As-salamu alaykum, young friends!
Today, we’re going to learn about Islam: what it means, what it teaches, and why it’s such an important and beautiful way of life. Islam is more than just a set of rules; it’s a path to knowing and loving Allah, being kind to others, and finding peace within ourselves.
Let’s dive into the heart of Islam, exploring its core beliefs with guidance from the Qur’an and Hadith. These beliefs help us understand why Islam is a blessing in our lives.
1. What Does “Islam” Mean?
The word Islam means “submission” or “surrender” to the will of Allah. It means that as Muslims, we choose to live in a way that pleases Allah, following His guidance with love and sincerity. By living according to Allah’s teachings, we find peace and purpose.
Allah tells us in the Qur’an:
“Truly, the religion with Allah is Islam.” (Qur’an 3:19)
So, Islam is the religion that Allah chose for us to help us live a good, happy, and meaningful life.
2. Who is a Muslim?
A Muslim is someone who believes in and follows the teachings of Islam. To become a Muslim, a person simply has to say and believe in the Shahada:
“Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadur Rasul Allah”
This means, “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
This statement makes someone a Muslim, showing they believe in only one God, Allah, and accept Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as His messenger.
Also Read :Who is Allah? – Understanding the Creator
3. Core Beliefs of Islam: The Six Pillars of Iman
In Islam, there are six core beliefs known as the Pillars of Iman (faith). These beliefs guide us and keep our hearts connected to Allah.
1. Belief in Allah
The first and most important belief in Islam is in Allah, the one and only God. We believe that Allah is the Creator, the All-Powerful, the All-Knowing, and the Most Merciful. Everything in the universe exists because of Allah, and He is always there to help, guide, and protect us.
“Say, He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Eternal Refuge.” (Qur’an 112:1-2)
2. Belief in Angels
Muslims believe that angels are special beings created by Allah to carry out His commands. Angels are always obedient to Allah, and they help us by recording our deeds, protecting us, and delivering Allah’s messages to His prophets.
“[The angels say], ‘We descend not except by the command of your Lord. To Him belongs what is before us and what is behind us and what is in between.’” (Qur’an 19:64)
3. Belief in the Divine Books
Allah sent holy books as guidance for humanity. These books include the Torah, Psalms, Gospel, and the Qur’an. The Qur’an, given to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), is the final and complete book that remains unchanged. It teaches us how to live a good life and be close to Allah.
“Indeed, We have sent down the Qur’an and surely We will guard it.” (Qur’an 15:9)
4. Belief in the Prophets
Prophets were chosen by Allah to teach people about Him and how to live according to His commands. We believe in all the prophets, including Prophet Adam, Prophet Nuh (Noah), Prophet Musa (Moses), Prophet Isa (Jesus), and Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), who was the final prophet.
“And We sent not before you any messenger except that We revealed to him that, ‘There is no deity except Me, so worship Me.’” (Qur’an 21:25)
5. Belief in the Day of Judgment
Muslims believe that one day the world will end, and everyone will be brought back to life for the Day of Judgment. On this day, Allah will judge each person based on their deeds, and we will be rewarded or punished accordingly. This belief helps us stay mindful and encourages us to do good.
“And fear the Day when you will be returned to Allah. Then every soul will be compensated for what it earned, and they will not be wronged.” (Qur’an 2:281)
Also Read : Importance Of Saying Alhamdulillah
6. Belief in Qadar (Divine Decree)
This belief teaches us that Allah knows everything that happens in our lives. Nothing happens without His permission, and everything has a purpose, even if we don’t understand it. Belief in Qadar helps us trust Allah, especially during difficult times, because we know that He is wise and knows what is best.
“Indeed, all things We created with predestination.” (Qur’an 54:49)
4. The Five Pillars of Islam
While the Pillars of Iman guide our faith, the Five Pillars of Islam guide our actions. They are essential acts that every Muslim tries to practice to show their devotion to Allah.
1. Shahada (Declaration of Faith)
The Shahada, as we mentioned, is the statement of faith. It’s the foundation of being a Muslim and shows that we believe in only one God, Allah, and that Muhammad (ﷺ) is His messenger.
2. Salah (Prayer)
Muslims pray five times a day to remember Allah and stay close to Him. These prayers give us time to connect with Allah, ask for His guidance, and feel His presence in our lives.
“Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater.” (Qur’an 29:45)
3. Zakat (Charity)
Zakat is giving a portion of our wealth to those in need. It teaches us to be generous, share what we have, and care for others. By giving Zakat, we purify our wealth and spread love and kindness.
“Take from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase.” (Qur’an 9:103)
4. Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan)
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Fasting helps us feel compassion for the less fortunate, develop self-control, and focus on our relationship with Allah.
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” (Qur’an 2:183)
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)
Hajj is the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, which every Muslim must try to perform once in their lifetime if they are able. It brings Muslims together from all over the world and reminds us of the unity and equality in Islam.
“And proclaim to the people the Hajj (pilgrimage); they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass.” (Qur’an 22:27)
5. Islam Teaches Us How to Live
In Islam, every action can be an act of worship if done with the right intention. Islam teaches us to be honest, kind, respectful, and generous. We are encouraged to help others, treat people fairly, and avoid harmful behavior. By following Islam, we become better people and make the world a better place.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“The best among you are those who have the best manners and character.” (Bukhari)
This shows that having good manners is very important in Islam, and being kind to others is a way to please Allah.
6. Islam is a Path to Peace
Islam guides us to live peacefully with ourselves, others, and Allah. By following Allah’s teachings, we find inner peace, knowing that we are living a life that pleases Him. When we are kind, fair, and patient, we create peace in our families, communities, and the world.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“And Allah invites to the Home of Peace and guides whom He wills to a straight path.” (Qur’an 10:25)
Conclusion:
Islam is a beautiful way of life that connects us to Allah, teaches us kindness, and guides us to do good. It’s a path that leads to happiness, peace, and closeness to Allah. By understanding and practicing Islam, we grow as better people who can spread goodness, just as Allah wants.
May Allah guide us all on the path of Islam, help us understand His teachings, and make us strong in faith. Ameen!
