Facts About Islam

http://www.islamicity.com/Mosque/uiatm/un_islam.htm

• What is Islam about?

Islam means "submission" or "submission to God". It derives from a word meaning "peace."

• What were the origins of Islam

Islam originated in the 6th Century (570 AD) in Saudi Arabia, Mecca. Muhammad received a revelation from God and Islam begins, aged 40.

• How does someone become a Muslim?

To become a Muslim, one must simply repeat the phrase "there is no God apart from God, and Muhammad is the messenger of God." By saying this, one announces their faith in Islam, it's prophets and scripture.

• How do Muslims practice their religion?

Muslims practice their religion by praying 5 times a day usually in a Mosque (also accepted at other locations) and also uphold the 5 Pillars of Islam "(faith, prayer, concern for the needy, self-purification, and the pilgrimage to Makkah)"

• What is the Ka'ba (image)

The Ka’ba is a place of worship built over 4 thousand years ago. God commanded Abraham and Ishmael to build it.

• What were the highlights of Muhammad's life?

o   Muhammad was born in Makah in the year 570

o   Muhammad received a revelation known as the Quran from God through Gabriel (the angel). He had Gabriel’s words written down.

o   Muhammad preached Gabriel’s words which eventually led to the Hijra (migration)

• What is the Qu'ran

ü  The Quran is the Islam holy book

ü  114 chapters

ü  It consists of all the words that Gabriel conveyed to Muhammad

ü  The Quran is the source of the Muslim faith