Islamic teaching is based on the religion of Islam, a monotheistic faith regarded as revealed through the Prophet Muhammad as the last prophet of God, known in Arabic as Allah. The fundamental teachings of Islam are derived from two main sources: the Quran, which Muslims believe is the word of God as revealed to Prophet Muhammad, and the Hadith, which are the sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad.
Here are some of the central teachings and principles of Islam:
- Tawhid (Oneness of God): The most fundamental concept in Islam is the oneness of God. Muslims believe that God is one and incomparable. This belief also emphasizes God’s sovereignty, mercy, and justice.
- Prophethood: Muslims believe in all prophets sent by God, including Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad. Prophet Muhammad is believed to be the last and final prophet. The prophets are seen as messengers of God who were sent to guide humanity.
- Angels: In Islam, angels are considered to be servants of Allah who carry out His commands. They do not have free will and cannot disobey Allah. Some of the most known angels include Angel Gabriel (Jibril) who was responsible for revealing the Quran to Prophet Muhammad, and Angel Michael (Mikail) who is responsible for rain.
- Holy Books: Muslims believe in the holy books that were sent to various prophets throughout history. This includes the Torah given to Moses, the Psalms given to David, the Gospel given to Jesus, and the Quran given to Muhammad.
- Day of Judgment: Islam teaches that all humans will be resurrected for judgment on the Last Day. On this day, deeds from each individual’s life will be assessed. Those who led a good life will be rewarded with eternal life in Paradise, and those who led an evil life will be punished in Hell.
- Five Pillars of Islam: These are five basic acts of worship that every Muslim is required to perform:
Shahada (Faith): This is the declaration of faith, stating that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the prophet of Allah.
Salat (Prayer): Muslims are required to perform five daily prayers facing the Kaaba in Mecca.
Zakat (Charity): Muslims are required to give a percentage of their income to the poor and needy.
Sawm (Fasting): During the month of Ramadan, Muslims are required to fast from dawn to sunset.
Hajj (Pilgrimage): Every Muslim who is physically and financially able is required to make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime.
- Ethics and Morality: Islam places a strong emphasis on ethical and moral conduct. Honesty, truthfulness, kindness, forgiveness, and justice are all highly valued and integral to a Muslim’s way of life.
- Sharia Law: This is a legal framework within which public and some private aspects of life are regulated for those living in a legal system based on Islam.
It is important to note that interpretations and practices of these teachings can vary widely among different Muslim communities around the world, as they do in any religion.
