...Islam has a following in of over 1 billion people ,20% are in the Middle East alone with the largest portion of Muslims in Indonesia .There are over 4 million Muslems living in America,Muslim has been active in North America for over 300 years, since the time the religion was brought to America by West Africans. The Arabic term islam means "surrender," or "submission." Islam's believers (known as "Muslims" from the active participle of "islam"), accept surrender to the will of Allah . Allah is viewed as God or the creator, sustainer, and restorer of the world. The will of God, to which man is to submit, is made known through the Qur'an (the Koran), revealed to his messenger Muhammad. Muhammad, it is claimed was the last of the great prophets which included Adam, Noah, Moses, Jesus and some others. The basic belief of Islam is expressed in the shahadah, the Muslim confession of faith, "There is no god but God; Muhammad is the prophet of God." Islamic beliefs include belief in angels, the revealed books and Scriptures, a series of prophets, and a Last Day (of Judgment). Muslim duties include five daily prayers, fasting (during the month of Ramadan), and a pilgrimage (hajj) to Mecca; these four elements plus the profession of faith are called the Five Pillars.The Qur'an (which is Arabic for reading or recitation) is regarded by Muslims as The Word Of God, delivered to Muhammad by the angel Gabriel. The Qur'an is divided into 114 surahs (chapters), the early surahs revealed...
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...millennium and are problematic include violence (drive by shootings, school shootings), terrorism, slavery (the 250 Nigerian girls) seems to be the most prominent issues which face the world today. Evidently it is highly apparent that religion has an immense role to provide peace amongst various people and cultures. The idea of peace cannot dwell amongst society unless the adherents of the religion exhibit the nature of peacefulness. The religion of Islam tries in many forms to promote peace. Through its founder Muhammad and the message he tried to depict regarding respecting others and treating the less fortunate with kindness. "But if the enemy incline towards peace, do thou (also) incline towards peace, and trust in Allah: for He is the One that Heareth and Knoweth (all things)." (Surah 8, Verse 61). This is an imperative scripture as it depicts the way in which Islamic adherents should apply peace in their daily lives. It is also a model for all adherents to follow as it promotes a peaceful, non violent society. This is turn is the words in which Islamic adherents can pertain to in search of peace within religion and hence others can gain a sense of peacefulness and kind relationships through the way an Islamic adherent treats his brother/sister in Islam. Peace then can not be seen as the total absence of violence, because this is far from it. Peace in essence the concept of “trying” to achieve harmony amongst people and for common good to prevail in society but to others this view...
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...muslim. Such as maintaining our salah since that one of the main acts which distinguishes a Muslim from a non-Muslim. The importance of prayer in Islam cannot be understated because it is one of the most essential elements of obtaining a place in Paradise. Our Prophet (Peace be upon him) has said what means: “The first matter that the slave will be brought to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer. If it is sound, then the rest of his deeds will be sound. And if it is bad, then the rest of his deeds will be bad.” Apart from the five pillars of Islam establishing good relationships with family and maintaining pure friendships can also help to promote good deeds. Other righteous deeds include being kind to others, being hospitable to family, friends and neighbours, not backbiting or judging others. We should rush to perform good deeds before something hinders us from doing so. Working towards bettering ourselves will help us improve our eman. There are many things we need to do as Muslims to ensure that our eyes, mouth and body are in submission to Allah; we need to constantly be checking our heart and purifying it to gain a better life in the Hereafter. Family. 1. Maintaining Our Salah We know as Muslims that one of the main acts which distinguishes a Muslim from a non-Muslim is Salah (prayer). The importance of prayer in Islam cannot be understated. Every Muslim is obliged by Allah (Subhanahu wa...
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...Islam, A World Religion: The Start of Islam Most people don't know much about Islam, with misconceptions about Islam: Muslim’s beliefs and including the rituals. Islam has gained a lot of followers and is the second largest religion in the world. The questions that we will be answering that is about Islam is the character, Sunni Islam throughout my research and a visit to the Islamic Center of Inland Empire. This research paper will cover the history and art of Islam and the history of Al-Masjid al-Ha ram or “The Holy Mosque”. Also the Religious meetings and personal views of an Islamic leader in the essay. Beliefs of Islam Islam, like Judaism and Christianity, is a monotheistic religion based in ones beliefs in God. There are two main in the religion in Islam, which is known as Sunni and Shi’a. The two major separation of Islam were caused by the question of leadership after Muhammad’s sentence. Vast majority of Muslim, like about 90 percent are Sunni and the others would be Shi’s. “Sunni” comes from the Arabic word which is Sunnah meaning “customary practice.” But in Sunni Islam, the imam is the man who leads the Friday prayers in a mosque with scriptures from the Qur’an, the text of which is considered to be the direct word from God (Allah). Caliphate and Its Modern Era The Caliphate was the first government system established in Islam, it is represented as the political unity of the Muslim Ummah nation. As a religious historian, S. A. Nigosian believes that “the...
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...Beginner's Introduction. Islam is the same religion that God revealed through His messengers (peace be upon them) to all people. Islam is a complete way of life. It impacts every part of life, from eating and sleeping to working and playing. It is not only a personal religion, but also a social one. Muslims are supposed to live in accordance with God's laws. By doing so, they strive to obtain nearness to God and victory over temporary trials and temptations in this world. All aspects of their practice including prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage are intended to help meet this goal. Muslims believe in Allah, the Supreme and Eternal, Infinite and Mighty, Merciful and Compassionate, The Creator and The Provider, He begets not, nor was He begotten, and there is none equal or comparable unto Him. Muslims believe in all Messengers of Allah without any discrimination among them, as every known nation has a Warner or messenger from Allah. They were chosen by God to teach humanity and deliver His Divine message. The Qur'an mentions the name of some of them including Jews including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob, Joseph, Job, Moses, Aaron, David, Solomon, Elias, Jonah, John the Baptist, and Jesus (peace be upon them). Muslims also believe in another prophet named Muhammad, whois a direct descendant of Abrahamthrough his first born son, Ishmael. His prophethood is prophecied in the Bible in several places, including Deut 18:18 and John 14:16. Mohammadstands as the last...
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...World Religions Report: Islam HUM/130 March 13, 2011 Introduction of the religion Islam is a major world religion, with over 1 billion followers worldwide. Followers of Islam are called Muslims. The origin of Islam can be traced back to 7th century Saudi Arabia. Though Islam is one of the largest and most followed religions in the world, it is the youngest of the many religions. According to Secular History, the prophet Muhammad introduced Islam in 610 A.D. after experiencing what he claimed to be an angelic visitation. Muhammad dictated the Qur’an, the holy book of Islam, which Muslims believe to be the preexistent, perfect words of Allah. Though the origin of Islam is generally accredited to the prophet Muhammad but to the devout Muslim, Islam began long before Muhammad ever walked the earth. The Qur’an was dictated by Muhammad but according to the Qur’an, it did not originate with Muhammad. The Qur’an testifies of itself that it was given by God through the angel Gabriel to the prophet Muhammad. "This is a revelation from the Lord of the universe. The Honest Spirit (Gabriel) came down with it, to reveal it into your heart that you may be one of the warmers, in a perfect Arabic tongue" (Sura 26:192-195). "Say, 'Anyone who opposes Gabriel should know that he has brought down this (the Qur'an) into your heart, in accordance with God's will, confirming previous scriptures, and providing guidance and good news for the believers'" (Sura 2:97). Interview summary ...
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...The message of peace is a fundamental universal concern which is relevant throughout our world today. Peace is not merely the ‘absence of war’, but a state of mind in which a sense of tranquillity comes from actively working towards right relationships with individuals and God. To understand the way in which Muslims and Christians view peace it is imperative to understand the source of the teachings for each religion. The principles teachings of peace for Both Christianity and Islam are primarily found in the sacred texts of both religious traditions. Christianity looks to the bible and specifically the New Testament for teachings about peace, whereas Islam focuses’ on the Qur’an and Hadith to guide their beliefs of peace. These sacred texts guide the individual adherents of each religion to achieving inner peace which consequently develops their understanding to take responsibility to achieve peace with those around them, leading to ‘world peace’. An understanding of the Christian belief of peace is gained through a knowledge of the importance of the life of Jesus Christ in the beliefs of adherents. Peace is believed to be at the heart of Jesus' life and ministry and accordingly it is a foundational element of the Christian communities that seek to follow him. In order for Christians to experience the peace of God they must devote themselves to listening to the good news of God revealed through the Bible and commit themselves to following the example of Jesus in his life...
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...welfare lies between Christianity, religion and the Islamic faith. Christianity and Islam differences bring tremendous conflict in religious committees past and present. For centuries the debate which religion symbolizes the true religion has taunted the minds of followers. And still today this question continues to divide God’s people. Religion shapes the very existence of people. The belief of a higher power challenges the heart of the young and the old throughout the world. The desired feeling of purity gears ambition to seek truth in God through religion of Christianity or Islamic faith. Much disgrace, rage has surface the mind of believers leading non-believers...
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...Is Islam a religion of violence or non-violence? An examination of misconceptions in the Western World? The world is full of acts of violence and acts of peace and non violence. We as people try to comprehend these acts by establishing whys. The why that we will examine is one of consistent misunderstanding and misrepresentation specifically in the Western world. When a suicide bombing occurs why is it if you asked most individuals in the west what the offending individual’s religion was their almost instant response is they were a Muslim. Does Islam automatically mean every Muslim is willing to attack peoples who do not believe as they do. Does it mean they espouse killing all Jews? Or is the truth that a majority of all Muslims would consider themselves peace loving individuals, that you would more likely see them working alongside Jews and Christians in a nature of acceptance and love for them. But yet when we look at history we see Islam in wars against Arab peoples, in the Crusades, and in the more recent conflicts in the Middle East. So does the Quran allow for wars against others or are they more of the outcome of societal problems and conflicts in the region. We will most likely see that circumstances beyond their control contribute to the rise and the necessity to defend themselves in these various conflicts through out history. Overall it will probably be a surprise to most Westerners the...
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...Islam teachings: How Islam teachings revolutionized the world Name Professor Institution Course Date Introduction Islam is a one of the major religions in the world. Its basis is from the prophet Mohammed who travelled to hills, deserts, and wilderness. The prophet travelled to mediate and reflect. Through this, he came up with revelations as a new man. The revelations made his followers believe Allah had transformed him. At first the Islam, was an Arab religion. Many practices and beliefs were added unto it making it popular that aided its rapid spread. During the Arabic century, many things were at stake. Mohammed teaching on Islam revolutionized everything. He brought changes in the social security, family and women were given rights. He improved the society that was under Arabic influence. He established both religious and social life for many races. Mohammed made Islam to responsible for providing basic needs for the captives. The women in the ancient societies considered women as inferior compared to men. The Islam teachings revolutionized the idea. The recent world sees women as people capable of doing anything. They are viewed as strong like men. They engage in activities that were meant for men. Women are able to make decisions, provide for the family and even work as engineers and in factories. The laws of Koran brought revolution in social relations. The Koran taught people on the importance of production. This helped in quickening trade. The Koran taught people...
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...The Religion of Islam 1 THE RELIGION OF ISLAM AND THE HOLY QUR'AN Islam: The Religion of Peace and Tolerance - Religion Essay Peace and tolerance are two of the most important aspects that make up Islam. Muslims are to understand these aspects of Islam. However in recent years there are groups of extremist Muslims who have given Islam a bad name by doing terroristic acts to other human beings for their own reasons and personal gains. By addressing these questions can give anyone a better understanding of the religion of Islam. 1. Where did the religion of Islam come from? What does the Religion of Islam teach? How does Islam relate to other Religion of the world? The focus of this essay is to answer these questions with research and studies learned. Where did the religion of Islam come from? The Religion of Islam is believed to have been established in the year of Six Hundred and Ten CE (Common Era). Islam is believed to be the youngest of all the different religions A prophet by the name of Adam is said to be the man whom created the religion but was preached throughout the city of Mecca by a prophet named Muhammad. Muhammad was born in Five Hundred and Seventy CE in the city of Mecca where he worked as a merchant and as a shepherd. According to Islamic beliefs by age forty in the month of Ramadan was where he received his first revelation from God while being in the surrounding mountains in a cave...
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...Understanding the Teachings of Islam Devry University Abstract Even though Islam is the third largest religion practiced in the U.S., many see Islam through a distorted view that focuses on terrorists and extremists. Even though this religion teaches peace and love, because of highly publicized Islamic fundamentalists who have abused and defamed the name of Islam there are stereotypes and distrust geared towards the group. The purpose of this paper is to give a brief insight into the teachings of Islam and how those teaching promote love and peace, not war and bloodshed, in spite of the misconceptions. Understanding the Teachings of Islam Right now, Islam is a highly controversial and sensitive issue in today’s world and there are many misconceptions about its beliefs, values, and goals. The condition of Islam right now is in chaos because of the acts of terrorists and extremists. There needs to be an understanding that the religion of Islam does not portray violence and hate that most see in the media today. The religion of Islam is not very different from other highly practiced religions in the world. Many see Islam through a fallacious view that focuses on terrorists and extremists. Even though this religion teaches mercy and compassion, it has been abused by these people to change focus of the true meaning. The purpose of this paper is to give a brief insight into the teachings of Islam and how this religion is not about the violence and hate. By discussing its...
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...Ghichi Debate and public speaking 3rd January 2015 Islam is a religion of peace. Many non-Muslims have a bad image about Islam; they consider Islam as a religion that promotes violence, terrorism and wars. They rely in their view of Islam on the general media, which is not always accurate in reporting the news. In fact the word Islam in Arabic means peace and Islam clearly prohibits all kinds’ forms of aggression and violence. The religion of Islam is the best and most perfect of all religions. Islam is a guide of all Muslims, actually Islam is a religion that promotes peace and understanding among people of all faith and strongly forbids all forms of violence against people regardless of their faith or race. A Muslim society is the best example of solidarity and tolerance between all Muslims, Islam shows us the right path that we have to follow. As Allah said :” and speak to people kindly” and also :” Humanity is but a single brotherhood so make peace with your brethren .” these verses are from the holy Quran show that Islam indeed is a religion of peace and we are all brothers and sisters in this world . Islam has strict laws about those who are violent and also it places very high importance on justice, if someone is wrong he will be punished and at the same time Islam encourages people to forgive those who are wronged them whenever possible, so Islam is a religion of tolerance and mercy but not violence. ...
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...Introduction This paper will discuss about the history of Islam, the importance of three elements Qur’an, Five pillars, and Ramadan. Lastly differences and similarities in how the branches of Islam (Sunni, Shiite, and Sufi) practice their traditions. Islam is a religion that was founded and based all in one faith God, Allah. In Arabic the word Islam means "submission or surrender of one's will to the only true god worthy of worship (Islam, 2016). Islam is not just a religion it is a way of life. A Muslim is someone who follows the religion of Islam. The relationship between these two words is that Islam is actually an Arabic word that means, "to submit, and Muslim is also Arabic for "one who submits (The root, 2010). Islam is a religion in which, like any other religion, has beliefs and traditions that have been passed down through different generations. History of Islam Islam is one of the largest religions in the world, with over 1 billion followers. The most divine statement or “Shahada” in Islam is (bibilical training, 2015). There is no god but Allah and Muhammad is his messenger. Islam was established in Arabia and it follows all the rules given by God through Muhammad, the prophet. Islam is an Arabic term that signifies “surrender” in general terms (The root, 2010). However, it signifies giving up fully to God in its exact religious meaning. Muslims are those who practice this religion or those who give up themselves to God. For them, God is the ultimate creator who will...
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...World Religions Darlene Lovely Hum/130 August 3, 2011 Charles Hall World Religions Islam is one the largest and fastest growing religions in the world, second only to Christianity. The Islamic faith believes that there is only one God, who is named Allah. The Qur’an is the holy scriptures of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the words of God revealed to the great prophet Muhammad for the purpose of educating Muslims on how to live spiritually, mentally, and physically pure lives. An interview on the religion of Islam was conducted with Lonna al’ Moctar, a thirty-nine-year-old administrative assistant at The Muslim Community Center of Louisville in Louisville, Kentucky. The Muslim Community Center of Louisville is the newest mosque in Louisville and is the “boldest architectural expression of Islam to date in Louisville” (Smith, 2010, para. 2). The Muslim Community Center of Louisville is a mosque “intended as a place of interaction for all faiths” to learn about Islam, and is also home to an adjacent school, the Islamic School of Louisville, for pre-school, elementary, and middle school students (Smith, 2010, para. 7). Not unlike the construction of other mosques across the nation, The Muslim Community Center of Louisville had its share of opposition; however, its neighbors never complained about the construction of the mosque itself. Shortly...
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