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Introduction to Islam

Intro to Islam

Islam at its root means to “peacefully submit” and its central idea is a submission to the will of God (ALLAH in Arabic). It’s central article of faith is the Declaration of Faith, or Shahada, which states that “There is no god worthy of worship except ALLAH and Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) is the final messenger and prophet of ALLAH”.

Who or what are Muslims

At its core, a Muslim is a person who submits to the will of God and follower of the Prophet Muhammad’s teachings as guided by God through the revelation of the Holy Quran, the scripture revealed to the Prophet over the course of 23 years. From the teachings of the prophet and the Holy Quran, Muslims have extrapolated 5 basic pillars that are essential the Islamic faith.

What are the 5 basic pillars of Islam?

Those who call themselves Muslim adhere to the following 5 pillars that play a huge
role in their everyday life

Declaration of Faith (Shahada)

To bear witness in the oneness of God and recognition of the Prophet Muhammad as God’s final messenger/prophet.

Prayer (Salah)

To adhere to the 5 daily prayers (at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and evening)

Giving Alms (Zakah)

Obligation to offer 2.5% of your total wealth annually to those in need (charity)

Fasting (Sawm)

Restricting food/drink from before sunrise to sunset daily specifically, during the month of Ramadan.

Pilgrimage (Hajj)

If financially and physically able, to make pilgrimage to Makkah at least once in the person’s lifetime.

Islam is the final and perfected way of life that God has commanded us to live. It is not a religion or way of life that belongs to a single group of people. Instead, it is a universal way of life intended for all regardless of race, age or country of origin.

“

Today I have perfected your faith for you, completed My favor upon you, and chosen Islam as your way.

Quran5:3

Considering Islam?