Islamic Beliefs:
Major Beliefs in Islam:
- Belief in the oneness of God:Muslims believe that God is the creator of all things, and that God is all-powerful and all-knowing. God has no offspring, no race, no gender, no body and is unaffected by the characteristics of human life.
- Belief In the angels of God: Muslims believe in angels, unseen beings who worship God and carry out God's orders throughout the universe. The angel Gabriel brought the divine revelation to the Prophet.
- Belief in the books of God: Muslims believe that God revealed holy books or scriptures to a to a number of God's messengers. These include the Quran (given to Muhammad) the Torah ( given to Moses) . Muslim believe that these earlier scriptures in their original form were divinely revealed, but that only the Quran remains as it was first revealed to the Prophet Muhammad.
- Belief in the Prophets or a messengers of God: Muslims believe that God's guidance has been revealed to humankind through specially appointed messengers, or Prophets throughout history, beginning with th first man, Adam who is considered the first prophet. Twenty-five of these prophets are mentioned by name in the A Muslim believe that Muhammad is the last in this line of a Prophets, sent for all humankind with the message of Islam
- Belief in the day of judgement: Muslims believe that on the day of judgement, humans will be judged fir their actions in this life , those who followed a God's guidance will be rewarded with paradise, those who rejected God 's guidance will be punished with hell.
- Belief in the Divine Decree: This article of faith addresses the question of God's will. It can be expressed as the belief that everything is governed by divine decree, namely that whatever happens in one's life is preordained, and that believers should respond to the good or bad that befalls them with thankfulness or patience. This concept does not negate the concept of free will since humans do not have prior knowledge of God's decree, they do have freedom of choice.
Six Articles of Faith
- Belief in Allah – The oneness of God, who
is all-powerful and merciful.
- Belief in Angels – Spiritual beings created
by Allah who carry out His commands.
- Belief in Holy Books – The Quran (the final
revelation) and previous scriptures like the Torah, Psalms, and Gospel.
- Belief in Prophets – Messengers sent by Allah,
including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (the final
prophet).
- Belief in the Day of
Judgment – A
time when all individuals will be judged for their deeds and rewarded or
punished accordingly.
- Belief in Divine Decree
(Qadar) –
The belief that everything happens according to Allah’s will and
knowledge.
Five Pillars of Islam
- Shahada (Faith) – Declaring that there is
no god but Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger.
- Salah (Prayer) – Performing five daily
prayers facing the Kaaba in Mecca.
- Zakat (Charity) – Giving a portion of one’s
wealth to those in need.
- Sawm (Fasting) – Observing fasts during
the month of Ramadan.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage) – A journey to Mecca
required once in a lifetime for those who are able.
Islam
teaches values such as compassion, honesty, patience, and justice. The Quran
and Hadith (sayings of Prophet Muhammad) provide guidance for living a
righteous life.
Islam is a monotheistic religion that teaches complete submission to Allah (God). It emphasizes worship, morality, and social justice, guiding believers to live a righteous life through faith and good deeds. The core of Islamic beliefs is based on the Six Articles of Faith and the Five Pillars of Islam, but Islam also encompasses a deep spiritual, moral, and legal framework.
Islam is the religion of truth. It is the embodiment of the code of life which Allah, the creator and Lord of the universe, has revealed for the universe, has revealed for the guidance of mankind.
For the proper development of human life, man needs two elements 1. The resources to maintain life and to fulfill the material needs of the individual and society, and 2. Knowledge of the principles of individual and social behavior to enable man to fulfill himself and go maintain justice and tranquility in human life. The Lord of the universe has provided for both of these in full measure. To cater to the material needs of man, He has put all of nature's resources at his disposal. To provide for this spiritual social and cultural needs, He has raised his prophets from among men and has and has revealed to them the code of life that can guide man's steps to the right path. This code of life that can guide man's steps to the right path. This code of life is known as Islam , the religion preached by all of the prophets of Allah.
Allah said:
Say, " we believe in Allah and in the revelation given to us, and to Abraham, Ismail, Isaac and the tribes. We believe in the revelation that was sent to Moses, Jesus and all other Prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between them and to him we surrender."
He has revealed to you ( O Muhammad) the scripture with Truth, confirming that which was revealed before it even as he revealed the Torah and the gospel before as a guide to mankind and has revealed the criterion.
Islam is an Arabic word that denotes submission, surrender and obedience. As a religion, Islam stands for complete submission and obedience to Allah that is why it is called Islam. The other literal meaning of the word "Islam" is "peace". This signifies that one can achieve real peace of body and of mind only through submission and obedience to Allah. Such a life of obedience brings peace of the heart and established real peace in society at large.
Those who believe and whose hearts find rest in the remembrance of Allah alone that the heart of man finds rest-those who believe and act righteously, joy is for them, and a blissful home to return to.
This meassage was preached by all the Prophets of Allah, who guided man to right Path again and again, but also lost or distorted the code of guidance that the Prophet has bequeathed. That was why other prophet were sent to restate the original message and guide man back to the right path. The last of these prophets was Muhammad, who presented Allah's guidance in its final form and arranged to preserve it for all time. It is this guidance that is now known as Islam and is enshrined in the Quran and the life-example of the Prophet.
The basic Islamic concept is that the whole universe was created by Allah, who Islam calls Allah, and who is the Lord and the Sovereign of the universe, which He Alone Sustains. He created man and appointed for each human being a fixed period of life that he is to spend upon the earth. Allah has prescribed a certain code of life as the correct one for mankind, but has, at the same time, conferred upon man the freedom of choice as to whether or not he adopts this code as the actual basis of his life. One who chooses to follow the code revealed by Allah becomes a Muslim and one who refuses to follow it becomes a kafir.
Tawhid:
1. Six Articles of Faith (Iman)
These fundamental beliefs form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith:
1.1 Belief in Allah (Tawhid) – The Oneness of God
- Allah is the one and only God, without partners or equals.
- He is eternal, all-powerful, all-knowing, and merciful.
- Worship is directed solely to Him, and associating others with Him (shirk) is the greatest sin in Islam.
1.2 Belief in Angels (Mala’ika)
- Angels are created from light and serve Allah’s commands.
- They do not have free will and continuously obey Allah.
- Important angels include:
- Jibril (Gabriel) – The angel who delivered Allah’s revelations to the prophets.
- Mikail (Michael) – Responsible for rain and sustenance.
- Israfil – Will blow the trumpet to signal the Day of Judgment.
- Malik and Ridwan – Guardians of Hell and Paradise.
- Kiraman Katibin – The recording angels who document human deeds.
5 Islamic Beliefs:
Main beliefs of Islam:
- Belief in the oneness of God.
- Belief in the Angels of God.
- Belief in the Revelations of God.
- Belief in the Prophets of God.
- Belief in the day of judgement.
- Belief in the pre-measurement (Qadr).
- Belief in Resurrection after Death.
True belief of Islam:
1.3 Belief in Holy Books (Kutub)
- Muslims believe that Allah revealed divine scriptures to His prophets.
- The Quran is the final and preserved revelation, while previous scriptures were either lost or altered.
- The main scriptures in Islam:
- Quran – The final and unaltered word of God, revealed to Prophet Muhammad.
- Tawrat (Torah) – Given to Prophet Moses.
- Zabur (Psalms) – Given to Prophet David.
- Injil (Gospel) – Given to Prophet Jesus.
1.4 Belief in Prophets (Nubuwwah)
- Prophets were chosen by Allah to guide humanity.
- The first prophet was Adam, and the last and final prophet is Muhammad.
- Some major prophets include Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Solomon, Jesus, and Muhammad.
- Muhammad is the last prophet (Khatam an-Nabiyyin), and no new prophet will come after him.
1.5 Belief in the Day of Judgment (Akhirah)
- Life on earth is temporary, and after death, all humans will be resurrected.
- Allah will judge every person based on their deeds.
- The righteous will enter Jannah (Paradise), while wrongdoers will face Jahannam (Hell).
- The signs of the End Times include the return of Jesus (Isa), the appearance of the Mahdi, and the rise of Dajjal (the False Messiah).
1.6 Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar) – Predestination
- Everything happens by the will and knowledge of Allah.
- Humans have free will but cannot escape Allah’s ultimate plan.
- Accepting destiny with patience and gratitude is an essential part of faith.
2. Five Pillars of Islam (Practical Acts of Worship)
The Five Pillars form the foundation of Islamic practice:
2.1 Shahada (Faith – Declaration of Belief)
- The testimony of faith:
- "La ilaha illallah, Muhammadur Rasulullah"
- ("There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.")
- This declaration is essential to becoming a Muslim.
2.2 Salah (Prayer – Worship of Allah)
- Muslims pray five times a day facing the Kaaba in Mecca.
- The five daily prayers are:
- Fajr (pre-dawn)
- Dhuhr (midday)
- Asr (afternoon)
- Maghrib (sunset)
- Isha (night)
- Prayer is a direct connection between the believer and Allah.
2.3 Zakat (Charity – Helping the Needy)
- Muslims must give 2.5% of their savings each year to the poor and needy.
- It purifies wealth and promotes social justice.
2.4 Sawm (Fasting – Self-Discipline and Reflection)
- During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset, abstaining from food, drink, and sinful behavior.
- It teaches self-control, gratitude, and spiritual growth.
2.5 Hajj (Pilgrimage – Journey to Mecca)
- Muslims who are financially and physically able must perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
- It involves rituals like circling the Kaaba (Tawaf), standing at Arafat (Wuquf), and throwing stones at the pillars (symbolizing rejecting Satan).
3. Additional Islamic Beliefs and Teachings
3.1 Life After Death (Akhirah)
- After death, souls wait in Barzakh (a transitional state) until the Day of Judgment.
- Jannah (Paradise) is a place of eternal joy for the righteous.
- Jahannam (Hell) is a place of punishment for those who reject faith and commit evil.
3.2 Moral and Ethical Teachings
Islam emphasizes virtues like:
- Honesty (Sidq) – Speaking the truth and being just.
- Kindness (Ihsan) – Treating others with compassion and respect.
- Patience (Sabr) – Enduring hardships with faith.
- Gratitude (Shukr) – Being thankful to Allah for His blessings.
3.3 Halal and Haram (Permissible and Forbidden)
- Halal (Permissible) – Actions and foods that are allowed.
- Haram (Forbidden) – Prohibited acts like consuming alcohol, gambling, and interest-based transactions.
3.4 Jihad (Struggle in the Way of Allah)
- Jihad means striving in the way of Allah through personal, social, and spiritual efforts.
- Greater Jihad – The struggle against one’s own sins and weaknesses.
- Lesser Jihad – Defending the faith in a just and ethical way.
4. Islamic Sects
Although all Muslims follow the same core beliefs, there are different sects based on interpretations of Islamic teachings:
- Sunni Islam – The largest group, following the teachings of Prophet Muhammad and his companions.
- Shia Islam – Believes that leadership should have remained within Prophet Muhammad’s family, particularly through Imam Ali.
- Sufism – A spiritual path focused on inner purification and closeness to Allah.
Essentials of Islamic belief:
Most basic belief in Islam:
Islam is a faith of monotheism, morality, and worship that guides believers in all aspects of life. It encourages righteousness, compassion, and submission to Allah’s will. Through faith and practice, Muslims seek to attain Allah’s mercy and eternal success in the Hereafter.
Importance about Islamic Beliefs in Islam:
Islamic beliefs serve as the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and guide every aspect of life. They provide spiritual, moral, and practical guidance that helps individuals maintain a strong connection with Allah (God) and fulfill their purpose in life. The Six Articles of Faith and the Five Pillars of Islam are essential to understanding the importance of these beliefs.
1. Strengthening the Relationship with Allah
- The belief in Tawhid (Oneness of God) teaches that Allah is the only deity worthy of worship, ensuring that Muslims devote their prayers and actions to Him alone.
- Recognizing Allah’s attributes (such as His mercy, wisdom, and justice) helps believers trust in His plan and seek His guidance in all aspects of life.
2. Providing a Clear Purpose in Life
- Islam teaches that life is a test and that every individual is responsible for their actions.
- Belief in the Day of Judgment (Akhirah) encourages Muslims to live a righteous life, knowing they will be held accountable for their deeds.
- The ultimate goal is to attain Jannah (Paradise) by obeying Allah’s commands and following the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
3. Establishing Moral and Ethical Values
- Islamic beliefs promote virtues such as honesty, patience, kindness, humility, and justice.
- The Quran and Hadith emphasize treating others with respect and compassion, fulfilling responsibilities towards family, society, and humanity.
- Avoiding Haram (forbidden acts) such as lying, stealing, harming others, and consuming intoxicants ensures a moral and disciplined life.
4. Encouraging Acts of Worship and Spiritual Growth
- The Five Pillars of Islam provide a practical way to express and strengthen faith.
- Salah (Prayer) maintains a direct connection with Allah.
- Sawm (Fasting) teaches self-discipline and gratitude.
- Zakat (Charity) purifies wealth and helps the needy.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage) unites Muslims from all over the world in devotion to Allah.
- Engaging in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and reading the Quran brings peace to the heart and mind.
5. Promoting Social Harmony and Justice
- Islam emphasizes the importance of justice, fairness, and the protection of human rights.
- Helping others, being truthful, and standing against oppression are key aspects of Islamic teachings.
- Islamic laws (Sharia) guide personal behavior, business transactions, family relationships, and legal matters to ensure fairness and justice in society.
6. Strengthening Faith in Times of Hardship
- Belief in Qadar (Divine Decree) teaches that everything happens according to Allah’s wisdom, helping Muslims remain patient and hopeful during difficulties.
- The knowledge that Allah is always watching motivates believers to stay firm in their faith and rely on Him in times of need.
- Remembering the rewards of Jannah encourages perseverance and trust in Allah’s mercy.
Islamic beliefs are the heart of a Muslim’s identity. They shape character, guide actions, strengthen faith, and bring peace and purpose to life. By following these beliefs, Muslims strive to live a life that is pleasing to Allah and beneficial to humanity.
Sources of Islamic Beliefs:
- The Holy Quran.
- Practice of the Holy Prophet.
- Sayings of the Holy Prophet.
Principles about Islamic Beliefs:
Islamic beliefs are based on fundamental principles that guide a Muslim’s faith, worship, and way of life. These principles are derived from the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). They provide a framework for understanding the purpose of life and maintaining a strong connection with Allah (God).
1. Tawhid (Oneness of Allah)
- The core principle of Islam is monotheism—the belief in one God, Allah.
- Allah has no partners, children, or equals.
- Worship should be directed only to Allah, and associating partners with Him (shirk) is the greatest sin in Islam.
- “Say: He is Allah, the One.” (Quran 112:1)
2. Prophethood (Nubuwwah)
- Allah has sent prophets to guide humanity.
- Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the final messenger and the last prophet.
- All prophets, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them), preached the message of Tawhid (Oneness of God).
- The Hadith (sayings of the Prophet) provide guidance for everyday life.
3. Divine Revelation (Wahy)
- Allah revealed scriptures to His prophets as guidance for mankind.
- The Quran is the final and complete revelation, unchanged and preserved.
- Previous scriptures (Torah, Psalms, Gospel) were also from Allah but were altered over time.
4. The Hereafter (Akhirah)
- Life in this world is temporary, and the real existence is in the Hereafter.
- On the Day of Judgment, all people will be resurrected and judged based on their deeds.
- Those who followed Allah’s guidance will enter Jannah (Paradise), and those who rejected the truth will face Jahannam (Hell).
- “And We did not create the heavens and earth and that between them except in truth, and indeed, the Hour is coming.” (Quran 15:85)
5. Divine Decree (Qadar – Predestination)
- Allah has absolute knowledge of everything that happens in the universe.
- Everything occurs by Allah’s will, but humans have free will to make choices.
- Muslims should trust in Allah’s plan and be patient in times of hardship.
- “No disaster strikes except by the permission of Allah.” (Quran 64:11)
6. Worship and Obedience to Allah
- Islam is not just about belief but also about action and obedience.
- Muslims must follow the Five Pillars of Islam, which include prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage.
- Every action in life should be done with sincerity for Allah’s pleasure.
- Worship includes daily prayers (Salah), reading the Quran, helping others, and following Islamic ethics.
7. Justice and Accountability
- Islam teaches fairness, honesty, and justice in all dealings.
- Every person is responsible for their actions and will be held accountable on the Day of Judgment.
- Treating people with kindness, truthfulness, and respect is a fundamental Islamic value.
- “Indeed, Allah commands justice and good conduct…” (Quran 16:90)
8. Brotherhood and Unity
- All Muslims are brothers and sisters, regardless of race, nationality, or background.
- Islam promotes peace, compassion, and unity among believers.
- Helping the poor, caring for orphans, and promoting social justice are essential in Islam.
- “Indeed, the believers are but brothers, so make peace between your brothers.” (Quran 49:10)
The principles of Islamic beliefs provide a comprehensive way of life, guiding Muslims to worship Allah, follow His commandments, and strive for righteousness. By adhering to these principles, Muslims seek success in this life and the Hereafter.
Significance
about Islamic Beliefs:
Islamic beliefs play a vital role in shaping a Muslim's life, guiding their actions, and strengthening their connection with Allah (God). These beliefs provide a foundation for faith, morality, and purpose, influencing both individual behavior and societal values.
1. Strengthening the Relationship with Allah
- Tawhid (Oneness of God) ensures that Muslims worship only Allah, without associating partners with Him.
- Faith in Allah’s mercy and wisdom brings peace and comfort in life.
- Regular worship, such as prayer and supplication, deepens this spiritual connection.
2. Providing Purpose and Meaning in Life
- Islamic beliefs teach that life is a test and that every action has consequences.
- The ultimate goal is to worship Allah and seek eternal success in the Hereafter.
- Understanding Qadar (Divine Decree) helps Muslims accept life’s challenges with patience and faith.
3. Promoting Moral and Ethical Values
- Islam emphasizes honesty, kindness, patience, and justice in daily life.
- The belief in Judgment Day (Akhirah) motivates Muslims to act righteously and avoid sins.
- Helping the needy and standing against injustice are key responsibilities.
4. Encouraging Worship and Good Deeds
- The Five Pillars of Islam provide a practical way to express faith through prayer, fasting, charity, and pilgrimage.
- Worship strengthens faith and serves as a reminder of one’s duties to Allah and humanity.
- Acts of kindness, charity, and honesty are encouraged as a means of earning Allah’s pleasure.
5. Building a Strong and United Society
- Islamic beliefs promote brotherhood, equality, and unity among Muslims.
- Social justice, caring for orphans, and helping the poor are essential in Islam.
- “Indeed, the believers are but brothers…” (Quran 49:10) highlights the importance of unity.
6. Offering Comfort and Hope in Difficult Times
- Belief in Allah’s mercy helps Muslims remain hopeful in times of hardship.
- Knowing that trials are a test from Allah encourages patience (Sabr) and gratitude (Shukr).
- "Indeed, with hardship comes ease." (Quran 94:6) assures believers that difficulties are temporary.
7. Ensuring Justice and Accountability
- The belief in Judgment Day ensures that everyone is held accountable for their actions.
- Islam promotes fairness, honesty, and truthfulness in all aspects of life.
- Righteous individuals are rewarded, while wrongdoers face consequences.
Islamic beliefs provide spiritual guidance, moral values, and a sense of responsibility in life. They shape the actions, character, and mindset of Muslims, ensuring they live with faith, purpose, and integrity. By following these beliefs, Muslims aim for peace, righteousness, and success in both this world and the Hereafter.
Characteristics of Islamic Beliefs
Islamic beliefs are based on fundamental principles that define the faith and guide a Muslim’s life. These beliefs are universal, comprehensive, and unchanging, ensuring a strong foundation for worship, morality, and social conduct.
1. Monotheistic (Tawhid – Oneness of Allah)
- Islam strictly upholds monotheism—the belief in one God, Allah.
- Allah has no partners, no children, and no equals.
- Worship is directed only to Him, and associating others with Him (shirk) is forbidden.
- "Say: He is Allah, the One." (Quran 112:1)
2. Universal and Timeless
- Islamic beliefs apply to all people, cultures, and generations.
- The Quran and teachings of Prophet Muhammad are relevant for every era.
- Islam does not belong to a specific group but is a message for all of humanity.
- "We have sent you [O Muhammad] as a mercy to the worlds." (Quran 21:107)
3. Based on Divine Revelation
- Islamic beliefs are derived from the Quran (Allah’s final revelation) and Hadith (teachings of Prophet Muhammad).
- Previous scriptures (Torah, Psalms, Gospel) were also from Allah but were altered over time.
- The Quran remains unchanged and is the ultimate source of guidance.
4. Rational and Logical
- Islam encourages reasoning, reflection, and seeking knowledge.
- The Quran contains scientific facts, historical events, and moral teachings that align with logic and human nature.
- Faith is not blind belief but is supported by evidence, signs in creation, and divine wisdom.
5. Comprehensive and Practical
- Islamic beliefs cover all aspects of life—spiritual, moral, social, economic, and legal.
- The Five Pillars of Islam provide a practical way to express faith through prayer, charity, fasting, and pilgrimage.
- Islam teaches balance between worship, work, and personal life.
6. Emphasizes Accountability and Justice
- Every individual is responsible for their actions and will be judged by Allah.
- Good deeds are rewarded, while sins have consequences.
- Islam promotes justice, fairness, and the protection of human rights.
- "Indeed, Allah commands justice and good conduct." (Quran 16:90)
7. Spiritual and Moral Discipline
- Islamic beliefs encourage self-discipline, patience, and gratitude.
- Prayer (Salah) strengthens the connection with Allah and provides spiritual peace.
- Fasting (Sawm) teaches self-control and appreciation for Allah’s blessings.
8. Encourages Unity and Brotherhood
- Islam unites people regardless of race, nationality, or background.
- All Muslims are considered brothers and sisters in faith.
- Social responsibility, charity, and helping others are key aspects of Islam.
- "The believers are but brothers, so make peace between your brothers." (Quran 49:10)
9. Focused on the Hereafter (Akhirah)
- Life in this world is temporary, and the real success is in the Hereafter.
- Belief in Paradise (Jannah) and Hell (Jahannam) motivates Muslims to live righteously.
- The Day of Judgment ensures that justice is served for every individual.