A Guide to Islam: Clarifying Common Questions
Islām is a comprehensive way of life, addressing every aspect of human existence. Below are six frequently asked questions about Muslims and Islam, answered based on Islamic teachings.
1. What Does Islām Teach About Allāh (ﷻ)?
Islām is firmly established upon the belief in Tawḥīd, the oneness of Allāh (ﷻ). This foundational principle defines the relationship between the Creator and His creation, emphasizing Allāh’s (ﷻ) absolute uniqueness, sovereignty, and perfection. Tawḥīd is categorized into three distinct but interconnected aspects: Tawḥīd al-Rubūbiyyah (Oneness in Lordship), Tawḥīd al-Ulūhiyyah (Oneness in Worship), and Tawḥīd al-Asmāʾ wa’l-Ṣifāt (Oneness in Names and Attributes). Together, these affirm Allāh’s (ﷻ) unmatched status and set the framework for a Muslim’s faith and practice.
Tawḥīd al-Rubūbiyyah (Oneness in Lordship)
This aspect affirms that Allāh (ﷻ) is the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Manager of the entire universe. Everything in existence—seen and unseen—functions under His command and will. The Qurʾān states:
“[Allāh is] the Creator of all things, and He is, over all things, Disposer of affairs.” (Sūrah al-Zumar, 39:62)
Allāh (ﷻ) is the one who gives life and causes death, who provides sustenance, and who governs the natural laws of the universe. This recognition compels humans to submit to Him as the ultimate authority and to acknowledge that all blessings originate from Him alone. It is Allāh’s (ﷻ) exclusive right to create and control, which eliminates any notion of duality or partnership in His dominion.
Tawḥīd al-Ulūhiyyah (Oneness in Worship)
This is the practical manifestation of Tawḥīd, requiring that all acts of worship—whether prayers, supplications, sacrifices, or reliance—are directed solely to Allāh (ﷻ). Worship is the right of Allāh (ﷻ) alone, as He is the only one worthy of it. The Qurʾān commands:
“And they were not commanded except to worship Allāh, [being] sincere to Him in religion, inclining to truth, and to establish prayer and to give zakāh. And that is the correct religion.” (Sūrah al-Bayyinah, 98:5)
Any form of associating partners with Allāh (ﷻ), such as idol worship, seeking intercession from saints, or dedicating acts of devotion to other than Allāh, is strictly forbidden and considered shirk (polytheism). The Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) warned:
“Whoever dies while associating anything with Allāh will enter the Hellfire.”
This grave sin of shirk is the greatest injustice a person can commit, as it denies Allāh’s (ﷻ) sole right to be worshipped. The Qurʾān sternly warns:
“Indeed, Allāh does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allāh has certainly fabricated a tremendous sin.” (Sūrah al-Nisāʾ, 4:48)
Tawḥīd al-Asmāʾ wa’l-Ṣifāt (Oneness in Names and Attributes)
This aspect involves affirming all of Allāh’s (ﷻ) names and attributes as mentioned in the Qurʾān and the authentic Sunnah, without distortion, denial, or comparison. Allāh (ﷻ) has the most beautiful names and perfect attributes that befit His majesty. He says:
“And to Allāh belong the best names, so invoke Him by them and leave [the company of] those who practice deviation concerning His names.” (Sūrah al-Aʿrāf, 7:180)
For instance, Allāh (ﷻ) is described as al-Raḥmān (The Most Merciful), al-Ḥakīm (The All-Wise), and al-Qadīr (The All-Powerful). Believing in these attributes without likening them to human characteristics is essential, as the Qurʾān states:
“There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” (Sūrah al-Shūrā, 42:11)
The rejection or misinterpretation of Allāh’s (ﷻ) attributes is a deviation from true belief. Muslims are required to affirm these attributes as they are revealed, recognizing that Allāh (ﷻ) is beyond human comprehension.
The Centrality of Tawḥīd in Islām
Tawḥīd is the essence of Islām, and its proper understanding is the dividing line between faith and disbelief. It is not sufficient to merely acknowledge Allāh’s (ﷻ) existence or believe in His lordship. Rather, one must fulfill the rights of Tawḥīd by worshipping Allāh (ﷻ) alone, abandoning any reliance or reverence for other entities in matters of worship. The Qurʾān reiterates:
“And whoever places their trust in Allāh, He is sufficient for him.” (Sūrah al-Ṭalāq, 65:3)
The exclusivity of Allāh’s (ﷻ) worship transforms the believer’s life, as it instills reliance upon Him alone, submission to His will, and gratitude for His blessings. Tawḥīd liberates a person from servitude to other created beings, allowing them to direct their hearts entirely to the Creator.
Warning Against Setting Rivals to Allāh (ﷻ)
The greatest sin in Islām is to associate partners with Allāh (ﷻ), as highlighted in the Qurʾān:
“And they have taken besides Him gods who create nothing, while they are created, and possess not for themselves any harm or benefit, and possess not [power to cause] death or life or resurrection.” (Sūrah al-Furqān, 25:3)
The Companions of the Prophet (ﷺ) understood the severity of this sin. Ibn Masʿūd (may Allāh be pleased with him) said:
“The greatest sin is to set up rivals to Allāh while He alone created you.”
This statement reflects the enormity of shirk and the exclusive right of Allāh (ﷻ) to be worshipped. Muslims are constantly reminded to guard their Tawḥīd and to ensure that all acts of devotion are directed to Allāh (ﷻ) with sincerity.
The Importance of Sincerity in Tawḥīd
The sincerity of intention is central to Tawḥīd. A person’s worship must be free from any desire for recognition, worldly gain, or intercession from others. The Qurʾān underscores the importance of sincerity:
“Say, ‘Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allāh, Lord of the worlds. No partner has He.’” (Sūrah al-Anʿām, 6:162-163)
This sincerity ensures that the believer’s life revolves around pleasing Allāh (ﷻ) alone, and their deeds are accepted as pure acts of worship. Without sincerity, even acts of outward worship are rendered void.
2. What Are the Pillars of Islām?
The Five Pillars of Islām are the essential acts of worship and obligations that form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice. These pillars encompass the core beliefs and responsibilities that a Muslim must fulfill, serving as the framework for their relationship with Allāh (ﷻ), their community, and themselves. The Five Pillars are explicitly mentioned in the Qurʾān and the Sunnah of the Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ), and their significance has been emphasized by scholars throughout Islām’s history.
1. Shahādah (Testimony of Faith)
The Shahādah is the declaration:
“Ashhadu an lā ilāha illa Allāh wa ashhadu anna Muḥammadan rasūl Allāh”
(I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allāh, and I bear witness that Muḥammad is the Messenger of Allāh.)
This testimony establishes the core beliefs of Tawḥīd (the oneness of Allāh) and the finality of Prophethood. It requires a Muslim to affirm two inseparable principles:
Lā ilāha illa Allāh (There is no deity worthy of worship except Allāh):
- This declaration affirms that Allāh (ﷻ) is the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Lord of all existence. It requires Muslims to direct all acts of worship—prayer, supplication, reliance, and sacrifice—exclusively to Him. It also necessitates the rejection of any form of shirk (associating partners with Allāh).
- Allāh (ﷻ) says:
“And they were not commanded except to worship Allāh, [being] sincere to Him in religion.”(Sūrah al-Bayyinah, 98:5)
Muḥammad rasūl Allāh (Muḥammad is the Messenger of Allāh):
- This statement affirms that Muḥammad (ﷺ) is the final messenger sent to humanity, and his teachings represent the complete guidance for all aspects of life. Believing in this requires adhering to his Sunnah, refraining from innovation in religious matters, and accepting his authority in all religious obligations.
- Allāh (ﷻ) commands:
“Whoever obeys the Messenger has indeed obeyed Allāh.” (Sūrah al-Nisāʾ, 4:80)
The Shahādah is not a mere verbal declaration; it must be accompanied by sincerity, understanding, and action. A person must live by its implications, committing to worshipping Allāh (ﷻ) alone and following the guidance of the Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ).
2. Ṣalāh (Prayer)
Ṣalāh is the second pillar and the most important physical act of worship. It is the daily connection between the Muslim and Allāh (ﷻ), performed five times a day. Allāh (ﷻ) commands:
“Establish the prayer, for prayer restrains one from immorality and wrongdoing.” (Sūrah al-ʿAnkabūt, 29:45)
Ṣalāh serves as:
- A Reminder of Allāh (ﷻ): It keeps the believer constantly aware of their Lord throughout the day.
- A Cleansing Act: It purifies the heart and strengthens faith, as the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“The example of the five daily prayers is like that of a river at the door of one of you. He bathes in it five times a day, and no filth remains on him.” (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, 667)
Ṣalāh also instills discipline and humility and strengthens the unity of the Muslim community, particularly when performed in congregation.
3. Zakāh (Almsgiving)
Zakāh is a financial obligation that purifies wealth and supports the needy. It is an act of worship that demonstrates the Muslim’s responsibility toward their community. Allāh (ﷻ) commands:
“Take from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase.” (Sūrah al-Tawbah, 9:103)
Zakāh is typically 2.5% of a Muslim’s surplus wealth and is distributed to specific categories mentioned in the Qurʾān, such as the poor, needy, and those in debt. The significance of Zakāh lies in:
- Purification: It purifies the giver’s heart from greed and attachment to material possessions.
- Social Justice: It reduces poverty and bridges the gap between the rich and the poor.
- Blessing: It brings barakah (blessing) to one’s remaining wealth, as the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Wealth is not diminished by giving in charity.” (Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim, 2588)
4. Ṣawm (Fasting in Ramaḍān)
Ṣawm, or fasting during the month of Ramaḍān, is an obligation upon every able Muslim. Allāh (ﷻ) says:
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous.” (Sūrah al-Baqarah, 2:183)
Fasting involves abstaining from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset. However, its purpose goes beyond physical restraint. Ṣawm cultivates:
- Taqwā (Consciousness of Allāh): It trains the believer to restrain desires and focus on spiritual growth.
- Gratitude: Experiencing hunger and thirst fosters empathy for the less fortunate and appreciation for Allāh’s (ﷻ) blessings.
- Self-Discipline: It strengthens self-control and helps the believer prioritize worship over worldly distractions.
The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Whoever fasts during Ramaḍān with faith and seeking reward will have his past sins forgiven.” (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, 38)
5. Ḥajj (Pilgrimage)
Ḥajj is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for those who are physically and financially capable. Allāh (ﷻ) commands:
“And [due] to Allāh from the people is a pilgrimage to the House—for whoever is able to find a way there.”(Sūrah Āl ʿImrān, 3:97)
The Ḥajj includes rituals such as standing at ʿArafah, Tawāf (circumambulation of the Kaʿbah), and Saʿy (walking between Ṣafā and Marwah). These acts commemorate the sacrifices and devotion of Prophets Ibrāhīm (ʿalayhi al-salām) and Muḥammad (ﷺ). The significance of Ḥajj includes:
- Unity: Millions of Muslims from diverse backgrounds come together in submission to Allāh (ﷻ), demonstrating universal brotherhood.
- Humility: Wearing simple garments during Ḥajj reminds pilgrims of their mortality and dependence on Allāh (ﷻ).
- Forgiveness: The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Whoever performs Ḥajj and does not engage in obscenity or disobedience will return as free from sin as the day his mother gave birth to him.” (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, 1521)
3. The Qurʾān and Its Guidance
The Qurʾān is the speech of Allāh (ﷻ), revealed to His Messenger Muḥammad (ﷺ) to guide humanity from darkness to light. It provides comprehensive guidance for belief, worship, morality, and legislation. The Qurʾān is not just a text for recitation; it is meant to be understood and acted upon. It contains principles of success, causes of salvation, and paths to happiness, addressing every need of a Muslim in their religion, worldly life, and Hereafter.
The Qurʾān as Healing and Mercy
The Qurʾān is described as healing for both the heart and the body. For the heart, it removes diseases such as doubt, hypocrisy, and shirk, while for the body, it brings tranquility and contentment through its recitation and remembrance of Allāh (ﷻ). Allāh says:
“And We send down of the Qurʾān that which is healing and mercy for the believers.” (Sūrah al-Isrāʾ, 17:82)
This healing encompasses spiritual ailments by providing clarity, removing confusion, and nurturing faith.
Recitation and Reflection
Reciting the Qurʾān is an act of worship, but it is not limited to the articulation of its words. Reflection and pondering over its meanings are essential for its guidance to impact the heart and lead to righteous actions. The Qurʾān admonishes:
“Do they not reflect upon the Qurʾān, or are there locks upon their hearts?” (Sūrah Muḥammad, 47:24)
Reflection unlocks the treasures of wisdom within the Qurʾān and strengthens one’s connection to Allāh (ﷻ).
Ibn al-Qayyim (رحمه الله) said:
“There is nothing more beneficial for the heart than reflecting upon the Qurʾān with contemplation and understanding. It is what generates love for Allāh, fear of Him, hope in Him, reliance upon Him, contentment with His decree, and submission to His command. It is what shows a person the difference between truth and falsehood, guidance and misguidance. Reflection unlocks the treasures of wisdom within the Qurʾān, and its meanings bring life to the heart, purify the soul, and illuminate the path to success.”
Its recitation should result in the implementation of its guidance in daily life.
The Miraculous Nature of the Qurʾān
The Qurʾān is unparalleled in its eloquence, content, and structure. It challenges humanity and the jinn to produce even a single chapter like it, a challenge that has remained unmet since its revelation. Allāh says:
“If mankind and the jinn gathered to produce the like of this Qurʾān, they could not produce the like of it, even if they were to each assist the other.” (Sūrah al-Isrāʾ, 17:88)
This miraculous nature confirms its divine origin and makes it a timeless proof of the prophethood of Muḥammad (ﷺ).
The Qurʾān as a Timeless Guide
The Qurʾān provides guidance that is comprehensive and applicable to all times and places. Its principles ensure justice, mercy, and equity, offering solutions for both individual and societal issues. It is not restricted to any particular era; rather, its teachings remain relevant across generations, addressing the evolving needs of humanity.
The Qurʾān’s Preservation
Unlike any other scripture, the Qurʾān has been preserved word for word, free from alteration or corruption. This is a testament to Allāh’s (ﷻ) promise:
“Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qurʾān, and indeed, We will be its guardian.” (Sūrah al-Ḥijr, 15:9)
This divine preservation ensures that the Qurʾān remains a source of pure guidance until the end of time.
The Relationship Between the Qurʾān and Sunnah
The Qurʾān provides general principles, while the Sunnah explains and elaborates upon them. The Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) was sent to clarify its meanings and demonstrate its implementation. Allāh says:
“And We revealed to you the message that you may make clear to the people what was sent down to them.”(Sūrah al-Naḥl, 16:44)
Understanding the Qurʾān through the Sunnah ensures correct application of its teachings in all aspects of life.
Acting Upon the Qurʾān
The Qurʾān was revealed to transform individuals and society. It is a book of guidance, not just for recitation, but for implementation. Success lies in understanding its message, reflecting on its verses, and embodying its principles. Allāh (ﷻ) says:
“This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allāh.” (Sūrah al-Baqarah, 2:2)
Living by the Qurʾān ensures success in this life and salvation in the Hereafter. It is a light for those who seek guidance and a mercy for those who follow its path.
4. How Does Islām View Non-Muslims?
Islām is a religion that promotes justice, fairness, and kindness in dealings with all people, including non-Muslims. The Qurʾān and Sunnah provide clear guidelines on how Muslims are to interact with non-Muslims, emphasizing respectful and compassionate relationships as long as they are not hostile. This balance ensures that Muslims uphold their religious principles while maintaining peaceful and respectful relations with those of other faiths.
Justice and Kindness Toward Non-Muslims
Allāh (ﷻ) explicitly commands justice and kindness toward non-Muslims who are not engaged in hostility against Islām or Muslims. Allāh says:
“Allāh does not forbid you from being righteous and just toward those who have not fought you because of religion or expelled you from your homes. Indeed, Allāh loves those who act justly.” (Sūrah al-Mumtaḥanah, 60:8)
This verse clarifies that Islām does not promote animosity toward non-Muslims simply because they hold a different belief. Instead, it obligates Muslims to deal with them in a way that reflects fairness and kindness. Justice is a fundamental value in Islām that transcends religious differences. Muslims are required to uphold justice even when dealing with those who oppose them, as Allāh says:
“O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm for Allāh, witnesses in justice, and do not let the hatred of a people prevent you from being just. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.” (Sūrah al-Māʾidah, 5:8)
The Prophet’s Guidance on Good Character Toward Non-Muslims
The Prophet Muḥammad (ﷺ) set a clear example of how to interact with non-Muslims through kindness, fairness, and fulfilling agreements. He said:
“Whoever kills a person who has a treaty with the Muslims will not smell the fragrance of Paradise, even though its fragrance can be detected from a distance of forty years.” (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, 3166)
This narration emphasizes the sanctity of agreements and the prohibition of harming those with whom Muslims have treaties or peaceful relations. It underscores Islām’s strict prohibition of betrayal and unjust aggression, ensuring that Muslims honor their commitments.
Additionally, the Prophet (ﷺ) demonstrated excellent character with his non-Muslim neighbors and visitors. He treated them with dignity and compassion, showing that Islām’s universal values extend to all of humanity.
Kindness to Neighbors Regardless of Faith
The emphasis on treating neighbors well, regardless of their faith, is a recurring theme in Islām. The Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Jibrīl continued to advise me about the neighbor until I thought he would make him an heir.” (Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī, 6014)
This command applies universally, including to non-Muslim neighbors. Abdullah ibn ʿAmr ibn al-ʿĀṣ (may Allāh be pleased with him), following this prophetic teaching, asked about his Jewish neighbor, saying:
“Have you sent something to our Jewish neighbor? I heard the Messenger of Allāh (ﷺ) command us to take care of our neighbors.” (Sunan Abū Dāwūd, 5152)
This narration highlights the application of prophetic guidance, showing that Muslims should care for and respect their neighbors, regardless of their religion.
Fairness in Trade and Interaction
Muslims are also instructed to conduct themselves with honesty and fairness in trade and dealings with non-Muslims. Islām encourages fulfilling contracts, avoiding deceit, and maintaining good conduct in all interactions. The Prophet (ﷺ) himself engaged in trade and honored his agreements with non-Muslims, setting an example for the Muslim community.
Limits of Tolerance
While Islām promotes kindness and fairness, it also sets boundaries to protect the faith and its community. Muslims are required to defend themselves if faced with aggression or hostility, but even in such cases, Islām establishes rules that prohibit transgression. Allāh (ﷻ) says:
“And fight in the way of Allāh those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allāh does not like transgressors.” (Sūrah al-Baqarah, 2:190)
This ensures that even in times of conflict, Muslims adhere to principles of justice and avoid oppressing others.
Balancing Faith and Respect
Muslims are encouraged to remain firm in their beliefs while maintaining respectful and peaceful relations with non-Muslims. This balance allows for harmonious coexistence without compromising religious principles. Islām does not call for blind enmity or hostility but rather for fairness, compassion, and adherence to the truth.
Allāh (ﷻ) reminds the believers:
“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction and argue with them in a way that is best. Indeed, your Lord is most knowing of who has strayed from His way, and He is most knowing of who is [rightly] guided.” (Sūrah al-Naḥl, 16:125)
This verse highlights the importance of engaging with non-Muslims respectfully and inviting them to Islām through wisdom and good conduct.
5. What Is Jihad in Islam?
The term jihad in Islam means striving in the path of Allah and encompasses various forms of effort, including personal self-improvement, defending Islam, and calling others to the faith.
The Qur’an mentions:
“And strive for Allah with the striving due to Him.” (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:78)
Jihad is commonly understood in three categories:
- Spiritual Jihad: Striving against personal weaknesses and committing to worship.
- Da’wah (Inviting others to Islam): Spreading the message of Islam with wisdom and good conduct.
- Defensive Jihad: Defending the Muslim community and lands when under attack.
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:
“The best jihad is to speak a word of truth to a tyrannical ruler.”
Jihad is never a justification for terrorism or harming innocent lives; rather, it is a call for sincere effort in all aspects of life to please Allah.
6. What Is the Role of the Sunnah in Islam?
The Sunnah refers to the sayings, actions, and tacit approvals of the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and serves as a practical guide for living in accordance with the Qur’ān.
Allāh commands:
“And whatever the Messenger has given you—take; and whatever he has forbidden you—refrain from.”(Surah Al-Hashr, 59:7)
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) stated:
“I have left you upon clear guidance, its night is like its day. No one deviates from it except that he is destroyed.”
Imam Malik (may Allah have mercy on him) beautifully expressed the importance of adhering to the Sunnah:
“The Sunnah is like the Ark of Noah. Whoever boards it will be saved, and whoever refuses will drown.”
The Sunnah provides the practical details and context for the guidance found in the Qur’an, ensuring that Muslims can correctly implement their faith.