Islam

Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic faith founded in the 7th century CE in the Arabian Peninsula through the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad. Its followers, known as Muslims, believe that there is one God, Allah, who is the same deity worshipped by earlier prophets such as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, who is regarded as a prophet rather than divine.

The central holy book of Islam is the Qur’an, believed to be the literal word of God as revealed to Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel. Alongside it, the Hadith—recorded sayings and actions of the Prophet—help guide religious practice and daily life.

Islam is built around five pillars: the declaration of faith (Shahada), daily prayers (Salah), giving to charity (Zakat), fasting during Ramadan (Sawm), and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) if physically and financially possible. These practices shape both spiritual devotion and community life.
Muslims worship in mosques and face the city of Mecca during prayer. The religion has two major branches, Sunni and Shia, which differ in historical leadership succession but share core beliefs.

Today, Islam is one of the world’s largest religions, with followers across every continent. It has deeply influenced art, science, philosophy, and culture throughout history, leaving a lasting global legacy.