Islam, one of the world’s major religions, is based on the belief in one God, Allah, and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. With a rich history dating back to the 7th century CE, Islam has significantly influenced not only the religious landscape but also the social, cultural, and political fabric of the regions it has touched.
Origin and Founding:
Islam was founded in the Arabian city of Mecca during the 7th century CE. The central figure in its origin is Prophet Muhammad, who is considered the final messenger of God. The core belief of Islam rests on the notion of monotheism, with Allah being the one and only God, and Muhammad serving as His messenger. Muslims regard the Quran, a holy book, as a divine revelation from Allah to Prophet Muhammad.
Significance in Islam:
The very name “Islam” means “surrender,” reflecting the fundamental tenet of the faith, which is to accept Allah’s will and submit to it. Muslims believe in Allah as the sole creator, sustainer, and restorer of the world. According to Islamic teachings, God sent numerous prophets to humanity to guide them in living according to His rules. Among these revered prophets are Jesus, Moses, and Abraham. However, Muslims believe that Muhammad was the final prophet. Islam traces its emergence to the revelations delivered to Prophet Muhammad by the Angel Gabriel, which are now compiled in the Quran. Additionally, Prophet Muhammad’s practical teachings, known as the Sunnah, were recorded by his followers after his death and serve as another vital source of Islamic guidance. The compilation of the Quran was confirmed twice by the Prophet before it took book form and serves as the foundation for Islamic regulations, known as Sharia.
Tenets of Islam:
The five main tenets of Islam are as follows:
- Shahadah: This is the declaration of faith and belief in the oneness of Allah and Muhammad as His messenger.
- Salah: Muslims are required to perform five daily prayers, facing the holy city of Mecca.
- Saum: This involves fasting during the holy month of Ramadan from sunrise to sunset.
- Zakat: Muslims are expected to give a portion of their wealth to the poor and needy as a form of charity.
- Hajj: At least once in their lifetime, Muslims who are physically and financially able are obligated to undertake a pilgrimage to Mecca.
Additionally, Muslims believe in a Day of Judgment when individuals will be judged for their actions, leading them to either heaven or hell based on their deeds. Prayers (namaz) are an integral part of daily life for Muslims, with Friday prayers (Juma Namaz) being held in communal mosques.
Sects in Islam:
Islam is divided into two primary sub-divisions: Shia and Sunni. The key difference between these two sects is their perspective on who should succeed Prophet Muhammad. Sunnis believe that the successor should be chosen from individuals close to the Prophet and his earliest supporters, such as Abu Bakr. In contrast, Shias believe that the successor should come from the Prophet’s own family and thus support Ali. While Sunni Muslims make up the majority in India, Shias are more visible during Muharram when they re-enact Ali’s tragic death.
Prophet Muhammad:
Prophet Muhammad is held in the highest regard in Islam. He is considered Allah’s messenger and the last of all prophets who were sent to restore Islam to its original purity. Born in Makkah in 570 AD, Prophet Muhammad received his first revelation from Allah at the age of 40 in a cave near Makkah, conveyed by the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel). These revelations, collectively known as the Quran, spanned 23 years. In Makkah, Prophet Muhammad faced significant opposition from non-believers, leading to his migration (Hijra) to Yathrib, which subsequently became Medina, marking the start of the Muslim calendar. Islam began to flourish in Medina, and Prophet Muhammad passed away at the age of 63.
Islam in India:
Islam’s arrival in India dates back to 6 AD, when Arab traders introduced the religion through the Malabar Coast of Kerala. Over the centuries, India saw the growth of several Islamic dynasties, beginning with the Delhi Sultanate, which laid the foundation for Muslim rule on the subcontinent. The Mughal period, regarded as the golden age of Islam in India, saw the faith flourish, with many conversions to Islam. Today, Muslims make up approximately 12% of India’s population, with significant populations residing in Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Rajasthan, Kerala, Uttar Pradesh, Delhi, and Kashmir.
Major Movements in Islam:
Throughout its history, Islam has witnessed various movements and reformations, each with its distinct goals and leaders. Here are some of the major movements in Islam:
- Ahmadiya Movement: Founded by Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, it aimed to create a community dedicated to upholding true Islamic values.
- Faraizi Movement: Led by Haji Shariatullah, this movement advocated the return to pure Islam and emphasized the performance of obligatory duties known as Faraiz.
- Tariqh-i-Muhammadiya Movement: Championed by Sayyid Ahmad Barelvi, this armed movement sought to establish a legitimate Islamic state.
- Aligarh Movement: Launched by Sir Sayyid Ahmad Khan, this movement promoted modern education for Muslims, enabling them to collaborate with the British and, consequently, prosper.
Islam, with its deep-rooted history and profound influence, stands as a major world religion. It has a rich tapestry of beliefs, practices, and sects that have evolved over time. Its presence in India has left an indelible mark on the nation’s social, cultural, and religious landscape. With a diverse and dynamic community, Islam continues to shape and contribute to the cultural mosaic of the world.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. FAQ: What is the significance of the Quran in Islam?
Answer: The Quran is the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to Prophet Muhammad. It serves as a comprehensive guide for personal conduct, morality, and the principles of faith. Muslims consider it the ultimate source of guidance for all aspects of life.
2. FAQ: How is prayer practiced in Islam?
Answer: Muslims perform five daily prayers, known as Salah or Salat, facing the Kaaba in Mecca. These prayers serve as a direct connection between the individual and Allah. Each prayer consists of specific movements and recitations, reinforcing spiritual discipline and mindfulness throughout the day.
3. FAQ: What is the significance of Ramadan in Islam?
Answer: Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Fasting is a pillar of Islam, promoting self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and spiritual reflection. Ramadan concludes with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a festival of gratitude and community.
4. FAQ: What are the Five Pillars of Islam?
Answer: The Five Pillars of Islam are fundamental acts of worship and practices that are considered the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice. They include the declaration of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salah), almsgiving (Zakat), fasting during Ramadan (Sawm), and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) at least once in a lifetime.
5. FAQ: How does Islam view other religions?
Answer: Islam recognizes the divine origin of several earlier religions, including Judaism and Christianity, referring to them as “People of the Book.” Islam encourages respect for religious diversity and advocates peaceful coexistence. Muslims are instructed to engage in dialogue with people of other faiths and live harmoniously in a pluralistic society.
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