About the Life of Prophet Ayub (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Yousuf (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Prophet Yaqoub (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Prophet Loot (alayhis salaam) and Prophet Isaaq (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Prophet of Ibraheem (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Prophet Ibraheem (alayhis salaam) and Hazrat Ismail (alayhis salaam)

Part 1 :

Part 2 :

About the Life of Prophet Ibrahim (alayhis salaam) and Prophet Loot (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Prophet Saleh (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Prophet Hud (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Prophet Nuh (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Prophet Idrees (alayhis salaam)

About the Life of Prophet Adam (alayhis salaam)

Islam and its Meaning

What is the meaning of the word Islam?

Praise be to Allaah.
If you refer to Arabic language dictionaries you will find out that the meaning of the word Islam is: submission, humbling oneself, and obeying commands and heeding prohibitions without objection, sincerely worshipping Allaah alone, believing what He tells us and having faith in Him. The word Islam has become the name of the religion which was brought by Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him).

Why is this religion called Islam?

For all the religions on earth are called by various names, either the name of a specific man or a specific nation. So Christianity takes its name from Christ; Buddhism takes its name from its founder, the Buddha; the Zoroastrians became well known by this name because their founder and standard-bearer was Zoroaster. Similarly, Judaism took its name from a tribe known as Yehudah (Judah), so it became known as Judaism. And so on. Except for Islam, for it is not attributed to any specific man or to any specific nation, rather its name refers to the meaning of the word Islam. What this name indicates is that the establishment and founding of this religion was not the work of one particular man and that it is not only for one particular nation to the exclusion of all others. Rather its aim is give the attribute implied by the word Islam to all the peoples of the earth. So everyone who acquires this attribute, whether he is from the past or the present, is a Muslim, and everyone who acquires this attribute in the future will also be a Muslim.

(From Kitaab al-Islam Usooluhu wa Mabaadi’uhu by Dr. Muhammad ibn ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Saalih al-Suhaym.)

About the character of the Believer

About the Character of the Believer

• Good Character :

Allah the Most High says :

" And verily you (Muhammad (P.B.U.H.)) are upon an exalted standard of character." (68:4)

The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said :

"The most excellent of the believers in faith is the best of them in character." (At-Tirmidhi)

• Gentleness, Compassion, Mildness and Forbearance :

Allah the Most High said :

"And those who supress their anger and pardon the people." (3:134)

And the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said to Ashajj' Abdul-Qays :

"Verily you have two characteristics that Allah loves: forbearance and forethought." (Muslim)

The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) also said :

"Whoever is deprived of gentleness, he is deprived of all goodness." (Muslim)

• Truthfulness :

Allah said :

"O you who believe! Fear Allah and be with those who are truthful." (9:119)

And the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said :

"Verily truthfulness leads to righteousness, and verily righteousness leads to Paradise. And verily the man will be truthful (as his normal practice) until he is written with Allah as one who is always truthful." (Al-Bukhari)

• Patience :

Allah the Most High said :

"And give glad tidings to the patient." (2:155)

And the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said :

"Whoever seeks to be patient, Allah will make him patient and no one is given a gift better and larger than patience." (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

• Humbleness :

Allah said :

"And lower your wing (in humility) towards the believers." (15:88)

And the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said :

"Verily Allah revealed to me that you all should be humble, so that no one boasts over anyone else and no one transgresses against anyone else." (Muslim)

• Trust :

Allah the Most High says :

"Verily Allah commands that you render back the trusts to those, to whom they are due." (4:58)

And the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said :

"The signs of hypocrite are three (things): Whenever he speaks, he lies, whenever he promises, he breaks it (his promise), and whenever he is entrusted, he proves to be dishonest."

• Kindness to Parents and Keeping Good Relations with Kin :

Allah the Most High says :

"And you Lord has decreed that you should not worship any other besides Him, and (you should) be good to (your) parents. If one of them or both of them attain age with you, do not say "Uff" to them do not rebuke them, but speak a respectful word to them." (17:23)

And Ibn Mas'ood (radiallahu anhu) said :

"I asked the Prophet (P.B.U.H.), Which deed is most beloved by Allah, the Most High? He said, "As-Salah performed in its time." I said, "Then what?" He replied, "Kindness to parents." (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

• Modesty :

Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) said :

"Modesty only brings good."

He (P.B.U.H.) also said :

"And modesty is a branch of faith." (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Virtues and Events of the Islamic Months

MUHARRAM

• Muharram was appointed the first month of the Hijri calendar by 'Umar bin Al-Khattab (radiallahu anhu) at the suggestion of 'Uthman bin 'Affan (radiallahu anhu) in the year 16 AH.
• The sending of letters to the kings and leaders. Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) wrote to the kings of the earth at that time (7 AH) after returning from Al-Hudaibiyyah. He sent six men in a single day to the Najashi (ruler) of Abyssinia (Ethiopia), the Caeser (ruler) of Rome, the Kisra (ruler of Persia) Anu Shirwan, the Muqawqas, who was the ruler of the Copts (in Alexandria, Egypt), Al-Harith bin Abu Shamir Al-Ghassani, the King of Al Balqa' (in Syria), and Hawdhah bin 'Ali Al-Hanafi of Al-Yamamah.
  

SAFAR

• The Prophet's marriage to Khadijah bint Khuwailid (radiallahu anha).
• The permission (for Muslims) to fight. The Hadiths and reports from the Companions prove that the beginning of the legislation for fighting took place after the Hijrah (migration to Al-Madinah).
  

RABI' AL-AWWAL

• This is the month in which the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) was born and received his first mission of Prophethood. It is also the month in which he was taken on a night journey (Israa) to the Aqsa Mosque in Palestine. It is also the month in which he migrated to Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, the month of his death.
• The expedition of Safawan - also known as the First Battle of Badr took place.
• The expedition of Buwat took place. This also occured 13 months after the Hijrah.
• The expedition of Dawmatul-Jandal took place in 5 AH.
• The expedition of Bani Lihyan bin Hudhayl bin Mudrikah took place in 6 AH.
• Allegiance was given to Abu Bakr (radiallahu anhu) as the caliph of the Muslims on the 12th of Rabi'ul-Awwal in 11 AH.
• Abu Bakr's dispatching of the army of Usamah bin Zaid (radiallahu anha) to confront the Romans in the lands of Ash-Sham. This took place in 11 AH.
• The land of Al-Hirah in Iraq was conquered by Khalid bin Al-Walid (radiallahu anha) and a treaty was made. This took place in 12 AH.
  

RABI' AL-AKHIR

• The expedition of Najran took place in 3 AH.
• The expedition of Abu 'Ubaidah (radiallahu anhu) to Dhul-Qassah in 6 AH.
• The besieging of Damascus by the Muslims in 14 AH. The siege lasted approximately 70 nights under the command of Abu 'Ubaidah and Khalid bin Al-Walid (radiallahu anha).

JUMADA AL-ULA

• The expedition of Al-'Ushairah took place exactly 16 months after the Hijrah in which Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) made a treaty with Bani Mudlij and their allies, Bani Dhamrah.
• The expedition of Dhaat Ar-Riqa' took place in 2 AH. Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) set out in the direction of Najd (an area of Eastern Arabia) seeking to confront Bani Maharib and Bani Tha'labah from Ghatafan, however no battle took place.
• The battle of Mu'tah occured in 8 AH. Mu'tah is a place near Al-Balqa' which is in Ash-Sham (Syria, Jordan, Palestine and Lebanon combined).
• The battle of Ajnadin took place in 15 AH between and the Muslims under the leadership of 'Amr bin Al-As, Abu 'Ubaidah and Shurahbil, and the Romans under the leadership of Al-Qubuqlar (or Wardan). The Romans were defeated and their leader was killed.

JUMADA AL-AKHIRAH

• The expedition of Dhu Qarad took place in the year 6 AH. On that day Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) offered the Prayer of Fear (Salat-ul-Khawf).
• The expedition of Dhat As-Salasil took place in the year 8 AH.
• Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (radiallahu anhu) died on Monday with eight days remaining in the month of Jumada Al-Akhirah, in the year 13 AH. He was 63 years old. His caliphate (Khalifah) lasted for two years, three months and ten nights.
• 'Umar bin Al-Khattab (radiallahu anhu) was given the pledge of allegiance as the caliph (Khalifah) in the year 13 AH.
• The battle of Al-Yarmuk took place between the Romans and the Muslims, who were under the leadership of Khalid bin Al-Walid and Abu 'Ubaidah (radiallahu anhu).
• The Islamic reinforcement troops arrived in Egypt under the leadership of Az-Zubair bin Al-'Awwam, Al-Miqdad bin Al-Aswad, 'Ubadah bin As-Samit and Maslamah bin Mukhallad (radiallahu anhum).

RAJAB

• The first Hijrah took place to Abyssinia (Ethiopia). When the trials of the Muslims became severe in Makkah, Allah allowed them to migrate Abyssinia. 'Uthman bin Affan was the first person to migrate. These immigrants left for Abyssinia in the 5th year after the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) received his mission of Prophethood.
• The expedition of 'Abdullah bin Jahsh Al-Asadi (radiallahu anhu) to Nakhlah 17 months after the Hijrah. This was the first battle in which war booty (Ghanimah) was taken, Khums was given, killing took place and the Muslims took captives.
• The expedition of Tabuk took place in the year 9 AH. It was also called the expedition of Al-'Usrah (the difficulty).
• Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) announced the death of An-Najashi to the Muslims and he led those with him in prayer (Salatul-Janaazah) for him on the day he died.
• Damascus was conquered by the Muslims by way of a treaty that was made. Abu 'Ubaidah and Khalid bin Al-Walid (radiallahu anhu) besieged the city from Rabi 'Al-Akhir till Rajab.

SHA'BAN

• This is the month in which the Qiblah (direction of prayer) was changed from Bait-ul-Maqdis (Jerusalem) to the Ka'bah, 16 or 17 months after the Hijrah. This was the first thing to be abrogated of the Shari'ah.
• The fast of Ramadan was made obligatory in the year 2 AH.

RAMADAN

• This is the month in which the Qur'an was descended. Allah says: "The month of Ramadan, in which the Qur'an was revealed (i.e. sent down)." (2:185) It is also the month in which the first verse of Allah's Book (the Qur'an) was revealed (to the Prophet (P.B.U.H.)). This Verse was revealed on the 17th of Ramadan. Khadijah (radiallahu anha) accepted Islam and became the first person to believe in the Prophet (P.B.U.H.). She also died during this month.
• The expedition of Hamzah (radiallahu anhu) and the first standard (flag of war) was chosen by Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.). This occured exactly 7 months after the Hijrah.
• Zakatul-Fitr (charity given in the form of food at the end of Ramadan) and the Zakat upon wealth was made obligatory during this month. Also the "Eid prayer was instituted during this month. All of this happened in the year 2 AH.
• The command to perform Jihaad came in this month during the year 2 AH.
• The battle of Badr was fought on the 17th of Ramadan, on a Friday (Jumu'ah) in the year 2 AH. This is the day that the Qur'an calls "The Day of Criterion" (Yawmul-Furqan).
• Makkah was conquered on the 10th of Ramadan, in the year 8 AH.
• The delegation of Thaqif accepted Islam in the year 9 AH.
• Fatimah (radiallahu anha) the daughter of Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) died in the year 11 AH.
• The Mother of the Believers, Aishah (radiallahu anha) died in the year 58 AH.

SHAWWAL

• This is the first of the months of Hajj, and they are Shawwal, Dhul-Qa'dah and the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah.
• The expedition of Batan Rabigh took place under the leadership of 'Ubaidah bin AlHarith (radiallahu anhu).
• 'Abdullah bin Az-Zubair (radiallahu anhu) was born in the year 1 AH and he was the first child to be born to the Muslim immigrants (Muhajirum) after the Hizra (to Al-Madinah).
• The marriage of the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) to the Mother of the believers, 'Aishah (radiallahu anhu), took place during this month.
• The expedition of Bani Sulaim took place at Al-Kudr in the year 2 AH.
• The expedition of Bani Qainuqa' took place in the year 2 AH. Banu Qainuqa' were the first tribe of Jews of Al-Madinah to wage war against the Prophet (P.B.U.H.).
• The battle of Uhud took place in the middle of the month of Shawwal, in the year 3 AH. The battle of Hamra Al-Asad took place immediately after the battle of Uhud.
• The battle of Khandaq (the trench) or Ahzab took place in the year 5 AH
• The battle of Hunain took place in the year 8 AH after the quest of Makkah.
• The expedition of At-Ta'if took place in the year 8 AH after the battle of Hunain.
• Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) attacked city of At-Ta'if in order to fight those disbelievers who had fled from the battle of Hunain.

DHUL-QA'DAH

• Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) presented himself before the tribes during the Hajj season and he held a private meeting with six people from the tribe of Al-Khazraj at Al-'Aqabah. This happened 11years after he received his mission of Prophethood.
• The expedition against the Jews of Banu Quraizah took place in the year 5 AH.
• The situation of Al-Hudaibiyyah took place in the year 6 AH
• Abu Musa Al-Ash'ari and Mu'adh bin Jabal (radiallahu anha) were sent to Yemen during this month, in the year 10 AH.
• The 'Umrahs of the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) were all during this month except that the 'Umrah that he performed during his Hajj.
• The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) sent out for the Farewell Hajj (Hajjat-ul-Wada') during this month.
• The cities of Hims and Ba'labak were conquered at the hands of Abu 'Ubaidah (radiallahu anhu) by way of a treaty in the year 14 AH.
• Mu'awiyah bin Abu Sufiyan (radiallahu anha) was given the pledge of allegiance as the caliph (Khalifah) in the year 37 AH.

DHUL-HIJJAH

• The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) took his second trip to Ash-Sham.
• The second Pledge (Bai'ah) of Al-'Aqabah took place 13 years after the beginning of the Prophet's mission of Prophethood
• The expedition of As-Sawiq took place in the year 2 AH.
• Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) attacked Banu Quraizah in the year 5 AH during this month
• The birth of Ibrahim, the son of Allah's Messenger (P.B.U.H.) from Mariya Al-Qabtiyyah, in the year 8 AH.
• The Hajj of the first Khalifah Abu Bakr (radiallahu anhu) with the people in the year 12 AH.
• The battle of Dathin near Gaza at the outskirts of Palestine. This was the first battle between the Muslims and the Romans. It took place in the year 12 AH.
• The Commander of the believers, 'Umar bin Al-Khattab (radiallahu anhu) was assisinated. He was stabbed by Abu Lu'lu'ah Al-Majusi on the 25th of Dhul-Hijjah, in the year 23 AH.
• 'Uthman bin 'Affan (radiallahu anhu) was chosen as the Khalifah of the Muslims.
• The Commander of the believers, 'Uthman bin 'Affan (radiallahu anhu) was assasinated on Friday (Jumu'ah), the 18th of Dhul-Hijjah, in the year 35 AH.
• 'Ali bin Abu Talib (radiallahu anhu) was given hte pledge (Bai'ah) as the Khalifah on the 25th of Dhul-Hijjah, in the year 35 AH.

Islam and Human Rights...

HOW DOES ISLAM GUARANTEE HUMAN RIGHTS?

Freedom of conscience is laid down by the Qur'an itself:
There is no compulsion in religion (2:256)

The life and property of all citizens in an Islamic state are considered sacred whether a person is Muslim or not. Racism is incomprehensible to Muslims, for the Qur'an speaks of human equality in the following terms: made you into nations and tribes, so that you may come to know one
another. Truly, the most honored of you in God's sight is the greatest (49:13)

About Food...

WHAT ABOUT FOOD?

Although much simpler than the dietary law followed by Jews and the early Christians, the code which Muslims observe forbids the consumption of pig meat or any kind of intoxicating drink. The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) taught that 'your body has rights over you', and the consumption of wholesome food and the leading of a healthy lifestyle are seen as religious obligations.
The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said:
'Ask God for certainty (of faith) and well-being; for after certainty, no one is given any gift better than health!'

About War...

WHAT DOES ISLAM SAY ABOUT WAR?

Like Christianity, Islam permits fighting in self-defense, in defense of religion, or on the part of those who have been expelled forcibly from their homes. It lays down strict rules of combat which include prohibitions against harming civilians and against destroying crops, trees and livestock. As Muslims see it, injustice would be triumphant in the world if good men were not prepared to risk their lives in a righteous cause.

The Qur'an says:
Fight in the cause of God against those who fight you, but do not transgress limits. God does not love transgressors (2:190)

If they seek peace, then seek you peace. And trust in God for He is the One that heareth and knoweth all things (8:61)

War, therefore, is the last resort, and is subject to the rigorous conditions laid down by the sacred law. The term Jihad literally means 'struggle', and Muslims believe that there are two kinds of Jihad. The other 'Jihad' is the inner struggle which everyone wages against egotistic desires, for the sake of attaining inner peace.

About Death...

HOW DO MUSLIMS VIEW DEATH?

Like Jews and Christians, Muslims believe that the present life is only a trial preparation for the next realm of existence. Basic articles of faith include: the Day of Judgement, resurrection, Heaven and Hell. When a Muslim dies, he or she is washed, usually by a family member, wrapped in a clean white cloth, and buried with a simple prayer preferably the same day. Muslims consider this one of the final services they can do for their relatives, and an opportunity to remember their own brief existence here on earth. The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) taught that three things can continue to help a person even after death; charity which he had given, knowledge which he had taught and prayers on their behalf by a righteous child.

Importance of PARENTS...

HOW DO MUSLIMS TREAT THE ELDERLY?

In the Islamic world there are no old people's homes. The strain of caring for one's parents in this most difficult time of their lives is considered an honor and blessing, and an opportunity for great spiritual growth. Allah asks that we not only pray for our parents, but act with limitless compassion, remembering that when we were helpless children they preferred us to themselves. Mothers are particularly honored: the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) taught that 'Paradise lies at the feet of mothers'.
When they reach old age, Muslim parents are treated mercifully, with the same kindness and selflessness.

In Islam, serving one's parents is a duty second only to prayer, and it is their right to expect it. It is considered despicable to express any irritation when, through no fault of their own, the old become difficult.

The Qur'an says :
Your Lord has commanded that you worship none but Him, and be kind to parents. If either or both of them reach old age with you, do not say 'uff' to them or chide them, but speak to them in terms of honor and kindness. Treat them with humility, and say, 'My Lord!
Have mercy on them, for they did care for me when I was little. (17:23-4)

Diff between Islamic Marriage and Christian Marriage..

IS ISLAMIC MARRIAGE LIKE CHRISTIAN MARRIAGE?

A Muslim marriage is not a 'sacrament', but a simple, legal agreement in which either partner is free to include conditions. Marriage customs thus vary widely from country to country. As a result, divorce is not common, although it is not forbidden as a last resort. According to Islam, no Muslim girl can be forced to marry against her will: her parents will simply suggest young men they think may be suitable.

Can a Muslim have more than one Wife...

CAN A MUSLIM HAVE MORE THAN ONE WIFE?

The religion of Islam was revealed for all societies and all times and so accommodates widely differing social requirements. Circumstances may warrant the taking of another wife but the right is granted, according to the Qur'an, only on condition that the husband is scrupulously fair.

About Muslim Women..

WHAT ABOUT MUSLIM WOMEN?

Islam sees a woman, whether single or married, as an individual in her own right, with the right to own and dispose of her property and earnings. A marriage dowry is given by the groom to the bridge for her own personal use, and she keeps her own family name rather than taking her husband's. Both men and women are expected to dress in a way which is modest and dignified; the traditions of female dress found in some Muslim countries are often the expression of local customs.

The Messenger of Allah (P.B.U.H.) said:
faith amongst believers is he who is best in manner

WHY IS THE FAMILY SO IMPORTANT TO MUSLIMS?

WHY IS THE FAMILY SO IMPORTANT TO MUSLIMS?

The family is the foundation of Islamic society. The peace and security offered by a stable family unit is greatly valued, and seen as essential for the spiritual growth of its members. A harmonious social order is created by the existence of extended families; children are treasured, and rarely leave home until the time they marry.

Abt Jesus; Isa (alayhis salam)

WHAT DO MUSLIMS THINK ABOUT JESUS?

Muslims respect and revere Jesus, and await his Second Coming. They consider him one of the greatest of God's Messengers to mankind. A Muslim never refers to him simply as 'Jesus', but always adds the phrase 'upon him be peace'. The Qur'an confirms his virgin birth (a chapter of the Qur'an is entitled 'Mary'), and Mary is considered the purest woman in all creation.

The Qur'an describes the Annunciation as follows:
Behold!' the Angel said, 'God has chosen you, and purified you, and chosen you above the women of all nations. O Mary, God gives you good news of a word from Him, whose name shall be the Messiah, Jesus son of Mary, honored in this world and the Hereafter, and one of those brought near to God. He shall speak to the people from his cradle and in maturity, and shall be of the righteous.'

She said: 'O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man has touched me?'
He said: 'Even so; God creates what He will. When He decrees a thing, He says to it, "Be!" and it is (3:42-7)

Jesus was born miraculously through the same power which had brought Adam into being without a father:
Truly, the likeness of Jesus with God is as the likeness of Adam. (3:59)

During his prophetic mission Jesus performed many miracles.

The Qur'an tells us that he said:
I have come to you with a sign from your Lord: I make for you out of clay, as it were, the figure of a bird, and breathe into it and it becomes a bird by God's leave. And I heal the blind, and the lepers (3:49)

Neither Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) nor Jesus came to change the basic doctrine of the belief in One God, brought by earlier prophets, but to confirm and renew it.

In the Qur'an Jesus is reported as saying that he came:
To attest the law which was before me. And to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden you; I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, so fear God and obey me (3:50)

The Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) said:
that Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) is His messenger, that Jesus is the servant and messenger of God, His word breathed into Mary and a spirit emanating from Him, and that Paradise and Hell are true, shall be received.
(Hadith from Bukhari)

Islam and other Beliefs

DOES ISLAM TOLERATE OTHER BELIEFS?

The Qur'an says:
Allah forbids you not, with regards to those who fight you not for (your) faith nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them; for God loveth those who are just
(Qur'an, 60:8)

It is one function of Islamic law to protect the privileged status of minorities, and this is why non-Muslim places of worship have flourished all over the Islamic world. History provides many examples of Muslim tolerance towards other faiths: when the caliph Omar entered Jerusalem in the year 634, Islam granted freedom of worship to all religious communities in the city. Islamic law also permits non-Muslim minorities to set up their own courts, which implement family laws drawn up by the minorities themselves.

Pilgrimage (Hajj)

5. PILGRIMAGE (Hajj)

The annual pilgrimage to Makkah -- the Hajj -- is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to perform it. Nevertheless, about two million people go to Makkah each year from every corner of the globe providing a unique opportunity for those of different nations to meet one another. Although Makkah is always filled with visitors, the annual Hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that Hajj and Ramadan fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments which strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God.

The rites of the Hajj, which are of Abrahamic origin, include circling the Ka'abah seven times, and going seven times between the mountains of Safa and Marwa as did Hagar during her search for water. Then the pilgrims stand together on the wide plain of Arafa and join in prayers for Allah's forgiveness, in what is often thought of as a preview of the Last Judgment.

In previous centuries the Hajj was an arduous undertaking. Today, however, Saudi Arabia provides millions of people with water, modern transport, and the most up-todate health facilities. The close of the Hajj is marked by a festival, the Eid al-Adha, which is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts in Muslim communities everywhere. This, and the Eid al-Fitr, a feast-day commemorating the end of Ramadan, are the main festivals of the Muslim calendar.

The Fast...

4. THE FAST

Every year in the month of Ramadan, all Muslims fast from first light until sundown, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations. Those who are sick, elderly, or on a journey, and women who are pregnant or nursing are permitted to break the fast and make up an equal number of days later in the year. If they are physically unable to do this, they must feed a needy person for every day missed. Children begin to fast (and to observe the prayer) from puberty, although many start earlier.

Although the fast is most beneficial to the health, it is regarded principally as a method of self-purification. By cutting oneself off from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person gains true sympathy with those who go hungry as well as growth in one's spiritual life.

Zakat...

3. THE 'ZAKAT'

One of the most important principles of Islam is that all things belong to Allah, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The word zakat means both 'purification' and 'growth'. Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need, and, like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth.

Each Muslim calculates his or her own zakat individually. For most purposes this involves the payment each year of two and a half percent of one's capital. A pious person may also give as much as he or she pleases as sadaqa, and does so preferably in secret. Although this word can be translated as 'voluntary charity' it has a wider meaning.

The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said 'even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is charity'.

The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said: 'Charity is a necessity for every Muslim'.

He (P.B.U.H.) was asked: 'What if a person has nothing?'

The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) replied: 'He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity'.

The Companions asked: 'What if he is not able to work?'

The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said: 'He should help poor and needy persons.'

The Companions further asked 'What is he cannot do even that?'

The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said 'He should urge others to do good'.

The Companions said 'What if he lacks that also?'

The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said 'He should check himself from doing evil. That is also charity.'

Namaz (Prayer) ...

2. PRAYER

Salah is the name for the obligatory prayers which are performed five times a day, and are a direct link between the worshipper and Allah. There is no hierarchical authority in Islam, and no priests, so the prayers are led by a learned person who knows the Qur'an, chosen by the congregation. These five prayers contain verses from the Qur'an, and are said in Arabic, the language of the Revelation, but personal supplication can be offered in one's own language.

Prayers are said at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day. Although it is preferable to worship together in a mosque, a Muslim may pray almost anywhere, such as in fields, offices, factories and universities. Visitors to the Muslim world are struck by the centrality of prayers in daily life.

Faith...

1. FAITH

There is no god worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) is His messenger.
This declaration of faith is called the Shahada, a simple formula which all the faithful pronounce. In Arabic, the first part is la ilaha illa'Llah - 'there is no god except Allah'; ilaha (god) can refer to anything which we may be tempted to put in place of God -- wealth, power, and the like. Then comes illa'Llah:' except Allah, the source of all Creation. The second part of the Shahada is Muhammadun rasulu'Llah (P.B.U.H.): 'Muhammad is the messenger of Allah'. A message of guidance has come through a man like ourselves.

A translation of the Call to Prayer is:

Allah is most great. Allah is most great.
Allah is most great. Allah is most great.
I testify that there is no god except Allah.
I testify that there is no god except Allah.
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.
I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.
Come to prayer! Come to prayer!
Come to success (in this life and the Hereafter)! Come to success!
Allah is most great. Allah is most great.
There is no god except Allah.

Five Pillars of Islam

WHAT ARE THE 'FIVE PILLARS' OF ISLAM?

They are the framework of the Muslim life: faith, prayer, concern for the needy, self-purification, and the pilgrimage to Makkah for those who are able.

1. Faith
2. Prayer
3. The Zakat
4. The Fast
5. The Pilgrimage (HAJJ)

Other Sacred sources & Prophet (P.B.U.H.) sayings

ARE THERE ANY OTHER SACRED SOURCES?

Yes, the Sunna, the practice and example of the Prophet (P.B.U.H.), is the second authority for Muslims. A Hadith is a reliably transmitted report of what the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) said, did, or approved. Belief in the Sunna is part of the Islamic faith.

EXAMPLES OF THE PROPHET'S SAYINGS :

The Prophet (P.B.U.H.) said:

'God has no mercy on one who has no mercy for others'.

'None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself'.

'He who eats his fill while his neighbor goes without food is not a believer'.

'The truthful and trusty businessman is associated with the prophets, the saints, and the martyrs'.

'Powerful is not he who knocks the other down, indeed powerful is he who controls himself in a fit of anger'.

'God does not judge according to your bodies and appearances but He scans your hearts and looks into your deeds'.

'A man walking along a path felt very thirsty. Reaching a well he descended into it, drank his fill and came up. Then he saw a dog with its tongue hanging out, trying to lick up mud to quench its
thirst. The man saw that the dog was feeling the same thirst as he had felt so he went down into the well again and filled his shoe with water and gave the dog a drink. God forgave his sins for this action'. The Prophet was asked: 'Messenger of God, are we rewarded for kindness towards animals?' He said, 'There is a reward for kindness to every living thing'.

(From the Hadith collections of Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi and Bayhaqi)

Qur'an ??

WHAT IS THE QUR'AN?

The Qur'an is a record of the exact words revealed by Allah through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.). It was memorized by Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) and then dictated to his Companions, and written down by scribes, who cross-checked it during his lifetime. Not one word of its 114 chapters, Suras, has been changed over the centuries, so that the Qur'an is in every detail the unique and miraculous text which was revealed to Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) fourteen centuries ago.

WHAT IS THE QUR'AN ABOUT?

The Qur'an, the last revealed Word of Allah, is the prime source of every Muslim's faith and practice. It deals with all the subjects which concern us as human beings: wisdom, doctrine, worship, and law, but its basic theme is the relationship between Allah and His creatures. At the same time it provides guidelines for a just society, proper human conduct and an equitable economic system.

How Islam affected the World...

HOW DID THE SPREAD OF ISLAM AFFECT THE WORLD?

Among the reasons for the rapid and peaceful spread of Islam was the simplicity of its doctrine-Islam calls for faith in only one God worthy of worship. It also repeatedly instructs man to use his powers of intelligence and observation. Within a few years, great civilizations and universities were flourishing, for according to the Prophet (P.B.U.H.), 'seeking knowledge is an obligation for every Muslim man and woman'. The synthesis of Eastern and Western ideas and of new thought with old, brought about great advances in medicine, mathematics, physics, astronomy, geography, architecture, art, literature, and history. Many crucial systems such as algebra, the Arabic numerals, and also the concept of the zero (vital to the advancement of mathematics), were transmitted to medieval Europe from Islam. Sophisticated instruments which were to make possible the European voyages of discovery were developed, including the astrolabe, the quadrant and good navigational maps.

About Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.)

WHO IS PROPHET MUHAMMAD (P.B.U.H.)?

Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) was born in Makkah in the year 570, at a time when Christianity was not yet fully established in Europe. Since his father died before his birth, and his mother shortly afterwards, he (P.B.U.H.) was raised by his uncle from the respected tribe of Quraysh. As he (P.B.U.H.) grew up, he (P.B.U.H.) became known for his truthfulness, generosity and sincerity, so that he (P.B.U.H.) was sought after for his ability to arbitrate in disputes. The historians describe him as calm and meditative. Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) was of a deeply religious nature, and had long detested the decadence of his society. It became his habit to meditate from time to time in the Cave of Hira near the summit of Jaba al-Nur, the 'Mountain of Light' near
Makkah.

HOW DID HE (P.B.U.H.) BECOME A PROPHET AND A MESSENGER OF GOD?

At the age of 40, while engaged in a meditative retreat, Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) received his first revelation from God through the Angel Jibriel. This revelation, which continued for twenty-three years, is known as the Qur'an. As soon as be began to recite the words he (P.B.U.H.) heard from Jibriel, and to preach the truth which God had revealed to him, he (P.B.U.H.) and his small group of followers suffered bitter persecution which grew so fierce that in the year 622 God gave them the command to emigrate. This event, the Hijra,
'migration', in which they left Makkah for the city of Madinah some 260 miles to the
north, marks the beginning of the Muslim calendar. After several years, the Prophet (P.B.U.H.)
and his followers were able to return to Makkah, where they forgave their enemies
and established Islam definitively. Before the Prophet (P.B.U.H.) died at the age of 63, the
greater part of Arabia was Muslim, and within a century of his death Islam had spread
to Spain in the West and as far East as China.

What is the Ka'abah...

WHAT IS THE KA'ABAH?

The Ka'abah is the place of worship which Allah commanded Abraham and Ismael to
build over four thousand years ago. The building was constructed of stone on what
many believe was the original site of a sanctuary established by Adam. Allah
commanded Abraham to summon all mankind to visit this place, and when pilgrims go
there today they say 'At Thy service, O Lord', in response to Abraham's summons.

Is Islam strange?

WHY DOES ISLAM OFTEN SEEM STRANGE?

Islam may seem exotic or even extreme in the modern world. Perhaps this is because
religion does not dominate everyday life in the West today, whereas Muslims have
religion always uppermost in their minds, and make no division between secular and
sacred. They believe that the Divine Law, the Shari'a, should be taken very seriously,
which is why issues related to religion are still so important.

DO ISLAM AND CHRISTIANITY HAVE DIFFERENT ORIGINS?

No. Together with Judaism, they go back to the prophet and patriarch Abraham, and
their three prophets are directly descended from his sons. Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) from the eldest, Ismael, and Moses and Jesus from Is'haq. Abraham established the settlement which
today is the city of Makkah, and built the Ka'abah towards which all Muslims turn
when they pray.

Meaning of a Muslim and Islam...

HOW DOES SOMEONE BECOME A MUSLIM?

Simply by saying 'there is no god apart from Allah, and Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) is the Messenger
of Allah.' By this declaration the believer announces his or her faith in all God's
messengers, and the scriptures they brought.

WHAT DOES 'ISLAM' MEAN?

The Arabic word 'Islam' simply means 'submission', and derives from a word meaning
'peace'. In a religious context it means complete submission to the will of Allah.
Mohammedanism' is thus a misnomer because it suggests that Muslims worship
Muhammad (P.B.U.H.) rather than Allah. 'Allah' is the Arabic name for God, which is used by
Arab Muslims and Christians alike.

What do Muslims believe in...

WHAT DO MUSLIMS BELIEVE?

Muslims believe in One Unique, Incomparable God; in the Angels created by Him; in
the prophets through whom His revelations were brought to mankind; in the Day of
Judgment and individual accountability for actions; in God's complete authority over
human destiny and in life after death. Muslims believe in a chain of prophets starting
with Adam and including Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses,
Aaron, David, Solomon, Elias, Jonah, John the Baptist, and Jesus, peace be upon
them. But God's final message to man, a reconfirmation of the eternal message and a
summing-up of all that has gone before was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H.)
through Jibriel.

Islam & Muslims

In The Name Of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

O mankind! We created you from a single soul, male and female, and
made you into nations and tribes, so that you may come to know one
another. Truly, the most honored of you in God's sight is the greatest
of you in piety. God is All-Knowing, All-Aware (49:13)

WHAT IS ISLAM?

Islam is not a new religion, but the same truth that God revealed through all His
prophets to every people. For a fifth of the world's population, Islam is both a religion
and a complete way of life. Muslims follow a religion of peace, mercy, and
forgiveness, and the majority have nothing to do with the extremely grave events
which have come to be associated with their faith.

WHO ARE THE MUSLIMS?

One billion people from a vast range of races, nationalities and cultures across the
globe -- from the southern Philippines to Nigeria -- are united by their common Islamic
faith. About 18% live in the Arab world; the world's largest Muslim community is in
Indonesia; substantial parts of Asia and most of Africa are Muslim, while significant
minorities are to be found in the Soviet Union, China, North and South America, and
Europe.