Core Beliefs and Practices
Beliefs:
- Tawhid (Monotheism): Belief in the existence of one God, Allah.
- Prophethood: Belief in Muhammad as the final and greatest prophet sent by Allah.
- Holy Scriptures: Belief in the holy book of Islam, the Quran, as the word of Allah.
- Resurrection and Judgment: Belief in the Day of Judgment, when all humans will be held accountable for their actions.
- Predestination (Qadar): Belief that Allah has predetermined the course of events.
Practices (the Five Pillars of Islam):
- Shahada (Testimony of Faith): Declaring the belief in Tawhid and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
- Salat (Prayer): Performing five daily prayers facing the direction of Mecca (Qibla).
- Sawm (Fasting): Abstaining from food, drink, and other pleasures during the month of Ramadan.
- Zakat (Charity): Paying a portion of one's wealth to the needy.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage): Undertaking a journey to Mecca at least once in a lifetime, if physically and financially able.
Religious Texts
The Quran:
- The holy book of Islam, believed to be the verbatim word of Allah revealed to Muhammad.
- Contains religious teachings, stories, laws, and ethical guidance.
The Hadith:
- The collection of sayings, actions, and teachings of Prophet Muhammad.
- Provide supplementary guidance and insights into Islamic teachings.
Religious Rituals
Prayer:
- Muslims pray five times a day in a specific direction (Qibla).
- Prayers consist of specific recitations, prostrations, and supplications.
Fasting:
- During Ramadan, Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other pleasures from dawn to sunset.
- Fasting purifies the soul and teaches discipline and empathy.
Pilgrimage:
- The Hajj is a pilgrimage to Mecca during the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar.
- It is a spiritual journey that symbolizes unity, equality, and submission to Allah.
Social and Ethical Teachings
Justice and Compassion:
- Islam emphasizes fairness, equity, and compassion towards all living beings.
- Muslims are encouraged to help the poor, orphans, and those in need.
Modesty and Humility:
- Modesty in clothing and behavior is considered a virtue in Islam.
- Believers are encouraged to be respectful and humble in their interactions.
Responsibility and Accountability:
- Muslims believe they are responsible for their actions and are held accountable on the Day of Judgment.
- They are encouraged to strive for righteousness and avoid wrongdoing.
Education and Knowledge:
- Islam places a high value on education and knowledge.
- Believers are encouraged to seek wisdom in all areas of life.