Islam is one of the largest religion in the world today. Yet it is also one of the most misunderstood. For non-Muslims, with all the mixed messages from the media, it may be hard to separate fact from fiction. For Muslims, they may find it hard to communicate with their non-Muslim friends due to all the misunderstanding.
There is a lot to learn when it comes to Islam, from the basic to the esoteric. We will try to cover it from the basic. So, what are the core values of Islam? In this series of articles, we will try to cover briefly key important beliefs in Islam:
- Belief in God
- Belief in His Messenger
- Belief in Day of Judgement
Belief in God – the One and Only
Throughout history, men have always believed in a greater power. It is innate in their nature. When faced with the reality of his small insignificant existence versus the magnitude of nature around him, the heart is drawn to believe that there is something much bigger out there overseeing us all.
Islam teaches that Allah is the sole creator, controller and sustainer of the universe and whatever it contains. He has no partner and shares power with no one. He is not dependent on anything, rather everything depends on Him. He is above all in ability and His knowledge encompasses everything. This is the essence of Tawhid – belief in the Oneness of God.
Say, “He is Allah, [who is] One, Allah, the eternal refuge. He neither begets nor is born, nor is there to Him any equivalent.” Al-Quran 112:1-4 (Surah Al-Ikhlas)
In Islam, belief and submission to God is central and affects every single aspect in life. The word Islam itself means submission (i.e. submission to God). In fact, Allah said in the Quran that one of the purpose of creations is to worship Him. Furthermore, all creation submit willingly to Allah and acknowledge His power and dominion, rightfully so. Men (and Jinn) however, are given free will and accountability to choose.
"And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship me. I do not want from them any provision, nor do I want them to feed me. Indeed, it is Allah who is the (continual) Provider, the firm possessor of strength." Al-Quran 51:56-58 (Surah Az-Zariyat)
It is natural for men to submit and dedicate their lives for great causes. Some dedicate their lives for the pursuit of wealth. Others for their children. Others are inspired to follow great leaders of their time. But who is the most worthy of all for dedication? For submission? For worship? Surely, none other than the God who created and provided for us.
After all, is not He the One who created us and our forefathers? Is not He the One who created the heaven, the earth and everything in between? Is not He the One who sent down the rain, made the plants grow and provided all the provision for us to live?
In Islam, the greatest ingratitude is by not acknowledging all the blessings received from God and the greatest sin and injustice is to worship other than Him, accordingly.
Thus, Muslims are those who believe and submit to God, do not associate Him with others and obey the teachings of His messengers.