What Is Islam?

Islam is the religion of complete submission to the One true God, Allah, and living in peace through obedience to Him. Muslims believe that Islam is the final and complete message sent to humanity through Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم).

The Meaning of Islam

The word Islam comes from the Arabic root “S-L-M,” which relates to peace, safety, and submission. Islam means:

• Submitting to the will of Allah
• Living in spiritual peace
• Following divine guidance

A Muslim is “one who submits” to Allah sincerely.

Belief in One God (Tawheed)

The foundation of Islam is belief in one God without partners.

قُلْ هُوَ اللَّهُ أَحَدٌ

“Say: He is Allah, the One.” (Qur’an 112:1)

Islam rejects the idea of multiple gods, intermediaries in worship, or associating partners with Allah.

Prophethood in Islam

Muslims believe that Allah sent prophets throughout history to guide humanity, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (عليه السلام).

The final prophet is Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم), through whom the Qur’an was revealed.

وَمَا أَرْسَلْنَاكَ إِلَّا رَحْمَةً لِّلْعَالَمِينَ

“We have not sent you except as a mercy to the worlds.” (Qur’an 21:107)

The Qur’an: The Final Revelation

The Qur’an is the holy book of Islam. Muslims believe it is the literal word of Allah, preserved without alteration since its revelation.

It provides guidance for faith, morality, family life, justice, and spirituality.

The Five Pillars of Islam

The Five Pillars are the core practices of a Muslim’s life:

• Shahadah: Declaring faith in one God and Muhammad as His messenger
• Salah: Five daily prayers
• Zakah: Giving charity
• Sawm: Fasting during Ramadan
• Hajj: Pilgrimage to Makkah

The Purpose of Life in Islam

وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالْإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُونِ

“I did not create jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (Qur’an 51:56)

Islam teaches that life is a test, and true success is achieved by worshipping Allah and living according to His guidance.

Is Islam a Religion of Peace?

Islam promotes justice, mercy, compassion, and accountability. The Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) emphasized good character and fairness even toward enemies.

True peace in Islam comes through surrendering to the Creator.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Islam in simple terms?

Islam is belief in one God and following His guidance revealed in the Qur’an.

Who do Muslims worship?

Muslims worship Allah alone without partners.

What makes someone a Muslim?

A person becomes Muslim by sincerely declaring faith in one God and accepting Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم) as His messenger.