Frequently Asked Questions About Islam

The word “Islam” means submission — specifically, submission to the will of God. It comes from the same root word as “salaam,” which means peace.

In Islam, true peace is found through willingly submitting to the Creator. A Muslim is someone who chooses to worship God alone and live according to His guidance.

Islam is not a new religion. Muslims believe it is the same message brought by earlier prophets like Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus — peace be upon them all. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is believed to be the final messenger in this chain.

At its core, Islam teaches belief in:
• One God
• His angels
• His revealed books
• His prophets
• The Day of Judgment
• Divine decree

Islam is a complete way of life — guiding faith, morality, worship, and personal character.

Yes. Muslims believe Allah is the same Creator worshipped by Abraham, Moses, and Jesus — peace be upon them all.

Islam teaches that there is only one true God who sent guidance throughout history. However, Muslims believe that over time, some teachings were altered or misunderstood, particularly regarding the nature of God.

In Islam, God is strictly One — without partners, children, or divisions. While Christianity teaches the Trinity, Islam emphasizes absolute monotheism (Tawheed).

Despite theological differences, Muslims believe the source of the original message given to earlier prophets is the same one God.

Islam sees itself not as a new religion, but as a continuation and restoration of pure monotheism.

Islam teaches that humans were created with purpose — not by accident or randomness.

The Qur’an states:

“I did not create jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” (Qur’an 51:56)

Worship in Islam is not limited to rituals. It includes living ethically, showing kindness, seeking truth, and fulfilling one’s responsibilities.

Life is viewed as a test — a temporary stage before the eternal life of the Hereafter. Each person is given free will to choose belief or disbelief, right or wrong.

God did not create humanity without guidance. He sent prophets and revelation to help people find clarity, meaning, and direction.

In Islam, our purpose is to know our Creator, live morally, and prepare for the Day when we return to Him.

Tawheed is the central belief in Islam — the absolute oneness of God.

It means:
• God is One in His essence
• One in His attributes
• One in His right to be worshipped

Nothing resembles Him, nothing shares His power, and nothing deserves worship except Him.

Tawheed is the foundation of Islam. Every act of worship — prayer, charity, fasting — is built upon this belief.

Muslims reject idol worship, saint worship, or praying through intermediaries because Islam teaches a direct relationship between the individual and God.

The Qur’an summarizes Tawheed beautifully:

“Say: He is Allah, One. Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born. Nor is there to Him any equivalent.” (Qur’an 112)

This chapter captures the essence of Islamic belief in a few powerful lines.

The core beliefs are known as the Six Articles of Faith:

Belief in Allah

Belief in Angels

Belief in Revealed Books

Belief in Prophets

Belief in the Day of Judgment

Belief in Divine Decree (Qadr)

These are derived from the famous Hadith of Jibril (Sahih Muslim, Hadith 8), where the Angel Gabriel asked the Prophet ﷺ about faith.

The Qur’an states:

“The Messenger has believed in what was revealed to him from his Lord, and so have the believers…” (Qur’an 2:285)

Faith in Islam combines belief of the heart, speech of the tongue, and actions of the limbs.

Yes. Angels are part of the unseen world.

The Qur’an says:

“The Messenger believes in what has been revealed to him… and [so do] the believers. All of them believe in Allah, His angels…” (Qur’an 2:285)

Angels do not have free will. They obey God completely (Qur’an 66:6).

The Angel Jibril (Gabriel) delivered revelation to the prophets.

Two angels record every person’s deeds (Qur’an 50:17–18).

Muslims believe Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was sent as the final messenger to all humanity.

The Qur’an says:

“And We have not sent you except as a mercy to the worlds.” (Qur’an 21:107)

He confirmed previous prophets and delivered the final revelation.

He said:

“The example of me and the prophets before me is like a building…” (Sahih Bukhari 3535)

Islam teaches that revelation was completed with him (Qur’an 5:3).

Allah has many beautiful names, known as Asma’ul Husna (The Most Beautiful Names).

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Allah has ninety-nine names… whoever enumerates them will enter Paradise.” (Sahih Bukhari 2736; Muslim 2677)

The Qur’an states:

“To Allah belong the best names, so call upon Him by them.” (Qur’an 7:180)

Examples include:
Ar-Rahman (Most Merciful), Al-Hakeem (All-Wise), Al-‘Adl (Most Just).

Yes. Muslims believe everything occurs by Allah’s knowledge and decree.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Believe in divine decree, its good and its bad.” (Sahih Muslim 8)

The Qur’an says:

“Indeed, all things We created with decree.” (Qur’an 54:49)

However, humans still have free will and are responsible for their choices.

No, witnesses are not required for your conversion to be valid.

If you sincerely believe in the message of Islam and say the Shahada with conviction, you are considered Muslim in the sight of God.

However, many people choose to say it in front of witnesses at a mosque. This is helpful because:

• It provides community support
• The mosque may give a certificate if needed
• It marks an important life milestone

But Islam does not require a formal ceremony.

Your relationship with God is direct — no intermediary is needed.

No, changing your name is not required unless your name has a meaning that contradicts Islamic beliefs (for example, a name connected to idol worship).

Most converts keep their birth name. Islam does not erase your identity, culture, or heritage.

Some people choose to adopt a Muslim name for personal reasons, but this is optional.

Islam teaches that God looks at your heart and actions — not your name.

Your identity is not erased when you become Muslim; rather, your faith becomes clearer.

One of the most beautiful teachings in Islam is that when a person accepts Islam sincerely, all previous sins are forgiven.

It is as if you are spiritually reborn — with a clean slate.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught that Islam wipes away what came before it.

This means:
• Past mistakes are forgiven
• Past disbelief is forgiven
• Even major sins are forgiven

You begin your new journey without burden from the past.

Islam emphasizes hope and mercy. No matter what someone has done before, sincere repentance and faith erase it completely.

This is a very common concern.

Islam teaches kindness and respect toward parents and family — even if they do not share your beliefs.

The Qur’an instructs Muslims to treat their parents with compassion, even if they disagree about faith.

You are not required to cut ties with family. In fact, maintaining family relationships is strongly encouraged.

Many converts take things gradually, showing through their character and good manners that Islam has made them more patient, respectful, and thoughtful.

With time, families often soften when they see positive changes.

You are not alone in this journey — many reverts have walked this path before you.

The Shahada is:

“Ashhadu an la ilaha illa Allah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadan rasul Allah.”

Meaning:
“I bear witness that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.”

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Islam is built upon five…” (Sahih Bukhari 8; Muslim 16)

The first pillar is the testimony of faith.

Many scholars recommend performing ghusl (full ritual bath) after conversion.

There is narration that when people accepted Islam, the Prophet ﷺ instructed them to wash (Abu Dawood 355).

It symbolizes spiritual and physical purification.

However, the conversion itself is valid without delay.

No.

Many companions accepted Islam first and learned gradually.

The Qur’an was revealed over 23 years (Qur’an 25:32).

Islam encourages step-by-step growth.

Struggle is normal.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Religion is easy…” (Sahih Bukhari 39)

Allah says:

“Allah does not burden a soul beyond its capacity.” (Qur’an 2:286)

Growth takes time.

Islam does not erase culture unless it contradicts faith.

The Prophet ﷺ allowed many cultural practices that were not sinful.

The Qur’an says:

“We made you nations and tribes so that you may know one another.” (Qur’an 49:13)

Islam is universal — not tied to ethnicity.

Wudu is a simple ritual washing performed before prayer.

It involves washing:
• Hands
• Mouth
• Nose
• Face
• Arms
• Head (wiping)
• Feet

It only takes a few minutes.

Wudu is not just about physical cleanliness — it symbolizes spiritual purity and preparation to stand before God.

Islam places strong emphasis on cleanliness and personal hygiene.

If someone cannot use water due to illness or lack of access, Islam provides alternatives. The religion is practical and compassionate.

No. You do not need to know Arabic before becoming Muslim.

Many new Muslims learn prayer gradually.

While the formal prayer is performed in Arabic (as it preserves the original revelation), beginners often:
• Learn small portions step by step
• Read transliteration at first
• Learn meanings alongside memorization

God knows your effort and intention.

Islam does not expect you to become fluent overnight. Learning takes time, and every small step counts.

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. During this month, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset.

Fasting means:
• No food
• No drink
• No smoking
• No marital relations

Fasting develops discipline, gratitude, and empathy for those in need.

However, not everyone must fast. Those exempt include:
• The sick
• The elderly
• Pregnant or nursing women
• Travelers

Islam never imposes hardship beyond one’s ability.

Ramadan is not just about hunger — it is about spiritual growth and self-control.

“Halal” means permissible in Islam.

For food, halal generally means:
• No pork or pork products
• No alcohol
• Meat must be slaughtered in a specific humane way

Seafood is generally halal.

In the UK, many supermarkets and halal butchers provide halal options.

For new Muslims, dietary changes can be one of the biggest adjustments — but it becomes easier with time.

Islam encourages balance and does not require extreme measures. It simply provides guidelines for healthy and ethical living.

The Qur’an was revealed in Arabic (Qur’an 12:2).

Prayer preserves the original revelation.

However, understanding is encouraged.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Islam is built upon five…” (Bukhari 8; Muslim 16)

Shahada

Prayer

Zakat

Fasting Ramadan

Hajj

Yes, for those who meet the financial threshold.

The Qur’an commands:

“Establish prayer and give Zakat.” (Qur’an 2:43)

It purifies wealth (Qur’an 9:103).

Eating, drinking, and marital relations during fasting hours.

The Qur’an states:

“Eat and drink until the white thread of dawn becomes distinct…” (Qur’an 2:187)

If forgotten, pray it when remembered.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Whoever forgets a prayer, let him pray it when he remembers.” (Sahih Muslim 684)

Hijab is a form of modest dress prescribed in Islam. For many Muslim women, it is an act of obedience to God and a symbol of faith.

The Qur’an instructs believing women to dress modestly and guard their dignity. Hijab is meant to encourage respect, not restriction.

It is important to understand:
• Hijab is a religious choice
• It is not a symbol of inferiority
• It is not meant to erase identity

Many women describe hijab as empowering because it shifts focus from appearance to character.

That said, spiritual growth happens at different speeds. Some women adopt hijab immediately after conversion, others take time.

Faith develops gradually.

Yes. There is no Islamic rule preventing women from working, studying, or owning businesses.

The Prophet Muhammad’s first wife, Khadijah (may Allah be pleased with her), was a successful businesswoman.

Islam encourages education for both men and women. Seeking knowledge is considered an obligation for every Muslim.

Work must simply align with ethical and modest guidelines — just as it does for men.

Many Muslim women today are:
• Doctors
• Teachers
• Entrepreneurs
• Scholars
• Community leaders

Islam values contribution and responsibility — not confinement.

Yes. A woman’s consent is required for marriage in Islam.

A forced marriage is invalid in Islamic law.

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ explicitly stated that a woman cannot be married without her permission.

Marriage in Islam is a contract between two consenting adults. A woman has the right to:
• Accept or reject proposals
• Include conditions in the marriage contract
• Seek divorce under valid grounds

Cultural practices that force marriage contradict Islamic teachings.

Islamic inheritance laws can appear unequal at first glance, but they are part of a broader financial system.

In Islam:
• Men are financially responsible for supporting their families
• Women are not required to financially provide, even if wealthy
• A woman’s inheritance is hers alone

So while a son may inherit more than a daughter in certain cases, he also carries lifelong financial obligations toward family members.

Islamic inheritance law is based on responsibility and financial duty — not superiority.

Yes.

“Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women…” (Qur’an 33:35)

Both are equally accountable.

Yes.

Islam allows khula (woman-initiated divorce) (Sahih Bukhari 5273).

Yes.

“For men is a share… and for women is a share…” (Qur’an 4:7)

Yes.

“Tell the believing men to lower their gaze…” (Qur’an 24:30)

Modesty applies to both genders.

Yes.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim.” (Ibn Majah 224)

No. The Qur’an clearly states:

“There is no compulsion in religion.” (Qur’an 2:256)

Faith in Islam must come from sincere belief, not pressure.

Throughout history, Muslim lands included large Christian and Jewish populations who maintained their religion for centuries.

Forced conversion contradicts Islamic principles because faith must be genuine.

Becoming Muslim is a personal decision between an individual and God.

“Jihad” literally means struggle or striving.

In Islam, the greatest jihad is the internal struggle to improve oneself — overcoming ego, sin, and wrongdoing.

Armed jihad refers to defensive warfare under strict conditions, not aggression or forced conversion.

Classical Islamic law places heavy restrictions on warfare:
• It must not target civilians
• It must be declared legitimately
• It must aim to stop injustice

Using the word “jihad” to justify terrorism is a distortion of its true meaning.

Most Muslims use the word in its spiritual sense — striving to live a moral and disciplined life.

Islamic law (Shariah) includes legal punishments, but they exist within a broader moral and judicial system designed to preserve society.

These punishments:
• Have strict evidentiary requirements
• Are rarely implemented
• Require high standards of proof

Islamic law prioritizes prevention, justice, and mercy.

Many conditions must be met before legal penalties apply, and poverty or social injustice can invalidate punishments.

It is also important to distinguish between:
• Classical Islamic legal theory
• Cultural practices
• Modern political systems

Often what is portrayed in media is not representative of Islamic jurisprudence as understood by scholars.

Extremism is a political and ideological phenomenon — not a core teaching of Islam.

Every major religion has had groups that distort its teachings.

Islam explicitly condemns injustice, killing innocents, and spreading corruption on earth.

The Qur’an states:

“Whoever kills a soul… it is as if he had slain all mankind.” (Qur’an 5:32)

Extremist movements often arise from political conflict, war, or social instability — not religious devotion.

The actions of a small minority do not represent the beliefs of nearly two billion Muslims worldwide.

Islamic scholars across the world have consistently condemned terrorism and violence against civilians.

Islam teaches that sexual relations are permitted within marriage between a man and a woman.

At the same time, Islam distinguishes between feelings and actions. Having certain feelings is not considered sinful — but acting upon prohibited behaviors is.

Islam emphasizes dignity and respect for every human being. Mockery, hatred, and abuse are strictly forbidden.

Many Muslims approach this topic with compassion, recognizing that faith and personal struggles can be complex.

Islam’s moral framework is based on what it teaches as divine guidance — even when it differs from modern social norms.

Disagreement does not justify mistreatment.

Alcohol is prohibited because Islam seeks to protect the mind, health, family, and society.

Intoxication impairs judgment, weakens self-control, and contributes to many social harms including addiction, abuse, and broken families.

Islam prohibits not only alcohol but anything that intoxicates.

The Qur’an gradually introduced the prohibition, acknowledging human weakness and leading people step by step.

Muslims believe that God’s commands are ultimately for human benefit — even when they require sacrifice.

Many converts say giving up alcohol was one of the most positive lifestyle changes they experienced.

In Islamic law, Muslim men are permitted to marry Christian or Jewish women under specific conditions.

However, Muslim women are not permitted to marry outside the faith.

This ruling is connected to the traditional Islamic framework of family leadership and religious continuity.

In Islam, the husband carries financial and spiritual responsibility for the household. Historically, religious identity followed the father in many societies.

While this ruling can feel difficult to understand from a modern perspective, it is based on preserving religious stability within the family structure.

Marriage in Islam is considered a spiritual partnership, and shared faith is seen as essential for long-term harmony.

Islam permits a man to marry up to four wives — but only under strict conditions of justice and equal treatment.

The Qur’an emphasizes:

“If you fear that you cannot deal justly, then marry only one.” (Qur’an 4:3)

Justice here includes:
• Financial support
• Time
• Emotional fairness

If fairness cannot be maintained, monogamy is required.

Polygamy was regulated in a society where it already existed without limits. Islam restricted it and placed conditions upon it.

In most Muslim communities today, monogamy is the norm.

It is a permission — not an obligation.

Islam does not teach that dogs are evil or cursed.

Dogs are respected creatures in Islam, and there is even a famous narration about a person forgiven by God for giving water to a thirsty dog.

However, Islamic law classifies dog saliva as ritually impure, meaning that if it touches a person, washing is required before prayer.

This is a matter of ritual cleanliness — not hatred.

Dogs may be kept for practical purposes such as guarding, farming, or assistance.

Many Muslims today interact with dogs respectfully while observing religious guidelines.

The Qur’an states:

“There is no compulsion in religion.” (Qur’an 2:256)

Classical rulings tied apostasy to political treason in early states. Modern scholars debate application in contemporary context.

Hadith discourage idol-making (Bukhari 5954).

Purpose was to prevent idolatry.

Islam regulated and gradually restricted it (Qur’an 90:13; 24:33).

It encouraged freeing slaves.

“Allah has permitted trade and forbidden interest.” (Qur’an 2:275)

It prevents exploitation.

“O children of Adam, take your adornment at every mosque…” (Qur’an 7:31)

Dress codes promote modesty and dignity.

The Qur’an contains verses that describe natural phenomena, including:

• The development of the human embryo
• The expansion of the universe
• The barrier between bodies of water
• The role of mountains

Many Muslims view these verses as signs that the Qur’an contains knowledge beyond what was common in 7th-century Arabia.

However, serious scholars caution against over-interpreting verses to match modern scientific discoveries too precisely.

The Qur’an is not a science textbook — its primary purpose is spiritual guidance.

That said, many find it remarkable that its descriptions align with later discoveries.

Muslims believe the Qur’an has been preserved through both written and oral transmission.

From the time of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ:

• The Qur’an was memorized by his companions
• It was written down during his lifetime
• It was compiled into a single manuscript shortly after his death

Millions of Muslims today have memorized the entire Qur’an word-for-word.

Ancient manuscripts, such as the Birmingham manuscript, match the Qur’anic text used worldwide today.

Unlike many ancient scriptures, the Qur’an exists in one consistent version across the globe in its original Arabic.

This preservation is considered by Muslims to be a sign of divine protection.

Muslims hold different views regarding evolution.

Many accept microevolution (small changes within species) as observable and compatible with Islam.

The main debate centers around human origins.

Islam teaches that Prophet Adam was specially created by God. Some Muslims interpret this literally; others explore ways to reconcile the scriptural account with scientific theories.

Islam does not oppose scientific investigation, but it maintains that revelation provides knowledge beyond empirical observation.

The relationship between evolution and faith is discussed thoughtfully among scholars — it is not a closed topic.

Muslims believe Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was truthful based on several factors:

• His reputation for honesty before prophethood
• The consistency of his message over 23 years
• The depth and literary uniqueness of the Qur’an
• His lack of worldly gain from preaching
• The transformation of society through his leadership

Even his opponents called him “Al-Amin” (The Trustworthy) before he began preaching Islam.

He lived simply and faced persecution rather than personal benefit.

For many, the strength of his character, combined with the Qur’an’s impact, supports his authenticity.

“If you are in doubt… produce a chapter like it.” (Qur’an 2:23)

Its style was unmatched in classical Arabic.

“And the heaven We constructed with strength, and indeed, We are expanding it.” (Qur’an 51:47)

“Say: Are those who know equal to those who do not know?” (Qur’an 39:9)

The Qur’an challenges humanity to produce something similar (Qur’an 10:38).

Millions memorize it globally — unmatched in religious history.

The Day of Judgment is when all human beings will be resurrected and held accountable for their actions.

Every deed — good or bad — will be presented.

Islam teaches that God is perfectly just and perfectly merciful.

No one will be wronged, and even the smallest act of kindness will be recognized.

People will be judged according to:
• Their faith
• Their sincerity
• Their actions
• The knowledge available to them

The Day of Judgment emphasizes moral responsibility and divine fairness.

Jannah is the eternal reward for those who believed in God and lived righteously.

The Qur’an describes it as a place of:

• Peace
• Joy
• Gardens and rivers
• Freedom from pain
• Eternal happiness

However, Islamic scholars emphasize that Paradise is far beyond human imagination.

The greatest reward in Jannah is nearness to God and complete inner peace.

Paradise is not just physical comfort — it is spiritual fulfillment.

Jahannam is the place of punishment for those who knowingly reject truth and persist in injustice.

Islam teaches that God is just — wrongdoing has consequences.

However, Islam also emphasizes mercy.

Some people may enter Hell temporarily before being forgiven.

God’s mercy is greater than His wrath, and He does not punish without reason.

Descriptions of Hell serve as warnings, encouraging people to live ethically and consciously.

It is not meant to create despair, but awareness.

Islam teaches that ultimate judgment belongs to God alone.

While belief in Islam is central to salvation, scholars explain that accountability depends on:

• Whether a person received the message clearly
• Whether they understood it correctly
• Their sincerity and circumstances

The Qur’an states that God does not punish a people until guidance has reached them.

Islam teaches that God is perfectly just and fully aware of every person’s situation.

No human being can declare the eternal fate of another.

Judgment is in the hands of the One who knows every heart.

“…behind them is a barrier until the Day they are resurrected.” (Qur’an 23:100)

“And We place the scales of justice…” (Qur’an 21:47)

The Prophet ﷺ will intercede (Sahih Bukhari 7440).

Many hadith describe minor and major signs (Sahih Muslim 2901).

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“My mercy prevails over My wrath.” (Sahih Bukhari 7404; Muslim 2751)

Yes — with conditions.

Muslims may attend weddings, family events, and social gatherings as long as they avoid activities that contradict Islamic guidelines (such as drinking alcohol or inappropriate behaviour).

Many Muslims attend events and simply abstain from what is not permissible.

Islam encourages maintaining family ties and community relationships.

Balance is key — participating respectfully while staying true to your values.

Islam has two official religious festivals:

• Eid al-Fitr
• Eid al-Adha

Opinions among scholars differ regarding birthdays. Some allow simple, non-religious celebrations. Others discourage them if they resemble religious imitation.

Cultural celebrations that do not involve religious elements or prohibited activities are often viewed differently by scholars.

Many Muslims approach this topic thoughtfully and consult local scholars for guidance.

The key principle in Islam is avoiding religious practices that contradict monotheism while maintaining family harmony and kindness.

The traditional greeting in Islam is:

“As-Salamu Alaikum” — meaning “Peace be upon you.”

The response is:

“Wa Alaikum As-Salam” — “And upon you be peace.”

This greeting reflects the Islamic emphasis on peace and goodwill.

Muslims may also greet non-Muslims politely in ways appropriate to local culture.

The goal of Islamic manners is spreading kindness, not creating social barriers.

Yes. Millions of Muslims live in Western countries, including the UK, US, Canada, and across Europe.

Islam does not forbid living in non-Muslim societies as long as a person can practice their faith freely.

Muslims are encouraged to:
• Contribute positively to society
• Follow the law
• Be honest and ethical citizens
• Serve their communities

Islam teaches that a Muslim should be a source of benefit wherever they live.

Being Muslim and being British, Scottish, American, or European are not mutually exclusive.

Faith is about values — not geography.

“The believers are but brothers.” (Qur’an 49:10)

“The mosques of Allah are maintained…” (Qur’an 9:18)

Islam commands justice and honoring contracts (Qur’an 5:1).

The Prophet ﷺ said:

“The best of you are the best in character.” (Sahih Bukhari 3559)