What is Islam?
Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic religion founded on the teachings of Prophet Muhammad as revealed in the sacred text known as the Quran. With over a billion adherents worldwide, Islam is one of the major global religions, and its followers are known as Muslims. The word “Islam” itself is derived from the Arabic root word ‘S-L-M,’ which conveys the concepts of peace, submission, and surrender to the will of Allah, the Arabic term for God.
The central religious text of Islam is the Quran, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to Prophet Muhammad over a period of approximately 23 years through the angel Gabriel. The Quran serves as the primary source of guidance for Muslims in matters of faith, practice, morality, and law.
There are six core tenets of Islam: belief in one God, belief in prophets, belief in the divine revelations (Holy Books), belief in angels, belief in the Day of Judgement, and belief in destiny and free will. The first fundamental principle in Islam is the belief in the oneness of God (Allah). This belief, known as Tawhid, emphasizes the absolute monotheism of God and rejects any form of associating partners with Him. Muslims are encouraged to develop a close and personal relationship with God through prayer, supplication, and acts of worship. See the Articles of Faith section below to learn more.
There are five foundational acts of worship and practice that form the basis of a Muslim’s faith and practice. These are often referred to as the Pillars of Islam. These pillars are considered obligatory for all Muslims and serve as a framework for a devout and righteous life. The five pillars are Shahadah (Declaration of Faith), Salah (Prayer), Zakat (Charity), Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca). See the Pillars of Islam section below to learn more.
These Five Pillars collectively constitute the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice, emphasizing the importance of both personal devotion and communal responsibility. Beyond the Five Pillars, Islam provides a comprehensive ethical and moral framework governing various aspects of life, including family, social interactions, and economic dealings. Islam, as a religion, encourages justice, compassion, and righteousness, with the ultimate goal of achieving closeness to God and attaining salvation in the afterlife.
Articles of Faith
There are six core tenets of Islam: belief in one God, belief in prophets, belief in the divine revelations (Holy Books), belief in angels, belief in the Day of Judgement, and belief in destiny and free will. The first fundamental principle in Islam is the belief in the oneness of God (Allah). This belief, known as Tawhid, emphasizes the absolute monotheism of God and rejects any form of associating partners with Him. Muslims are encouraged to develop a close and personal relationship with God through prayer, supplication, and acts of worship.
Tawhid
Belief in One God
Oneness of God
Muslims believe in the oneness of God (Allah in Arabic). This concept, known as Tawhid, emphasizes the absolute and indivisible unity of God. Muslims believe that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that He is unique in His attributes and sovereignty.
Learn MoreRusul
Belief in Prophets and Messengers
Messengers
Muslims believe in the prophethood of various messengers sent by Allah to guide humanity. This includes well-known figures such as Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and the final prophet, Muhammad (peace be upon them). The finality of prophethood is a key aspect of Islamic belief.
Learn MoreKutub
Belief in Divine Books
Divine Books
Muslims believe in the divine books that were revealed to different prophets throughout history as guidance for humanity. The major books include the Quran, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the Torah to Prophet Moses (Musa), the Psalms to Prophet David (Dawud), and the Gospel to Prophet Jesus (Isa).
Learn MoreMala'ika
Belief in Angels
Angels
Muslims believe in the existence of angels as spiritual beings created by Allah to carry out various tasks in the universe. Angels serve as messengers, guardians, and recorders of human deeds. Among the well-known angels are Jibril (Gabriel), Mikail (Michael), and Israfil.
Learn MoreYawm al-Qiyamah
Belief in the Day of Judgment
Day of Judgement
Muslims believe in the resurrection and accountability on the Day of Judgment. On this day, individuals will be judged for their deeds, and they will be rewarded with paradise or punished in hell based on their actions in this world.
Learn MoreQadr
Belief in Divine Decree
Divine Decree
Muslims believe in the concept of divine predestination, or Qadr. This involves the understanding that everything, including life events and individual destinies, is under the control and knowledge of Allah. Muslims believe in both the good and the challenging aspects of life as being part of God's plan.
Learn MorePillars of Islam
The Five Pillars of Islam are foundational acts of worship and practice that form the basis of a Muslim’s faith and practice. These pillars are considered obligatory for all Muslims and serve as a framework for a devout and righteous life.
The Journey to Islam
Islam is rooted in learning. Before converting, it's important to gain a basic understanding of Islamic beliefs and practices. This can be achieved through reading the Quran, studying Islamic teachings, and engaging with the Muslim community. The Quran teaches us to start with knowledge. Start with the information on this page.
The decision to convert should be a sincere and personal one. It should not be influenced by external factors but rather a genuine desire to embrace the Islamic faith.
The Shahada is the declaration of faith and consists of the phrase: "Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan rasulullah" (I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His messenger). This declaration can be recited in front of witnesses or alone, as long as it is done with sincerity.
After declaring the Shahada, it is advisable to seek guidance from knowledgeable members of the Muslim community or an Islamic scholar who can provide support, answer questions, and help with the transition into the Islamic way of life.
Embracing Islam is an ongoing process of learning and practicing its teachings. This includes performing the five daily prayers, observing fasting during the month of Ramadan, giving to charity, and making an effort to live a righteous and ethical life.
