بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ 

ISLAMIC INTRO

What is Islam?

More than a religion, Islam is a perfected way of life in which Muslims submit to the commandments of the Almighty Allah SWT (God) as set in the Holy Qurãn and the teachings and practices of the last Prophet Muhammad SAW (Peace and blessings be upon him) which are known as Hadith. Islam teaches us peace, mercy and forgiveness. The Qurãn and Hadith can be used as a foundation to govern any society, country or even the world. Anything from eating, sleeping, dealing in relationships, economics, politics, health, worship and even death are clearly stated in the Qurãn and Hadith.

Islam is the fastest growing religion today and there are Muslims in almost every part of the world. More than a billion people from all over the world with different cultures, races and nationalities believe in one God – Allah SWT and The Last messenger – Prophet Muhammad SAW (Peace and blessings be upon him). Anyone that submits to this is a Muslim.

Islam is a religion of peace and full of religious tolerance. Respecting people of different religions as long as they do not fight against Muslims, then all Muslims (regardless of their Mazhab Fiqih) must respect other humans with different religions and beliefs. As Firman Allah SWT in Surah Al-Kafirun (109) verse 6:

لَكُمْ دِينُكُمْ وَلِىَ دِينِ

"Unto you, your moral law, and unto me, mine!" 

(Quran, Surah Al-Kafirun 109:6)

What does Islam Mean?

"Islam" is an Arabic word that means "submission" or "surrender." In an Islamic context, it refers to the submission and surrender of oneself to the will of Allah SWT (God). Islam is one of the major world religions, and its followers, known as Muslims, believe in the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad SAW as revealed in the holy book of Islam, the Quran. 

Islam has been widely misinterpreted as a religion spread by the sword and cruelty, which refers to the actions of Muhammad Wahabi, the founder of the purification movement in Saudi Arabia, who forced non-Muslim communities to enter Islam with the threat of a sword at their throats. Wahhabism, or Salafism, is a doctrine brought by Muhammad bin Abdul Wahab as a form of Islamic reform in Saudi Arabia. The Wahhabi movement emerged in Saudi Arabia in the mid-18th century.

Indeed, Muhammad Al-Wahhab's actions were cruel. He tarnished the image of Islam as a peaceful religion in pursuit of the mission of purifying Islam, which, in reality, he completely misinterpreted Islam by 99%. His action truly uncivilized and deeply shameful for other Muslims. Well... May Allah SWT forgive his sins and all his follower..

The true teachings of Islam revolve around submission to the will of Allah, compassion, mercy, justice, humility, and striving for personal excellence. It emphasizes the importance of faith, good deeds, sincerity, and respect for all human beings regardless of their backgrounds. Islam encourages seeking knowledge, promoting peace, and fostering harmony within oneself and the community.

Islam encompasses various aspects of life, including faith, worship, morality, and social justice. The ultimate goal for a Muslim is to achieve peace and submission to the divine will.

The Six Pillars of Faith

Muslims believe in the core tenets of Islam, which are outlined in the Quran, the holy book of Islam, and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad SAW. It called " Six Articles of Faith." These are fundamental beliefs that every Muslim is expected to uphold as part of their faith. The Six Articles of Faith are:

1. **Monotheism (Tawhid):** Muslims believe in the oneness of Allah (God). There is no god but Allah, and He has no partners.

2. **Prophethood (Risalah):** Muslims believe that Allah has sent prophets to guide humanity throughout history. The final prophet is Muhammad, who received the last revelation, the Quran.

3. **Angels (Malaika):** Muslims believe in the existence of angels created by Allah to carry out His commands.

4. **Books of Revelation (Kitab):** Muslims believe in the divine books revealed to different prophets, including the Torah, the Psalms, the Gospel, and the Quran. The Quran is considered the final and complete revelation.

5. **Day of Judgment (Qiyamah):** Muslims believe in the afterlife and a Day of Judgment, where individuals will be held accountable for their deeds. Depending on their actions, they will either be rewarded with paradise or face punishment in hell.

6. **Divine Decree (Qadar):** Muslims believe in Allah's divine decree, including His knowledge of all things, His control over everything, and His predestination of events.

These beliefs form the foundation of Islamic theology, and practicing Muslims adhere to these principles in their daily lives through acts of worship, moral conduct, and adherence to Islamic law (Sharia).

The Five Pillars of Islam

A Muslims belief is based on the five pillars of Islam. The Five Pillars of Islam are the fundamental acts of worship and practices that are considered the foundation of a Muslim's faith and practice. These pillars serve as a framework for a Muslim's spiritual and ethical life. 

The Five Pillars are:

1. Shahada (Declaration of Faith): This is the basic creed of Islam, declaring the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad. The Shahada is recited sincerely as a public declaration of one's faith.

2. Salah (Prayer): Muslims are required to perform five daily prayers facing the Kaaba in Mecca. The prayers are performed at specific times throughout the day and serve as a way for individuals to maintain a close connection with Allah.

3. Zakat (Charity): Muslims are obligated to give a portion of their wealth (usually 2.5% of their savings) to help those in need, particularly the poor and less fortunate. Zakat is considered a means of purifying one's wealth and fostering social justice.

4. Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan): Muslims fast from dawn to sunset during the holy month of Ramadan, abstaining from food, drink, and sinful behavior. Fasting is seen as a way to develop self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and spiritual growth.

5. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca): Muslims who are physically and financially able are required to perform the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. The Hajj takes place during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah and involves a series of rituals, emphasizing unity and equality among Muslims.

These Five Pillars serve as the core framework for a Muslim's religious practice and are essential elements of a devout and sincere Islamic life.

Muslims also believe in the other prophets commonly known as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Moses, David, John and Jesus (Peace and blessings be upon them). Muslims believe in the four books revealed by Allah - the Torah, Injeel (Gospel), Zaboor (Book of Psalms) and the Holy Qurãn which is the last book. 

However Muslims only follow the Qurãn as the other books may have been altered through time, but the Qurãn which is the last testament is still in its original form and will remain this way until the Day of Judgment as testified by Allah in the Qurãn. Muslims also believe in the angels, the day of Judgement and life after death and that good and bad fate comes from Allah.

Who is Prophet Muhammad SAW ?

Prophet Muhammad SAW (Peace and blessings be upon him) was born in the Islamic month of Rabi’ al-awwal in 570 CE in the city of Mecca, and was orphaned at a young age. He was brought up under the care of his uncle, Abu Talib. As he grew he became known for his truthfulness, generosity and sincerity. Due to his character he acquired the nickname “Al-Amin” meaning “faithful, trustworthy” and was sought out as an impartial arbitrator. 

By the age of 25 he married Khadija (May Allah be pleased with her) who was a 40 year old widow. Discontented with life in Mecca, he used to retreat to the cave of Hira in the surrounding mountains for meditation and reflection. 

At age 40 during the month of Ramadan he received his first revelation from God. Three years after this event Muhammad SAW started preaching these revelations publicly, proclaiming that “God is One”, and that he was a prophet and messenger of God. Prophet Muhammad SAW came down as “a mercy (rahmat) to the worlds” (Qurãn 21:107). He is the best example and model for mankind

As a young boy Muhammad SAW was always beside his uncle Abu Talib. One day he accompanied his uncle on a business trip to Syria. Bahira who was an old Christian priest that lived in Basra awaited the caravans that approached Basra. He knew from his scriptures that the time was near when the last Prophet will appear. He was surprised to see a cloud shading the caravan in which Muhammad SAW travelled. 

He welcomed the caravan and invited Abu Talib and his people to a meal. After the meal he questioned Abu Talib about the young boy that accompanied them and even questioned Muhammad SAW about his life. Muhammad SAW told him about his dreams and the voices he hears. Bahira was convinced that this is the Prophet SAW as foretold in the scriptures. He also noticed the seal of the Prohethood on Muhammad’s back and repeatedly kissed it. He advised Abu Talib that Muhammad SAW is the last prophet, to take good care of him and beware of his enemies and do not let anyone know about him. Muhammad SAW spent many years in the cave of hira meditating and thinking about god. He was troubled with the evil practices of his people. They used to drink, gamble and worship idols.

One day at the age of forty during the period of Ramadan in the cave of Hira, Angel Jibraeel(Gabriel) came to him and commanded him to read (“Iqra”). Muhammad SAW was in shock and replied that he did not know how to read. 

A second time he was asked to read and once again he replied that he could not read. The third time Jibraeel said ”Read in the name of thy Lord (and Cherisher) who created man out of a clot. Read and thy Lord is most Bountiful. It is He who taught the use of the pen and taught man that which he knew not” (Qurãn 96:1-5). This was the Prophets SAW first Divine call. 

He went back home trembling and asked his wife Khadija ra (May Allah be pleased with her) to cover him up. He related the incident to her and she being fully aware of his honorable qualities consoled him and told him that “Allah will not harm you; for you have kept good relations with friends and you have taken other peoples burdens and got rid of their evils.” 

She revealed the events to her cousin Waraqa bin Naufal who was a scholar of the Holy Scriptures of the Christians and he informed her that her husband was the chosen prophet of Allah SWT.

Revelation of the Qurãn

The first verses of the Qurãn came to Prophet Muhammad SAW in the cave of Hira. The first word was “Iqra” (Read), Thereafter the rest of the verses as mentioned earlier were revealed. Although the Prophet SAW could not read or write, he memorized these verses and asked his companions and friends to write down the revelation and memorize it with him. 

Some people claim that the Qurãn was written by Prophet Muhammad SAW, but anyone who reads the Qurãn will tell you in all respect that this is not the work of a man, let alone a man who has not been schooled in any of the sciences, philosophy or a man that could not read or write. The Qurãn is indeed the words of God!

Upon the completion of the revelation of the Qurãn, the Angel Jibreel went over the full recitation of the Qurãn with the Prophet SAW to confirm that it was in the correct form and order. Since its inception the Qurãn still continues to be in its original Arabic context. No word has changed over the centuries, this being a miracle itself. The Qurãn as some describe it - is a living miracle.

Misinterpretation of the Qurãn

Regrettably, there are individuals who wrongly interpret the teachings of the Qurãn, alleging that it advocates for evil deeds and endorses acts of terrorism. However, this assertion is entirely false and represents an insidious attempt to mislead others about the true essence of the Qurãn and to malign the reputation of Islam and its followers.

Example of Misinterpretation: One notable instance of misinterpretation revolves around the term "Jihad." While some may assert that it signifies a "holy war," the actual meaning of Jihad is to exert effort or strive in the cause of Allah SWT.

Clarification on Jihad: It's crucial to understand that Jihad encompasses various forms of struggle, including internal spiritual striving, efforts to uphold justice, and defensive measures in the face of oppression. The misrepresentation of Jihad as synonymous with violence is a distortion of its true significance within Islamic teachings.

The misinterpretation of the Qurãn, exemplified by misconceptions surrounding the term Jihad, serves to propagate false notions about Islam. It's imperative to address such misunderstandings and promote accurate knowledge to foster understanding and harmony among communities.

Living in a modern society, all Muslims are obliged to engage in their own Jihad. Jihad, often misunderstood as solely referring to armed conflict, encompasses a broader struggle, including the personal striving for spiritual growth and moral excellence. However, the highest manifestation of Jihad indeed occurs on the battlefield, where one may be called to defend their faith, community, or homeland.

To navigate this path effectively, it's crucial to seek guidance from the ultimate source of Truth (Haq), which lies within the Qur'an. Thus, it's strongly advised that individuals immerse themselves in the teachings of the Qur'an firsthand. 

For newcomers to Islam, initiating this journey may involve reading translations of the Qur'an accompanied by reputable commentaries.

• Understanding Jihad: Jihad extends beyond warfare; it encompasses various forms of struggle, such as self-discipline, self-improvement, and societal reform.

• Highest Form of Jihad: While Jihad is multidimensional, the most elevated form occurs on the battlefield, where believers may be tasked with defending their faith and community against oppression or aggression.

• Seeking Truth in the Qur'an: The Qur'an serves as the ultimate guide for Muslims, containing divine wisdom and guidance for navigating life's challenges.

• Guidance for Newcomers: For those new to Islam, starting with translations of the Qur'an supplemented by reputable commentaries can provide valuable insights into the faith's principles and teachings.

By embracing the multifaceted nature of Jihad and grounding oneself in the teachings of the Qur'an, Muslims can strive towards fulfilling their religious obligations while navigating the complexities of modern society.

The Shahada - Accepting Islam

The Shahada, a fundamental declaration in Islam, asserts the belief in one God, Allah SWT, and the acceptance of Muhammad SAW as His prophet. It marks the initiation into Islam, symbolizing faith's core. To embrace Islam, one recites the Shahada, affirming "La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur rasulullah," translating to "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah." 

This profound declaration encapsulates monotheism and Muhammad's prophethood, epitomizing Islam's essence. Its simplicity underscores Islam's accessibility and universality, inviting believers worldwide. The Shahada's significance lies in its role as a cornerstone, unifying Muslims in their devotion and creed.

Any person of any age, any ethnic can embrace Islam: 

• Any person, regardless of age, ethnicity has the opportunity to embrace Islam. 

• Even if someone has tattoos or originates from a misguided background, they are welcome to convert to Islam. 

• It's important to understand that one doesn't require anyone else's approval or permission to become a Muslim.

In Islam, there are no barriers based on external appearances or past actions. It's a religion open to all, emphasizing equality and the importance of personal choice. Whether you're young or old, from any cultural background, Islam welcomes you without discrimination. 

Your journey to embracing Islam is solely between you and your connection with the divine, free from the need for validation from others. This inclusivity is a fundamental aspect of Islamic teachings, promoting acceptance and understanding among all individuals. 

So, if you feel drawn to Islam, know that the path is open for you, regardless of your circumstances or past experiences. Your decision to embrace Islam is a personal one, guided by your own spiritual journey and connection with the faith.

Furthermore, the decision to convert to Islam is deeply personal and does not hinge on external validation. No authority or individual holds the power to grant or deny permission for someone to embrace the faith. Ultimately, it's a journey of self-discovery and faith, where individuals find solace and purpose in their relationship with Allah.

Islam is for the whole of humanity and brings together people of different cultures, languages, races and nationalities into one brotherhood. Allah says: “Indeed the Believers are but brothers.” [Qurãn 49:10]

Anyone who wants to accept Islam has to recite with conviction to the Shahada, which is “I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and I testify that Muhammad is the servant and messenger of Allah.”

Other Islamic books besides the Qurãn

In addition to the Qur'an, Muslims also adhere to the Hadith, which are documented sayings and actions of Rasulullah Muhammad SAW. These Sunnah hold immense significance and are integrated into daily life. Key points include:

• Guidance: The Hadith provides detailed guidance on various aspects of life, complementing the teachings of the Qur'an.

• Practices: They encompass rituals, ethical conduct, and personal behavior.

• Examples: Prophet Muhammad's (pbuh) life serves as a model for Muslims to emulate.

• Daily Integration: Practices such as prayer, fasting, and social interactions are influenced by the Hadith.

Overall, the Hadith is essential for understanding and living according to Islamic principles. It serves as crucial guidance that complements the Quran, the primary Islamic text, by providing explanations and expansions on its teachings. 

The Hadith also offers historical context to:

• the Quranic revelations 

• illuminating the life 

• sayings of Rasulullah Muhammad SAW

Muslims depend on the Hadith to inform their daily religious practices and rituals, such as prayer, fasting, and charitable acts. Additionally, it outlines a moral and ethical framework that promotes virtues like honesty, compassion, and justice. 

Islamic jurisprudence, or Sharia, relies heavily on the Hadith to develop laws and legal principles, making it foundational to both personal piety and the broader Islamic legal system.

Islam vs. other beliefs

Islamic law protects the status of minorities, which has led to the flourishing of non-Muslim places of worship throughout the Islamic world. Here are the key points illustrating this protection and its historical context:

-Protection of Minority Rights: Islamic law, or Sharia, emphasizes the protection of minorities. Non-Muslims, known as "dhimmis," are granted specific rights and protections under Islamic rule. This includes the freedom to practice their own religions and maintain their places of worship.

-Historical Precedent in Jerusalem: A notable historical example is when Caliph Omar (May Allah be pleased with him) entered Jerusalem in 634. His approach set a significant precedent for religious tolerance and coexistence.

- Freedom of Worship: Upon entering Jerusalem, Caliph Omar ensured that all religious communities were granted the freedom to worship according to their own traditions. This act of granting religious freedom was a practical demonstration of Islamic principles concerning the treatment of non-Muslims.

- Preservation of Places of Worship: Under Islamic rule, the existing places of worship for Christians and Jews were preserved and respected. This respect for religious sites contributed to the peaceful coexistence of various faiths within Islamic territories.

-Flourishing of Non-Muslim Places of Worship**: As a result of these protective measures, non-Muslim places of worship not only survived but often thrived under Islamic governance. Throughout history, from the Middle East to parts of Asia and Africa, many churches, synagogues, and temples have continued to serve their communities, reflecting the inclusive spirit of Islamic governance.

Islamic law’s protection of minority rights has played a crucial role in the flourishing of diverse places of worship across the Islamic world, exemplified by the actions of Caliph Omar in Jerusalem.

What do Muslims think about Jesus?

Muslims hold Jesus in high esteem and veneration, viewing him as a significant and revered figure within their faith. They believe that Jesus was one of the most important messengers sent by God to guide humanity. According to Islamic teachings, Jesus, known as Isa in Arabic, was born miraculously to the Virgin Mary (Maryam) and performed numerous miracles by the will of God. He is considered a prophet and a servant of God, rather than the son of God as in Christianity.

In addition to respecting his life and message, Muslims also anticipate Jesus' return to Earth, known as the Second Coming. This belief is rooted in Islamic eschatology, which holds that Jesus will come back at the end of times to restore justice, defeat the false messiah (the Antichrist, or Dajjal), and establish peace. This Second Coming is seen as a continuation of his mission to guide and save humanity. Thus, in Islam, Jesus is not only a revered messenger of God but also a pivotal figure in the fulfillment of divine prophecy and the ultimate establishment of justice and righteousness in the world.

A Muslim never refers to him simply as ‘Jesus’, but as Isa. as (Essa) and adds the phrase Alayhis-Salaam (as) , in meaning ‘peace be upon him’. The Qurãn confirms his virgin birth (a chapter of the Qurãn is entitled ‘Mary’), and Mary is considered the purest woman in all creation.

Jesus was born miraculously through the same power which had brought Adam into being without a father. “Truly, the likeness of Jesus with God is as the likeness of Adam. He created him of dust, and then said to him, ‘Be!’ and he was.” (Qurãn 3:59) During his prophetic mission Jesus performed many miracles. The Qurãn tells us that he said “I have come to you with a sign from your Lord: I make for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it and it becomes a bird by God’s leave. And I heal the blind, and the lepers and I raise the dead by God’s leave.” [Qurãn 3:49]

Neither Muhammad SAW nor Jesus came to change the basic doctrine of the belief in One God, brought by earlier prophets, but to confirm and renew it. In the Qurãn Jesus is reported as saying that he came “To attest the law which was before me. And to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden to you; I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, so fear God and obey Me.” [Qurãn 3:5O]

The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said “Whoever believes there is no god but God, alone without partner, that Muhammad is His messenger, that Jesus is the servant and messenger of God, His word breathed into Mary and a spirit emanating from Him, and that Paradise and Hell are true, shall be received by God into Heaven. [Hadith from Bukhar]

Why is family so important to Muslims?

The family serves as the cornerstone of Islamic society. The stability and security that a cohesive family unit provides are highly esteemed and considered crucial for the spiritual development of its members. In Islam, a well-functioning family is seen as a vital element for nurturing and maintaining the faith and moral values of its individuals. 

Within this framework, the family is not just limited to the nuclear unit but extends to include a broader network of relatives, known as the extended family. This extended family structure plays a significant role in creating a harmonious social order. It fosters a supportive and nurturing environment where individuals are cared for and guided by a larger community of relatives.

Children hold a special place within Islamic families. They are cherished and their upbringing is given utmost importance. The family ensures that children are raised with strong moral and ethical values, embedded within the teachings of Islam. The care and attention given to children aim to mold them into responsible and pious adults.

Moreover, it is customary for children to remain with their parents until they marry. This practice underscores the importance of family ties and the support system that the family provides. By staying within the family home until marriage, children continue to receive guidance and support from their parents and other family members. This not only strengthens family bonds but also ensures that young adults are well-prepared for their future roles within their own families.

The peace and security provided by a stable family environment are, therefore, seen as indispensable for both individual well-being and the overall cohesion of Islamic society. The emphasis on strong family values and the extended family network helps to create a balanced and orderly social structure, where each member can thrive spiritually and morally.

Can a Muslim have more than one wife?

In the Islamic faith, the allowance for a man to have multiple wives is often a topic of discussion and scrutiny. Islam, being a religion revealed for all societies and eras, recognizes the diverse social structures and needs that exist. While monogamy is the norm in many societies, Islam acknowledges situations where polygamy may be deemed necessary or beneficial.

According to the Qur'an, a Muslim man can take more than one wife under certain conditions, with fairness being paramount. This provision is not a carte blanche endorsement for multiple marriages but rather a recognition of exceptional circumstances. The condition of fairness is emphasized, indicating that a man must treat all his wives equitably, both emotionally and materially.

However, it's crucial to understand that the permission for polygamy in Islam doesn't imply encouragement. Rather, it's seen as a concession to specific situations such as caring for widows, orphans, or addressing imbalances in gender ratios caused by circumstances like war.

In essence, while Islam permits polygamy, it's contingent upon the husband's ability to maintain fairness and equity among his wives. This principle reflects Islam's adaptive nature, aiming to address social complexities while upholding justice and compassion.

What about Muslim women?

- Islam recognizes women as individuals with rights:

• Regardless of marital status, women have the right to own and manage their property and income.

• During marriage, the groom provides a dowry to the bride for her personal use.

• Women retain their family names after marriage, rather than adopting their husband's.

- Modesty in dress:

• Both men and women are expected to dress modestly and with dignity.

• The attire worn by women in certain Muslim regions reflects local customs.

In Islam, women enjoy autonomy over their finances and possessions, a concept often overlooked in mainstream narratives. Unlike traditional practices where women were considered property or dependent on male relatives, Islam emphasizes their individuality and economic agency. Additionally, the custom of giving a marriage dowry directly to the bride empowers her financially and symbolizes her worth beyond material possessions.

Furthermore, Islam promotes modesty in attire for both genders, with particular emphasis on women's dress. While certain societies interpret this modesty through specific clothing styles, the core principle remains universal: dressing respectfully and avoiding ostentation. This aspect of Islamic teachings underscores the importance of dignity and self-respect in personal presentation.

Understanding Islam's perspective on women requires delving beyond stereotypes and examining its foundational principles. By acknowledging women's rights to property, financial independence, and personal identity, Islam challenges patriarchal norms and advocates for gender equality within its framework. Similarly, the emphasis on modest attire reflects values of humility and dignity, fostering a culture of respect and self-restraint within Muslim communities.

Islamic Marriage

A Muslim marriage is fundamentally a contractual agreement rather than a sacrament. It entails a straightforward legal process where either party can stipulate conditions. The ceremony, known as Nikah, occurs following the bride's consent, typically in the presence of the groom and the bride's father or a designated guardian. 

Nikah solemnizes the union, affirming the couple's commitment to each other within the bounds of Islamic law. Subsequently, a celebratory feast called Walima is hosted by the groom, symbolizing the commencement of the marital journey and the extension of hospitality to family and friends. 

This sequence reflects the simplicity and significance attributed to marriage in Islam, emphasizing mutual consent, familial involvement, and communal celebration.. 

Marriage customs exhibit considerable diversity across different countries, reflecting unique cultural traditions and societal norms. Consequently, the prevalence of divorce varies significantly, with some societies viewing it as uncommon, while others acknowledge it as a permissible but last-resort option. In Islamic tradition, coercion in marriage is strictly prohibited, particularly for Muslim girls. Parents typically play a pivotal role in the matchmaking process, suggesting potential suitors they believe align with their daughter's preferences and familial expectations.

• Cultural Variation in Marriage Customs: The practices surrounding marriage differ extensively worldwide due to cultural and social factors.

• Attitudes Towards Divorce: While divorce rates fluctuate, some cultures perceive divorce as rare, whereas others accept it as a viable solution under specific circumstances.

• Islamic Perspective: Islam emphasizes the importance of consent in marriage, particularly for women, prohibiting any form of coercion or force in the union.

• Parental Involvement: Parents often take an active role in arranging marriages, introducing their daughters to prospective partners deemed compatible based on various criteria such as religious beliefs, socioeconomic status, and family background.

• Respect for Individual Choice: Despite parental involvement, the ultimate decision regarding marriage rests with the individuals involved, particularly ensuring the bride's willingness to enter the union.

How do Muslims treat the elderly?

Ideally, in the Islamic world there should be no old people’s homes. The strain of caring for one’s parents in this most difficult time of their lives is considered an honour and blessing, and an opportunity for great spiritual growth. 

Allah SWT asks that we not only pray for our parents, but act with limitless compassion, remembering that when we were helpless children they preferred us to themselves. Mothers are particularly honoured; the Prophet taught that “Paradise lies at the feet of mothers”. When they reach old age, Muslim parents are treated mercifully, with the same kindness and selflessness.

In Islam, serving one’s parents is a duty second only to prayer, and it is their right to expect it. It is considered despicable to express any irritation when, through no fault of their own, the old become difficult.

• Duty to Parents: According to Islamic teachings, the duty to serve one's parents ranks only after the obligation of prayer. This duty encompasses various forms of support and care, including physical, emotional, and financial assistance.

• Respect and Patience: Expressing irritation or frustration towards elderly parents, even when they become challenging due to age-related difficulties, is strongly condemned in Islam. Instead, patience, understanding, and compassion are emphasized as essential virtues when dealing with aging parents.

• Honoring Their Rights: Islam underscores the inherent right of parents to expect care and respect from their children. This expectation is not contingent upon the parents' behavior or condition but is based on the natural order of familial obligations.

How do Muslims view death?

Like Jews and Christians, Muslims believe that the present life is only a trial preparation for the next realm of existence. 

• Muslims, akin to Jews and Christians, perceive the current life as a preparatory phase for the afterlife. Fundamental tenets of their faith encompass belief in the Day of Judgment, resurrection, Heaven, and Hell.

• Upon the death of a Muslim, a ritual washing typically conducted by a family member is performed, followed by wrapping the deceased in a pristine white cloth, and burial, ideally on the same day, accompanied by a simple prayer.

• Muslims regard this funeral process as one of the final acts of service they can offer to their departed loved ones. It serves as a poignant moment to reflect on the transient nature of human existence on Earth.

The Muslim perspective on death is deeply intertwined with their broader theological beliefs. It underscores the notion of accountability in the afterlife, where deeds performed in this world are weighed. The emphasis on prompt burial reflects a reverence for the deceased and a desire to fulfill religious obligations swiftly. 

Additionally, the communal aspect of funeral rites reinforces the interconnectedness of believers and the importance of collective remembrance. Overall, death in the Muslim faith is viewed not as an end but as a transition to another realm, prompting reflection on the ultimate purpose of life and the pursuit of spiritual growth.

Rasulullah Muhammad SAW taught that three things can continue to help a person even after death in the Realm of Barzakh:

• Amal Jariyah (Charity): This refers to the ongoing charity or beneficial deeds that a person initiated during their lifetime. These could include building a mosque, digging a well, or contributing to a charitable cause. The impact of such actions continues to benefit others even after the individual's passing. For example, a well that provides clean water to a community will serve its purpose for years, benefiting countless people.

• Knowledge: The Prophet emphasized the significance of knowledge and education. He highlighted that the knowledge one imparts to others can serve as a source of continuous reward. This includes teaching beneficial skills, sharing wisdom, or spreading knowledge of Islam. By passing on knowledge, individuals contribute to the betterment of society and leave a lasting legacy.

• Du'a (Praying) on Their Behalf by a Righteous Child: The Prophet also stressed the power of supplication. He taught that even after someone's death, they can receive blessings through the prayers of their righteous descendants. This underscores the importance of maintaining strong family ties and passing on religious teachings to future generations. The sincere prayers of a righteous child can bring comfort and blessings to their deceased parents or ancestors.

These teachings illustrate the Prophet's holistic approach to life and the importance of leaving behind a positive impact. By engaging in acts of charity, imparting knowledge, and nurturing familial bonds, individuals can continue to benefit others and earn rewards in the Hereafter, even after their earthly journey has ended.

What does Islam say about war?

Similar to Christianity, Islam allows for fighting under specific circumstances:

• Self-defense: When one's life or property is threatened and fighting becomes necessary to protect oneself.

• Defense of religion: When the principles and teachings of Islam are under threat, Muslims are permitted to engage in combat to safeguard their faith.

• Protection of the oppressed: Muslims are allowed to fight in support of those who have been forcibly expelled from their homes, seeking to restore justice and safety to them.

Islam sets forth stringent regulations regarding warfare:

• Protection of civilians:It strictly prohibits the harming of non-combatants, including women, children, and the elderly, emphasizing the sanctity of innocent lives.

• Preservation of resources:Islam prohibits the destruction of essential resources such as crops, trees, and livestock during conflict, recognizing the importance of sustaining life and livelihoods even in times of war.

Islam's approach to warfare emphasizes the necessity of adhering to ethical principles even in the midst of battle. By delineating clear guidelines for engagement, Islam seeks to ensure that any conflict is conducted with justice, compassion, and respect for human dignity, reflecting the core values of the faith.

As Muslims see it, injustice would be triumphant in the world if good men were not prepared to risk their lives in a righteous cause.

War, therefore, is the last resort, and is subject to the rigorous conditions laid down by the sacred law. The term jihad literally means ‘struggle’, and Muslims believe that there are two kinds of jihad. The other ‘jihad’ is the inner struggle which everyone wages against egotistic desires, for the sake of attaining inner peace.

Food in Islam

Here's some important things that we have to know about food in Islam:

• In Islam, dietary laws are less complex compared to those followed by Jews and early Christians. However, there are strict guidelines regarding consumption.

• The Islamic code prohibits the consumption of pork and any form of intoxicating beverages.

• Additionally, any meat consumed by Muslims must be Halaal, meaning it must adhere to Islamic guidelines, particularly in terms of how the animal is slaughtered.

• The process of slaughtering animals for consumption must comply with Islamic law, ensuring that it is done in a humane and respectful manner.

• This adherence to dietary laws is not only a religious obligation but also a way for Muslims to maintain purity and spiritual well-being.

• By following these dietary restrictions, Muslims aim to align their lives with the teachings of Islam and maintain a sense of discipline and mindfulness in their daily practices.

• These dietary restrictions serve as a reminder of the importance of self-discipline and moderation in all aspects of life, including food consumption, in order to lead a righteous and spiritually fulfilling life according to Islamic principles.

Rasulullah Muhammad SAW taught that ‘your body has rights over you’ and the consumption of wholesome food and the leading of a healthy lifestyle are seen as religious obligations. The Prophet Muhammad SAW said: ‘Ask Allah SWT for certainty [of faith] and well-being; for after certainty, no one is given any gift better than health!’

FAST FACTS ON ISLAM

Time founded : 610 CE

Place founded : Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Founder :The Prophet Muhammad SAW,

Size rank : 

• 2nd largest in the world 

• 1,8 billion (updated Jan 2022)

Islam has overtaken Roman Catholicism to become the world’s largest single religious de nomination, according to L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican newspaper

Holy Book : Al-Qurãn  

Original language : Arabic

House of worship : Mosque

Type of theism : Strict monotheism

Ultimate reality : Allah SWT (the same God revealed in the Jewish and Christian Bibles)

Purpose of life : Submit to the will of Allah SWT, live according to the practices of Prophet Muhammad SAW and attain Jannah (paradise) after death

How to live : Follow the Qurãn, Hadith, Ijtihad, and Five Pillars of Islam

Afterlife : Resurrection of body and soul followed by eternal paradise or hell

Symbol : Crescent moon and star

Main location : Middle East , North Africa, half of East Europe, half of Asia and nearly encompassing the entire Southern Asia

The Biggest Muslim Country : Indonesia (updated March 2023)

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