What is Islam

Islam is a monotheistic religion that teaches belief in one God (Allah) and living a life of submission to God’s will, guided by faith, ethics, and community responsibility.

Here’s the clear, plain-language version:

• Messenger: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), in the 7th century
• Holy book: The Qur’an, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God
• God: Allah (the same God worshipped in Judaism and Christianity)
• Followers: Muslims (over 1.9 billion worldwide)

Core beliefs (the Six Articles of Faith)

• Belief in one God
• Angels
• Revealed scriptures (including Torah, Psalms, Gospel, Qur’an)
• Prophets (Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, Muhammad—peace be upon them all)
• The Day of Judgment
• Divine decree (free will + God’s knowledge)

Core practices (the Five Pillars of Islam)

• Shahada – declaring faith
• Salat – praying five times daily
• Zakat – giving to the poor
• Sawm – fasting during Ramadan
• Hajj – pilgrimage to Mecca (if able)

Big idea in one sentence

Islam is about worshipping one God, acting justly, caring for others, and living with moral accountability.