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 What is Islam ? |
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ISLAM means submission, that is, submission to the will of God, the
characteristic attitude of members of our faith.
MUSLIM (also spelled Moslem) is based on the same Arabic root as Islam
(s-l-m) and means one who submits to God, that is, a believer in Islam.
It is incorrect and objectionable to call Muslims Muhammadans,
as Muhammad is not worshipped in the way Christians worship
Christ.
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 Charity in Islam
Zakat represents the unbreakable bond between members of the community, whom prophet
Mohammad described to be "like the organs of the body, if one suffers then all others
rally in response."
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Zakat the 3rd Pillar of Islam |
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Muslim Celebrations |
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Muslims have two celebrations (Eid); namely, Eid of Sacrifice and Eid of Fast-Breaking.
The Eid of Sacrifice is in remembrance of the sacrifice to be by Prophet Abraham of his
son. The Eid of Fast-Breaking comes at the end of the month of fasting, Ramadan.
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Easter |
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Does the Easter story actually make consistent and coherant reading?
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Christmas a Survival Guide
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In every aspect of life (school, work etc.) Christmas has been
ruthlessly exploited. What is worse is that high pressure sales
tactics have invaded the home through TV. Advertisements are
repeatedly shown day and night, for young children this surely
is a form of brainwashing.
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 Muslim Practices
Circumcision does not make a man a muslim, neither does it make him a non
muslim. It is only a procedure to improve a mans cleanliness which is strongly
encouraged but not forced. Female circumcision has NO Islamic Basis and is
condemed.
You probably wondered why so much negative information is written
about this topic even though the vast majority of North American males
are circumcised and very happy and greatful for it, and that most parents
request this procedure for their newborn sons.
Mainly in the U.S.A. Anti-circumcision groups and organizations that have
formed over the past twenty five years. They write books, appear on talk shows,
protest outside of doctor's offices and medical establishments, spend countless
hours writing letters to politicians, newspapers, magazines and medical groups.
So it's no big surprise that these people have also saturated the
Internet with their own, many times, fanatical points of view containing
much misinformation regarding medical, sexual and psychological aspects
of circumcision.
Over the past ten years there have been many studies showing advantages
to this procedure which, of course, created a major panic among anti-circumcision
groups and individuals. Now, more than ever, they are trying to turn the
world against this procedure, and any doctor or lay person who speaks in
favour of it.
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Concept of "God" in Islam |
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ALLAH is the Supreme Being, the one and only God. Allah is the same God
as that worshipped by the Jews and Christians, and Arabic-speaking
Christians also use this name when referring to God.
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 Why Do people convert to Islam?
Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world. What compels people
to overcome major obstacles (often rejection and prejudice from family,
friends and work) and become Muslims?
Was Islam spread Did Islam Spread by Force, Swords or Guns?
Here is a good study of the question of the spread of Islam by a Christian missionary, T. W. Arnold:
"...of any organized attempt to force the acceptance of Islam on the non-Muslim population, or of any systematic persecution
intended to stamp out the Christian religion, we hear nothing. Had the caliphs chosen to adopt either course of action, they
might have swept away Christianity as easily as Ferdinand and Isabella drove Islam out of Spain, or Louis XIV made
Protestantism penal in France, or the Jews were kept out of England for 350 years. The Eastern Churches in Asia were entirely
cut off from communion with the rest of Christiandom throughout which no one would have been found to lift a finger on their
behalf, as heretical communions. So that the very survival of these Churches to the present day is a strong proof of the generally
tolerant attitude of Mohammedan [sic] governments towards them" .
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Arnold, Sir Thomas W. THE PREACHING OF ISLAM, A HISTORY OF THE PROPAGATION OF THE MUSLIM
FAITH, Westminister A. Constable & Co., London, 1896, p. 80. |
Islam does not teach, nor do Muslims desire, conversion of any people for fear, greed, marriage or any other form of coercion.
In conclusion, jihad in Islam is STRIVING IN THE WAY OF ALLAH by pen, tongue, hand, media and, if inevitable, with
arms. However, jihad in Islam does not include striving for individual or national power, dominance, glory, wealth, prestige or
pride.
What do Muslims Believe?
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Current Issues in Islam
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Banking and Interest
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Responding to Lies, Innuendoes and Slander
Death
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Key to Terms used, a guide to Muslim Jargon
In order to understand Islam it is necessary to know the meaning of certain key terms
and the identity of some proper names. Most of them are in the Arabic language, and
there is often no equivalent in English or in other tongues.
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The War System In Islam |
War is an armed conflict between nations or states, in which
one side willfully ventures on hostilities and forces others
to take part in them. It is often an excuse which countries
employ to achieve political, economic or territorial gains.
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[The introduction was writtin by Ahmed Hashem]
Based largely on:
a. "The Spirit of Islam: Doctrine & Teachings" by Afif A.
Tabbarah, translated into English by Hasan T. Shoucair;
Sole Distributors: Dar El-Ilm Lilmalayin, Beirut, Lebanon,
PO Box 1085, Telex 23166 LE;
b. and, to a lesser extent on "Islam on Trial" by Shawki
Abu Khalil, translated into English by Farouk Akbik; Dar
El-Fikr El-Mouaser, Beirut, Lebanon, PO Box 136064, Telex
44316 LE]
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Muslim Names |
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The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) recommended that Muslims should
be selective in the names of their children as part of the
identity of a Muslim. He recommended that the most beautiful
names are those which give servitude or praise to Allah.
Combinations of various names is a matter of personal liking and
choice. Names of Allah should never be used alone. These should
always be preceded by Abdul or should be combined with another
name in such a way that the final name does not remain a specific
attribute of Allah.
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What is Jihad?
An Arabic word the root of which is Jahada, which
means to strive for a better way of life. The nouns are Juhd, Mujahid, Jihad,
and Ijtihad. The other meanings are: endeavor, strain, exertion, effort,
diligence, fighting to defend one's life, land, and religion.
This word has been in frequent use in the Western press over the past several years,
explained directly or subtlely, to mean holy war. As a matter of fact the term
"holy war" was coined in Europe during the Crusades, meaning the war against
Muslims. It does not have a direct counterpart in Islamic glossary, and Jihad is certainly
not its translation.
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Marriage |
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Marriage is a bond containing rights and duties that each person, male
or female, should preserve, protect and fulfill. Both the husband and
wife, have certain rights and duties.
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Birth |
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Muslim believe that people are born free of
sin. It is only after they reach the age of puberty and it is only after
they commit sins that they are to be charged for their mistakes. No
one is responsible for or can take the responsibility for the sins of
others. However, the door of forgiveness through true repentance is always open.
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Stereotypes and Misconceptions
In the past, when so many attacks were launched against Islam under an open
and unabashed crusader flag, various popes used to encourage some fanatics
to write booklets containing lies against Islam, distorting the message
and reviling the religion. Many of the strongest stereotypes are from
this era.
After the church withdrew from this activity, the number of these attacks
was obviously reduced. Yet they did not stop altogether. They took another
form under a different banner, the pretext of freedom of expression. Only
the approach has changed. It is a fact that Islam receives a most Hostile
media coverage. It is not difficult to see that Muslim's are being stereotyped
as a threat to the "New World Order".
The following articles are a starting point in clearing some of the nonsense.
A look at Islam By Jay Kinney the editor of "GNOSIS MAGAZINE".
He look at Islam as an observer and explores Islam as an entity and how it's viewed.
Islam As Other
A look at the news media and some examples of how muslims are treated unfairly.
Also a look at the history to explain why Islam is feared and misinterpreted.
Perception of Islam
Jihad means struggling or striving and applies to any effort exerted by anyone. The
term strive or struggle may be used for/by Muslims as well as non-Muslims. Unfortunately
this word has been perverted by the mass Media to Mean "Holy War". One only has to
mention it and one is called a extremist or terrorist.
[GOTO Jihad] to read articles explaining
what Muslim's understand by this term.
"No other religion in history spread so rapidly as Islam...
The West has widely believed that this surge of religion was made possible by the sword.
But no modern scholar accepts that idea, and the Quran is explicit in support of the
freedom conscience." ISLAM - THE MISUNDERSTOOD RELIGION, READERS' DIGEST (American Edition) May 1955.
[GOTO Why People Convert to Islam] which contains articles from
converts and show the 'Sword of Islam' FORCING people to accept Islam to be a Myth.
The Media has shown Islam as oppressing women, making them invisible, anonymous
and voiceless. It implies that women were entirely submerged into a role as wife and mother.
If you believe this then it may come as a surprise to learn that the majority of
converts to Islam are WOMEN. If you want to hear the all the FACTS then
[GOTO Women in Islam].
The Satanic Verses has brought infamy to Salman Rushdie and has given the media
a feel day in exploiting Islam. If you really want to know why Muslims feel
angred by this book and there response [GOTO Responding]
and get some ANSWERS.
Many actually believe that Muhammad is the only Messenger that Muslims accept and that
Jesus and other prophets of the Old Testament are not believed in or belittled in some way.
Nothing can be further from the truth. Muslims believe, that Jesus was one of the
mightiest messengers of GOD, and hold him in very high esteem.
[GOTO Prophethood in Islam] if you want to find out
what Islam has to say about the sayings and teachings of Prophets, including Jesus
and Muhammad.
Many people ask why the term "Allah" is used instead of "God" and assume it's use
implies that Muslims worship a separate God. There is only ONE GOD - a belief held
by followers of each of the three main world religions : Islam, Christianity and Judaism.
[GOTO Concept of "God"] to read why Muslims use "Allah" and
there concept of "GOD".
Many equate Islam and Muslims to mean Arabs. Muslims may be any nationality.
An Arab could be a Muslim, a Christian, a Jew or an atheist.
Arabs constitute only about twenty percent of the Muslim population.
[GOTO What is Islam?] to find out what Islam means.
Halal and Haram
Miscellaneous Articles
Muslim History
Prophethood in Islam
Allah created man for a noble purpose: to worship Him and lead a virtuous life based
on His teachings and guidance. How would man know his role and purpose of his existence
unless he received clear and practical instructions of what Allah wants him to do?
Here comes the need for prophethood. Thus Allah had chosen from every nation a prophet
or more to covey His Message to people.
The Prophet Jesus (PBUH) We urge you to consult your own Bible and verify that the following
conclusions are not drawn out of context:
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), He was the last of a line of prophets.
Caliph (Leader)
From Arabic Khalifa, means deputy or successor and is the title of the
theoretical leader of Islam. The caliphate is now vacant in Sunni Islam.
The Shi'ite sects have complicated beliefs concerning it.
Law and the State
Islam is a comprehensive system influencing all aspects of life,
individual as well as communal.
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Islams Answers to 21st Century Dilemma's & Problems |
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I leave behind me two things, the QURAN and my SUNNAH and if you follow
these you will never go astray.
All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others
again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen
to me directly. Be my witness O ALLAH, that I have conveyed your message to your
people." (Final sentences of Prophets Muhammad (saw) Last sermon )
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The Holy Scriptures
Women in Islam
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At a time when Islam is faced with hostile media coverage
particularly where the status of women in Islam is concerned,
it may be quite surprising to learn that the majority of
converts to Islam are WOMEN
The Muslim woman was given a role, duties and rights 1400 years ago that
most women do not enjoy today, even in the West. These are designed to
keep balance in society; what may seem unjust or missing in one place
is compensated for or explained in another place.
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Worship in Islam
Worship is everything one says or does for the pleasure of Allah.
This, of course, includes rituals as well as beliefs, social activities,
and personal contributions to the welfare of one's fellow human-beings.
Ritual worship, elevates one morally and spiritually and enables you
to carry out activities in all walks of life according to the Guidance of God.
The ritual prayer, in Arabic Salah, means supplication. It is also derived
from the word "silah" which means link. Indeed the prayer is a real link
between the human being and his Lord, and is full of supplication to the
Lord from its beginning to its end. Salah provides a chance of direct communion
with the Creator five times a day, wherein man renews his covenant
with God and seeks guidance again and again: "You alone we worship and
to You alone we turn for help. Guide us to the straight path." (1:5,6)
Innovation
Bid'at (innovation) is something that has no Islamic basis. A
thing which is not proved from the Holy Quran and Hadith, as in
practice at the time of the Holy Prophet, his companions,
but is now done as religious duty.
The Prophet (saw) has condemned one who indulges in innovation
and called them "destroyer of the religion".
Shirk
It is to attribute Allah's qualities to someone else. This is called
Shirk because Allah's qualities are unequaled by any of His creatures,
be they angels, prophets, Auliya, martyrs, Imam or other devoted person.
Their qualities cannot match that of Allah.
Abuse of the word "Islam"
The Quran and Sunnah are the only two sources for the essential
beliefs of those people who call themselves Muslims.
This following groups insist on misusing the names of "Islam" and
"Muslim" either intentionally or in ignorance. In these pages,
they show how many "religious" groups around the world
who use the name of Islam are in fact clearly and absolutely in
violation of the principles contained in the Quran and Sunnah.
- Sorted Documents
- Biblical Criticisms Page (with Christian Responses)
- Male Circumcision
- The origins of Santa Claus and Christmas
Any one out there willing to help?
If you are knowledgeable in Islam, know of someone who is or you can source documents
please email me.
We require Urgent Help.
Some idea's of articles required :
- Celebrating Birthdays should it be discouraged ?
- Circumcision, why do it and what is it?
- Halal and Haram, why do it and what is it?
- Muslim Names, the need for them and what are they?
Plus any other articles that you may have found beneficial.
Aims of this page
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The aims of this page are to provide accurate information about Islamic Beliefs, history and civilization for Muslims and
Non-Muslims. We would like to extend our hand in friendship to ALL (Muslims, Christians, Jews, Hindus, Sikhs etc). We
would also like to invite everyone to spare a few moments of their life and read.
While we as Muslims believe that the entire Qur'an is the word of God and we would like every one to accept it as such, God
Himself has given the freedom of religion which we respect. With that in mind, all we hope is that non-Muslims will at least
enlighten themselves by knowing what Islam is. We hope that Muslims, Christians and Jews will find ways to work together to
bring peace on earth by eradicating immorality, fear, hate, disease, poverty and injustice. We hope that the following articles
will be useful in understanding basics of Islam.
There is also a message for Muslims living as a minority in a non-Muslim country. We hope you the find time to go back to the
Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be on him) and the Sahabah (may Allah be pleased with them).
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Credits
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All credit is due to Allah , we praise Him and we seek his help and ask His forgiveness. We
seek refuge with Allah from the evil of ourselves and from the evil results of our actions.
I testify that Allah alone is worthy of worship and that Muhammad is His slave and final
Messenger. May Allah's salawaat (peace and blessings) be upon the last and final messenger
Muhammad, his family and his followers. Ameen!
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