What is Islam?

The Meaning of Islam

The word "Islam" comes from the Arabic root "s-l-m" which means peace, purity, submission, and obedience. In the religious sense, Islam means submission to the will of God and obedience to His law. A person who follows Islam is called a Muslim, which means "one who submits to Allah."

Islam is not a new religion but rather the same eternal message revealed to all prophets throughout history—from Adam to Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and finally Muhammad (peace be upon them all). Muslims believe that Muhammad is the final prophet and the Quran is the final revelation from God to humanity.

The Founder of Islam

While Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is often referred to as the "founder of Islam" in Western discourse, Muslims understand that he did not create a new religion. Rather, he was chosen by Allah as the final messenger to restore and complete the message of all previous prophets—the message of pure monotheism (Tawhid).

Muhammad was born in Mecca (modern-day Saudi Arabia) around 570 CE. At age 40, he received his first revelation from Allah through the Angel Gabriel in the Cave of Hira. Over the next 23 years, he received the complete Quran and established the Muslim community, transforming Arabian society and laying the foundation for one of history's most influential civilizations.

Core Beliefs of Islam

Islam is built upon six articles of faith (Iman):

1. Belief in Allah - The one true God, creator of all things
2. Belief in Angels - Spiritual beings created by Allah
3. Belief in Holy Books - Including the Torah, Psalms, Gospel, and Quran
4. Belief in Prophets - All messengers sent by Allah, from Adam to Muhammad
5. Belief in the Day of Judgment - When all will be held accountable
6. Belief in Divine Decree - That Allah has knowledge of all things