Facts about Islam

What does Islam mean?

Islam is the religion that Muslim’s follow, meaning- in Arabic- submission. It comes from the word peace, and means complete submission to the will of God.

What were the origins of Islam?

Islam originated from Abraham, a patriarch and prophet, from who descended Muhammad, Ishmael, Moses and Jesus, prophets of Islam. It began in the 6th century. Abraham established the city of Makkah, and built the Ka’ba.

How does someone become a Muslim?

One becomes a Muslim if they believe in the Islamic religion, and make a declaration saying ‘there is no god apart from God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God.’ All one needs to do is to proclaim their new faith.

What is the Ka’ba?

The Ka’ba is a place of worship built by Abraham and Ishmael over four thousand years ago. They built it because God commanded them to, and it is made of stone. Abraham was commanded by God to call all people to the place, and upon visiting it pilgrims say ‘At Thy service, O Lord.’ When Muslims pray, they turn towards the Ka’ba.

How do Muslims practice their religion?

Muslims pray 5 times a day towards Makkah, and must uphold the 5 pillars of Islam: faith, prayer, concern for the needy, self- purification and pilgrimage.

What were the highlights of Mohammed’s life?

Mohammed, the great prophet of Islam, was born in the year 570. Mohammed received a revelation from the Angel Gabriel at the age of 40. Together with his followers he helped to establish the religion of Islam and suffered persecution.

What is the Qur’an?

The Qur’an is the Islam holy book. It is the exact words of God that were revealed to the prophet Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel. Muhammad memorised it and it was then dictated and scribed.