Islam

        Islam is the second-largest religion in the world, with over 1.9 billion followers, known as Muslims. It began in the 7th century CE in Mecca (in present-day Saudi Arabia) with the prophet Muhammad. Muslims believe that Muhammad is the final prophet in a long line that includes Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.

        According to Islamic belief, in 610 CE, Muhammad received his first revelation from Allah (the Arabic word for God) through the angel Gabriel. He continued to have revelations for 23 years. These revelations were later compiled into the Qur'an, the religious book of Islam. Muhammad preached about monotheism, justice, charity, and submission to God’s will.

        Islam has spread across the Middle East, North Africa, and parts of Asia and Europe. Today, it is a global religion with deep cultural, artistic, and spiritual traditions.

Muslims live their lives guided by the Qur’an and the example of Muhammad (the Sunnah).

The Five Pillars of Islam are central to Muslim practice:

1. Shahada (Faith) – Declaring that “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.”

2. Salat (Prayer) – Muslims pray five times a day facing Mecca, to connect with and worship Allah.

3. Zakat (Charity) – Giving to those in need, usually a set portion of income, to promote equality and care for the poor.

4. Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan) – A month of fasting from dawn to sunset, encouraging self-discipline, empathy, and spiritual focus.

5. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca) – Every Muslim who is physically and financially able must make the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their life.

Other key beliefs include:

• One God (Allah) – Islam is strictly monotheistic. Allah is all-powerful, all-knowing, and merciful.

• Prophets – Muhammad is the final prophet, but Muslims also honor earlier prophets like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (though Jesus is seen as a prophet, not divine).

• Angels – Spiritual beings who serve God and deliver messages to humanity.

• Holy Books – The Qur’an is the final and complete word of God. Muslims also recognize earlier scriptures like the Torah and the Gospels, but believe the Qur’an corrects and completes them.

• Law (Sharia) – Islamic law is based on the Qur’an and Hadith (sayings of Muhammad). It covers both personal conduct and community life.

• Mosque and Community – Worship and community are central. Fridays are especially sacred for group prayer (Jumu'ah).

        Muslims believe in a spiritual life after death. After dying, everyone will be judged by Allah. The people who lived according to the scripture will enter Paradise (Jannah), Those who did not live by the scripture will enter Hell (Jahannam).

        Islam is a devoted and disciplined religion. It focuses on justice, community responsibility, and a relationship with God. Islam continues to touch many people around the world.