What is ISLAM ?

What isIslam?
The Arabic word 'Islam' stands for 'Submission' or 'Peace'. In a religious context, it implies the peace thatreaches out to one when one completely submits oneself to the will of AlmightyGod. This is achieved only when the individual acts in accordance with thedirection of his Creator in all spheres of life

Who is the founderof Islam?
The Almighty God who created theuniverse, endowed man with a special gift of intelligence and thought, to enablehim to discriminate between good and bad. Man has also been given, the freedomto choose his own path by either accepting or rejecting the instructions of theAlmighty Creator. The divine revelations were conveyed by God to mankind throughnumerous prophets who preached the ideals to all communities during differentperiods of human history. The thousands of prophets whom God selected for humanguidance have promulgated the basic doctrine with remarkable similarity. Thebelief in and the profound reverence for all messengers and revealed ******uresfrom God forms an integral part of Islamic faith. Islam is not a religionfounded by Prophet Mohammed, (Peace Be Upon Him). The Qur'an has mostemphatically corroborated the fact that the Islamic conception of life wasrevealed to man by a long chain of prophets chosen by the Almighty Creator

Who isMuslim?
The word 'Muslim' means one who hassubmitted oneself to the Omnipotent Creator. A true Muslim is one who hasdisciplined his life in accordance with the instructions conveyed by God throughHis messengers. A person becomes a Muslim not by birth alone, but by his faithand deeds

How can one be aMuslim?
"I testify thatthere is none who deserves to be worshipped but Allah. I testify that Mohammedis the messenger of Allah".By taking this solemn oathsincerely and endeavouring to regulate one's life following the instructionsconveyed by Allah through his messengers, one becomes a true Muslim. Bydeclaring that there is none worthy of worship save Allah, and that Mohammed isthe Prophet of Allah, the believer announces his or her faith in God's oneness, His sole right to be worshipped and that Muhammed is the last of the prophets. It also confirms his or her belief in all prophets and the ******ures theybrought.

Why does Islamseem to be strict?
No prophet taught that religion isto be confined within the walls of places of worship. On the contrary, Muslimsare expected to follow the instructions of Almighty Allah in the course of alltheir activities in life. The word 'Muslim' means 'one who has submitted hisself to the will of Allah', and for the same reason a true Muslim cannotcompromise on anything that stands in the way of guiding his life according todivine strictures. The view that consciousness of God is to be confined only tothe place of worship is alien to Islam. Muslims always have religion foremost intheir minds whereas many others consider religion as irrelevant in the presentage

ISLAMIC BELIEFS

O people! Worship your Guardian Lord, Who created
you and those who came before you that you may become righteous. Who
has made the earth your couch, and the heavens your canopy; and sent
down rain from the heavens; and brought forth therewith fruits for your
sustenance; Then set not up rivals unto Allah when you know (the
truth). Holy Qur'an 2:21, 22

What are the Islamic beliefs?

Muslims believe in one, unique, incomparable God, in the angels created
by Him, in the revealed ******ures, in the prophets through whom His
revelations were made to mankind, in the Day of Judgement and life
after death, individual accountability for actions, and in God's
complete authority over human destiny.

What does faith in 'One God' mean?

Allah, the Creator and Protector of all beings in the universe, big and
small, in His essence His goodness and his deeds, remains alone and
unique. One offers worship only to Him, who is Almighty, higher than
everyone else and Himself being perfect in everything. By monotheism,
Islam implies, not the mere belief that there is just one God, but it
power the way for prayers and offerings to the one who is all Merciful
and Omniscient.

Who is Allaah?

The Arabic word 'Allaah' is the shortened form of 'al-ilah', 'The God,
the one and only God, the first, the last, the eternal, the hidden, the
manifest, the ultimate reality'. Even non-Muslim Arabs use the term
'Allah' when they speak of God. The basic creed of Islam is this simple
formula: 'There is no God but Allah' ('La ilaha illallah'). The Arabic
term 'Allah' denoting God, is unique in many ways. It has no plural
like 'gods'; it has no gender like 'godess'; nor does this word
generate a visual image of any kind. "Allah", He is God, the One true
God, He is the one who deserves all worship and there is nothing
comparable to him. Nevertheless, ninety-nine different attributes of
Allah are named in the Qur'an.

Who are the angels?

Angels are the servants of God and they were created from light. They
are beyond the realm and reach of human comprehension. They do not have
freedom of action and can only carry out the command of God.

What are the ******ures?

The ******ures are the sacred books containing divine revelations from
God which were conveyed through His messengers for the guidance of man.
Prophets were sent to all peoples of all ages, to warn them and guide
them to righteousness and virtue. The names of the four known
******ures are 'the Torah', 'the Zabur', 'the Injeel' and 'the Qur'an'.
'The Torah' was revealed to Prophet Moses (Peace be upon him) and it is
the greatest among the Israelites books. The Zabur was revealed to
Prophet David (Peace be upon him). 'The Injeel' which Allah revealed to
Prophet Jesus (Peace be upon him), is a confirmation of 'the Torah' and
a complement to it. The Qur'an, which was revealed to the last of the
prophets, is but a restatement of the faith delivered to the prophets
before him. The more the Qur'an is studied with an unprejudiced mind,
the more this truth emerges, that the Qur'an is a confirmation of all
the earlier ******ures and messages sent by God through His messengers
who lived and preached among various sects of humanity.

Who are the prophets?

Prophets are men, chosen by God at various stages and under varying
circumstances of history, to lead men from darkness to light. The
Qur'an repeatedly states the fact that prophets with the same message
were sent to each and every community. The process of revelation
continued unabated, sometimes in succession, at other times in broken
sequences until the period in history, when the termination of Divine
revelation and messengership, with the Qur'an and Prophet Mohammed
(Peace be upon him) became a significant milestone in the history of
mankind. It is true that the lives and mission of many a prophet has
been made obscure and distorted by legends that grew around them or by
people with vested interests, who used the names of these prophets to
exploit men and mislead them from the right faith. No prophet of God
has claimed himself to be divine. They were all mortals who lived and
passed away from this earth after completing their mission of conveying
the basic message to mankind, which was a call for the recognition and
affirmation of God's existence, uniqueness and Lordship over all
creation. It is an integral part of Islamic faith to believe in all the
prophets of God.

What does Islam say about life after death?

Death does not terminate man's life. On the other hand, Islam teaches
that it is the door that opens to an eternal lifer after death. The
appropriate reward for one's earthly deeds, good or bad, is disbursed
only in the Hereafter. The Islamic belief is that mankind will be
resurrected, on the Day of Judgement, after every creation is
destroyed. After being reborn, man will face a trial which will be in
absolute control of the Almighty. Here, all the good and bad acts of
man during his sojourn on earth will be unfurled before his eyes in
order to be ultimately judged by God. The virtuous will be rewarded
with virtue and the wrong doers punished appropriately. Those who have
made sacrifices and discharges noble deeds will receive the shelter of
peace in Heaven and those who have denigrated their lives through vices
and evil will be condemned to suffer horrors of Hell. Islam inculcates
the concept of accountability both in public and private life of a
person by emphasizing the paramount importance of life Hereafter for
mankind.

What does faith in destiny mean in Islam?

The Law of God, the Creator and Ruler of the worlds, is a powerful, all
pervasive law which governs all that comprises the universe. No
creation can lodge this Law and man's position is no different. Even
man's environment and physical constitution are regulated on the basis
of this divine law. The good and the bad that befall him happen on the
basis of divine Destiny. How they befall on each one is in accordance
with the predetermined decision made by the Omniscient Creator, who is
aware of the ultimate good and evil of mankind. Hence, Islam directs
man to believe in Destiny, whether good or bad, which Allah has
measured and ordained for all creatures according to His previous
knowledge and as deemed suitable by His wisdom.

__________________

MUHAMMED (PBUH) AND THE QUR'AN

"Those who follow the Messenger, the
unlettered Prophet, whom they find mentioned in their own (******ures),
in the Taurat and the Gospel; For he commands them what is just and
forbids them what is evil; he allows them as lawful what is good (and
pure) and prohibits them from their heavy burdens and from the yokes
that are upon them. So it is those who believe in him, honour him, help
him and follow the Light which is sent down with him, It is they who
will prosper.." Holy Qur'an 37:15

What are the fundamental sources of Islamic faith?

The sacred fundamental sources of Islamic faith are the Qur'an, and the practice and example of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH).

Who is Muhammed?

Muhammed (PBUH) is the last of the prophets of Islam. It is through him
that the religion of absolute submission to God, was perfected.
Muhammed (PBUH) is not just the successor of Noah, Abraham, Moses and
Jesus, but of all the prophets who were sent across the world, whose
names are either known or unknown. His mission was not to establish new
religion, but on the other hand, to perfect the Religion taught by the
earlier prophets.
"We
have not sent thee but as a (Messenger) to all mankind, giving them
glad tidings, and warning them (against sin), but most men know not." Holy Qur'an 37:15

How was the life of Muhammed?

Muhammed (PBUH) was born at Mecca in AD 570. Having lost his father
before his birth and his mother at the age of seven, he grew up as an
orphan. Despite the immoral circumstances prevailing in the Arabia of
his time, Muhammed was particularly well known for his personality
radiating honesty, nobility, sincerity, generosity and trustworthiness.
Mohammed (PBUH), at the age of twenty five married Khadeeja, a forty
year old trader. He started receiving divine revelations at the age of
forty. Being chosen as a prophet, he preached the divine messages to
the people of Mecca. Their response however was bitter, arrogant and
violent. Beaten up, tortured, and threatened with death, he fled his
motherland to Yathrib (Medin) a city in the northern side of Arabia.
Consequently a Muslim nation was formed in Madina and its leadership
was taken up by him. Battle after battle had to be fought while in
Madina when unbelievers attacked the Muslims seeking to destroy the
religion of truth. In fact, they were battles fought for freedom to
practice religion. The most amazing success of the Prophet's life is
the tremendous success which he achieved in transforming the life of
his followers in all aspects. In a span of just 23 years, he raised
them from the depth of degradation to great moral and spiritual heights
so as to make them a model for future generations. He passed away at
the age of 63 in Medina, having lived a most fruitful life.

Why is Muhammed called the last prophet?

"Muhammed is not the father of any of your
men, but (he is) the messenger of Allah, and the seal of prophets; and
Allah has full knowledge of all things." Holy Qur'an 33:40

The earlier prophets had been sent exclusively to particular regions or
sects. We learn that many prophets had predicted the arrival of a great
prophet who would be a blessing to the whole world. Muhammed (PBUH) is
indeed a prophet to the entire world. The messages presented through
him are applicable to the last of man on earth. The super human powers
which were bestowed on some prophets never lasted beyond their lives.

However, the Qur'an which proves the Prophethood of Muhammed (PBUH),
illustrates its consistency and supremacy and is open for verification
by anyone. All authorities are unanimously agreed upon the fact that
the life and mission of prophet Muhammed (PBUH) was realised completely
under the fullest glare of documented history. The whole life of
Muhammed (PBUH) has been recorded in detail and each incident, whether
major or minor is worthy to be adopted as a model. It has been
emphatically asserted that no messenger of God would appear after
Muhammed and that all mankind ought to adopt the guidelines laid down
in the Qur'an and to emulate the practice and example of Muhammed
(PBUH) since the religion of Islam was perfected by them.

What is Qur'an?

The Qur'an is the final sacred ******ure presented through the Last
Prophet of Islam. It contains nothing but the words of God. It is the
******ure that can guide all mankind to the last day. For the same
reason, the very God who presented it, promised mankind that the Qur'an
will be protected and preserved to the last without any alteration or
interpolation. The Qur'an is the only religious text that is free from
any human tampering. It is at the same time a text that can guide men
of all times through the right path and is also an irrefutable evidence
for the Prophethood for Muhammed (PBUH).

What does Qur'an narrate?

The Qur'an contains the moral instruction, essential for man to succeed
during this life on earth and during the life after death. We may say
that, the central theme of the Qur'an borders on the relationship
between the Creator and the created. The Qur'an is full of narrations
that speak of beliefs and practices needed to guide one's life through
the path of virtue. The purpose of illustrating incidents of the past
that have provided lessons for mankind, is to warn mankind against
deviating from the path of God. Along with the precepts that aid to the
refinement of the self, if contains the rules and regulations to be
observed in life. Besides, the Qur'an also explains various universal
phenomena, in a manner that convinces anyone of the existence of God.
The Qur'an can also be said to be the crystallisation of one and the
same religious consciousness preached by all prophets, and the What is ISLAM ? Collapse_tcat

lection of the essence and clarification of all the ******ures of the past.

Why is Qur'an considered divine?

The Qur'an is a unique book, the like of which is no man is capable of
composing. Despite being compiled by an illiterate, who had displayed
no literary flair until the age of forty, the unique literary style of
the Qur'an, is one that remains absolutely inimitable. Amongst the
existing ******ures, the Qur'an remains apart, for it can claim to be
the only divine text that maintains the very form in which it was first
presented. The moral codes laid down in the Qur'an are applicable for
all times and matchless is the righteousness that they manifest. It is
indeed a wonder, that over a spell of twenty three years, under varied
circumstances, the Qur'an verses dealt with subjects that are vast and
intense, without any discrepancy whatsoever. Incomparable and great is
the transformation that the Qur'an engendered. In such a short span,
the Qur'an transformed a degraded and depraved society to a point that
attained the highest levels of moral excellence, making them the models
for the future generation of men. It has been proved beyond doubt that,
word for word the prophecies in the Qur'an stem from a supreme source.
It is a greater wonder that the Qur'an, which was revealed fourteen
centuries ago, at a time when the world was in absolute darkness in the
fields of science and technology, does not contain a single statement
that is contradictory to modern scientific knowledge. Yet another
explicit evidence that indicates the supremacy of the Qur'an is that
many of the findings of modern science attest the view that the Qur'an
is indeed the word of the Almighty, the Creator of the universe.

"And if you are in doubt as to what We have
revealed from time to time to Our servant then produce a Surah like
thereunto; And call your witness or helpers (if there are any) besides
Allah, if your are truthful. But if you cannot - and of a surety you
cannot then fear the fire whose fuel is men and stones, - which is
prepared for those who reject faith." Holy Qur'an 33:40

ISLAMIC RITES

"Recite what is sent of the book by
inspiration to thee, and establish regular prayer: for prayer restrains
from shameful and evil deeds; and remembrance of Allaah is the greatest
(thing in life) without doubt and Allah owes the (deeds) that you do."

What are the 'Five Pillars of Islam'?

There are five compulsory acts of worship that are paramount to Islam.
They are the Vow of truth, Salaah (Prayer), Zakaah (Charity), Fasting
and Hajj (Pilgrimage).

What is the Vow of truth?

"I testify that, none but Allah deserves to be worshipped and Muhammed (PBUH) is the messenger of Allah".
It is after taking this pledge that one becomes a Muslim. The person
who chants this pledge vows that he will offer worship to the One and
Only creator and none else, and that he will lead his life, following
the practice and example of Prophet Muhammed (PBUH).

What is Salaah (Prayer)?

"A person, who does not desist from bad and unjust deeds after offering prayers, strays away from Allaah." Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

It is the compulsory responsibility of every Muslim to offer Salaah
five times a day. The timings to be strictly adhered to fall before
sunrise, during midday, evening, after sunset and at night. The Salaah
is to be performed after doing ritual ablutions which symbolises
purification of body and soul. It is certain that the life of a true
Muslim who sincerely takes the vow of truth and offers prayer five
times, meticulously standing with folded hands, bowing, prostrating and
sitting, thus involving oneself in a conversation with Creator, will be
freed of all wrongs.

What is Zakaah (Charity)?

"Of their wealth take alms, that so thou
mightiest purify and sanctify them; and invoke Allah for them. Verily!
Your invocations are a source of security for them, and Allah is
All-Hearer, All-Knower." ( Holy Qur'an 9:103 )

The literal meaning of Zakaah is 'to purify'. It is not just a
form of charity or almsgiving. Muslims are liable to set apart a share
of their own wealth for those who suffer poverty and want in the
society. This compulsory charity is known as Zakaah. The Zakaah rate of
per annum is fixed at the of 2.5% for goods to be traded and 10% for
agriculture produce, (5% if the produce is the result of irrigation).
Certain minimum limits have been prescribed for each item, above which
'Zakaah' is due. The Zakaah is to be What is ISLAM ? Collapse_tcat

lected
from those liable by the government or by an institution entrusted by
the community, in order to distribute to the deserving.

What is Fasting (Saum )?

"Ramadhaan is the (month) in which was sent
down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (signs) for guidance
and judgement (between right and wrong). So everyone of you who is
present (at his home) during that month should spent it in fasting." Holy Qur'an 2:185

It is the responsibility of a Muslim to abstain from taking food and
drink and also to abstain from sexual intercourse during day time for a
period of one month. Ramadhaan, the month in which the Qur'an was first
revealed, is the stipulated month for fasting. The believer who
observes fasting for a month is able to elevate his self above all
temptations of a physical nature.

What is Hajj ( Pilgrimage )?

"Whoever performs Hajj solely for the sake of Allaah and, in the course
of it, abstains from sensuality and disobedience, he returns from there
as immaculate as a child just born." Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

Every healthy and affluent Muslim should undertake a pilgrimage to
Mecca, once in his life time. This pilgrimage is known as Hajj. People
of different nationalities, languages and What is ISLAM ? Collapse_tcat

ours,
gather in millions at Mecca during the month of Hajj. The concept of
one humanity upheld by Islam is explicit during Hajj pilgrimage when
the pilgrims have the same thought, carry the same prayer on their
lips, and are uniformly dressed (the man using just two pieces of cloth
- one to wear and the other to cover and the women covering all the
parts of their bodies except their face and hands). A single humanity,
where there is no discrimination between master or labourer, black or
white, elite or lowly, native or foreigner, is symbolized by the
multitude of humanity that assemble for this holy pilgrimage.

What is Ka'baah?

The Ka'baah is a place of worship situated in Mecca. It is the first
shrine built to worship the Almighty. It was in the premises of the
Ka'baah that Ibraaheem (PBUH), the prophet, abandoned his child and
wife, obeying God's command. Ka'baah was rebuilt by Ibraaheem and his
son Ismail following God's command. Muslims around the world offer
Salaah, facing Ka'baah. The Hajj rituals are performed in the premises
of Ka'baah.

Do Muslims worship Ka'baah?

Muslims worship only the Omnipotent Creator of the universe. The
Ka'baah is a creation, and being the first monument built for the
worship of the One True God, Muslims revere it. The Hajj is performed
around the Ka'baah, but it does not contain any prayer to the Ka'baah.
This applies also to the Salaah being performed facing the Ka'baah. He
who worships the Ka'baah and offers prayers to it, does not belong to
the Islam.

What is the view of Islam with regard to Virtue and Vice?

Man is incapable of accurately distinguishing and understanding virtue
and vice. Prophets were sent by the Almighty to enlighten man on the
nature of virtue and vice. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) is the last prophet
and therefore for any man after Muhammed (PBUH), the yardstick to
measure virtue and vice is simply the life of Muhammed (PBUH) and the
Qur'an, the sacred ******ure presented through him. It is sufficient to
look up the Qur'an and the ideal life of Muhammed (PBUH) to comprehend
the good and bad related to any subject.

What are the specialities of the character of a Muslim?

• All creatures are Allah's family; and Allah loves them most who treat His family well and kindly.
• Allah will not show mercy to him who does not show mercy
• The strong is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength,
but strong is the one who controls himself while in anger
• Modesty and chastity are the parts of the faith.
• The one, who protects the honour of his brethren in his absence, will be saved from the horrible sufferings of Hell.
• It is treacherous to lie to your brethren in matters that he trusts you. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

The
Qur'an and the sayings of Muhammed (PBUH) enjoins each Muslim to have
the following characteristics in each of his actions. They are-honesty,
justice, honouring of contracts, patience, perseverance, tolerance,
mercy, humility, affection, decency, love, respect etc.

What are the characteristics that ought not to be in a Muslim?

• Anybody who speaks a lot will have a lot of mistakes, and
those who commit a lot of mistakes will have a lot of sins, and those
who have a lot of sins will in the Hellfire.
• No one will enter Paradise who has even a little bit of pride.
• To be virtuous is to be morally upright. Vice is which causes doubts
in your mind and which you did not wish to be seen by others.
• Miserliness and immorality are two bad qualities, which can never come together in a true believer.
• Gossippers and slanderers will never enter Paradise. If any one has
any of the following four bad qualities, he is a hypocrite. If he has
the only one of these four, there will still be signs of hypocrisy in
him until he gets rid of that vice. The four bad qualities are -
betrayal of trust, speaking untruth, breaking agreements and shouting
foul words during quarrels. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

The
Qur'an and the sayings of Muhammed (PBUH) make it clear that, Muslims
ought not to harbour feelings deceit, jealousy, greed, hatred,
treachery, extravagance, miserliness, pride, hypocrisy, vainglory,
mockery, falsehood, gossip, scandal- mongering and short temper.

What is the Islamic stand regard to food?

Islam does not accept the stand which recommends the absolute
abstinence from food and drink, in order to attain salvation. While
permitting the consumption of all good food and drink, Islam strongly
and particularly disapproved excesses in this field. A true Muslim is
one, who completely abstains from the forbidden food and drink such as
carcass, pork, blood, alcohol and the meat that is slaughtered in the
name of some one other than Allaah.

What is the Islamic code of dress?

Garments are for beatifying and for covering one's body. The mode of
dress should never display excess show and arrogance. Islaam teaches a
decent way of dressing to all women and men. The paramount purpose of
clothing is to cover one's nakedness. No man or a woman should dress in
a way which rouses sexual desire in a stranger. Women ought to fully
cover all the parts of their bodies except the face and hands. The aim
of prescribing such a dress code for woman is to protect her honour and
to ensure her safety.

How do Muslims regard entertainments?

Islaam, while allowing all entertainments that cheer one's mind and
body, strictly states that they should not transgress the limits.
Islaam detests all those pleasures which keep man away from the
consciousness of God and those that cause moral degeneration

ISLAMIC MARRIAGE, FAMILY AND SOCIETY

What is the Islamic view of marriage?

"And among His signs is this, that He created
for you mates from among yourselves, that you may dwell in tranquility
with them, and He has put love and mercy between your (hearts): Verily
in that on Signs for those who reflect.." Holy Qur'an 30:21

It is the stern command of Islam that the sexual instinct, natural to
man should attain consummation only through wedlock. Matrimony is a
holy act. Celibacy has been strongly prohibited. Marriage is viewed by
Islam as a sacred contract. The dos and don'ts that the two mates ought
to adopt in matrimonial life have been prescribed by Islam. Obeying
these stipulations, man and woman can ensure a successful and blissful
married life and a peaceful life after death.

• The resources of this world are for you to enjoy. The best wealth you can have in this world is a good wife.
• The best wealth that a man can have in this world is a good wife. A
good wife is one who is a joy to look at, one who obeys her husband's
commands and one who protects the wealth during his absence.
• The best of men are those who treat their wives well. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

What is Islamic wedding?

When the father or the guardian of the bride offers to give her in
marriage to the bridegroom and when he accepts the offer in the
presence of witnesses, the marriage is solemnised. The pre******ion of
Islam is that the bridegroom ought to give the bride 'mahr' (dower) on
the occasion of the wedding and that the consent of the bride should be
sought beforehand.

What are the responsibilities of man and woman in a family?

Going by the teachings of Islam, though the responsibilities and rights
of man and woman are different in matrimonial life, they are
complementary. It is the responsibility of the woman to maintain the
home and their children. The man's duty is to protect his home and earn
decent livelihood. Islam, which reveres the motherhood of woman,
reposes the full responsibility on man to look after her and the
children.

What is the Islamic view on polygamy?

Islam permits polygamy on condition that the husband treats the wives
in a just manner. However the number of wives should not exceed four.
It is sinful and mean to have extra-marital relations.

As per the strict code of Islam, on no account should a man stray
towards another woman. A man who cannot satisfy his thirst for sex with
one wife is allowed to resort to polygamy. Islam completely bans the
heinous practice of disowning responsibility after having sexual
relation with a woman.

Instead, Islam permits, in unavoidable circumstances, a sacred
arrangement for keeping wives legitimately, where they are protected
and allowed their rights without any partiality.

There are contexts where the practice of polygamy becomes more of a
social necessary than a personal need, especially when the number of
women in a society exceeds that of men. Generally women out number men.
During war times the proportion varies further, as men are more likely
into account situations like this, when polygamy becomes socially
indispensable, and permits it conditionally.

What does Islam say about divorce?

• A permissible thing which is most hated by Allaah is divorce.
• Know that all of you are rulers and that you will be questioned about
all that you rule over. A leader is a ruler. Every man is the ruler of
his household. The woman is in charge of her house and children. Hence
every one of you is a ruler and you are responsible for those whom you
rule. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

Islam gives necessary instructions for the preservation of family
relationship. Conformation to these instructions paves the way for a
strong family bond and trouble free matrimonial life.

However, Islam is not blind to the discords that may occur in family
life. Islam recommends three practical and scientific methods to
prevent the severing of family relations due to discord caused by lack
of discipline. The first procedure recommends good advice, failing
which one boycotts the bed. If this also fails, mild physical
punishment can be given, without bruising her body or mind. When all
the three methods fail, the relatives of the couple can arbitrate and
try for a compromise. If this attempt also fails to reunite the couple,
Islam permits a divorce in a decent manner. Islam is very stern on the
issue of divorce and it is allowed only in absolutely unavoidable
situations.

Who has the right for divorce?

A divorce is possible for both man and woman who are certain that they
cannot get along in any way with the partner. Only the manner of
divorce varies a little between the man and the woman.

What does Islam say about bringing up children?

• Those who do not show mercy towards the young and those who do not
show reverence towards elders are not to be considered to belong to our
community.
• The greatest gift that a father can give to his son is to teach him good manners. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)
It is the duty of the parents to bring up children who are the blessing
of family life, in a manner beneficial to their life on earth and life
after death. Parents should take care of the material and spiritual
needs of the children. They should be loved and respected. Besides,
they should be encouraged to do good and prevented form indulging in
evil deeds. Islam permits minor punishments to correct wrong deeds
without causing injury to their pride. Children should be treated
equally. Islam strongly desires that both boys and girls should be
brought up with equal regard, without any discrimination.

How should one behave to one's parents?

• One who breaks family ties will never enter Paradise.
• To give alms to the poor is charity. But if assistance is provided to
a relative, then it is charity as well as strengthening of family ties.

• He who wishes to enter Paradise through the best door must please his parents. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

"Your Lord has decreed that you worship none
but Him, and that you be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them
attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor
repel them but address them, in terms of honour and, out of kindness,
lower to them the wing of humility through mercy, and say: My Lord!
Bestow on them your Mercy as they cherished me in childhood." Holy Qur'an 17: 23, 24

Islam teaches that after the obligation to the Creator, one's great
obligation is to one's own parents. It is a great sin to be
impertinent, negligent and disobedient to them. Only if parents ask the
children to act against God, they shall disobey. Even if the parents
remain non-Muslims, it is the responsibility of the Muslim children to
look after them. It is the unavoidable responsibility of the children
to protect their parents who have attained old age. Islam also teaches
that it is sinful to rebuke and abuse one's aged parents.

How are the societies that have been conceived by Islam?

"O mankind! We created you from a single
(pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes,
that you may know each other not that may despise (each other). Verily
the most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is (he who is) the most
righteous of you. And Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted
(with all things)."

Islam teaches that all men are the creations of the One and Only God
and that they exist under His protection. It is from a single matter,
the essence of clay, that everyone has been created. The origin of all
humanity is from the first parents - Adam and Eve.

The distinctions that men have created have absolutely no place before
the Almighty who created them. The worship offered only to One True God
is the source of strength that can unite mankind. Narrow mindedness and
shriveled outlook disappear when one prostrates before the almighty.
When one realizes that faith and good deeds alone are what makes a man
noble in the presence of God, all hastiness and arrogance fostered by
pride and vanity and he becomes humble and pious. With the realization
that there is only one God, and that all men are His servants, with no
distinction between the rich and the poor, the native and the
foreigner, the fair and the dark, the elite and the lowly, the master
and the slave, they prostrate only before him, the Almighty, the
Merciful. This is the picture of the society that has been conceived by
Islam, a society without narrow boundaries.

What does Islam say about the neighbourhood?

• I swear in His Name, Who holds my life, no man is a true believer
unless he desires for his brother that which he desires for himself.
• Know that you are good if your neighbours speak well of you. Know
that you are bad if your neighbours speak badly about you. Prophet
Muhammed (PBUH)

Just as relationship in a family, Islam views that the relationship
between neighbours ought to be warm and cordial. The Prophet (PBUH)
advised decent behaviour to the neighbours without causing any kind of
disturbance to them. He taught us to take into account the opinion of
the neighbour with regard to one's character and personality. It is
clear that the mutual responsibility amongst neighbours is indeed
significant, as exemplified by the advice of the Prophet when he said
that no true Muslim fills his belly when his neighbour is starving and
that should be considered even if one has to dilute the broth by adding
a little water.

Can a Muslim be communal?

Islam teaches that it is not one's birth, but good deeds and faith that
determine one's nobility. The Islamic slogan "One God for one mankind"
aims at eliminating all the narrow views, like communalism, casteism,
racism etc. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) declared in plain words that "He who invites to communalism, fights and dies for communalism, not belong to us". The followers of Muhammed (PBUH) therefore can never be communal.

What are the Islamic directions in the financial front?

According to Islam all the resources on earth have been created for
mankind. It is the right of every human being to make use of the
natural resources. Everyone has the right to work hard and earn wealth.
However, the earnings should not be the result of the exploitation of
others. Income can be earned through business, cultivation, hard work,
trade, and the like. But in every transaction, clear moral instructions
have to be observed. What one earns, while observing these moral laws,
is his own and not of the society or of the nation. But it is the
responsibility of the individuals to spend from their income, to meet
the needs of the society and the nation. While Islam sanctions business
transactions and approves of fair profits, it prohibits profiteering
and hoarding. It bans taking or giving interest and usury. In business,
there ought not to be deceit, treachery or fraudulence. The field of
production should be free from exploitation. No product should be
marketed suppressing its drawbacks. Miserliness and extravagance should
be shunned. Aid should be provided to those who suffer from poverty.
Zakaah has been instituted for this.

• One, who eats his fill while his neighbor starves, is not a true Muslim.
• The trader who is prompt and honest will be among prophets, martyrs and the righteous on Day of Judgement.
• Weigh correctly anything that you sell and when you buy something have it weighed correctly.
• Tell the buyer about the defects, if any, of the goods you sell.
Having done that, the transaction is acceptable, if not detestable.
• All fraudulent and treacherous transactions are forbidden.
• Hoarding is a sin. One who hoards food grains in order to sell the same for a better price is a criminal.
• One who repays his debts promptly and in the best manner is the best amongst you.
• Allah's curse will fall on those who lend money on interest and on those who bear witness to such deals.
• Monopoly is unlawful in Islam.
• Cheat not in weights and measures. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

What does Qur'an say about master-labourer relationship?

It is only natural that the master and labourer come to picture when
production, trade and cultivation set in. The relationship between the
master and labourer does not warrant any confrontation. On the other
hand, it ought, to be of co-operation, as per the teachings of Islam.
The Prophet has said that the income earned through one's own labour is
the best income. The labourer should be given the wages that they
deserve. There should be a proper agreement with regard to the wages,
between the employer and the labourer, before the work starts. The
amount thus arrived at should be distributed without making any
deduction whatsoever and it should be paid even before the sweat of the
labourer dried up. The employee should not be exploited and he should
have complete security while doing the work assigned to him. It is the
responsibility of the employee to endeavour sincerely for a
satisfactory completion of the work assigned to him.
• The best wealth is that which does a labourer earn..
• The best food is that which is earned by one's toil.
• Allah considers the labourer as His friend.
• Allah loves the labourer. One who toils for his family is like one
whose struggle in the cause of God. Prophet Muhammed (PBUH)

What should be the approach of Muslims towards non-Muslims?

The teachings of Islam states that the Muslim community should coexist
in complete harmony and tolerance with people of other religious
communities. The Qur'an prescribes that as long as the other
communities do not oppress the members of the Muslim community, they
ought to coexist in love and tolerance. This has been demonstrated by
Muhammed (PBUH) through his life. Even the subjects of a Caliphate have
no right to hamper the freedom of faith nor the freedom of worship of
the non-Muslim citizens. The ruler is liable for the complete
protection of their lives and property. The Prophet (PBUH) has taught
that it is an unpardonable sin to be unjust to non-Muslim citizens.

What is 'Jihaad'?

Jihaad means "effort", "strive" or "struggle". All efforts to
sacrifice, adopting the divine path and in the pursuit of truth are
Jihaad. The control over self and the surrender to the will of God, is
the first phase of Jihaad. Jihaad is the conquest of one's self in
order to ward off all kinds of temptations which might ultimately lead
to evil.

"Fight in the cause of Allaah those who fight you. But do not transgress limits; For Allaah loveth not transgressors." Holy Qur'an 2:190

Jihaad is also the worthy utilization of one's wealth, energy and time
for the divine cause. Just as it is imperative for a person to worship
the One True God for becoming a member of the Islamic community, after
pledging the vow of truth, it is also his responsibility to propagate
the message of the true religion amongst his fellowmen. The efforts of
sacrifice which form the path of fulfilling the aforementioned
responsibility, is indeed Jihaad. The message of the true religion
should be conveyed to others by making one's own life the example of
the teachings of the religion and also by resorting to the use of logic
and good advice. Islam is averse to the idea of forced conversion. The
Qur'an makes it very clear that in matters related to religion there
ought to be no coercion, and the duty of the followers of the faith is
just to enlighten the people and that if any person accepts the faith
should be done it on his own accord. Islam does not permit attack on
innocent people in the name of religion. Islam permits the use of force
if it is indispensable, to ensure freedom of religion in the event of a
situation where the right to live according to the tenets of Islam is
denied and the freedom to propagate religion is hampered. Islam has
sanctioned war only to ensure the end of violence and restoration of
peace. It is the stricture of the Qur'an that even in war one should
not shed one's dignity nor should one transgress the limits. In the
event of a Muslim society being forced into war, all those who are able
and healthy should volunteer. All these efforts of sacrifice to protect
the true religion constitute Jihad. The armed war is but the last of
them, which would be resorted to, when every other choice fails.

"Allah forbids you not, with regard to those
who fight you not for (your) faith nor drive you out of your homes,
from dealing kindly and justly with them: For Allah loveth those who
are just." Holy Qur'an 60:8

How did Islam spread in the world?

The reason for the rapid spread of Islam was the attraction that the
thinking people developed towards an ideal free from superstition
upholding the worship of the 'One and Only God', the Creator and the
pursuit of His messengers. It was only natural for those thinking
people to be drawn to the practice of a faith that sought the path of
'surrender to God', at a time when their perceptions were fogged by
false deities, and their agents who posed as priests. The ideal of 'One
God, one humanity', simultaneously put forth by Islam, uproots the
parochial beliefs put up in the name of ones birth. The access to the
message of 'one humanity' experienced by those who were being oppressed
in the name of religion and caste, further led to the propagation of
Islam. The selfless and sincere lives led by Muslims who migrated
different parts of the world for business purposes and the like, also
drew the people of those countries to Islam.

To this day, Islam, which oc What is ISLAM ? Cup

ies
the mind of man though manifold noble ways, continues to influence the
thoughts and deeds of millions of peoples in all continents around the
world, with its sterling ideals.

Masha' allahe .... thanks okhti .. Jazaki laho khayrane

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