” [Quran 17:23-25]

God did not give any one a choice to select children or parents. This choice is made by God Himself, therefore, He wants everyone to honor His choice by putting the  requirement of obeying the parents immediately after commanding the human being to obey Him. He has commanded the believers to be kind to their parents and make a prayer of forgiveness for their parents, their children and believers at large.

In Islam, there is no room for nursing homes for elderly people. Taking care of the elderly is considered an honor and blessing. Mothers are particularly honored; the Prophet, peace be upon him, said: “Paradise lies under the feet of your mother.” Serving one’s parents is a duty second only to prayer, and it is their right to expect it. When  parents reach old age, Muslims are required to treat them with mercy, kindness and selflessness. All elderly people of the community enjoy the similar respect and honor.

Mothers have a special place of honor and respect in Islam. A man once came to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and asked: “O Messenger of God! Who  among the people is most worthy of my good companionship?” The Prophet, peace be upon him, replied: “Your mother.” The man then asked who is next, the Prophet,  peace be upon him, replied “Your mother.” The man repeated the question a third time and got the same answer. The man asked once again, “Who is next? Only then did the  Prophet, peace be upon him, said “Your father.”

Science tells us that whatever one eats, it has an effect on one’s behavior. This is one of the reasons that Islam prohibits the eating of carnivorous animals like lion, tiger, leopard, etc. who are violent and ferocious. The consumption of the meat of such animals would probably make a person violent and ferocious. Islam only allows the eating of herbivorous animals like cow, goat, sheep, which are peaceful and docile.

The Prophet, peace be upon him, prohibited the eating of wild animals with canine teeth and meat eating carnivorous animals such as lions, tigers, cats, dogs, wolfs, and  hyenas and certain rodents like mice, rats, and rabbits with claws. Also reptiles like snakes and alligators. Birds of prey with talons or claws, like vultures, eagle, crows and  owl are also prohibited.

Islam requires that in order to maintain a pure heart and a sound mind, to nourish an aspiring soul and a clean healthy body, special attention should be given to the diet on  which man lives. The general principle of Islam in this respect is that all those things, which are pure and good for men and women, are lawful, as long as they are taken in  moderate quantities. And all those things, which are impure, bad or harmful, are unlawful under all ordinary circumstances. There is always room and flexibility for exceptions to meet cases of absolute necessity.

Beyond this general principle, there are certain foods and drinks specified by God as forbidden. Among these are: meat of dead animals and birds, the flesh of swine and  that of any animal which is slaughtered with the invocation of any name other than that of God. The Prophet said: “Your body has rights over you,” and at another time he  said, “No one is given any gift better than health.” Wholesome food and leading a healthy life style are considered religious obligations. The drinks which Islam considers  harmful and destructive to the human spirit and morality as well as to the physique are included in the Quranic verse which forbids all intoxicants and all forms of gambling or games of chance.

“O believers! Intoxicants and gambling (games of chance), dedication to stones (paying tribute to idols) and using arrows (for seeking luck or decision) are the filthy works  of Satan. Get away from them, so that you may prosper. Satan desires to stir up enmity and hatred between you with intoxicants and gambling, to prevent you from the remembrance of Allah and from Salah (prayers). Will you not abstain? Obey Allah and obey the Messenger and abstain from these things. If you do not, then you should  know that Our Messenger’s duty is only to convey My message clearly.” [Quran 5:90-92]

God has provided guidance about all aspects of human life including business interaction. Here is what the Holy Quran says about business transactions:

“O believers! When you deal with each other in lending for a fixed period of time, put it in writing. Let a scribe write it down with justice between the parties. The scribe, who  is given the gift of literacy by Allah, should not refuse to write; he is under obligation to write. Let him who incurs the liability (debtor) dictate, fearing Allah his Rabb and not diminishing anything from the settlement. If the borrower is mentally unsound or weak or is unable to dictate himself, let the guardian of his interests dictate for him with justice. Let two witnesses from among you bear witness to all such documents, if two men cannot be found, then one man and two women of your choice should bear witness, so that if one of the women forgets anything the other may remind her. The witnesses must not refuse when they are called upon to do so. You must not be averse to writing (your contract) for a future period, whether it is a small matter or big. This action is more just for you in the sight of Allah, because it establishes stronger evidence and is the best way to remove all doubts; but if it is a common commercial transaction concluded on the spot among yourselves, there is no  blame on you if you do not put it in writing. You should have witnesses when you make commercial transactions. Let no harm be done to the scribe or witnesses; and if you do so, you shall be guilty of transgression. Fear Allah; it is Allah that teaches you and Allah has knowledge of everything.” [Quran 2:282]

Islam tells us that God, Who created the whole of universe, is One. His personal name is Allah. Nothing else can be called Allah. The term has no plural gender. This shows  its uniqueness as compared to the term ‘god,’ which can be made plural, gods or feminine, goddess.

To a Muslim Allah is the Almighty, Creator and Sustainer of the universe, Who is similar to nothing and nothing is comparable  to Him.

He depends on none but everything else, which exists, depends on Him; neither has He begotten any child nor is He Himself the child of anyone. There is no one else that  can be said to be parallel or equal to Him. He is the First, and He is the Last. He is the ultimate goal of all that exists in this universe.

Say: “He is Allah the One and Only; Allah is the Self-Sufficient (independent of all, while all are dependent on Him); He begets not, nor is He begotten (he has no child, nor is  He a child of any one); and there is none comparable to Him.” [Quran 112:1-4]

Islam rejects characterizing God in any human form or depicting Him as favoring certain individuals or nations on the basis of wealth, power or race. He created all human  beings as equals. They may distinguish themselves and obtain His favor only through virtue and piety.

The concept that God rested on the seventh day of creation, that God wrestled with one of His soldiers, that God is an envious plotter against mankind, or that God is  incarnate in any human being are considered blasphemy from the Islamic point of view.

The unique belief in the One God (Allah) is a reflection of Islam’s emphasis on the purity of the belief in God, which is the essence of the message of all His Prophets.  Because of this, Islam considers associating any deity or personality with God as a deadly sin, which God will never forgive, despite the fact that He may forgive all other sins.

Surely, Allah does not forgive shirk (associating any partner with Him); and may forgive sins other than that if He so pleases. This is because one, who commits shirk with  Allah, does indeed invent a great sinful lie. Quran 4:48]

Surely Allah will never forgive the one who commits shirk (worships anyone other than Him); and may forgive anyone else, if He so pleases. One who commits shirk has indeed gone far away from the Right Way. [Quran 4:116]

Allah describes Himself in the Quran:

“He (Allah) has power over every thing”

God has the power to do whatever He wills. He is Ever-Living. He is the Giver of life. The Love of God for His creatures is immense and beyond human imagination. Mankind  cannot measure or count the favors of God. He creates men and women in the best form of creation and gives them all the senses and faculties that they need for their  growth. He creates the mind to understand, the soul and conscience to be good and righteous, and the feelings and sentiments to be kind and humane. The mercy of God  gives men and women hope and peace, courage and confidence. It enables them to remedy their grief and sorrows, to overcome their difficulties and obtain success and  happiness. Indeed, the mercy of God relieves the distressed, cheers the afflicted, consoles the sick, strengthens the desperate, and comforts the needy.

Life is a brilliant demonstration of God’s wisdom and knowledge, and a vivid reflection of His art and power. He is the Giver and Creator of life. Nothing comes into existence  by chance. Life is a dear and cherishable asset, and no sensible or normal person would like to lose it by choice. Life is given to mankind by God, and He is the  only Rightful Owner to take it back. This is why Islam forbids all kinds of suicide and self-destruction, and recommends patience and good faith when a dear soul passes  away. When a murderer is executed in punishment, his life is taken away by the right of God and in accordance with His Law. It is a tragedy that the secular and the religious, the scientific and the spiritual seem to be in conflict in secular societies. Islam puts an end to this conflict and brings harmony in all these aspects of human life.

When God  gives life to men and women, it is not in vain that He endows them with unique qualities and great abilities. Nor is it in vain that He charges them with certain  obligations.

God means to help man to fulfill the purpose of life and realize the goal of existence. He means to help him to learn the creative art of living and enjoy the good  taste of life according to Divine guidance. Life is a trust from God, and men and women are trustees who should handle this trust with consciousness of responsibility to  Him.

We have indeed created man in the best stature Life may be likened to a journey starting from a certain point and ending at a certain destination. It is a transitory stage, an  introduction to the Eternal Life in the Hereafter. In this journey, men and women are travelers and should be concerned with only what is of use to them in the Future Life. In  other words, they should do all the good they can and make themselves fully prepared to move any minute to Eternal Life. They should consider their life on earth as a  chance provided for them to make the best of it while they can, because when their time to leave comes they can never delay it for one moment. If their term expires, it will  be too late to do anything about it or extend it. The best use of life, therefore, is to live it according to the teachings of God and make it a safe passage to the future Eternal Life. Islam has laid down a complete system of regulations and principles to show man how to live it, what to take and what to leave, what to do and what to shun, and so  on. In one of his comprehensive statements Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, wisely advised man to consider himself a stranger in this life or a traveler passing  through this world.

Mans life is not limited to the short span of earthly existence. This world will come to an end some day, and the dead will rise on the Day of Judgment to stand for their final and fair trial. Everyone will appear before the Almighty God and face the consequences of their deeds done in this life. Thus, life in the Hereafter is a continuation of the earthly life but different in nature.

Our Lord! Give us the good life, both in this world and in the Hereafter and save us from the torment of the fire. Everything we do in this world, every intention we have, every  move we make, every thought we entertain, and every word we say, are all counted and kept in accurate records. On the Day of Judgment, they will be brought forth. People  with good records will be generously rewarded and warmly welcomed to the Paradise of God, and those with bad records will be punished and cast into Hell. The real nature of Paradise or Hell, and the exact description of them are known to God only. There are descriptions of Paradise and Hell in the Quran. In Paradise, said the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, there are things, which no eye has ever seen, no ear has ever heard, and no mind has ever conceived.

Belief in Life after Death and man’s accountability to God gives a sense and meaning to one’s life and differentiates human beings from animals.

In fact, if there is no life after death, the very belief in God becomes irrelevant because God would be unjust and indifferent; having created human beings not concerned with cruelty, corruption, aggression and injustice that is going on in this world. God is just. He will punish those who are responsible for killing innocent people, creating corruption in the societies, enslaving thousands’ to serve their whims. Punishment and reward equal to the evil or noble deeds of people are not possible in this short span  of worldly life. Life after death will be eternal and it will be possible to reward or punish the persons to the full extent that they deserve, therefore, belief in the ‘Life after  Death’ serves as a reminder against crime, corruption, immorality, and injustice on this earth.

One of the major troublesome areas of human existence is the problem of sin or evil in the world. The belief that the first sin started with Adam and Eve during their life in  the Garden of Eden.

That event led to their fall and has ever since branded the human race with guilt, stigma, and bewilderment.

Islam takes a unique position on the whole issue. The Quran states that Adam and Eve were directed by God to reside in the Garden of Eden and enjoy its produce as they  leased, assured of bountiful supplies and comfort.

They were warned not to approach a particular tree and not to follow the footsteps of Satan so that they would not run into harm and injustice. Satan intrigued them to  temptation and caused them to forget God’s prohibition, and therefore, to lose their joyful state. They were expelled from the Garden and brought down to earth to live, die,  and be taken out again for the Final Judgment. Having realized what they had done, they felt shame, guilt, and remorse. They prayed for God’s forgiveness and were  forgiven.

The idea of Original Sin or hereditary criminality has no place in the teachings of Islam. Man, according to the Quran and to the Prophet, is born in a natural state of purity  called Fitrah (nature), which is Islam or submission to the will and law of God. After that, whatever becomes of man is the result of external influences and intruding factors. A person is innocent until he grows to an age when he can distinguish Right from Wrong. The home environment is crucial and it plays a decisive role in the formation of  human personality and the development of moral character. This does not deny the individual his or her freedom of choice nor exempt him or her from responsibility, rather  it is a relief from heavy burden of hereditary criminality or instinctual sin.

According to the moral scale of Islam, it is not a sin to be imperfect or fallible. This is part of human nature as a finite limited creature. But it is a sin if a person has the ways  and means of relative perfection and chooses not to seek it. A sin is any act, thought, or will that is:

1. 1. Deliberate
   2. Defies the unequivocal  law of God
   3. Violates the rights of  God or the rights of man
   4. Harmful to the soul or  body
   5. Normally avoidable
   6. Committed repeatedly

These are the components of. sin, which are not innate or hereditary. It is true that men and women have the potential of sin latent in them, but this is not beyond their capacity of piety and goodness. If they choose to actualize the potential of sin, instead of the potential of goodness, they will be adding a new external element to their pure  nature. For this added external element man alone is responsible.

I hope that this page may have helped answer some of the questions that the visitor may have had.