Understand Islam: The Core Principle and Practices of Islam

Understanding Of Islam

Islam is one of the most popular religions in the world with over 1.9 billion followers known as Muslims. This faith is defined by its belief in one God, Allah in Arabic. The core principle of Islam is the belief that Allah is the only creator, sustainer, and ruler of the universe. He sent prophets throughout history to guide humanity. According to Islamic tradition, the final prophet is Muhammad (PBUH), who delivered the teachings of the Quran, the holy book of Islam. 

Beliefs of Islam 

The five essential beliefs around which Islam is centered.

  • Monotheism (Tawhid) refers to the belief in one God, Allah. Followers of Islam, that is  Muslims believe that Allah has no partner, no children, and no equal. He is the supreme.

  • Prophethood (Nubuwwah): The followers of Islam (Muslims) believe that Allah (SWT) sends prophets to different places to teach people about the religion. Some of the Prophets are Adam(A.S), Nuh (A.S), Ibrahim (A.S), Musa (A.S), Isa (A.S) and Muhammad (PBUH).

  • Revelation: According to the belief of Muslims, the holy books were revealed by Allah(SWT)including Tawrat (Torah), Injil (Gospel), Zabur (Psalms), and Quran. The holy Quran was revealed to Prophet Muhammad  (PBUH) by Allah (SWT) as complete guidance.

  • Angels: Muslims believe angels are created by Allah to perform tasks, especially when the angels transfer the message of Allah to Prophet Muhammad(PBUH).

  • Afterlife (Akhirah): Islam teaches Muslims that life on earth is temporary. Everyone will be reborn on the final day of Judgement. People will be accountable to Allah and based on their deeds, they will either be sent to paradise(Jannah) or hell (Jahannam).

Core Belief of Islam

The five pillars are the heart of Islam. It is recognized as the foundation of Muslim faiths and practices. These pillars are:

  • Shahada(Faith): Faith is the first pillar of Islam. Is the testimony that “ There is no God except Allah, and Muhammad (PBUH) is his messenger. This symbolizes the monotheistic culture of Islam. 

  • Salah (Prayer): Salah refers to the five times prayer in a day. Muslims perform salah as it acts as a direct link between the worshiper and Allah developing spiritual discipline and awareness.

  • Zakat (Charity): Islam highlights helping those who are in need. Muslims are required to donate about 2.5% of their total wealth to the needy people. It is a way to purify wealth and soul.

  • Sawm (Fasting): The month of Ramadan, witness the fasting of Muslims from dawn till sunset. Apart from abstaining from food and water, reflecting spiritual growth.

  • Hajj (Pilgrimage): It is an obligatory pilgrimage for all Muslims who can afford it and are physically well. It is performed during the special time of the year that is Dhul-Hijjah to remember the act of Ibrahim (A.S) and his family.

The Quran and Hadith: Sources of Islamic Teachings

The source of Islamic teaching is the Quran and Hadith.

  • Quran: It is believed that the words of the Quran are the word of Allah(SWT). For over 23 years it was revealed to Muhammad (PBUH). It is a complete guide for Muslims that covers all the aspects of life including morality, law, social justice, and family. The Quran is in Arabic language and during the prayer verses are used.

  • Hadith: It refers to the saying, action, and approval of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and is considered a teaching that helps Muslims to understand Islam and its law (Sharia).

Islamic Law (Sharia)

Sharia is the legal system of Islam, derived from the Quran and Hadith. It encompasses a wide range of topics such as worship, criminal law, personal conduct, and family matters. Sharia aims to provide justice, fairness, and the well-being of society. 

Sharia is not a single set of laws, instead, it serves as a wide framework of principles to guide ethical and moral behavior. It includes topics like various methods of worship, such as prayer and fasting, as well as civil matters like marriage, inheritance, and contracts. 

The Role of Prophets in Islam

The Prophets in Islam are the messengers of Allah. Allah sent different prophets to different regions to teach the people about Islam and guide humanity to them. The Prophet, Allah sent was Adam (A.S) (the first prophet), Nuh (A.S), Ibrahim (A.S), Musa (A.S), Isa (A.S), and the last one Muhammad (PBUH). 

The stories of the Prophets are mentioned in the Quran. These stories are used to teach moral lessons, believe in the oneness of God, and guide Muslims on a religious and righteous path.

Islamic Practices and Rituals

Apart from the five pillars of Islam, Islam has multiple rituals and customs that Muslims need to follow in their daily life. Some of these rituals are:

  • Halal and Haram: Halal refers to permissible and Haram refers to forbidden. This principle covers all the aspects of life including, wealth, food, and behavior. Muslims are advised to have halal food according to their dietary regulation and are forbidden to participate in any form of haram practice such as gambling or consumption of alcohol.

  • Modesty in Dress: Islam strongly mentions dressing in modesty for both men and women and avoiding revealing dress. For women, dressing in modesty also includes wearing a hijab( covering of hair) to reflect on faith and modesty.

  • Jummah Prayer: It is the weekly assembly prayer held every Friday. It is the time for the Muslims to come together, listen to the Khutba(sermon), and pray together. It reflects on the strength of the community.

  • Eid Celebrations: The two Muslim festivals are Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha. Eid-ul-Fitr is celebrated to mark the end of Ramadan month. Muslims celebrate it with close and loved ones and give charity. Eid-al-Adha refers to Qurbani (sacrifice) of animals and is celebrated to remember Ibrahim's (A.S) willingness to sacrifice his son on the command of Allah.

Conclusion

Islam is a religion of both belief and practice. It provides a complete framework for worship, ethical behavior, and social duties and Muslims in their interactions with Allah and one another. With its rooted history and deep spirituality, Islam influences the life of Muslims helping them with inner peace and harmony with the world.

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