Basics of Islam
Learning about Islam
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Understanding Islam:
Fundamentals of Faith and Community
Delve into the fundamental teachings and principles that shape the Islamic faith, guiding the spiritual life and ethical framework of the global Muslim community. This overview provides a clear understanding of the core beliefs, practices and values that define Islam, focusing on the mainstream, traditionalist perspective.
Basics of Islam
The word “Islam” literally means “submission to the will of God (Allah)”, and a practitioner is called a Muslim. Islam is a monotheistic religion centered on the belief in one unique and absolute Creator, Allah. It is rooted in the continuous tradition of Abrahamic prophets, culminating in the final Prophet, Muhammad.
Core Beliefs
The foundation of the Islamic worldview rests upon the Six Articles of Faith:
- Tawhid (Oneness of God): The absolute unity and uniqueness of God (Allah), who is the sole creator and sustainer of the universe, and the only entity worthy of worship.
- Angels: Belief in the existence of angels, who carry out the commands of God.
- Revealed Books: Belief in the scriptures revealed by God, including the original Torah, Gospel, and Psalms, and the Qur’an, which is considered the final and complete revelation.
- Prophets: Belief in all prophets sent by God (including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad). Prophet Muhammad is recognized as the Seal of the Prophets, conveying God’s final message.
- Day of Judgment: Belief in the resurrection of the dead and the final reckoning, where every individual will be held accountable for their deeds.
- Divine Decree (Qadar): Belief that God has complete foreknowledge and control over all things, while humans still possess free will to choose their actions.
The Five Pillars of Islam
These five essential acts of worship form the devotional framework for every Muslim’s life:
- Shahada (Faith): The sincere declaration: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
- Salat (Prayer): Performing five daily ritual prayers at prescribed times.
- Zakat (Charity): Giving a percentage of one’s accumulated wealth to the poor and needy.
- Sawm (Fasting): Abstaining from food, drink, and intimate relations from dawn until sunset during the holy month of Ramadan.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage): Making a pilgrimage to the Kaaba in Mecca once in a lifetime, for those who are physically and financially able.
Sources of Guidance and Authority
The mainstream tradition relies on the following sources to derive laws and practices:
- The Qur’an: The primary and most authoritative source of law and guidance.
- The Sunnah: The customary example, practices, and sayings of the Prophet Muhammad, meticulously recorded in collections of Hadith. This is used to explain and elaborate upon the principles found in the Qur’an.
- Consensus (Ijmaʿ): The acceptance of the consensus of qualified scholars and the community on matters not explicitly covered by the Qur’an or Sunnah.
Quick FAQs: Understanding Islam
Who is Allah (SWT)?
Allah is the Arabic name for God, the one unique Creator and Sustainer of the universe in Islam.
Why is '(SWT)' used after Allah's name?
(SWT) is an abbreviation for the Arabic phrase Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala, meaning “Glorious and Exalted Is He.” It’s used as a sign of reverence and respect.
What are the Five Pillars of Islam?
They are the five essential acts of worship: Shahada (Faith), Salat (Prayer), Zakat (Charity), Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (Pilgrimage).
What is the source of Islamic law and ethics?
The primary source is the Qur’an (the word of God), followed by the Sunnah (the example and teachings of the Prophet Muhammad).
What is the daily prayer called?
The five daily compulsory prayers are called Salat (or Salah). They are performed at specific times (Dawn, Noon, Afternoon, Sunset, and Night).
What does 'Islam' mean?
The word Islam literally means “submission to the will of God,” and a person who practices Islam is called a Muslim (“one who submits”).
What is the central concept of Islam?
The central concept is Tawhid—the uncompromising belief in the absolute Oneness and Uniqueness of God (Allah).
What is the Qur'an?
The Qur’an is the holy book of Islam, which Muslims believe is the literal word of God revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
Who is Prophet Muhammad?
Muslims believe he was the final prophet sent by God to humanity to deliver and complete the message of monotheism.
What is the meaning of the term 'Ummah'?
Ummah refers to the global community of all Muslims, emphasizing mutual support and a universal brotherhood/sisterhood of faith.
What is a Mosque?
A Mosque (or Masjid) is the place of worship for Muslims, primarily used for communal prayers and religious education.
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