Thursday, April 8, 2021
Basics of Islam Religion:
Islam is one of the major world religions, with over a billion followers globally. It is based on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who is considered the last messenger of God (Allah in Arabic) by Muslims.
Here are some fundamental aspects of the Islam religion:
1. The Five Pillars of Islam:
Islam is characterized by the Five Pillars, which are the foundational acts of worship and practice for Muslims:
- Shahada (Declaration of Faith): The basic creed of Islam, declaring the oneness of God and the prophethood of Muhammad.
- Salah (Prayer): Muslims are required to pray five times a day facing the Kaaba in Mecca. These prayers are known as Salah or Salat.
- Zakat (Charity): Muslims are obligated to give a portion of their wealth to help those in need, typically 2.5% of their savings and investments.
- Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan): Muslims fast from dawn to sunset during the holy month of Ramadan. This includes abstaining from food, drink, and sinful behavior.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca): Muslims who are physically and financially able are required to undertake the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.
2. The Quran:
The Quran, the holy book of Islam, is believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to Prophet Muhammad over a period of 23 years through the angel Gabriel. It serves as a comprehensive guide for personal conduct, morality, and laws.
3. Hadith:
The Hadith refers to the sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad. Alongside the Quran, the Hadith provides guidance on various aspects of life and helps interpret the teachings of Islam.
4. Beliefs:
Muslims believe in the fundamental tenets of Islam, known as the Six Articles of Faith:
- Belief in the oneness of God (Allah).
- Belief in angels.
- Belief in the holy books, including the Quran, Torah, Psalms, and Gospel.
- Belief in the prophets, including Adam, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad.
- Belief in the Day of Judgment.
- Belief in divine predestination.
5. Mosque and Community:
Muslims gather for communal prayers at a mosque, and the Friday congregational prayer (Jumu'ah) is a significant weekly event. The Muslim community, known as the ummah, plays a crucial role in the life of a believer.
6. Halal and Haram:
Islamic law, known as Sharia, governs various aspects of a Muslim's life. Actions and substances are categorized as either halal (permissible) or haram (forbidden). These guidelines cover areas such as diet, finance, and personal conduct.
7. Sunnis and Shiites:
The two main branches within Islam are Sunni and Shia. The division arose from historical differences over leadership succession after Prophet Muhammad's death. The majority of Muslims are Sunni, while Shia Muslims constitute a significant minority.
It's important to note that Islam is a diverse religion with various cultural expressions and interpretations. The information provided here offers a general overview, and individual beliefs and practices may vary within the Muslim community. Additionally, Islam encourages seeking knowledge and understanding, so consulting authoritative sources and scholars is recommended for a comprehensive understanding of the religion.