What is Islam

As a faith, Islam is one of the most misunderstood religions in the world today. The construction of knowledge about Islam by the wider society in the Western world is based primarily on stereotypes and misconceptions, which for most times are picked up from media reporting. The scale at which ignorance exists requires that the basic elements of the Islamic faith are clearly communicated, as a potential result of mis-education is intolerance.

This section provides details on the basic beliefs and practices of Islam. Links are included within the text for further and broader reading.

What is Islam?

Islam is an Arabic word which means submission, surrender, and obedience. Islam is a religion that stands for complete submission to the will of God, or Allah in Arabic. Another literal meaning of the word Islam is peace: it is thought that as one submits his/her will to God, this brings about inner peace and establishes peace in society at large.

Islam is also referred to as a way of life because of its comprehensive outlook on all aspects of human endeavour: politics, economics, jurisprudence, and social life, as well as worship.

It is one of the monotheistic faiths, forming a trilogy with Christianity and Judaism. Although originating in Saudi Arabia, around 90% of the Muslim population today are not Arabs but spread across the globe.

Islam is more than just 'acts' of worship, i.e. prayer. Muslims are required to live their lives as good people, with the constant awareness of God, to whom they are ultimately accountable for their actions. This concept forms the backbone of Muslim belief - to live righteously and to stand up against injustice and wrongdoing.

The seven core beliefs of a Muslim fall under three categories. These are:

Collectively the core beliefs are known as the 'Aqeedah' [pl. Aqa'id] in Arabic.