Introduction to Islam

by Anselm Shiran Bulathwelage (BPh, BTh, PGDE, STL, MA Education)

Introduction to Islam

3.1 Brief History

3.2 Beliefs and Sacred Writings
3.3 Worship
3.4 Festivals, Feasts, Places of Worship
3.5 Religion and the Family
3.6 Religion and Social Action

3.1 Brief History

Islam is one of the younger major religious traditions in the world. It originated in the Arabian
Peninsula in Mecca in the early 7th century A.D.

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 Introduction to Islam
by Anselm Shiran Bulathwelage (BPh, BTh, PGDE, STL, MA Education)

When Islam began, the prevailing religious atmosphere was animism, the worship of many
spiritual beings.1 Accordingly, natural objects such as stones, rocks and springs assumed spiritual
importance which later became the focus of sacred places. Such context helped develop some
places as spiritual centres and religious sanctuaries. Among many several local deities called the
“ilahat,” one rose to prominence as the chief deity, which was called “al-ilah” or simply “the
god.”
At the centre of this site is the “K’aba,” which in
Prophet Muhammad’s time was a simple nearly cubic
shaped structure of dark stone. In one of the four
corners of this cubic structure was set a black stone
somewhat larger than a bowling ball. Presently, it is
fractured into seven pieces and framed in a collar of
silver.

Stones as a places of religious significance is not new to the Jews, Hindus and Christians.
There are many references in the OT how patriarchs and prophets erected stone altars in
honour of God (e.g., Joshua 24).
Popular Muslim tradition holds that the K’aba has been taking note of great events, such as the
rise and fall of kings, making and taking of oaths, since the dawn of creation. In Prophet
Muahammad’s time, the Meccan worship revolved around a deity called “Allah,” which simply
means “the god” or simply “God.” Eventually, K’aba would become the centre of the world of
Islam.
• Islam Around the World:
The followers of Islam are called Muslims. The word comes from Arabic al-Muslimūn meaning
“submitted to God.” Today Islam has The Bradford Grand Mosque is one
over 1.97 billion followers around of the largest mosques by capacity in
the world making up of 24.9% of the the UK
2
world’s population. Highest
percentage of Muslims live in the
Middle East (about 85%), an
intercontinental area spread on three
continents with Asia being the
primary (other continents being
Africa and Europe). The highest
number of Muslims live in the Asian
continent
There are about 3.8 million Muslims
in England and Wales according to

1
Animism is the belief in innumerable spiritual beings concerned with human affairs and capable of helping or
harming the interests of man. Animism (from the Latin ‘anima,’ meaning mind or soul) believes that objects and
creatures possess a distinct spiritual essence. Accordingly, animism refers to a belief that a wide range of beings in
the world, such as the environment, other persons, animals, plants, spirits and forces of nature like the ocean, winds,
sun, or moon are ‘animated’ (has a soul). More simply, it is the belief that ‘everything is conscious’ or that
‘everything has a soul.’ In animism, natural spiritual beings are classified as benevolent when the spirits are
interested in the good of the people, and as malevolent when the spirits are interested in harming the people.
2
See [Link] (accessed on 20.12.2022).

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2021 census, while the 2011 census recorded 76,737 Muslims in Scotland. Accordingly,
Muslims make up of 6.5% of the total population of the UK. The majority of Muslims live in
London.

3.2. Beliefs and Sacred Writings

• Prophet Muhammad:
We will look at Prophet Muhammad’s life according to the following points.
§ Early Life
One cannot speak about Islam without speaking about Prophet Muhammad. He was born in
Mecca around 570 C.E. to a poor family of Hashim. His father had died before his birth and his
mother also died when he was 6 years old. He was raised first by his grandfather Abd al-
Muttalib and later by his uncle Abu Talib. When he was about 25, he married a widow named
Kadija and joined in her caravan business. They had 4 daughters and 2 sons (who died in
infancy).
§ The Calling
He grew tired of what he saw happening in Mecca, especially their idol worship. He Believed
that there was only one God. Occasionally, he would retreat to a nearby mountain to meditate.
On a night in 610 C.E., now known as the “Night of Power” or “Laylat al Qadr,” he received
his first revelation, at the cave of Hira’. It is said that Angel Jibril (Gabriel) appeared before
him and ordered him to “Recite!” (literally, “make qur’an) that appeared before him. Now this
day falls on the 27th of Ramadan, which is one of the holiest days for Muslims. The next
message came a year later and then more frequently. They continued for 23 years until the death
of Muhammad. These messaged did not come in the same way. Sometimes it came through
Angel Jibril; sometimes he heard a voice speaking to him; sometimes they came while he was in
prayer; and sometimes they came during his day-to-day life.
§ The first community and the journey from Mecca to Medina
During the first few years of revelations, a circle of followers would be formed who would
become the first Muslim community. Muhammad preached that there was only one God and we
needed to show thanks to him through worship. There would be a final judgement where God
would judge our lives.
However, opposition mounted on this new faith movement in Mecca. In order to move his
community from any harm, he agreed to an invitation to move to Yathrib, a city north of Mecca
whose name would soon change to Madinat an-Nabi, “City of the Prophet” or simply
“Medina.” This important journey was called Hijra (Emigration) and is considered the birthday
of Islam, marking the beginning of the Muslim calendar.
In Medina, Muhammad came to be recognized both as a prophet and a political leader. He soon
became Medina’s leader under whose governance the city would unite different communities for
the next 10 years. He also faced stiff resistance from some Jewish tribes who refused to accept
his doctrine. Muhammad worked to expel these opposing communities from the city.
§ Journey from Medina to Mecca
He had mustered enough military strength by 630 CE with an army of 10,000 men, with which
he marched to Mecca. Seeing the overwhelming strength of the army, the rulers of Mecca
conceded defeat. Meccas was taken without any bloodshed and K’aba was established as the
shrine of Allah. They forgave their enemies and declared Islam as the predominant religion in
the city.

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§ The last and the greatest prophet

Muhammad is not considered God, but a very special human being, chosen by God. Muslims
hold him in great esteem and reverence. He provides, primarily, the supreme model of what God
wants each human being to become.
God has communicated His message through revelations given to different prophets. Muhammad
is the last and the greatest of them. He was not a learned man or a scholar. Nevertheless, he was
a devout and a God-fearing man. Muslims believe that God chose him because he was humble
and honest with whom God could trust his special message.
Islam believes that God has sent as manyas 124,000 prophets throughout history. Once someone
is chosen as a prophet, he lived a sinless life. Muslim authors honour these prophets when they
mention them by putting the phrase “peach and blessings be upon him.” In addition to
Muhammad, Quran mentions 24 of them by name:

Adam Ishaq (Isaac) Dawud (David)

Idris (Enoch) Yaqub (Jacob) Sulaiman (Solomon)
Nuh (Noah) Yusuf (Joseph) Ilyas (Ilijah)
Hud Ayub (Job) Al-Yasa (Elisha)
Saleh Shoaib (Jethro) Yunus (Jonah)
Ibrahim (Abraham) Musa (Moses) Zakariya (Zachariah)
Lut (Lot) Harun (Aaron) Yahya (John the Baptist)
Ishma’il Dhul-Kifl (Ezekiel) Isa (Jesus)

Apart from Muhammad, the other major prophets were Adam, Ibrahim, Musa, Dawud and Isa.
Islam teaches that, since many of the messages sent to the former prophets have got either lost
or corrupted, a final revelation was necessary. Accordingly, Muhammad received God’s
revelation as His last prophet his revelation of the Quran was God’s last and absolute word. For
this reason, Muhammad is known as the Seal of the Prophets.

§ Other important figures in Muhammad’s life

1. The Prophet's Companions:
The companions of the Prophet Muhammad were his devoted friends and adherents who stood
by him throughout his ministry. Numerous companions of the Prophet were prominent members
of the early Muslim society who contributed significantly to the spread of Islam.

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Some of the most well-known companions of the Prophet Muhammad include:

• Abu Bakr: The first caliph (successor) of the Prophet Muhammad and
one of his closest companions.
• Umar: The second caliph of the Prophet Muhammad and a key figure in
the early Muslim community.
• Uthman: The third caliph of the Prophet Muhammad and a key figure in
the compilation of the Qur'an.
• Ali: The fourth caliph of the Prophet Muhammad and a cousin of the
Prophet.
• Aisha: The wife of the Prophet Muhammad and an important figure in the
early Muslim community.
2. The Prophet's Oppnents:
During his lifetime, the Prophet Muhammad encountered hostility from some Meccans. The
Prophet was hounded and opposed by the rulers of Mecca, who were also among his opponents.
Some Jewish tribes in Medina who disagreed with his rule and supported the Meccans in their
opposition were also among the Prophet's [Link] Prophet's Successors:
The Prophet Muhammad passed away in 632 CE, and his companions chose Abu Bakr to be the
first caliph (successor) of the Muslim nation. The caliphs were in charge of guiding the Muslim
community and preserving the Prophet Muhammad's teachings. Islam holds the first four caliphs,
sometimes known as the "Rightly Guided Caliphs," in high regard as the Prophet Muhammad's
legitimate successors. The caliphs were succeeded by a line of subsequent rulers who oversaw
various Muslim dynasties and empires.
• Basic beliefs of Islam
1. Belief in One God: Islam is a monotheistic religion that teaches that there is only one
God, who is known as Allah in Arabic. Muslims believe that Allah is the creator of the
universe and is the ultimate authority in all matters.
2. Belief in the Prophets: Muslims believe that Allah has sent prophets to guide and teach
humanity throughout history. These prophets include Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, among
others. Muslims also believe in the prophethood of Muhammad, who is considered to be
the final and most important prophet of Islam.
3. Belief in the Qur'an: The Qur'an is the holy book of Islam and is considered to be the
word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. Muslims believe that the Qur'an is
the ultimate source of guidance for their lives and that it contains the teachings of God.
4. Belief in the Day of Judgment: Muslims believe that all people will be judged by God
on the Day of Judgment, when their deeds and actions will be weighed against a set of
standards. Those who are found to have lived a righteous life will be rewarded with
paradise, while those who have not will be punished in hell.
5. Belief in the Five Pillars of Islam: The Five Pillars of Islam are the core practices of the
religion and are considered to be essential for a person's faith. These pillars include the
profession of faith (Shahada), daily prayers (Salat), charitable giving (Zakat), fasting
during the month of Ramadan (Sawm), and the pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj).

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§ The 5 pillars of Islam

The Five Pillars of Islam are the five fundamental practices that all Muslims are expected to
follow. They are:
1. Shahadah: The profession of faith involves declaring that there is no god but Allah and
that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah. This declaration, known as the shahadah, is
the central tenet of Islam and is considered to be the cornerstone of a person's faith.
2. Salah: The daily prayers, known as salah, are performed five times a day at specific
times and involve reciting prayers and verses from the Qur'an. Salah is an important
way for Muslims to connect with God and to express their devotion to him.
3. Zakat: Charitable giving, known as zakat, involves giving a percentage of one's income
or wealth to those in need. Zakat is seen as a way to purify one's wealth and to help
those who are less fortunate.
4. Sawm: Fasting during the month of Ramadan, known as sawm, involves abstaining
from food, drink, and other pleasures from sunrise to sunset. Fasting is seen as a way to
demonstrate one's devotion to God and to practice self-discipline.
5. Hajj: The pilgrimage to Mecca, known as hajj, is a once-in-a-lifetime requirement for
all Muslims who are physically and financially able to make the journey. The hajj is a
journey to the holiest city in Islam and involves a series of rituals and practices that are
meant to purify the soul and bring one closer to God.
These five practices are seen as the foundation of a Muslim's faith and are essential for living a
righteous and fulfilling life in accordance with Islamic teachings.

• The Holy Quran

1. Introduction:
The Quran is regarded as the word of God as it was revealed to Prophet Muhammad and is the
holy book of Islam. It is composed in Arabic and is regarded as Muslims' primary source of
instruction. Over 6,000 verses and 114 chapters (surahs) make up the Quran (ayat).
2. The History of Quran:
The Prophet Muhammad received the Quran over the course of 23 years. The companions of
Muhammad wrote down the revelations that they had received through the angel Gabriel. The
final version of the Quran was compiled soon after the Prophet Muhammad passed away. Since
its revelation, the Quran is believed to be unmodified and [Link] Structure of the
Quran:
The 114 surahs of the Quran are further broken down into verses (ayat). The surahs are organized
based on their length and subject matter rather than in chronological sequence. The surah known
as "The Opening" (al-Fatihah) and the surah known as "The Believers" (al-Mu'minun) are the
first and last, respectively, of the Quran. The Meccan surahs and the Medinan surahs are the two
primary divisions of the Quran. The Medinan surahs were revealed after Muhammad moved to
Medina, while the Meccan surahs were revealed during the early stages of his ministry in
[Link] Content of the Quran:
3. Contents of Quran
The belief in a single God, Muhammad’s prophethood, the Day of Judgment, and the significance
of moral behavior are only a few of the many subjects that are covered in the Quran. The Quran
also gives Muslims instructions on how to spend their lives in line with God's will as well as

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narratives and tales of earlier prophets and historical occurrences. The necessity of social justice
and the equality of all individuals before God are emphasized throughout the Quran. The Quran
also includes verses that speak about particular problems and circumstances that existed during
the lifetime of the Prophet Muhammad.
4. The Role of the Quran in Islam:
Islam places a lot of emphasis on the Quran, which is regarded as Muslims' main source of
instruction. It is considered to be the repository of God's teachings and a source of wisdom on
all facets of life, including morals, laws, and religious convictions. To better comprehend their
religion and God, Muslims are urged to read and study the Quran on a regular basis.
5. The Importance of the Quran:
Muslims look to the Quran as their primary source of instruction because they believe it to be
God’s final revelation. Muslims consider the Quran to be the uncreated, eternal, and literal word
of God. Muslims frequently recite and study the Quran, which is regarded as a source of spiritual
inspiration and direction. Muslims also look to the Quran for legal direction, with specific verses
and guiding principles being used to create Islamic law (sharia).

3.3 Worship
1. The Importance of Worship in Islam: Worship is an integral part of Islam and is seen
as a way of strengthening one's relationship with God. Muslims believe that all forms of
worship, whether they be physical or spiritual, are a way of expressing one's love and
devotion to God.
2. Daily Prayers (Salat): Muslims are instructed to pray five times a day at prescribed
times: in the morning, at noon, in the middle of the day, at sunset, and in the evening.
The "five daily prayers," as they are also known, are significant daily rituals for Muslims.
A series of recitations, prostrations, and other bodily gestures are conducted during each
prayer while facing the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca.
3. The Friday Prayer
(Jumu'ah): Muslims are
also obligated to attend the
Jumu'ah, a special Friday
prayer service. This prayer
service, which is conducted
by an imam (religious
leader) takes the place of the
usual noon prayer. Muslims
have the chance to gather as
a community during the
Jumu'ah to hear a sermon
(khutbah) delivered by an
iman. It takes place before
the prayer begins. The
sermon is typically about a
topic related to Islam, such
as the importance of following Islamic teachings or the significance of certain events in
Islamic history.

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Muslims repeat prayers and passages from the Quran while standing in rows behind the
imam during the Friday prayer. Usually longer than the everyday prayers, the Friday
prayers include a series of standing, bending, and prostrations.
The Friday prayer provides a chance for Muslims to gather as a community, worship, and
learn about Islam's principles. Additionally, it gives Muslims a chance to interact with
one another and deepen their relationships.
4. The Month of Ramadan: Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, is a time
of mandatory fasting for Muslims. Ramadan fasting entails depriving oneself of food,
liquids, and other physical gratification from sunrise to dusk. This is done as a devotional
act to God and a means of developing restraint and discipline. Muslims celebrate Eid al-
Fitr at the conclusion of Ramadan to mark the end of the fast.
5. The Pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj): If they are financially and physically able, Muslims
are obligated to make at least one pilgrimage to Mecca during their lifetime. Over the
course of several days, a number of rituals and prayers are conducted as part of the hajj.
It is regarded as a period of rejuvenation and a means of fortifying one's relationship with
God. The stoning of the devil, the circumambulation of the Kaaba, and other rites
believed to represent submission to God are also part of the hajj.
6. Other Forms of Worship: Muslims are allowed to undertake other acts of worship in
addition to those mentioned above, such as reading and studying the Quran, giving to
charity, and engaging in private prayer and meditation. Muslims are urged to establish
regular spiritual routines that will strengthen their relationship with God and advance
their spirituality.

§ Mosque and its essential parts

A mosque is a place of worship for Muslims. There are several essential parts of a mosque,
including:
1. Mihrab: A mihrab is a niche or recess in the wall of a mosque that indicates the
direction of the Kaaba in Mecca, which Muslims face when they pray.

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2. Minbar: A minbar is a pulpit or platform from which the imam delivers the Friday
sermon (khutbah) and leads the prayers.

3. Dome: Many mosques have a dome, which is a large, rounded roof that covers the main
prayer hall. The dome is often an architectural feature of the mosque and is often
adorned with intricate designs.

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4. Minaret: A minaret is a tall, slender tower attached to a mosque, from which the call to
prayer (adhan) is made.

5. Wudu area: A wudu area is a place where Muslims perform ritual washing before
praying. It typically consists of a sink and a series of faucets or spouts for washing the
hands, face, and feet.

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6. Prayer hall: The prayer hall is the main area of the mosque where the prayers are
performed. It is typically a large, open space with a carpet or other floor covering.

7. Quran: The Holy Quran is the holy book of Islam, and it is often displayed in a
prominent place in the mosque.

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3.5 Islam Religion and the Family

§ General idea
Islam places a high value on the family, which is seen as the foundation of society. Islam views
the family as a unit with distinct tasks and responsibilities assigned to each member.
The husband is seen as the leader of the home and is in charge of protecting and supporting his
family financially. The wife is in charge of running the home and raising the kids. Islam
emphasizes marriage as a means of bolstering and supporting the family structure through
fostering strong bonds within the family. Based on shared love, respect, and devotion, marriage
is seen as a holy union between a man and a woman.
Islam also promotes the idea of an extended family that includes intimate relationships between
parents, kids, and other relatives. The family is in charge of raising and educating children in
Islam. Parents are urged to educate their kids about Islam and implant in them its values and
ideals. Islam places a high importance on education, and parents are expected to give their kids
the best education they can.
§ Marriage in Islam
Islam places a great priority on marriage and sees it as a method to promote and develop the
family. Based on shared love, respect, and devotion, marriage is seen as a holy union between a
man and a woman.
In Islam, the husband is considered the head of the home and is in charge of protecting and
supporting his family both materially and physically. The wife is in charge of running the home
and raising the kids. Both the husband and the wife are expected to carry out their duties and to
treat one another with respect and care.
Islam also places a strong emphasis on the importance of having children and raising them in a
loving and nurturing environment. However, it is also recognized that having children is not
always possible for everyone, and childless couples are encouraged to find other ways to
contribute to the community and to serve others.
Polygamy is permissible in Islam, but it is discouraged and only tolerated under specific
conditions. A man is permitted to have up to four wives, but he is required to treat them all fairly
and justly, which is frequently challenging. Nowadays, the majority of Muslim nations forbid
polygamy.
In conclusion, marriage is a significant institution in Islam, with a focus on the duties and
obligations of each spouse, the value of shared affection, respect, and devotion, and the
importance of the family in the upbringing and nurturing of children.
§ Divorce in Islam
In Islam, divorce, or talaq, is permitted but discouraged and only used as a last resort. Islam
encourages spouses to work through their differences and to try to resolve issues in a peaceful
and mutually beneficial way. It also promotes the idea of a robust and long-lasting marriage.
Islam does, however, permit divorce as a means of dissolving a marriage when a couple is unable
to work out their disagreements. In Islam, the husband is the one who initiates divorce; he needs
only say “I divorce you” three times. This is called a “triple talaq” is this. However, many Muslim
nations forbid this form of divorce, therefore it is not often recognised.
Islam also acknowledges the significance of the wife’s and childre’'s welfare and financial
security following a divorce. The husband must support his ex-wife and children financially, and
the pair may also be forced to equally share their assets.

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3.6 Islam and Social Action

§ On certain bioethical issues
1. Abortion: Islam typically considers abortion to be unlawful, with the exception of
situations in which the mother’s life is in danger due to the pregnancy. It emphasizes the
worth of human life and the necessity of defending the rights and wellbeing of every
person, but it also acknowledges that there may be circumstances in which the
continuation of a pregnancy could seriously endanger the mother's health or wellbeing.
When this occurs, the choice to abort the unborn child may be made after consulting
religious authorities and giving proper attention to the dignity of human life.
2. Euthanasia: Euthanasia is widely seen in Islam as being forbidden since it involves
taking a life that is revered. However, there may be situations where a terminally ill
patient is going through severe pain and suffering. In these situations, the decision to stop
treatment and let the patient pass away naturally may be made after consulting with
religious authorities and taking into account the value of human life.
3. Stem cell research: As long as the cells are obtained from sources that are morally and
ethically acceptable, Islam permits the use of stem cells for research and treatment. This
might involve using adult stem cells or stem cells derived from in vitro fertilized embryos
that weren’t used for fertility treatment. Islam usually forbids the use of embryonic stem
cells that were derived through the killing of a fertilized embryo.
4. Surrogacy: In some circumstances, such as when a couple is unable to conceive owing
to infertility or other medical issues, Islam permits the use of surrogacy. However, it
forbids the exploitation of surrogate mothers or the use of surrogacy for improper or self-
serving objectives and calls for surrogacy arrangements to be formed in accordance with
Islamic principles and values. The rights and interests of the surrogate mother and the
child must also be protected, along with the requirement that everyone engaged in the
surrogacy agreement be treated with care, compassion, and respect.
5. Contraception: As long as it does not use any prohibited or hazardous substances or
methods, Islam permits the use of contraception. Contraception is viewed as a tool for
couples to plan their families and delay starting a family until they are emotionally and
financially prepared to do so.
Islam also acknowledges that there may be circumstances in which it is necessary to
restrict the number of children in order to adequately care for them or to safeguard the
mother's health. The use of contraception is permitted in these circumstances.
Islam, however, forbids the use of contraception as a way to put off taking on obligations
or to avoid having kids at all. After consulting with a spouse and giving proper attention
to the worth of human life, one should decide whether or not to utilize contraception.
6. Gender identity: Islam teaches that everyone should be treated with respect and decency
since everyone is equal in the eyes of God. Islam rejects prejudice based on gender or
sexual orientation and does not elevate one gender identity or one particular sexual
orientation above another.
Islam does, however, offer explicit teachings about gender roles and obligations. In
accordance with Islamic teaching, men and women have distinct roles and
responsibilities within the family and the community, and these roles should be
recognized and acknowledged.

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Islam also acknowledges the individuality of every person and the possibility of many
gender identities and expressions. As long as it does not contradict Islamic principles,
Islam encourages people to respect and be faithful to their own identities.
7. LGBTQ+: Islam does not discriminate against people based on their gender identity or
sexual orientation. However, it does have explicit teachings about relationships and
sexual behavior, and it considers some forms of sexual activity, including same-sex
relationships, to be forbidden.
According to Islamic doctrine, a man and a woman should only have sexual contact if
they are married to one another. Islam also places a strong emphasis on modesty and
respect for other people’s limits, and it considers any conduct that is sexually provocative
or promiscuous to be improper.
Islam forbids discrimination against or violence against those who identify as LGBTQ+
and urges its adherents to treat persons of all sexual orientations and gender identities
with respect and love.
8. Living together: In Islam, cohabitation between a man and a woman is often forbidden
because marriage is seen as a sacred union. Islam holds that premarital sexual behavior
is forbidden and that sexual connections should only be had during marriage.
Islam does acknowledge, however, that there may be situations in which persons who are
not married may need to live together for logistical or practical reasons, such as financial
ones. Islam urges people to be aware of their actions in such situations and to make sure
that they are acting in a way that respects Islamic teachings and values.
9. Masturbation: Islam considers masturbating to be sinful. According to Islamic doctrine,
sexual pleasure is a gift from God and should only be experienced inside the boundaries
of marriage. Masturbation is viewed as a type of self-gratification that violates the
restrictions of marriage and is, as a result, forbidden.
Masturbation is seen as a lack of self-control over one’s urges in Islam, which also
emphasizes the value of self-control and discipline. Masturbation is viewed as a
transgression of the limits that Islam establishes for sexual conduct and is therefore
regarded as a sin.
10. Pornography: Pornography is considered immoral because it is viewed as a type of
sexual exploitation that objectsifies and degrades people.
Islam also places a strong emphasis on modesty and respect for other people’s limits, and
it considers any conduct that is sexually provocative or promiscuous to be improper.
Pornography is viewed as a transgression of these ideals and is hence condemned as sin.
11. Death penalty: Islam permits the use of the death sentence in some circumstances.
However it is not always necessary and should only be applied as a last resort. Islam
traditionally reserves the death penalty for offenses that are extremely terrible or that
pose a serious threat to society, such as murder, treason, and apostasy (renouncing one’s
beliefs).
Islam also emphasizes the value of justice and due process, and it mandates that the
execution of death sentences follow stringent legal procedures and that all feasible
measures be taken to establish the defendant’s guilt beyond a reasonable doubt.

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§ Social action
Islam enjoins its adherents to take part in charitable endeavors and to contribute for the
development of a just and equitable society. Islam holds that all people are created equal in God’s
eyes and that it is the responsibility of Muslims to fight for justice and improve their
communities.
Islam encourages Muslims to aid those in need, regardless of their faith or background, through
promoting the concept of charitable giving (zakat). Muslims are also urged to volunteer in the
community and take part in endeavors that advance society.
Islam also places a strong emphasis on the need for social justice and the necessity to solve
problems like prejudice, inequality and poverty. Muslims are urged to work toward establishing
a society where everyone is treated with respect and dignity and has the chance to prosper.
In conclusion, Islam exhorts its adherents to take part in community service and to endeavor to
build a just and equitable society. This entails encouraging charity contributions, taking part in
volunteer activity, and pursuing social justice.
§ Islam on other religions
Islam asserts that Islam is the only authentic religion. It also acknowledges that God has shown
Himself to individuals of other faiths and has dispatched prophets to lead them. Islam thus
teaches that everyone has the right to practice their own religion and that all religions contain
some element of truth.
Islam teaches its adherents to appreciate and show compassion for those who profess other ideas
and customs. Muslims are also urged to communicate with and pick up knowledge from those
of other faiths in order to comprehend their practices and beliefs.
Islam forbids both violence and bigotry toward adherents of other religions. Instead, it teaches
that people of different faiths should coexist in harmony and that variations in beliefs and
behaviours should be acknowledged.
In conclusion, Islam proclaims that there is only one authentic religion, but it also acknowledges
the existence of other religions and exhorts its adherents to respect those other religions' customs
and teachings. Islam promotes communication and understanding amongst adherents of many
religions and forbids teachings that are violent or intolerant of those of other faiths.

APPENDIX
o A glossary of terms
1. Allah - the name for God in Islam, believed by Muslims to be the one and only God who
created the universe and is omnipotent, omniscient, and omnipresent
2. Quran - the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the word of God as revealed
to the prophet Muhammad
3. Prophet - a messenger of God in Islam, believed to have received revelations from God
and to have conveyed them to the people
4. Islam - a monotheistic religion founded in the 7th century by the prophet Muhammad,
based on the belief in one God, Allah, and the teachings of Muhammad as recorded in
the Qur'an
5. Salah - the daily prayers performed by Muslims at set times during the day
6. Ramadan - the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims fast from
sunrise to sunset
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7. Hajj - the pilgrimage to Mecca that Muslims are required to make at least once in their
lifetimeMosque - a place of worship for Muslims
8. Imam - the leader of prayers in a mosque
9. Shari'ah - the Islamic legal system, based on the Qur'an and the Hadith (sayings and
actions of the prophet Muhammad)
10. Hadith - the recorded sayings and actions of the prophet Muhammad, used as a source
of guidance and law in Islam
11. Five Pillars of Islam - the five fundamental practices that all Muslims are expected to
follow: shahadah (profession of faith), salah (daily prayers), zakat (charitable giving),
sawm (fasting during the month of Ramadan), and hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca)
12. Caliphate - a system of leadership in Islam, in which a caliph (successor) is chosen to
lead the Islamic community (umma)
13. Sunnah - the practice and example of the prophet Muhammad, used as a source of
guidance in Islam
14. Sufism - a mystical movement within Islam that emphasizes a personal, inward
experience of God
15. Fatwa - a legal opinion or ruling issued by an Islamic scholar or jurist
16. Sharia Law - the legal system of Islam, based on the Qur'an and the Hadith
17. Jihad - the struggle or striving to follow the teachings of Islam and to do good in the
world, often interpreted as a struggle against evil or injustice
18. Dawa - the Islamic practice of inviting others to Islam
19. Tawhid - the belief in the oneness of God, the central doctrine of Islam
20. Insha'Allah - "if God wills it," used to express the belief that everything is ultimately in
God's hands
21. Halal - food or other products that are allowed to be consumed or used by Muslims
according to Islamic law
22. Haram - food or other products that are prohibited to be consumed or used by Muslims
according to Islamic law
23. Iman - faith or belief in Islam
24. Kufr - disbelief or rejection of Islam
25. Dawah - the act of inviting others to Islam
26. Ihsan - excellence in the performance of religious duties and in the treatment of others.
27. Zakat - a charitable donation required of Muslims, typically a percentage of their income
or wealth
28. Ummah - the global community of Muslims, united by their shared beliefs and practices.

DIFFERENCES AND SIMILARITIES

• Islam and Christianity
o Similarities in Islam and Christianity

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1. Both religions believe in one God: Christians believe in the Christian God, while
Muslims believe in Allah.
2. Both religions believe in prophets who received revelations from God: Christians believe
in prophets such as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, while Muslims believe in prophets such
as Abraham, Moses, and Muhammad.
3. Both religions have holy books: Christians have the Bible, while Muslims have the
Qur'an.
4. Both religions teach that salvation or eternal life is obtained through faith in God:
Christians believe that salvation comes through faith in Jesus as the Son of God and
through acceptance of him as their savior, while Muslims believe that salvation comes
through submission to the will of Allah and through living a life in accordance with
Islamic teachings.
5. Both religions emphasize the importance of prayer and the role it plays in a person's
spiritual life.
6. Both religions place a strong emphasis on moral and ethical behavior, and encourage
their followers to lead a virtuous and righteous life.
7. Both religions have a strong emphasis on community and the importance of supporting
and caring for others.
8. Both religions have a rich tradition of spiritual practices and rituals, such as fasting,
pilgrimage, and charitable giving.

o Main differences in Islam and Christianity

1. The concept of God: Christians believe in the Christian God, who is one being in three
persons (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit), while Muslims believe in Allah, who
is one being and is not divided into three persons.
2. The belief in Jesus: Christians believe that Jesus is the Son of God and the savior of
humanity, while Muslims do not believe that Jesus is the son of God and do not see him
as a savior figure.
3. The role of prophets: Christians believe that Jesus is the final prophet, while Muslims
believe that Muhammad was the final prophet and that there will be no more prophets
after him.
4. The holy texts: Christians have the Bible, which is made up of the Old Testament
(accepted by both Christians and Jews) and the New Testament, while Muslims have the
Qur'an, which they believe is the direct word of God as revealed to the prophet
Muhammad.
5. The belief in salvation: Christians believe that salvation comes through faith in Jesus as
the Son of God and through acceptance of him as their savior, while Muslims believe
that salvation comes through submission to the will of Allah and through living a life in
accordance with Islamic teachings.
6. The concept of heaven and hell: Christians believe in the existence of heaven and hell
as places of eternal reward or punishment, while Muslims believe in the concept of
paradise and hell as places where the soul will either experience eternal bliss or eternal
suffering.

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7. The role of religious rituals and practices: Christianity has a number of sacraments,
such as baptism and the Eucharist, that are considered to be outward signs of inward
grace, while Islam does not have sacraments and places a greater emphasis on the
importance of good deeds and righteous behavior.
8. The role of women: Christianity and Islam have different views on the role of women
in society and in religious practices. In Christianity, women are able to hold positions of
leadership and can be ordained as clergy, while in Islam, women are generally not
allowed to hold positions of leadership in the mosque and are not able to serve as imams.

• Islam and Judaism

o Similarities in Islam and Judaism
1. Monotheism: Both Islam and Judaism believe in the existence of one all-powerful and
all-knowing God.
2. Prophetic tradition: Both Islam and Judaism believe in the existence of prophets who
were chosen by God to guide and teach people about His will.
3. Sacred texts: Both Islam and Judaism have sacred texts that are considered to be the
word of God. In Islam, the Qur'an is the primary sacred text, while in Judaism, the Torah
(also known as the Pentateuch) is the primary sacred text.
4. Importance of prayer: Both Islam and Judaism place a strong emphasis on prayer and
the importance of communicating with God.
5. Dietary restrictions: Both Islam and Judaism have dietary restrictions that are based on
religious teachings. For example, Islam prohibits the consumption of pork and requires
that meat be slaughtered and prepared in a certain way, while Judaism prohibits the
consumption of certain animals and requires that meat and dairy products be kept
separate.
6. Social justice: Both Islam and Judaism teach the importance of social justice and the
need to care for the poor and disadvantaged.

o Differences in Islam and Judaism

1. The nature of God: Islam and Judaism have different beliefs about the nature of God.
Islam teaches that God is a single, indivisible entity and that it is not possible to attribute
any human qualities to Him. Judaism, on the other hand, allows for the possibility of
human qualities being attributed to God and teaches that God is a complex and
multifaceted entity.
2. The role of Jesus: Islam and Judaism have different beliefs about the role of Jesus. Islam
teaches that Jesus was a prophet who was sent by God to guide and teach people about
His will, but that he was not the son of God or a divine being. Judaism, on the other hand,
does not recognize Jesus as a prophet and does not believe in the divinity of Jesus.
3. The role of Muhammad: Islam and Judaism have different beliefs about the role of
Muhammad. Islam teaches that Muhammad was the final prophet sent by God to guide
and teach people about His will, and that the Qur'an is the final revelation from God.
Judaism does not recognize Muhammad as a prophet and does not accept the Qur'an as a
divine revelation.

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4. Practices and rituals: Islam and Judaism have different practices and rituals. For
example, Islam requires that Muslims pray five times a day, fast during the month of
Ramadan, and make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime, while Judaism
has a different set of practices and rituals, such as observing the Sabbath and following
the laws of kashrut (dietary laws).
5. Holy texts: Islam and Judaism have different sacred texts that are considered to be the
word of God. In Islam, the Qur'an is the primary sacred text, while in Judaism, the Torah
(also known as the Pentateuch) is the primary sacred text.
6. Holidays: Islam and Judaism have different holidays that are based on different religious
events. For example, Islam celebrates the month of Ramadan, the Eid al-Fitr holiday at
the end of Ramadan, and the Eid al-Adha holiday, while Judaism celebrates holidays
such as Rosh Hashanah, Yom Kippur, and Hanukkah.

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