Islam

Islam

The Kaaba in Mecca during Hajj, the holiest site in Islam.

Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic religion articulated by the Qur'an, a text considered by its adherents to be the verbatim word of God (Allah), and by the teachings and normative example (called the Sunnah) of Muhammad, considered by them to be the last prophet of God. An adherent of Islam is called a Muslim.

Beliefs

Muslims believe that God is one, unique, and incomparable, and that the purpose of existence is to worship God. They regard the Qur'an as the final revelation of God, and Muhammad as the last prophet. The Five Pillars of Islam are five basic acts of worship that are considered the foundation of a Muslim's faith and practice. These are:

1. Shahada: the declaration of faith, professing that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger. 2. Salah: the ritual prayer performed five times a day. 3. Zakat: the giving of alms to the poor and needy. 4. Sawm: fasting during the month of Ramadan. 5. Hajj: the pilgrimage to Mecca, which is obligatory for those who are able.

History

A depiction of Muhammad from a medieval Persian manuscript.

Islam originated in the 7th century CE in the Arabian Peninsula, with the prophet Muhammad receiving revelations from God through the angel Gabriel. These revelations were compiled into the Qur'an. Muhammad's teachings and leadership led to the unification of the Arabian tribes under Islam.

After Muhammad's death, Islam spread rapidly across the Middle East, North Africa, and beyond, through both conquest and conversion. The Caliphate, a form of Islamic government led by a caliph, was established to lead the Muslim community.

Sects

Islam is divided into two major sects: Sunni Islam and Shia Islam. Sunnis make up the majority of Muslims worldwide, while Shia Muslims are the majority in countries like Iran and Iraq. The division originated from a dispute over the rightful successor to Muhammad.

Culture and Society

The interior of the Hagia Sophia in Istanbul, featuring Islamic calligraphy.

Islamic culture has contributed significantly to various fields such as science, medicine, philosophy, and art. The Golden Age of Islam saw advancements in mathematics, astronomy, and medicine. Islamic art is known for its intricate geometric patterns, calligraphy, and architecture.

Holy Sites

The holiest sites in Islam are located in Saudi Arabia. These include the Kaaba in Mecca, the Prophet's Mosque in Medina, and the Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem.

Related Pages

• Qur'an
• Muhammad
• Five Pillars of Islam
• Sunni Islam
• Shia Islam
• Islamic Golden Age