Common Questions
Frequently Asked Questions
Honest answers to your questions about Islam
What does 'Islam' mean?
The word 'Islam' comes from the Arabic root 's-l-m' which means peace, purity, and submission. In a religious context, Islam means voluntary submission to the will of God (Allah). A person who follows Islam is called a Muslim, meaning 'one who submits to God.'
Do Muslims worship Muhammad?
No. Muslims do not worship Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) or any other human being. Muslims worship Allah (God) alone. Muhammad is revered as the final prophet and messenger of God, but worship is directed solely to Allah. This is the core principle of Tawhid (the oneness of God).
Is Allah a different God?
No. Allah is simply the Arabic word for God — the same God worshipped by Christians and Jews. Arabic-speaking Christians also use the word 'Allah' to refer to God. Islam teaches that Allah is the Creator of the heavens and the earth, the same God who sent Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).
What is the Quran?
The Quran is the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad through the Angel Jibreel (Gabriel) over a period of 23 years. It contains 114 chapters (surahs) covering guidance for all aspects of life. The Quran has been preserved in its original Arabic language without any changes since its revelation.
Do Muslims believe in Jesus?
Yes! Muslims have great love and respect for Jesus (Isa in Arabic). He is considered one of the greatest prophets of God. Muslims believe in his miraculous birth to the Virgin Mary, his miracles, and that he will return before the Day of Judgment. The key difference is that Muslims believe Jesus was a prophet, not the son of God.
Is Islam a violent religion?
Absolutely not. Islam is a religion of peace, mercy, and justice. The Quran states: 'Whoever kills a soul... it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one — it is as if he had saved mankind entirely' (5:32). Acts of terrorism and violence committed by individuals who claim to be Muslim are condemned by mainstream Islamic scholarship and go against the core teachings of the faith.
Are women oppressed in Islam?
Islam gave women rights over 1,400 years ago that the Western world only granted in recent centuries — including the right to own property, inherit, conduct business, choose a spouse, seek education, and divorce. The Quran states that men and women are equal in the sight of God (49:13). Any cultural practices that oppress women are not from Islam but from cultural traditions.
Why do Muslim women wear hijab?
The hijab (headscarf) is worn as an act of obedience to God and as an expression of modesty, dignity, and faith. It is mentioned in the Quran (24:31, 33:59). Many Muslim women choose to wear it as a personal expression of their relationship with God. It is important to note that Islam also prescribes modesty for men.
How do I become a Muslim?
Becoming a Muslim is beautifully simple. You sincerely recite the Shahadah (Declaration of Faith): 'I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.' When said with sincere belief, this makes you a Muslim. Visit our 'Become a Muslim' page for more details and support.
Do I have to change my name?
No, you do not need to change your name when you become Muslim, unless your current name has a meaning that contradicts Islamic beliefs. Many new Muslims choose to adopt an Islamic name as an expression of their new identity, but this is entirely optional and a personal choice.
Can I still have non-Muslim friends and family?
Absolutely. Islam encourages good treatment of all people, regardless of their faith. The Quran says: 'God does not forbid you from being kind and just to those who do not fight you because of your religion' (60:8). Maintaining good relationships with family and friends is highly valued in Islam.
What are the Five Pillars of Islam?
The Five Pillars are the foundational practices of Islam: (1) Shahadah — the declaration of faith, (2) Salah — five daily prayers, (3) Sawm — fasting during Ramadan, (4) Zakat — obligatory charity of 2.5% of wealth, and (5) Hajj — pilgrimage to Mecca once in a lifetime if able. These pillars provide structure and spiritual growth for every Muslim.