Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic faith that originated in the 7th century CE in the Arabian Peninsula. It is based on the belief in one God, Allah, and follows the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who is considered the last prophet in a line that includes Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. The holy book of Islam is the Quran, which Muslims believe to be the literal word of God as revealed to Muhammad. Muslims, the followers of Islam, practise their faith through the Five Pillars of Islam, which are:
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Shahada (Faith): Declaring the belief in the oneness of God and the prophethood of Muhammad.
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Salat (Prayer): Performing five daily prayers facing the Kaaba in Mecca.
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Zakat (Charity): Giving to those in need and supporting the community through almsgiving.
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Sawm (Fasting): Observing fasting during the month of Ramadan, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset.
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Hajj (Pilgrimage): Undertaking a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a lifetime, if physically and financially able.
Islam emphasises values such as compassion, justice, and humility. It encourages its followers to lead lives of integrity, reflecting their faith through actions that benefit themselves and others. The global Muslim community, known as the Ummah, is diverse, spanning across various cultures and regions, united by their shared beliefs and practices.