Introduction to Islam

God calls on us to acknowledge Him through His signs. God has made it our responsibility to recognise Him. This is part of the test of this life. Without the right attitude, no amount of information can make someone believe. What helps, and what gets in the way:

• Objectivity and an open mind — rather than preconceived barriers and misconceptions
• Humbleness and sincerity — rather than pride and arrogance
• Contemplation about our purpose — rather than focus only on the material world
• Being receptive to God's signs — rather than dismissing everything as meaningless

The first reason for believing in God relates to reflecting on the origin of the universe. How did the universe come to exist?

• Did it come from nothing? From nothing, comes nothing. So, obviously not.
• Did it create itself? No, this is irrational. It is like saying a mother gave birth to herself.
• Has it always existed? No, modern science concludes that the universe is not eternal and had a beginning.
• Was it created? Yes. Muslims believe something beyond the universe created it — The Creator.

Another simple reason for believing in God is by pondering over the order of the universe using the following logic: anything that is ordered indicates intelligence; our solar system is highly ordered with intricate systems, laws and patterns; therefore the order in our universe indicates the intelligence of the Creator.

Many features in the universe clearly indicate it to be specially designed to support life — the ozone layer, the thickness of the earth's crust, the percentage of oxygen in the air, the distance from the sun, and the relative size of the sun, earth and moon. If these measurements were slightly different to what they currently are, life could not exist.

Could a large complex universe form by coincidence, without supervision? It should be noted that Islam encourages scientific research and reflection. The role of science helps us describe the many observed patterns that God places in His creation and appreciate the extent of His power and wisdom.

The Qur'an provides a strong argument for the existence of God and it is unmatched in its style, wisdom, guidance, eloquence as well as its uniqueness in how it addresses the reader.

• No errors or contradictions
• Pure and clear descriptions of God
• The pinnacle of Arabic linguistic beauty
• Revealed via Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who was unlettered
• Preserved — no alterations in 1400 years
• Deep insights into human behaviour
• Memorised cover to cover by millions of people

“On earth there are signs for those with sure faith; and in yourselves too, do you not see?”

Qur'an 51:20-21

One of the main beauties of Islam is that it acknowledges the complete perfection, greatness and uniqueness of God with absolutely no compromises.

• God is One and Unique and has no rivals, partners or sons.
• God is Worthy of All Worship — directly and exclusively, with no intermediaries.
• God is Perfect and Flawless — no limitations or weaknesses.
• God is the Most Merciful — He knows we are imperfect and commit sins, however the key is to always acknowledge our mistakes and to sincerely ask for forgiveness.
• No part of God is present in His creation nor do others share in His divine attributes.

When trying to understand the concept of God in Islam, it is important to discuss the status of Jesus, given the widespread confusion and claims about his nature.

Islam acknowledges Jesus as an honourable Prophet and Messenger of God, but Muslims do not worship him — as worship is for God alone who created Jesus and everything that exists. As such, the belief of Jesus as God, or the son of God, or part of a trinity, clearly contradicts the pure teachings of God in Islam.

God sent Prophets to every nation throughout time with the same essential message — to worship one true God. Prophets Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad, peace be upon them all, shared one mission:

• Emphasise the concept of one God
• Reject false gods and beliefs
• Demonstrate how to worship God
• Be an example of righteousness
• Describe the rewards for obedience (heaven)
• Warn of the punishment for disobedience (hell)

Although Muslims love and respect all Prophets, they do not worship them or attribute divinity to them, as this is reserved solely for God.

• Women: Women have the highest respect in Islam. They are to be treated with love, honour and respect. They are the partners of men, and no oppression can ever be condoned towards them.
• Terrorism: Islam permits fighting in order to preserve the well being of society, to prevent oppression from spreading, and to promote justice. However, targeting innocent non-combatants is a despicable act which is prohibited.
• Halal food: Halal foods are those lawful for Muslims to consume. Meats and poultry should be slaughtered humanely with suffering minimised, and God's name should be mentioned during slaughter.
• Evolution: God created the first human being, Adam, in his final form — as opposed to evolving gradually from advanced apes. As for living creatures other than humans, Islamic sources are silent on the matter and only require us to believe that God created them in whatever manner He wanted.

• A balance of hope in God's mercy and fear of His punishment
• I have a noble purpose
• If good happens, be grateful. If bad happens, have patience
• This life is a test and God sees everything I do
• Put my trust in God — nothing happens except by His permission
• Everything I have is from God
• Focus on what is in my control and try my best
• Genuine hope and concern for non-Muslims to be guided
• I will return to God and be accountable