What is Islam?

The literal meaning of Islam is to submit or surrender. A Muslim is one who submits himself and surrenders his will to that of Allah (The Creator and Sustainer of The Universe). The message of Islam was brought to The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) more than 14 centuries ago. The Quran was brought by Angel Gabriel (Peace be on Him) directly to the Prophet (p.b.u.h.). It carries a Divine guarantee of safeguard from corruption and confirms the teachings of the earlier messages from Allah. The most important Message of Islam is the Unity of Allah (That He is One, has no partners and is the only one deserving of worship) and that Muhammad (p.b.u.h.) is His Messenger and Servant. A Muslim believes in: 1. Allah. 2. Allah’s Angels. 3. All the previously revealed books by Allah. 4. All the prophets, from Adam to Muhammad (peace be upon them all). 5. The day of Judgment. 6. The decree of good and evil. The fundamentals of Islam are five: Shahadah -Testimony to the Unity of God and messengership of Muhammad (p.b.u.h.). Salah - Performance of the five daily prayers. Zakah - Giving of Zakat. Fasting - Fasting the month of Ramadan. Hajj - Performing the pilgrimage to Makkah. Islam teaches: That each person is born pure. That Allah has given human beings a choice between good and evil and to seek Allah’s pleasure by practicing goodness. Justice for Allah to all, even against oneself, parents or near relatives. Respect, kindness and obedience to parents. Caring for the orphans and the needy. Respect for women and giving them the due rights. Kindness to all. Chastity. Honesty. Mercy. Courage. Patience. Politeness. Leading a healthy and active life. And every form of goodness. In short, Islam is a perfect and complete code for the guidance of individuals and communities alike. The entire message of Islam is derived from the Quran and indeed the Sunnah (practices, sayings and confirmations of the Prophet). It is inalienable in the face of change in time and place. It may appear rigid to the casual eye, but in fact it is most adaptable to the circumstances and need of humanity. Islam teaches that the path to spiritual development is open to all. Any individual who searches the One Creator can seek nearness to God through sincere and earnest worship. This positive message for humanity fills hearts with hope and courage. At present there are 1.5 billion Muslims worldwide and they form the majority in more than 50 countries of the world. Today Islam is the fastest growing faith in the world. Its beautiful message is reaching millions in the far corner of the earth. Source: iccharlotte.com