Symbols of Islam

The Star and Crescent Moon

They are the accepted symbols of Islam since the eighteenth century; they appear on several flags of Islamic Nations. Even before the time of Muhammad they were found on the Ka’ba and it is said that Muhammad allowed these symbols to remain intact when he ordered the removal of the idols in the Ka’ba.

No symbols of Allah

Islam has always insisted that there should be no idols and no images of Allah. An Islamic mosque is devoid of all statues and all paintings- this is in contrast to Christian churches. Islamic artists have compensated for this restricted by developing beautiful work and calligraphy.

Bismillah (in the name of Allah)

One of the most prominent symbolic designs is the motif with the words Bismillah (in the name of Allah). All the Suras of the Qur’an except one begin with the words ‘In the name of Allah, the Merciful, the Compassionate...’ so the first word of these Suras has been taken and variously depicted in extremely ornate styles.