All About the Religion of Islam

Islam is a monotheistic faith and is the second largest religion in the world. The religion and philosophy of Islam, is based upon the belief that God (Allah) transmitted knowledge to Muhammad (c. 570–632) and other prophets (Adam, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus). The followers of Islamic religion, Muslims, believe that this revelation to humanity was written down in the Quran, which is the flawless word of God. In Arabic, Islam means "submission" and is described as a "Din", meaning "way of life". A more precise translation of the word Islam would be the serenity that is created by submission. The word Muslim is also related to the word Islam and means "one who surrenders" or "submits" to God.

There are six basic beliefs shared by all followers of Islam:

1. Belief in God, the one and only one worthy of all worship
2. Belief in the Angels
3. Belief in the Koran (a holy book)
4. Belief in all the Prophets and Messengers sent by God
5. Belief in the Day of Judgement and in the Resurrection
6. Belief in Fate

The "Five Pillars of Islam" is the term given to the fundamental aspects of Islam. These five pillars are the most important obligations of a Muslim under Sharia law, and which devout all Muslims will perform faithfully, because they are essential to pleasing Allah. They are as follows:

1. "Shahadah": The Testimony that there is none worthy of worship except God and that Muhammad is his messenger.
2. " Salah": Establishing of the five daily Prayers.
3. " Zakat": The Giving of Zakaah (charity), which is one fortieth of the net worth of possessions kept for more than a year, with few exemptions, for every Muslim whose wealth exceeds the nisab, and 10% or 20% of the produce from agriculture. This money or produce is distributed among the poor.
4. " Ramadhan": Fasting from dawn to dusk in the month of Ramadan.
5. " Hajj": The Pilgrimage to Mecca during the month of Dhul Hijjah, which is compulsory once in a lifetime for one who has the ability to do it.

There is a brief view if the Religion of Islam. I hope you enjoy this week's Mediterranean theme!

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