ISLAMIC STUDIES | jsspslibrary

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ISLAM

The word “Islam” is an Arabic word which means “submission to the will of God”. This word comes from the same root as the Arabic word “salam”, which means “peace”. As such, the religion of Islam teaches that in order to achieve true peace of mind and surety of heart, one must submit to God and live according to His Divinely revealed Law. The most important truth that God revealed to mankind is that there is nothing divine or worthy of being worshipped except for Almighty God, thus all human beings should submit to Him.

The Five Pillars of Islam:

1. Shahadah: Declaring there is no god except God, and Muhammad is God's Messenger.

2. Salat: Ritual prayer five times a day.

3. Zakat: Giving 2.5% of one’s savings to the poor and needy.

4. Sawm: Fasting and self-control during the blessed month of Ramadan.

5. Hajj: Pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a lifetime, if he/she is able to do.

THE QUR'AN

The Arabic world “Al-Qur'an” literally means “the recitation”. When used in regards to Islam, the word Quran means God’s final message to mankind, which was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. The Quran is a living miracle in the Arabic language; and is know to be inimitable in its style, form and spiritual impact. God’s final revelation to mankind, the Quran was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of 23 years in Mecca and Madinah.

The Qur'an speaks in powerful and moving language. It talks about:

1. The Reality and attributes of God

2. The spiritual world

3. God's purpose for creating mankind

4. God's rules for a righteous and happy life

5. Man's resposibility toward God and the world

6. The coming of the Day of Judgment

7. The Hereafter

Al-Qur'an Includes:

- 323,760 huroof (letters).

- 105,685 nuqtat (dots) in the Qur'an.

- 86,430 words.