Question:
In the beginning God made the universe in 6 days. Do you agree?
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:00:47 UTC
The seventh day was for worship and rest.
This to my mind is totally preposterous considering the science that says that it has more or less taken billions of years, even up to the date of the Bible writings.
57 answers:
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:01:52 UTC
No I don't believe it, b/c I'm not dumb.
Sqdr
2006-09-20 16:52:19 UTC
According to a Bible Concordance that I read years ago, part of the problem is that the word "day" in the first chapter of Genesis is an incorrect translation of the original manuscript which should have been translated as "heptad," or seven time periods. But how long were these time periods? The translators working on The King James Version decided that since there were seven days in a week, it probably was a day. But now with the work of geologists, we know that those time periods had to be much, much longer; a fact that fundamentalists refuse to accept because they believe in the infailability of the Bible.
tizzy
2006-09-22 00:26:48 UTC
First, if I said "the day of steam" or "the day of the mobile phone" would you think I was talking about literal "days", or periods of (undefined span) time? I hope you would think the latter.

Right, so when the bible says creation took seven days, it also does not mean literal days.

In this context could not a creation day actually be millions/billions of years?

This does not actually disprove evolution within certain limits, as species are evolving all the time. Look at the difference between cave man, and modern man.

This does not mean however that man came from monkeys.

On the fifth day God created animal (including monkeys etc, but not necessarily all together)

On the sixth day He created man.



On the seventh day he rested.



Before you ridicule this answer, just think and meditate on it.
pshdsa
2006-09-20 16:41:03 UTC
Yes BUT. God created the earth and universe in what HE calls six days. Those days were not our 24 hour days. In Genesis we first see the earth, barren and covered with a great depth of water, having been there for some unknown period of time. Then the first thing created is a light source. It is not the sun. The days and nights are measured by this unknown light source (sun not created until the fourth day). Then like a baby in the mother's womb and the process it takes to go from there to adulthood, so the earth was surrounded by water and the process of creation began. The vegetation sprouted. Trees, grass, herbs, etc. all sprouted. Process. This creation process is divided by God into what He calls six "days". There were long processes and instantaneous creations in that process. Man did not know anything about the length of days until he was created, and he began to use the sun to base his days on. Man had no clue that the days God said He created the world in, were different. Before man, there was only God's perspective. Now with man there is only man's perspective here on earth. So the assumption that God created the world in 24 hours of our days is a gross misunderstanding which leads to the error of some saying the earth is only 6,000 years or so old.

No one can know exactly how long God's days were, but we can estimate that those days were very long.

Even Augustine realized the truth of this and called God's creation days "special days".
?
2006-09-22 11:05:49 UTC
Earth's age is based on several things:



1) dating meteorites. When we find a meteorite from this solar system that has a similar composition to earth, you get many young ages, but the oldest and most common date to 4.6 Ga (billion years).



2) isotope trends. When you look at certain radiogenic isotope ratios that change with time, like Rb/Sr or U/Pb, you find that many rocks with differnt ratios of many ages form a line, and the line traces back to an origin of 4.6 Ga as well.



The oldest life is 3 1/2 Ga, the oldest rock is about 4 Ga, and the oldest date ever found is on the highly durable mineral Zircon from Australia, it's date is 4.2 Ga. So, there is no direct method, it is based on inferences. However, many different inferences lead to the same number 4.559 Ga (to be specific).



You would have to throw out everything we know and love about Geology to accept a young earth view. When you look at the Grand Canyon, how can you say that only took 6000 years to form? Any timeframe that is not 4.6 Ga is based on faith only.
V
2006-09-21 05:51:56 UTC
It's total horse hockey. And what's worse it the creationist nut jobs in America are making advances in getting this nonsense added to school curriculums. In some parts of the USA creationism as stated in the Bible is taught as SCIENCE in classroom science lessons, and Science text books have a sticker slapped in them saying 'Evolution is a theory, and not a proven scientific fact.' It's shocking that people in such an advanced country can have such simple minded ideas - like little children that have no power of critical thinking. They also believe that the world is only like 6,000 years old, and fossils and so forth are either God testing our faith, or the Devil trying to trick us. Good grief! Even G.W. Bush buys this crap. Holy Cow.
anonymous
2006-09-22 15:55:58 UTC
Here we we go again, when someone knows bugger all about science they copy and paste half the bible or half the Koran.

I have just been watching a DVD of an excellent BBC documentary series called "Earth Story" I wonder if it was ever broadcast in USA? If you were to watch that and not be convinced about how the earth works, how it was formed and why geologists believe the age of the earth is millions of years old, then I am afraid nothing would.
tdenisem01
2006-09-20 16:15:34 UTC
God does not measure his days in 24 hours. You can't only read one scripture out the bible and say you don't understand. Continue you might want to start w/Romans 10:9 and 10. Scientist are men who live and die, and live by theories. God is Creator of the heavens and earth and also those scientists. Don't just take small fragments of anything, do a little research.
linea843
2006-09-20 16:11:55 UTC
Honestly, science is constantly contradicting the bible. I am to the point that I believe that God exists but I am skeptical of the entire Bible. Some people believe that a day to God may be a lot longer than a day to us. I am a logical person, so it either makes sense or it doesn't.
Yippy
2006-09-20 18:15:26 UTC
I must say that I think that religion's version of how things came to be is a little inadequate, and that's being polite. According to Christianity, the world has existed for about 9000 years, but there is scientific proof that the Earth is some 4.6 billion years old. That's a pretty big margin of error.
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:05:24 UTC
Of course the Bible was written thousands of years ago and may have been written in a more simple style to make it easier for the mostly uneducated population to understand. And there may have been a time when a "day" had a different meaning or different length. I do agree that "God" created the universe and everything in it - there really isn't any other rational explanation for how everything came into being.
TrainerMan
2006-09-20 16:06:13 UTC
The Bible was written in a specific time for a specific group of people. Just as evolution is our best explanation for the origin of life on earth, the creation myths (yes, there are two if you read Genesis closely enough, which in my mind, negates its validity) were the best possible explanation for that time. I'm a Christian, but I believe that the Bible is told more in metaphor than it is fundamental truth. Therefore, it's the most false, yet the most true thing that there is.
Alan L
2006-09-20 16:33:39 UTC
God making the universe in 6 days is a Hebrew creation myth. If you want to believe in a creation myth (literally, not as an allegory) you have a fantastic selection to choose from: Norse, Egyptian, Islamic, Taoist, Greek, Aztec, Japanese, Hindu etc.



You need not favour one above the other. You can choose whichever most appeals to you.



Alternatively you may consider them all metaphorical narratives.



Which is more likely - one of them is literally true and all the rest are literally false, or none of them are literally true?
mescalin57
2006-09-20 18:13:40 UTC
so just as a matter of interest who or what created the earth space the universe human beings animals plant etc. according to scientists there was this big bang then it all happened utter rubbish never put your faith in science. these people are still trying to figure it out and probably never will. there has to be creator nothing can evolve from nothing think about it.
Perseus
2006-09-20 18:02:34 UTC
Back then days were a bit shorter. Milliseconds. Man has often readjusted the length of the day and the calendar when the elder astronomers and rulers wanted to get the harvest in on time.
Clive
2006-09-22 02:33:27 UTC
In the beginning there was no God.

Then a cunning man saw the ignorance of his fellows

and he invented an omnipotent ally and called him God.

Because only the cunning man knew the Word of God,

he had power and wealth and was held in awe.

And he smiled in contempt at those he had duped.



Gospel according to Clive.
El Recio
2006-09-20 16:11:54 UTC
My opinion is that you need to search for the theories of the creation, which are different. Science try to prove evolution but Bible shows a creation in 6 days. So If you are mixing this concepts in your mind then you are very confuse. 2 theories that separate believers and non believers. You follow one or the other one, You can not mix them up. I hope it helps
Lola.Bunny
2006-09-20 16:20:05 UTC
days = periods of time. According to the Bilble, it doesn't really matter WHEN he created the Universe... what matters is that he's created it.

Don't take it literally:

apple = limits... and you could find a million more like this.



anyway... I believe in the "Big Bang" theory, i believe in what Darwin said and i DON'T believe in God, the Bible and that stuff.
Steve R
2006-09-20 16:13:02 UTC
Religion was a way to keep order in the old days. Now most people know Earth is not the center of the universe
Em
2006-09-20 16:14:26 UTC
One of the most popular Christian rebuttals is that God's day is a man's thousand years. Even under that lame-o reach around faith, they fail to convince me that the Book is more than nonsense -- nonsense with a lovely moral!



Even if I was religious, I would still hold reservations against literally interpreting the bible. I mean, one day in geometry, and you start to wonder: "Just how wide was the base of this tower to heaven?" (Babel wasn't even made of very durable materials!)



~~ smoke fizzles out of brain ~~
hello
2006-09-20 16:06:16 UTC
Yes god didrest and was pleased on the seventh day. You are right, Because I just looked in my bible and it showed it ( with pictures )

I believe in god to he is so worthy I love him.
Hello Dave
2006-09-20 16:08:44 UTC
Well, the bible actually says that he made the earth in 7 days, not the universe. But either way I agree with you - it's all nonsense.
JaySy
2006-09-20 16:03:36 UTC
Yeah and on the seventh day he rested, Just remeber that Gods days might not be the same as our days.
monkeygirl
2006-09-20 16:02:56 UTC
Yes i tottly agree that god made the earth in 6 days,and rested on the 7th day.
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:04:57 UTC
I agree with you.



Life on this planet is down to evolution, not some fictional bearded bloke sittig up in the sky.



FFS



If he is all powerful why did he ever need to shave?



Surely his body would be lacking in the normal male problems, having to shave etc
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:10:24 UTC
yeah it is totally preposterous. the big bang theory is the best we have to go on, but I doubt that anyone will ever know exactly what happened.
Andielep
2006-09-20 16:09:53 UTC
He did make it in 6 days!! I can spot a rush job when I see one!!! He'd had a winegum or two at the time and hired some dodgy subbies to help 'cos they were cheap'!!!
Dean P
2006-09-21 02:13:31 UTC
i could go on for years about the bible and its proposterous theories. where are the dinosaurs in gods bible? we KNOW they exist and surely they would have eaten someone in there!
Ed A
2006-09-20 16:03:08 UTC
I think God wanted to watch the NFL on Sunday, that's why he rested on the 7th day.
bullyhouse123
2006-09-24 05:46:09 UTC
anyone with their head screwed on knows that the world has evolved over millions of years!!
:)☮♥
2006-09-24 08:15:23 UTC
i agree i mean to be honest there is more proof that humans excist by evolving that there is of god excisting
manicmalcolm
2006-09-20 16:13:12 UTC
There is no god so the question is a silly one to start with
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:03:45 UTC
yes and no..



in the beginning could be a long time ago...

that is why it is called the beginning..



verse two of Genesis has an earth covered by water..

so verse one and verse two could be millions of years apart..
anonymous
2006-09-21 07:20:18 UTC
no cant be true its going to take 3 weeks to do our conservatory
C_Millionaire
2006-09-20 16:09:14 UTC
of course it's preposterous
anonymous
2006-09-21 03:21:14 UTC
absolute nonsense,,if anyone can give one scientific piece of evidence to this i would love to see it.
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:03:21 UTC
nobody was there to tell us, so if u believe the bible, believe it
Tyana
2006-09-20 16:02:02 UTC
i do abelieve the bible says that one day to God may also be equal to hundreads of days....
El Camaleon
2006-09-20 16:08:52 UTC
I dont even think god made it.
baybeegrl5
2006-09-20 16:10:33 UTC
no. i don't believe that. i wasn't there with a stop watch so i don't have any opinion on such statements
nendlin
2006-09-20 16:11:12 UTC
yep and i believe in never never land n narnia too
freedomchild99
2006-09-20 16:09:46 UTC
Yes I do. How long is one of God's days? You gotta have faith.
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:01:53 UTC
yes
george p
2006-09-20 16:02:51 UTC
yes
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:02:40 UTC
god does not get tired nor need rest so I think it is a made-up story.
Christina
2006-09-20 16:02:25 UTC
yes, it says it in every bible that you look in.
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:17:55 UTC
Nope...!
anonymous
2006-09-21 02:58:42 UTC
No No No No!
tommo
2006-09-21 00:59:15 UTC
no i dont believe i'm afraid
Existence
2006-09-20 16:07:47 UTC
Nope. Don't agree at all.
GB123
2006-09-21 06:26:02 UTC
It`s amazing what you can do, when your bored!
Emily
2006-09-20 16:07:54 UTC
I disagree.
Slevin
2006-09-20 16:10:26 UTC
he did made it if u belive it or not is all about faith
zanlexuan
2006-09-20 16:10:22 UTC
Dont know.....was not alive at that time....
Sleep deprived
2006-09-20 16:05:14 UTC
No.
anonymous
2006-09-20 16:02:37 UTC
it's just not possible, is it?
neema s
2006-09-20 16:14:44 UTC
Perhaps the word "Allah" sounds strange to your ears. Maybe you are wondering what it means or maybe you heard something about it but you are not sure. "Allah" is the name of the Creator who created everything and whom every believer worshipped from the beginning of the universe.



He is the same God whom the Jews, Christians and Muslims worship and until now Arab Jews and Christians use this name. He has many other names and attributes by which He describes Himself to His creatures. It is as He has said in the Quran: "...To Him belong the Most Beautiful Names..." (59:24)



The Creator , Sustainer, Ever-living, Self-Subsisting

The Muslims believe that Allah alone is the Creator and Sustainer of everything that exists. We believe that He does not die, nor requires food or rest. We believe that He is absolutely without need of support or assistance; rather, the entire creation depends solely upon Him. These beliefs are derived directly from the Quran (the Book revealed by Allah to Prophet Muhammad ) and the Sunnah (the sayings and teachings of Prophet Muhammad himself).



Allah has said in the Quran :



255. Allah! None has the right to be worshipped but He, the Ever Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists. Neither slumber, nor sleep overtake Him. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on earth. Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His Permission? He knows what happens to them (His creatures) in this world, and what will happen to them in the Hereafter. And they will never compass anything of His Knowledge except that which He wills. His Kursi extends the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.

(2:255)



38.And indeed We (Allah) created the heavens and the earth and all between them in six days and nothing of fatigue touched Us.

(50:38)



The Prophet Muhammad conveyed what Allah revealed to him regarding Himself in the following narration:



"O' My servants! All of you are without guidance except those whom I guide. So seek guidance from Me, I shall guide you.

O' My servants! All of you are hungry except those whom I feed. So ask food from Me I shall feed you.

O' My servants! All of you are naked except those whom I clothed. So ask clothes from Me I shall clothe you.

O' My servants! You commit mistakes (sins) by night and day and I forgive all sins. So ask forgiveness from Me I shall forgive you.

O' My servants! You can never reach harming Me so as to harm Me; nor can you ever reach benefiting me so as to benefit Me.

O' My servants! If the first of you and the last of you and the entirety of this human race of yours, and that of the jinns as well, became as pious as the most pious heart amongst you, by nothing would that increase My kingdom.

O' My servants! If the first of you and the last of you and the entirety of this human race of yours, and that of the Jinns as well, became as evil as the worst heart amongst you, by nothing would that decrease My Kingdom.

O' My servants! If the first of you and the last of you and the entirety of this human race of yours, and that of the jinns as well, all stood upon one plain to ask Me and I gave every one what he asked, that would not decrease what I have, anything more than what a needle decreases the sea if it is dipped into it.

O' My servants! It is only your deeds which I shall reckon up for you, and then recompense you for. So whoever finds good, should praise Me and whoever finds other than that, blame none but himself."

(Saheeh Muslim, Book 32, Number 6246).



Allah's Knowledge and Wisdom

The Muslims believe that Allah has perfect knowledge of everything. There is not a single mystery but with it, He is well acquainted. His knowledge encompasses everything including the wondrous galaxies, and each insect as it crawls along its sandy, underground path. We believe that Allah is the sole possessor of perfect knowledge of both the apparent and the unseen.



Allah has said in the Quran :



61. Whatever you may be doing, and whatever portion of the Quran you may be reciting, and whatever deed you may be doing, We are Witness thereof, when you are doing it. And nothing is hidden from your Lord (not even so much as) the weight of an atom on the earth or in the heaven. Nor what is less than that or what is greater than that but is (written) in a Clear Record.

(10:61)



59. And with Him are the keys of the Unseen, none knows them but He. And He knows what is in the land and the sea. Not a leaf falls but He knows it, not a grain amid the darkness of the earth neither anything fresh nor dry, but it is written in a Clear Record.

(6:59)



11. Allah did create you from dust, then from a little fluid, then He made you pairs (male and female). No female conceives, or lays down (her load), but with His knowledge. And not one grows old who grows old, nor is his life lessened, but it is recorded in a Book, Behold! That is easy for Allah.

(35:11)



Mercy and Forgiveness

The Muslims believe that Allah is more merciful with his believing servants than a mother is to her child, and that He loves to forgive sins for those who seek forgiveness from Him. And in spite of our excessive ingratitude and disobedience, He continues to support us with food, shelter, friends and many other resources and always gives us a chance to repent. We believe that Allah forgives whomever turns to Him alone in sincere repentance no matter how grave the sin, and that He alone can forgive sins.



Allah has said in the Quran:



53. Say: O' My servants who have transgressed against themselves (by committing sins)! Do not despair of the Mercy of Allah, indeed Allah forgives all sins. Truly, He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

(39:53)



110. And whoever does evil or oppresses himself (by committing sins) and thereafter seeks Allah's Forgiveness, he will find Allah Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

(4:110)



21. Race towards Forgiveness from your Lord (Allah), and towards Paradise, the width whereof is as the width of heaven and earth, prepared for those who believe in Allah and His Messengers. That is the Grace of Allah which He gives to whom He wills. And Allah is the Owner of Great Bounty.

(57:21)



183. And if My servants ask you about Me, then surely I am Close. I answer the prayer of the supplicant when he calls unto Me. So let them answer My Call and believe in Me, in order that they may be led aright."

(2:183)



Prophet Muhammad said:



The Almighty Allah says: Whoever comes with a good deed, his reward will be ten times like it or more. And whoever comes with a bad deed, his recompense will be only one like it, or I shall forgive him. And whoever draws close to Me a hand's span, I shall draw close to him an arm's length. And whoever draws close to Me an arm's length, I shall draw close to him a fathom's length. And whoever comes to Me walking, I shall go to him running. And whoever faces Me with sins as great as the earth, but without worshipping anything along with or instead of Me, I shall meet him with forgiveness as great as that.

(Saheeh Muslim, Book 35, Number 6499)



He also said:



"Allah divided Mercy in one-hundred parts and He retained its ninety-nine parts with Him, and sent down its one part on the earth, and because of this one single part there is mutual love among the creatures to the extent that even the mare lifts up its hoof from its baby, fearing that it might harm it."

(Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Book 73, Number 29)



In another narration he said:



"When Allah had finished His creation, He wrote over His Throne: 'My Mercy preceded My Anger.'"

(Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Book 93, Number 518)



Once a woman was searching for her child and when she found him, she took hold of him, pressed him against her chest and gave him her breast to nurse him. Allah's Messenger Muhammad saw her and asked his companions: "Do you think this woman would ever afford to throw her child in the fire? They said: "By Allah, so far as it is in her power, she would never throw her child in the fire. Thereupon Prophet Muhammad said: 'Allah is more Merciful to his believing servants than this woman is to her child.'

(Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Book 73, Number 28)



Allah's Justness

The Muslims believe that Allah will resurrect every single person on the Day of Judgment. He has also prepared a Terrible Punishment for those who disbelieved in His Signs, denied His Messengers and died without submitting to Him. He has likewise prepared unimaginable joy and eternal entertainment for those who died submitting to Him and performed good deeds seeking His Reward. We believe that Allah is absolute in His Justice and no soul will ever be oppressed in His reckoning.



Allah has said in the Quran:



34. Verily, for those who love and fear Allah are Gardens of Delight (Paradise) with their Lord.

35. Shall We then treat the Muslims (the ones who submit themselves to Allah) like the criminals?

36. What is the matter with you? How do you judge!

(68:34-36)



47. And We shall set up balances of justice on the Day of Resurrection, then none will be dealt with unjustly in anything. And even if it were but the weight of a mustard seed, We will bring it. And Sufficient are We as Reckoners.

(21:47)



The Prophet Muhammad related from Allah, the Most Just:



O' My servants! I have forbidden oppression for Myself and I have made it forbidden amongst you, so do not oppress one another.

(Saheeh Muslim, Book 32, Number 6246).



Severity in Punishment

Allah has said in the Quran:



1. O' mankind! Fear your Lord. Verily, the violent shaking of the Hour (of Judgment) is a terrible thing.

2. The Day you shall see it, every nursing mother will forget her nursling, and every pregnant one will drop her burden, and you shall see mankind drunken, yet they will not be drunk, but the Torment of Allah is severe!

(22:1-2)



6. O' you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones, over which are angels stern (and) severe, who do not disobey the commands they receive from Allah, and they do what they are commanded,

7. (It will be said in the Hereafter) O' you who disbelieve, make no excuse this Day! You are only being paid only for what you used to do!

(66:6-7)



The Absolute Oneness of Allah

Allah is one and utterly above having partners, equals, or any who share His Attributes. "To Him alone belong the Most Beautiful Names ..." ( Quran 59:24) He has neither children nor parents, nor any thing which shares in His right to be worshipped. The greatest sin in Islam is to worship anything along with or instead of Allah.



Allah says in the Quran:



48. Verily, Allah does not forgive that anyone should set up partners with Him, but forgives everything other than that to whom He pleases, and whoever sets up partners with Allah, has indeed invented a tremendous sin.

(4:48)



Indeed, the first commandment given to Moses with which he was to admonish the people was "Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God is One Lord." (Deuteronomy 6:4) and Jesus, repeats it: "The first of all the commandments is: Hear, O Israel; The Lord our God is One Lord." (Mark 12:29)



Allah is the sole Creator and Owner of the entire universe and nothing deserves to be worshipped except Him; this is what is meant by the Islamic creed "There is no God Besides Allah..." Believing in this statement is the first step in becoming a Muslim.



Allah has said in the Quran:



171. O' people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians)! Do not exaggerate in your religion, and do not say about Allah any thing except the truth. The Messiah Jesus, son of Mary, was a Messenger of Allah and His Word, [i.e. Allah said "Be!" and Jesus was] which He bestowed on Mary and (Jesus is) a spirit from Him (Allah); so believe in Allah and His Messengers. Do not Say: Three [i.e., trinity]!" Cease! (that is) better for you. Certainly Allah is One God, Glory be to Him (Far Exalted is He) above having a son. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. And Allah is All-Sufficient as a Disposer of affairs.

(4:171)



68. They (Jews, Christians and pagans) say: "Allah has taken a son!" Glory be to Him! He is The Most Rich (Free of all needs). To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. Do you have any warrant for this; or do you say against Allah what you do not know?

69. Say (to them): Verily, those who fabricate lies against Allah will never succeed.

(10:68-69)



111. And say: All the praises and thanks be to Allah, Who has not taken a son, and Who has no partner in (His) Dominion, nor is He low to have a partner. And magnify Him with all the magnificence.

(17:111)



1. Say (O' Muhammad ): He is Allah (the) One,

2. Allah is The Self-Sufficient Master, Whom all creatures need, He neither eats nor drinks,

3. He did not beget, nor was He begotten,

4. And there is none comparable to Him.

(112:1-4)



How would you answer this question?

Allah has asked in the Quran:



28. How can you disbelieve in Allah? When you were dead and He gave you life. Then He will give you death, then life again (on the Day of Resurrection), and then unto Him you will return.

(2:28)

O you people, adore your Lord who created you and those who came before you, that you may have the chance to be righteous”. (The Qur’an 2:21)



Your Way to Islam



An invitation to all to join the faithful in their progress to Allah’s blessing. “Those who obey Allah and His Messenger are in the Company of those who are blessed by Allah, The Prophets, The Sincere (faithful), the Witnesses (Martyrs) and the Righteous (who do good), and what a beautiful fellowship!” (The Qur’an 4:69).



CHAPTER 1

PREFACE



Behold all that is around you on earth: things, plants, insects, animals, birds and fish...

Don’t you see that they have accurate systems governing and guiding their life?

Behold all that is above you in space: sun, moon, planets, stars, clouds, wind ... etc., aren’t they all functioning properly and accurately and rendering valuable services to our life on earth?

Think of yourself, of your organs, of your numerous and efficient body systems, how they are cooperatively functioning to secure healthful life for you!

Who created all these fantastic things? Who established their accurate systems? Who is controlling this huge and complicated universe?

No one dared so far to claim creating, or being able to create, any single thing, even a hair!!

The Creator and The Sustainer of all these Creatures is One only; if there were more than one there would have been confusion in the heavens and the earth! That One is Allah (the only true God).

It is very logical, then, to acknowledge this fact, to know our Creator and Provider to be grateful to Him, and to submit ourselves and our life to His Wise and Merciful Guidance.

Our Creator has endowed us with intellect to understand and with freedom to choose the right path.

Allah has showed us the right path through his messengers sealed by Mohammad and His Books completed by The Qur’an.

In front of us there are two ways: one is leading to bliss in this life and in the Hereafter that is Islam.

The other is leading to misery and loss in this world, and to eternal punishment in the Hereafter. The choice is ours, what are we going to choose? May Allah guide us into the Right Path! Aameen!





CHAPTER 2

ISLAM WHY? FOR WHOM? WHEN?



Islam.... Why?



Because Islam is the religion chosen by Allah for all humanity.

Because Islam is the religion of all prophets since Adam to Mohammad (Peace be upon them all).

Because Islam is the religion delivered by all Messengers of Allah and Islam is the seal of all heavenly revelations, and

Because Prophet Muhammad – Sallallahu alayhi wasallam – the Messenger of Islam is the last of God’s apostles, and

Because The Qur’an is the last of Allah’s scriptures.

Allah ta’ala (Glory be to Him) says: “Do they seek other than the Deen (Religion) of Allah? While all creatures in the heavens and on earth have, Willingly or unwillingly, bowed to His Will (accepted Islam), and to Him shall they All be brought back,” (The Qur’an 3:83) “If anyone desires a Deen (Religion) other than Islam (submission to Allah) it will never be accepted from him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (everything) (The Qur’an 3:85).





Islam... for whom?



For every person upon whom Allah has bestowed life and intellect.

For those who can see the blessings of Allah.

For those who can hear the Words of Allah.

For those who can comprehend the signs of Allah.

For those whose hearts are full of love and gratitude to Allah.

For you, for me, and for those whose blessed hearts are open to faith.





Islam ... When?



Now and always.

Obey your heart’s call to faith.

It is your life chance.

A golden chance that might not strike your heart again.

Answer Allah’s call. He summons you.

“But your God is one God, submit your wills to Him (in Islam), and give the good news to those who humble themselves.” [The Qur’an 22:34].





CHAPTER 3

THE GREAT TRIP



If you become convinced that Islam is the true religion,

Seek a trustworthy Islamic authority such as an Islamic Center, a mosque, or an Islamic Organization.

Contact the person in charge and tell him about your wish to embrace Islam.

The person in charge will ask you some questions to know how far you are convinced with Islam.

This pamphlet will provide you with answers for such questions.

Before you reach that honorable occasion, i.e., declaring conversion to Islam, wash the whole of your body with the intention of converting to Islam. It is also recommended for this very special occasion, to shave under-arm and pubic hair, dress up, and apply a pleasant-smelling perfume to the body.





CHAPTER 4

WHAT DO YOU SAY TO DECLARE

YOUR CONVERSlON TO lSLAM?



To achieve this, it is sufficient to say (in Arabic, if possible):

’Ash-hadu ’an la ilaha ’illaal-lah!

Wa ‘ash-hadu ‘an-na Muhammadan rasulul-lah

Wa ‘ash-hadu ‘an-na ‘isa abdul-lahi wa rasuluhu

Bari’tu min kulli dinin yukhalifu dinal-Islam

The meaning of this is as follows:



I bear witness that there is no (true) god except Allah.

And I bear witness that Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger.

And I bear witness that Jesus is the slave and messenger of Allah.

deny and refuse any religion except Islam.

Also you can say:



I (firmly) believe in Allah, His Angels, His scriptures, His Messengers, the Last Day, and in the ability of Allah to will the existence of good or bad.

I promise Allah not to associate with Him (in worship) anyone or anything (whatsoever), and,

I will steadfastly perform Salat (the Five Prayers), and

I will give out Zakat (special Islamic system of charity), and

I will never steal, and

Never commit adultery (or fornication), and

Never illegally kill a person, and

Never disobey Allah.

Praise be to Allah Who has guided me to belief !

Note: The person in charge, in front of whom a new Muslim has announced his conversion to Islam, prays Allah for him with such prayers: Allah may forgive me and you! And Allah may accept (submission) from me and you! O Allah! Accept him with those on whom You did bestow your Grace, of Prophets, the Sincere (lovers of Truth), the Witnesses, and the righteous! What a beautiful Fellowship!







CHAPTER 5

What is Islam?



Islam is (composed of) three (main) areas: Utterance, faith, and deeds.

The utterance was explained in chapter 4.

Faith is to believe in Allah, the Angels, the Heavenly Scriptures, Prophets, the last Day and in the ability of Allah to will the existence of good or bad.

Deeds are: Salat (Prayers), Zakat (Alms-giving), Siyam (Fasting), and Hajj (Pilgrimage).





CHAPTER 6

FAITH IN ALLAH



We believe that Allah is one God, our Lord and the Lord of everything,

Allah is the Creator of everything,

All other than Him are created, and are servants who share nothing with Allah.

Even Angels and Prophets are merely created servants submitting to Allah.

Among them are Jesus and Muhammad (Peace be upon them); both have no trace of deity (godhood).

Allah is the Living Self-Subsisting, Eternal, the First without a beginning and the Last without an end.

He hears everything and sees everything.

He is Most Gracious, Most Merciful, All-Dominating,

He has the Most beautiful Names and the Noblest Attributes.

He has created us out of nothing,

And made us in the best form.

He has given us all graces and bounties.

Hence we are not permitted to worship or submit to any other than Him, whether a favorite Angel or a chosen Prophet!

Whoever directs his prayers, bows or prostrates (in worship), or offers sacrifice to any other than Allah, he is an infidel! and not a Muslim even if he declares that he is a Muslim:





Allah says: “Say: Truly my prayer and my service of sacrifice, my life and my death, are (all) for Allah, the Cherisher of the Worlds. No partner has He. This I am commanded and I am the first of those who submit to His Will”. [The Qur’an 6:162 -163]

Islam is the religion of Monotheism: it denies the Dualism of Magians and the Trinity of Christians. Islam teaches that Allah is One and only One. No one shares with Him, His Dominion or His Command. He has the Most beautiful Names and the Noblest Attributes:

Allah says: “Say! He is Allah, the One. He is the Most Unique, the Eternal,the Absolute. He neither gives birth, nor is He born. And there is none like unto Him. “ [Al Qur’an 112).









CHAPTER 7

FAITH IN ANGELS



Allah has created Angels to worship Him, to carry out His commands and to be His messengers to His Prophets.

One of the angels is Gabriel who used to bring down Revelation to our Prophet Muhammad 'Alayhis-Salatu was-Salamu (peace be upon him).

Another Angel is Michael who is in charge of rain falling.

A third one is the "Angel of Death" who is in charge of taking the souls of people whose death is due.

Angels are but servants honored by Allah.

Hence we honor them and speak of them respectfully.

But we worship none of them, nor do we take them as Allah's sons or daughters (as infidels claim).

We worship only Allah who created them in this wonderful kind of creation.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: "And they say: The Most Gracious has begotten a son, Glory be to Him! They are but servants raised to honor. They do not speak before He speaks, and they act (in all things) by His command. He knows what is before them and what is behind them, and they offer no intercession except for those whom He accepted, and they stand in awe and reverence of Him. If any of them should say, ‘I am a God besides Him’, such one We should reward with Hell. Thus do We reward those who do wrong”. [The Qur’an 21:26-29]







CHAPTER 8

FAITH IN HOLY SCRIPTURES



Allah has sent down to a number of Messengers, Books in order to proclaim them to mankind.

These Books contain the Words of Allah.

Among them are the Sheets of Ibrahim (Abraham), Taurat revealed to Moosa (Moses), Az-Zabour (psalms) revealed to Dawood (David), The Injil (Gospel) revealed to Isa (Jesus), And The Qur’an sent down to Muhammad, (Peace be upon them all).

Jews and Christians distorted some parts of their Books (Taurat and Injil).

Being the last Book assuredly guarded from corruption, The Qur’an confirms the truth in the previous Books and guards it.

Whatever, in those Books, differs from The Qur’an is corrupted or abrogated.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: “To you We sent the scripture in truth Confirming the scriptures that came before it, And guarding it...” [The Qur’an 5:48].

Allah revealed The Qur’an in Arabic and has firmly promised to protect. His last Message from all corruption; He says about The Qur’an: “We have, without doubt, sent down the Message, and We will assuredly guard it (from corruption)” [The Qur’an 15:9]





CHAPTER 9

FAITH IN PROPHETS



We believe that: Allah chose from among mankind some Prophets to deliver His Guidance.

From among those Prophets He selected Some Messengers.

He sent to the Messengers Laws and commanded them to proclaim these laws and to clarify them to their people.

Some of the great Messengers of Allah were Nooh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Moosa (Moses), Isa (Jesus), and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).

Embracing Islam does not mean to disbelieve in Moosa, Isa, or any other prophet.

Islam teaches you how to believe correctly in all Prophets.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says in The Qur’an: “To you We sent the Scripture in Truth, Confirming the scriptures that came before it, And guarding it...” [The Qur’an 5:48]. Meaning: Clarifying the Truth they distorted.

Allah mentioned’ names of a number of Prophets, He says: “Say you (Muslims): We believe in Allah, and the revelation given to us, and to Ibrahim, lsma‘il, Isaac, Ya‘qoob (Jacob) and the Tribes, and that which was given to Moosa (Moses), and Isa (Jesus), and that which was given to all Prophets from their Lord. We make no difference between one and another of them, and we submit to Allah (in Islam)” [The Qur‘an 2:136]

The first Prophet was Adam, father of mankind, Alayhis-Salam (Peace be upon him).

Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam ‘Alayhis-Salatu was-Salamu (Peace be upon him) is the Seal (the last) of the prophets. No prophet is to come after him up to the end of this world.

Hence the fact that Islam is the only true religion to remain up to the Last Day.

He is Muhammad son of Abdullah son of Abdul-Muttalib. He is an Arab from (the famous tribe) of The Quraysh, a descendant of Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma‘il (Ishmael) – Alayhimus-salatu was-salamu – (Peace, and prayers of Allah be upon them).

He was born in Makkah (Mecca) in 571 AD (Known as the Year of the Elephant).

Allah sent Revelation to him when he was 40 years old.

He stayed in Makkah 13 years calling people to (believe in) Allah.

Only a limited number of people believed in him.

After that he emigrated to Al-Madinah and invited its people to believe in Allah, and they accepted.

He became the leader of Makkah in the year 8 AH He died at the age of 63 after the whole of The Qur’an was revealed, and all Arabs embraced Islam.





CHAPTER 10

FAITH IN THE LAST DAY



We believe that there will be another life after this life.

When the determined term of this life comes to an end, Allah will command an Angel to sound the Trumpet and all mankind and all other creatures will die.

Then he (Angel) will sound it again, when, behold, all dead since Adam will stand out of their graves.

Then, Allah will gather all people to account them for what they did:

Those who believed (in Allah), accepted the Messengers (as truthful) and did good deeds (commanded by Allah), Allah will put them in Paradise.

In Paradise, they will enjoy eternal Bliss.

But those who rejected the Messengers and disobeyed Allah’s commands, will be put in Hell.

In Hell Fire, they will be in continuous eternal punishment.

O Allah! We ask Your Paradise and seek refuge with You from Fire of Hell! Aameen!

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: “As for those who had transgressed all bounds; and had preferred the life of this world; the Abode will be Hell-Fire. And for those who had feared of standing in front of their Lord’s (Tribunal); and had restrained (their) souls from lower desires; their Abode will be Paradise.” (The Qur’an 79:37-41)





CHAPTER 11

FAITH IN FATE AND DIVINE DECREE



We believe in the timeless knowledge of Allah and in His power to plan and execute His plans and nothing could happen in His Kingdom against His will.

His knowledge and power are in action and command at all times over His creation.

He is Wise and Merciful and whatever He does must have a meaningful purpose.

If this is established in our minds and hearts, we should accept with good faith all that He does,

Although we may fail to understand it fully, or think it is bad.





CHAPTER 12

IBADAT (RELIGIOUS DEEDS)



Deeds in Islam are of two main categories:

‘Ibadat, these are the rituals, or devotional duties, of worship: Salat, Zakat, Siyam, and Hajj.

Mu’amalat, these include all life activities related to the individual, family, society, or the whole ‘Ummah (Muslim Community at large), political, economic, cultural, legal, ethical…, national or international.

Mu‘amalat when carried out in fulfillment of Allah’s Shari’a (Law) will be a sort of “Worship” in the general sense.

In this pamphlet, Mu’amalat will not be dealt with. You have to consult in each case either a book of Fiqh (Islamic Law) or any well informed Muslim scholar or authority.

The practical Pillars (Foundations) of Islam are Five:





The two Shahadas (Declarations of submission to Allah)

Salat (Prayer)

Zakat (Poor Due)

Siyam (Fasting of Ramadhan)

Hajj (Pilgrimage)





CHAPTER 13

THE TWO SHAHADAS (DECLARATIONS)



Ash-Shahadah means to say, with a firm belief in heart, and mind, the following:



’Ash-hadu ’an Laa ’ilaha ’illal-Lahu,

Wa’ash-hadu ’anna Muhammadan rasulul-Lah.

The meaning of these is:



I bear witness that there is no (true) god except Allah,

and I bear witness that Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger.

These imply two things:



That are deeds must be sincere to God alone.

That we only worship God as Muhammad taught.





CHAPTER 14

SALAT (PRAYER)



We pray five times everyday:



The Fajr (dawn) prayer. Two Rak‘ahs (Units). Its time starts just after dawn and ends at sunrise.

The Dhuhr (noon) prayer. Four Rak‘ahs. Time starts just after sun moves down from its zenith and ends at the midpoint between zenith and sunset.

The Asr (Late afternoon) prayer: Four Rak‘ahs. Time starts after the end of the Dhuhr prayer and ends at sunset.

The Maghrib (Sunset) prayer: Three Rak‘ahs. Time starts just after sunset.

The Isha’ (Evening) prayer: Four Rak‘ahs. Preferable time starts when twilight disappears and ends at midnight.





CHAPTER 15

AT-TAHARAH (PURITY)



A Muslim must be pure and clean when he performs his prayer, (otherwise his prayers will not be valid).

At-Taharah is of two types: Wudu’, (Ablution) and Ghusl (full Ablution).

WUDU’ (Ablution) which is performed as follows:



Have Niyyah (the clear intention) of performing wudu’.

Say: "Bismil-Lahi r-rahmani r-rahim" (in the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful).

Wash the hands, rinse the mouth and clear with water the inside of the nose (sniffing).

Wash the face.

Wash the arms up to the elbows (start with the right arm)

Rub the head with wet hands, and the ears.

Wash the feet up to the ankles (starting with the right foot)

Say the two Shahadahs.

No need for reapplying Wudu’ as long as it has not been invalidated.

Wudu' is invalidated by: Passing of excrement, urine, wind or by sleeping.

GHUSL (Taking a shower):



A Muslim must take Ghusl after:



Ejaculation of semen because of any reason.

Intimate intercourse.

For women: End of Menstruation period.

End of the childbirth period.

Ghusl is washing the whole body with clean water.



TAYAMMUM (Dry Ablution):



In case of not having water for Wudu or Ghusl, or being unable to use it for any reason, apply the Dry Ablution:



Have Niyyah (the clear intention) of performing Tayammum’.

Say: "Bismillahir-rahmanir-rahim" (in the name of Allah, The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful).

Hit the palms once on any clean dust-containing material,

then rub the face with the palms, then the hands.





CHAPTER 16

HOW TO PERFORM SALAT (PRAYERS)?



The best way for men is to perform salat in congregation with Muslims in the mosque. There you will be given more reward by Allah and you will leam easily how to pray.

Be sure that your body, clothes and place are clean.

Stand facing towards the direction of QIBLAH, that is the direction of the Sacred mosque in Makkah, in Al Hijaz (Saudi Arabia).

Raise the hands to the shoulder level and say: “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest).

Fold the hand on the chest, the right hand over the left.

Recite Al-Fatihah (The Opening Chapter of The Qur’an) and another chapter or some verses of The Qur’an (See App. 1)

Say. “Allahu Akbar” while making Ruku‘ (bowing and bending the body at a right angle placing the palms on the knees)

Say in Ruku’: “Subhana rabbiyal-atheem” (Glory be to my Lord, the Great!) three times.

Go back to the standing position saying: “Sami‘a ’allahu liman hamidah! Rabbana wa lakal-hamd.” (Indeed, Allah listens to one who praises Him O! Our Lord! All praises be to You)

Then, you say “Allahu Akbar” and immediately fall down to make the first Sajdah (Prostration) with forehead, nose, palms, knees and toes resting on the ground,-saying: “Subhana rabbiyal ’a‘la” (Glory be to my Lord, Most High) Three times.

Move from sajdah (prostration) position to sitting posture while saying; “Allahu Akbar!” While sitting, say “Rabbighfirli warhamni” (O My Lord! Forgive me! and have mercy on me)

After this, another sajdah is done in the same way with “Allahu Akbar” uttered before it, and “Subhana rabbiyal ’a‘la” Three times during Sujud.

After completing the second sajdah, one “Rak‘ah” is completed.

Stand up saying “Allahu Akbar” in order to begin a new Rak‘ah, exactly as the first Rak‘ah.

After finishing the second “Rak‘ah” you sit down and recite Part One and Part Two of “At-Tashahhud”.

Finally you turn the face to the right hand side and say: “As-Salamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatul-lah” which means Peace be upon you and The Mercy of Allah!

Then you do the same to the left side.

Thus a two- Rak‘ah prayer is completed, such as the Fajr Prayer.

As for 4 Rak‘ah prayers such as the Dhuhr, only the first part of At-Tashahhud is recited after completing the second Rak‘ah. Then you stand up to perform two more Rak‘ahs in the same way, but without reciting any verses from The Qur’an after Al-Fatihah.

The ‘Asr and t ‘Isha’ prayers are performed exactly as the Dhuhr.

In the Maghrib Prayer, the final Tashahhud and “As-Salam…” come after the third Rak‘ah.





WHY WE PRAY



The Muslim observes his Prayers to show devotion and obedience to Allah, because Prayer is one of the greatest forms of worship that Allah likes His servants to offer.

To thank Him for creating us in the best form of creation.

Because He has guided us to the Deen (Complete way of Life, Religion) of Islam.

Prayer is a chance for a Muslim to express to his Lord whatever he feels and needs through Divine Words of Allah i.e. the Qur’an.

To remember his Lord and not forget His commands amid life’s pre-occupations.

To ask Allah, The Exalted, to give him aid and continuous guidance in the darkness of life.

To strengthen love and fear of Allah in the Muslim’s heart so that he might remain sticking to the Right Path of Islam, and its laws and manners.

Gaining good rewards from Allah and having our sins forgiven.

To rejoice when he finds himself on the Last Day pleased with the great reward allotted to him in the Gardens of Bliss.

Prayer is a unique training and developmental program which, if well and devotedly performed, can achieve for Muslims many valuable physical, ethical and spiritual gains such as cleanliness, health, order, punctuality, brotherhood, equality, social consolidation,… etc.





CHAPTER 17

ZAKAT (Poor Due, Alms)



WHAT IS ZAKAT



The term “Zakat” originally means: growth, and purity.

In Islamic Law, it means paying every lunar year a certain percentage of your savings to certain charitable usage defined by The Qur’an.

If you have, for that period, an amount of money equal to the value of 85 grams of pure gold (now 1985, is about $1000) or more, you must pay 2.5%.

Zakat is paid for the poor and the needy Muslims, for the wayfarers, for propagating Islam or fighting for Islam, for helping new Muslims or encouraging non-Muslims to embrace Islam, for those who are burdened with debts and are unable to pay them.

If you have articles of trade, you calculate their Zakat in the same way.

You can ask some Muslim scholar or refer to any good reference book to know more about Zakat.

WHY WE PAY ZAKAT



To show devotion to Allah Who commanded us to do so and informed us that He loves the charitable.





CHAPTER 18

SAWM, or SIYAM (Fasting)



ABOUT THE FAST



In Ramadan, (the 9th month of the lunar Islamic year) Muslims fast in obedience to Allah’s command and in gratitude for Allah’s Grace for revealing His Glorious Book, The Qur’an, in Ramadan.

Sawm (Fasting) is to abstain from eating, drinking and intimate intercourse from dawn to sunset.

If sick or on a journey, a Muslim is permitted to break his fast.

If he breaks the fast, he has to make it up by fasting a number of days equal to the days in which he broke fasting in Ramadan.

After the end of Ramadan comes “Eid al-Fitr” (the Holy day of Breaking the Fast) which is the 1st day of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan.

On the Eid morning, all Muslims congregate, in open grounds or in mosques, to perform “ Eid Prayer” to express their happiness and gratitude to Allah for enabling them to complete this duty of Fasting.

Concerning this important duty, Allah says: “O you who believe. Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may (observe) piety and self-restraint” [The Qur’an 2:183]

Also, He says: “Ramadan is the month in which was sent down The Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (signs) for guidance and judgement (between right and wrong). So, every one of you who is present (at his home, village, or town) during that month should fast it, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by other days”. [The Qur’an 2:185].





WHY WE FAST



We fast in obedience to Allah’s command, and because Allah loves those who fast.

To show our gratitude to Allah’s Grace of sending down His Guidance, The Qur’an, to guide us and the whole humanity.

To thank Allah for making us of those who believe in The Qur’an.

And because He enabled us to memorize His Book, to recite it, to study and understand it, and to benefit in its guidance.

To develop control on our material desires Allah planted in our nature.

To control ourselves in front of all things prohibited by Allah.

Fasting makes us remember the needy who suffer from hunger and deprivation.

Hence, to become more sympathetic to them and help them with part of what Allah has bestowed upon us.

To check our engrossment in our desires, and increase our care for our spiritual entity through intensifying our deeds and acts of worship in this month of The Qur’an.

To increase our share of sincerity, consience, patience, discipline, as well as many healthful benefits.

Above all these, the great reward Allah promised to give us on the Last Day.





CHAPTER 19

HAJJ (THE PILGRIMAGE)



WHAT IS HAJJ



Hajj is a journey to ’Al-Ka‘bah (the sacred House of Allah) in Makkah (Mecca) with the intention of obeying Allah’s command and performing certain prescribed rites there. (For the details of performing Hajj, you may consult any Islamic reference book on the subject).

Performing Hajj is obligatory, once in a lifetime, upon every mature Muslim provided he is able (physically and financially).

The whole journey of Hajj and its rites conform to a unique form, the principles of Islam and commemorate Islamic milestones related to Prophets Ibraheem (Abraham), Ismael and Muhammad, ‘Alayhimus-salam.

The rites of Hajj are performed, in general, in the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah (the last month of the Islamic Year).

On the 9th of Dhul Hijah the culminating rite is performed at Mount ‘Arafat’ where all pilgrims, sometimes about two million, gather.

Pilgrims’ stand at ‘Arafat to declare their supplications to Allah and their repentance and need of His Mercy and Forgiveness.

This reminds us of the Grand Assembly on the Day of Judgment.

The next day (the tenth) is the great Eid ’Al-’Adha (The Feast of Sacrifice) when pilgrims offer their sacrifices. After slaughtering their sacrifices, pilgrims go to Makkah and make Tawaf (circumbulate) seven times around Al-Ka‘bah.

Muslims everywhere slaughter their sacrifices (of camels, cows, or sheep) after performing the Eid Prayer.

These sacrifices were prescribed in commemoration of the great sacrifice of Prophet Abraham (Alayhis-salam) when he was about to slaughter his only son, Ismael, whom he loved much, when Allah ordered him to do so to test his loyalty and obedience to Him.

After completing the acts of Hajj, you can enjoy visiting The Mosque of Prophet Muhammad – sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wa salam – in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah (the illuminated town) and attend some Prayers there. The reward for praying at that Mosque is great.

When in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, pay a greeting visit to the Prophet’s grave and to his noble companions’ graves, in the Islamically accepted form.

Also visiting the Holy Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem is recommendable in Islam.





WHY WE PERFORM HAJJ



Purposes and lessons of performing Hajj are so many. Among them are:



Responding in obedience to Allah’s commands.

To be grateful to Allah for His Grace and Favors on us, such as health, wealth and children.

To glorify Allah by visiting and making Tawaf (gowing around) His Sacred House, Al-Ka‘bah.

(Al-Ka‘bah is the first House built on earth for worshipping Allah, which Ibrahim – The Friend – and his son Isma‘il erected by the instruction of Allah).

To pray at Al-Ka‘ba, which is the Qiblah (direction) to which all Muslims turn their faces in the five daily prayers.

To visit and stand in devotion to Allah at the Sacred Mountains such as Mount ‘Arafat. There we celebrate the praises of Allah, purify our souls and repent of all sins.

To see the places where Ibrahim, the noble Friend and Prohpet of Allah, and his first son Ismail – Alayhis-salam – stayed and worshiped Allah.

To visit the places where Prophet Muhammad – alayhis-salam – was born, brought up, received the Divine Message, suffered and struggled for spreading the light of Allah.

To meet our Muslim brethren coming from all countries, and to see the actualization of brotherhood, equality, cooperation and love among Muslims regardless of their differences in nationality, color, standard of living, and other worldly matters. To see the universality of Islam.

To practice patience, sacrifice, endurance, simplicity and other spiritual capacities we are in urgent need of.

To come back cleansed of our sins, so as to start a new page in our life, hoping to keep it free from sins until the end of life, so that we may be accepted and well rewarded by Allah in the Hereafter.





CHAPTER 20

HOW TO DEVELOP YOUR ISLAM?



Becoming a Muslim after becoming convinced is opening a plain page in your deed record.

Whatever bad deeds you have committed before, Allah will forgive because of your embracing Islam.

Becoming a Muslim is like starting a new life.

You have to grow and develop in Islam. How can you do so? By the following:





Firstly: Increasing your knowledge of Islam, through:



Reading the Qur’anic text.

Reading some interpretations of the Qur’an.

Reading Traditions (Sayings) of Prophet Muhammad, ‘Alayhis-salatu was-salamu).

Reading the biography of Prophet Muhammad –‘Alayhis-salatu was-salamu).

Reading the biographies of the great Muslim figures among our righteous fore-Muslims who propagated Islam and proclaimed it to mankind.

Attending Jumu‘ah (Friday) congregational prayer, listening to its Khutbah (sermon) and praying with Muslims.

Attending the two ‘Eid (holiday) prayers.

Performing the five daily prayers in congregation at the mosque whenever you are able to do so.

Attending Islamic religious, teaching sessions.

Contacting scholars, shaikhs, mosque imams (leaders) and preachers, introducing yourself to them and asking them about any Islamic matter you need to know. They are always happy to provide you with the required clarification.

Having one or more friends of good Muslims who are fairly knowledgeable about Islam to be your permanent reliable reference.

Read as much as you can of the basic sources of Islam (The Qur’an and As-Sunnah) and of the authentic and trustworthy writings about Islam to understand it more.

You will learn a lot about the laws and systems of Islam related to worship, family structure, life activities, manners, economic and public affairs.

You will know the ideology of Islam and its view in regard to creation, the universe, man, and life.

Islam is not rituals or morals only, it is in fact a comprehensive system for society, a constitution for the state and a way of life.





Secondly: Doing good deeds as much as you can:



Try to do good deeds more than the five basic duties mentioned before, such as:

Performing voluntary prayers, in addition to the compulsory five daily prayers.

Helping the poor and the needy by extra charity in addition to Zakat, or by assisting them in carrying out their necessary difficult duties.

Fasting a day or more other than in Ramadan.

Taking part in useful social projects aimed at reforming Muslim Society.

Inviting others to embrace Islam.





CHAPTER 21

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ISLAM



Becoming a Muslim means that you have achieved a lot of good for yourself.

It is like owning a valuable treasure.

The owner of a treasure will have many enemies who strive to take his treasure away from him.

And you have gained the treasure of Islam.

Some people will try to drive you away from your Deen (Religion).

Those people are the foes of Allah.

The foes of Allah are devils whether from among Jinn (whom we do not see) or from among human beings.

Human devils may try to mock at you.

Or, they may try to persuade you by money so that you may turn back from your Religion.

They may accuse Islam of many things, or cloud your mind with some misconceptions.

You have to know that Allah has said in the Qur’an “And no question do they bring to you but We reveal to you the truth and the best explanation” (The Qur’an 25:33).

So, consult Muslim scholars about what Allah has revealed in the Qur’an to answer such misconceptions.

As for Jinn devils they whisper into your heart. “Would you desert your fathers’ and forefathers’ religion, and follow a different one?”

Would you follow a religion that tasks you with prayers, fasting and giving others your property? And that deprives you from wine… etc.”

In fact, many people grow up, and find themselves traditionally following and honoring their parents’ religions and beliefs.

All followers of true, or false religions are like that, but the problem is: which of these religions is the true one and which is the false?

Surely, Islam is the only Deen (Religion) which is pure and free from all types of superstitions, polytheism and paganism.

It is the Deen of pure Monotheism.

When you feel these whispers of Jinn devils, recite:

Rabbi ’a‘uthu bika min hamazatish-Shayateen, Wa ‘a’udhu bika rabbi ‘an yahduroon (The Qur’an 23:97-98) “O my Lord ! I seek refuge with you from the suggestions of the Evil Ones. And I seek refuge with You, O my Lord!, lest they should come near me”.

And recite also the chapters Al-Falaq and An-Nas of the Quran. These are included in Appendix (I) with transliteration.





CHAPTER 22

HOW TO INVITE OTHERS TO ISLAM?



Our noble Prophet Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam – said: “If Allah guides one person to Islam through you, it is better for you, than having the greatest wealth.”

He also said: “Whoever calls (others) to guidance has the same reward as the rewards of those who follow him, without decreasing anything from their rewards.”

Therefore be keen to invite to Islam those non-Muslims whom you know.

Start with people who are closest to you, such as: your parents, wife, son, daughter, brother, then relatives and friends.

Allah (Glory be to Him) said to His Messenger Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ’Allahu ‘alaihi wasallam – [The Qu’an 26:214], “And admonish your nearest Kinsmen”.

Make clear to them the right religion, and make them interested in it!

Tell them of the glad tidings of which Allah has promised, and the blessings and favors that Allah will endow upon them in this world and the next if they follow Islam.

Warn them of Allah’s wrath upon them if they disbelieve in the Holy Quran which He has revealed to be a guidance to everyone.

Or if they disbelieve in Prophet Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam – whom He has sent as a mercy to the worlds.

Invite them with love and sincerity.

And you, yourself, should be an example of good character.

Be quick in doing good and in helping others. If you do so:



You will be a propagator of Islam by your actions as well as your words.

Your friends will be quick to accept when you invite them to Islam, and then Allah will lead them to guidance.

They will come to know that what you say is the truth.

They will consequently accept Islam and love this religion and love you too.

You must know well the wise approach of inviting others to Islam and teaching them. Thus you should speak what is suitable for every occasion.

One of the wise sayings of Arabs is: “There is suitable speech for each situation.“

Allah (Glory be to Him) says in Al Qur’an: “Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching, and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious, for your Lord knows best who have strayed from His path and who receive guidance.” [The Qur’an 16:125]

If you do not know Arabic, it is strongly advisable for you to learn that language so as to be able to understand Islam through its original sources.

If you do so, you will be able to speak with confidence about Islam, because you have direct knowledge of Allah’s words, of the sayings of His messenger Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam – and of the statements of Muslim scholars.

Presenting copies of this booklet to those whom you would like to invite to Islam will help you inshallah (God willing) in propagating this religion of Allah.





CHAPTER 23

MUHARRAMAT

(THE FORBIDDEN THINGS)



Allah (Glory be to Him) has prescribed for us in the Holy Qur’an and in the Sunnah (Traditions of the Prophet) many laws:

Some of these are obligations and others are Muharramat (forbidden things, when something is prohibited we say it is Haram).

As for the obligations, I have already pointed them out previously.

As for the Muharramat, some of the most important of them are the following:





First: Forbidden Foods:



Dead Meat: These are the dead bodies of animals which died naturally, (i.e. without being Islamically slaughtered) or by being strangled, or by falling from a high place, or by being partly eaten by a wild animal, and were not slaughtered before being dead.

Also, those animals slaughtered by other than Muslims, Jews or Christians.

But the meats of dead sea animals are not forbidden.

Blood poured forth.

Flesh of the Pig (pork).

Meat which has, when slaughtered, had the name of anything or anyone other than Allah invoked upon it, or that was slaughtered to glorify any one other than Allah.

The meat of beasts of prey, such as lions, dogs... etc, and those of preying birds that attack with their claws, such as eagles, vultures… etc.

The meat of domestic donkeys and asses.

The meat of animals that feed on filthy things, except if they are isolated and fed clean food for sufficient time.

Any food spoiled by filth until it is cleaned by water if it is possible.

Wine and all kinds of intoxicants.

Foodstuffs containing toxic elements which are harmful to our bodies.





Second: Forbidden Deeds:



Allah Hates these deeds and their doers and punishes them:



To associate (in worship) anything or anyone with Allah.

To be disobedient to our parents.

To give false testimony.

To kill a person whom Allah has forbidden to, except by Law (Legally).

Adultery and fornication.

To steal.

To take anything, unjustly, from the property of an orphan,

To desert the battle-field while fighting unbelievers.

To falsely accuse with adultery or fornication a chaste Muslim woman or man.

To uncover “Awra” infront of anybody.

To take others’ wealth illegally, by means of bribery, robbery trickery, or deceit.

To bribe in order to take others’ properties illegally, or to get what you have no right to.

To marry mother, daughter, sister, paternal aunt, maternal aunt, brother’s daughter, sister’s daughter, whether they are through blood or foster relationship, your father’s wife, your son’s wife, your wife’s mother or daughter.

A Muslim man is not permitted to marry a non-Muslim woman unless she becomes Muslim; but he can marry a Christian or a Jewish woman.

A Muslim woman is not permitted to marry a non-Muslim man, even a Christian or a Jew, unless he becomes a Muslim.

To take part in back-biting or scandals.





CHAPTER 24

Allah’s AWLIYA (Allah’s Friends)



“Allah’s friends” are those true Muslims whom He loves and who love Him.

They are all the righteous Muslims who truly believe in Allah and constantly follow His commands.

Their reward is a good life in this world, and nearness to Allah in the Hereafter, in His Paradise.

However, they cannot do anything to help anybody after their death, nor in their life except through normal reasons.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says of them: “Behold! Verily on ‘friends of Allah’ there is no fear, Nor shall they grieve. Those who believe and constantly guard against evil. For them are Glad Tidings in this life and in the Hereafter; No change can there be in the Words of Allah, This is indeed the supreme felicity” [The Qur’an 10:62-64]

Therefore, be a good Muslim and you will be one of them.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: “Those who obey Allah and the Messenger. Are with those who are blessed by Allah, Of the prophets, the (sincere) believers, the martyrs and the righteous (doers of good). And how excellent a company are they!” [The Qur’an 4:69]

On top of “Allah’s Friends” are His Noble Prophets.

And among them too are the true and sincere followers of Prophets.

And Prophet Muhammad’s companions and wives (Mothers of the Faithful).

The best of his companions are the Ten who were mentioned by name by Prophet Muhammad – Salla ‘Allahu alaihi wa sallam – as those who will be in Paradise.

These chosen companions are distinguished and known for their precedence, firmness and sacrifice in Islam.

On top of these Ten are the four righteous Caliphs (Khalifas) who were chosen by Muslims to rule the Muslim state after Prophet Muhammad – Salla ‘Allahu alaihi wa sallam – They are (in their caliphate order);

Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (The sincere believer) (d. 13 AH)

‘Umaru Ibnul _Khattab (d. 23 AH)

‘Uthmanu bnu Affan, (d. 35 AH)

‘Aliy-yu bnu ‘Abi Talib. (d. 40 AH)

The rest of the Ten are: Az Zubayr ibn Al-Awwam, Sa‘d ibn Abi Waqqas, Talhatu ibn ‘Ubaydillah, ‘Abdurrahman ibn ‘Awf, ‘Abu ‘Ubaidah ‘Amru ibn Al-Jarrah and Sa‘eed ibn Zayd. (May Allah be pleased with them and with all other companions).





CHAPTER 25

ISLAMlC MORALS



A Muslim always speaks the truth, he never tells lies.

A Muslim is true to his word, not treacherous, honest, does not betray.

A Muslim does not speak badly of other Muslims behind their backs.

A Muslim is courageous, not cowardly.

A Muslim is very enduring in situations of defending the truth, bold in saying the truth.

A Muslim is just with others, even against himself; does not transgress others’ rights; also, does not accept to be treated unjustly by anyone; he is strong and does not accept to be humiliated by anybody.

A Muslim consults about all of his affairs, and (after that) puts himself in Allah’s hands.

A Muslim performs his work as perfectly as he can.

A Muslim is modest, merciful, does good and enjoins it, abstains from evil and forbids it.

A Muslim strives and fights for the victory of Allah’s cause, and for His Deen (religion) to spread.

A Muslim woman wears her Islamic dress which must cover the whole of her body, in front of any stranger (whom she can marry).





CHAPTER 26

AD‘IYA

(SPECIAL SUPPLICATIONS)



Before you start eating or drinking, say: (bismillahi) meaning: “(I start) in the name of Allah”.

Eat with your right hand.

When you finish eating or drinking, say: (al-humdu lillah) meaning: “All praise is due to Allah”.

When you meet any brother in Islam, shake hands with him, smile at him, and greet him, saying: (as-salamu alaykum wa rahmatul-lahi), meaning “Peace be upon you and Allah’s mercy”.

And when a Muslim brother greets ye first, answer his greeting by saying: (wa ‘alaykumu s-salamu wa rahmatul-lahi wa barakatuh) which means: “And upon you (too) be the peace, and the mercy of Allah, and His blessings”.

When you see the dawn breaking or the fall of evening, say: (Asbahna (or Amsayna) ‘ala fitratil-Islam) “We enter the morning (or evening) with our Islamic nature pure”. (Wa kalimatul Ikhlas), and with the statement of sincere faith”. (Wa deeni nabiy-yina Muhammad) “Adhering to the Path of our Prophet Muhammad”. (Wa millati abina Ibrahima hanifan musliman) “And to the Path of our father Abraham, true in faith, a Muslim’ (Wa maa ’ana minal mushrikina) “And, certainly, I am not a polytheist”.

When you see the new moon, say: (Hilala Khayrin wa rushdin) “(You be) a moon of goodness and straight forwardness”, (Allahumma ahillahu ‘alayna bilyumni wal Iman) “Allah ! Make it dawn on us with blessing and belief”. (Was-salamati wal-Islam) “And with safety, and submission!”

When you visit a sick person, say: (Bismillah)”In the name of Allah” (Allahumma Adh-hibil ba’s rab-ban-nasi) “O Allah! Take harm away, Lord of mankind!” (Allahumma ishfi wa ‘antash-shafi) “O Allah Heal (him) ! Your are (really) the healer,” (la shifa ’illa shifa’uka) “(In fact) there is no healing but the healing you give. “ (Shifa’an la yughadiru saqaman) “Grant recovery that leaves no ailment behind!”

When you enter the mosque say: (bismillah “In the name of Allah” (Was-salatu was-salamu ‘ala rasulillahi) “ Blessings and peace be upon Allah’s Messenger.” (Allahumma ‘ighfir li dhunubi) “O Allah ! Forgive me my sins, “(wa ftah li abwaba rahmatika) “And open for me the gates of your mercy”

When you go out of the mosque, say the same, but, instead of the last portion, say:

(wa ftah li abwaba fadlika) “And open for me the gates of your grace!”

When you go to your home, say: (Al-hamdu lil-lahil allathi ’at‘amana wa saqana wa ’aawana) “Praise be to Allah Who provides us with food, drink and shelter!”. (Fakam miman la kafiya lahu wala mu’wiya) “So many are there who have none giving them provision or shelter.” Repeat whenever you can, these favorite phrases of glorification,

(Subhanallah) “Glory be to Allah.!”.

(Walhamdulillah) “Praise be to Allah !”.

(Wa la’ilaha,illal-laah) “No (true) god except Allah

(Wallahu akbar) “Allah is the Greatest !”

(Wa la hawla wa la quwwata ’illa bil-lahi) ‘There is no power nor strength save by Allah !”.

Also, repeatedly send your prayers of blessings to Prophet Muhammad – Salla ‘Allahu alaihi wa sallam –, particularly when you hear his name uttered, or when you utter it; you will say: (Sallal-lahu alaihi wa sallama) “May Allah give him blessings and peace!”





CHAPTER 27

MUSLIM WOMAN



Women in Islam are the sisters of men.

She, just as man, is created by Allah.

Thus, she is invited to become Muslim.

She is commanded to have belief in Allah, obedience and love to Him.

Also, she must believe in the message of Prophet Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam.

Commanded to fulfill Salat, Siyam, Zakat and Hajj in worship to Allah.

Required to follow the Shari‘ah (Law) of Allah, exactly as man.

To bring up her children on the bases of Islam and its good morals, and to protect them.

She puts on full dress which covers all of her body in the presence of strangers.

When in her period (of menstruation or confinement) she abstains from praying, fasting, reciting The Quran, and remaining in mosques.

When her period expires, she must have Ghusl (Taking a bath), and make up for fasting, not for prayers.

She is exempted from attending Salat Al-Jumu`ah (Friday congragation Prayer )

She is not permitted to marry a non Muslim ( Christian ,Jew or atheist ) unless he announcees his faithful embrace of Islam .



Appendix 1

(Chapters from The Quran)



Surat Al-Fatihah



Bismil-lahi r-rahmani r-rahim(i)

’Al-hamdu lil-lahi rabbil-‘aalameen(a)

‘Ar-rahmanir r-rahim(i)

Maliki yawmid-deen(i)

lyyaka na‘budu wa Iyyaka nasta‘in(u)

Ihdina s-sirata l-mustaqeem(a)

Siratal-ladhina ’an‘amta ‘alayhim, ghayril-magdhoobi ‘alayhim waladdaal-leen(a)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Praise be to Allah the Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds.

Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Master of the Day of Judgement.

You (alone) do we worship, and Your aid we seek

Show us the straight way!

The way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, those whose portion is not wrath and who do not go astray.





Surat Al-‘Asr (Time through Ages) - 103



Bismil-lahi r-rahmani r-rahim(i)



Wal-‘asr(i)

Innal-’insana lafee khusr(in)

’lllal-ladhina ’aamanoo wa ‘amilus-saalihati

Wa tawasaw bil-haqqi wa tawasaw bis-sabr(i)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



By (the token of) time (through the ages)

Verily man is in loss,

Except those who have faith, and do righteous deeds

and join together in mutual teaching of truth and of constant patience [The Qur’an 103]





Surat Al-Ikhlas (Purity of Faith) - 112



Bismil-lahir rahmani r-rahim(i)



Qul huwa l-lahu ahad (un)

’Al-lahus-samad(u)

Lam yalid wa lam yulad

Wa lam yakun lahu kufuwan ’ahad(un)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



1. Say: He is Allah, the One and the Only,



2. Allah, the Eternal, the Absolute;



3. He begets not, nor is He begotten;



4. And there is none like unto Him



Surat Al-Kawthar (Abundance) - 108



Bismil-lahir rahmanir rahim(i)



’Inna ’a‘taynakal-kawthar(a)

Fa salli li rabbika wanhar

Inna shani’uka huwal-’abtar(u)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



To you have we granted the Fount (of Abundance)

Therefore to your Lord turn in Prayer and Sacrifice.

For who hates you, he will be cut off (from future hope).

Surat Al-Falaq (The Dawn) - 113



Bismi l-lahi r-rahmani r-rahim(i))



Qul ’a‘udhu bi rabbil -falaq(i)

Min sharri ma khalaq(a)

Wa min sharri ghasiqin ’idha wa qab(a)

Wa min sharrin-naf-fathati fil-uqad(i)

Wa min sharri hasidin idha hasad(a)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of the Dawn,

From the mischief of created things;

And from the mischief of darkness as it overspreads;

And from the mischief of those who practice secret arts;

And from the mischief of the envious one as he practices envy.

Surat An-Nas (Mankind) - 114



(Bismil-lahir rahmanir-rahim(i))



Qul ’a‘udhu bi rabbin-nas(i)

Maliki n-nas(i)

ilahi n-nas(i)

Min sharri l-waswasi l-khannas(i)

’Alladhi yuwaswisu fi sudurin-nas(i)

Minal-jinnati wa n-nas(i)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



Say: I seek refuge with the Lord and Cherisher of Mankind,

The King (or Ruler) of Mankind,

The (True) god of Mankind,

From the mischief of the Whisperer (of Evil), who withdraws (after his whisper),

The same) who whispers into the hearts of Mankind

Among Jinn kind, and Mankind.





Appendix 2

AT-TASH-SHAHHUD (Witnessing)



AT-TASHAHHUD



(at-tahiyyatu li-lahi) (was-salawatu) (wat-tayibatu)

(’As-salamu ‘alayka) (’ay-yuhan-nabiyyu) (wa rahmatul-lahi) (wa barakatuhu)

(’As-salamu ‘alayna)(wa ‘ala ‘ibadil-lahi s-salihinah)

(’Ash-hadu ‘al-laa ’ilaha ’illal-lahu)

(wa ’ash-hadu ’anna Muhammadan)(‘Abduhu wa rasuluhu)

All reverence is due to Allah, and (all) worship, and (all) good,

Peace be upon you, o Prophet!, and the mercy of Allah, and His blessings.

Peace be upon us all, and upon the righteous servants of Allah,

I bear witness that there is no god but Allah,

And I bear witness that Muhammad, is His servant and His Messenger.

Prayers for Abraham (after At-Tashahhud)



’Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad

Wa ‘ala ’aali Muhammad

Kama sallayta ‘ala ’Ibrahim

Wa ‘ala ’aali Ibrahim

Wa barik ‘ala Muhammad

Wa ‘ala ’ali Muhammad

Kama barakta ‘ala ’Ibrahim

Wa ‘ala ’ali Ibrahim

Fil ‘aalamina

’In-naka hamidun majeed

Allah! Send Your grace on Muhammad

And on the Family of Muhammad

As you have sent your grace on Ibrahim

And on the Family of Ibrahim

And send your blessings on Muhammad

And on the Family of Muhammad.

As you have blessed Ibrahim.

And the Family of Ibrahim.

In this world and in the Hereafter

Verily, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious

O you people, adore your Lord who created you and those who came before you, that you may have the chance to be righteous”. (The Qur’an 2:21)



Your Way to Islam



An invitation to all to join the faithful in their progress to Allah’s blessing. “Those who obey Allah and His Messenger are in the Company of those who are blessed by Allah, The Prophets, The Sincere (faithful), the Witnesses (Martyrs) and the Righteous (who do good), and what a beautiful fellowship!” (The Qur’an 4:69).



CHAPTER 1

PREFACE



Behold all that is around you on earth: things, plants, insects, animals, birds and fish...

Don’t you see that they have accurate systems governing and guiding their life?

Behold all that is above you in space: sun, moon, planets, stars, clouds, wind ... etc., aren’t they all functioning properly and accurately and rendering valuable services to our life on earth?

Think of yourself, of your organs, of your numerous and efficient body systems, how they are cooperatively functioning to secure healthful life for you!

Who created all these fantastic things? Who established their accurate systems? Who is controlling this huge and complicated universe?

No one dared so far to claim creating, or being able to create, any single thing, even a hair!!

The Creator and The Sustainer of all these Creatures is One only; if there were more than one there would have been confusion in the heavens and the earth! That One is Allah (the only true God).

It is very logical, then, to acknowledge this fact, to know our Creator and Provider to be grateful to Him, and to submit ourselves and our life to His Wise and Merciful Guidance.

Our Creator has endowed us with intellect to understand and with freedom to choose the right path.

Allah has showed us the right path through his messengers sealed by Mohammad and His Books completed by The Qur’an.

In front of us there are two ways: one is leading to bliss in this life and in the Hereafter that is Islam.

The other is leading to misery and loss in this world, and to eternal punishment in the Hereafter. The choice is ours, what are we going to choose? May Allah guide us into the Right Path! Aameen!





CHAPTER 2

ISLAM WHY? FOR WHOM? WHEN?



Islam.... Why?



Because Islam is the religion chosen by Allah for all humanity.

Because Islam is the religion of all prophets since Adam to Mohammad (Peace be upon them all).

Because Islam is the religion delivered by all Messengers of Allah and Islam is the seal of all heavenly revelations, and

Because Prophet Muhammad – Sallallahu alayhi wasallam – the Messenger of Islam is the last of God’s apostles, and

Because The Qur’an is the last of Allah’s scriptures.

Allah ta’ala (Glory be to Him) says: “Do they seek other than the Deen (Religion) of Allah? While all creatures in the heavens and on earth have, Willingly or unwillingly, bowed to His Will (accepted Islam), and to Him shall they All be brought back,” (The Qur’an 3:83) “If anyone desires a Deen (Religion) other than Islam (submission to Allah) it will never be accepted from him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (everything) (The Qur’an 3:85).





Islam... for whom?



For every person upon whom Allah has bestowed life and intellect.

For those who can see the blessings of Allah.

For those who can hear the Words of Allah.

For those who can comprehend the signs of Allah.

For those whose hearts are full of love and gratitude to Allah.

For you, for me, and for those whose blessed hearts are open to faith.





Islam ... When?



Now and always.

Obey your heart’s call to faith.

It is your life chance.

A golden chance that might not strike your heart again.

Answer Allah’s call. He summons you.

“But your God is one God, submit your wills to Him (in Islam), and give the good news to those who humble themselves.” [The Qur’an 22:34].





CHAPTER 3

THE GREAT TRIP



If you become convinced that Islam is the true religion,

Seek a trustworthy Islamic authority such as an Islamic Center, a mosque, or an Islamic Organization.

Contact the person in charge and tell him about your wish to embrace Islam.

The person in charge will ask you some questions to know how far you are convinced with Islam.

This pamphlet will provide you with answers for such questions.

Before you reach that honorable occasion, i.e., declaring conversion to Islam, wash the whole of your body with the intention of converting to Islam. It is also recommended for this very special occasion, to shave under-arm and pubic hair, dress up, and apply a pleasant-smelling perfume to the body.





CHAPTER 4

WHAT DO YOU SAY TO DECLARE

YOUR CONVERSlON TO lSLAM?



To achieve this, it is sufficient to say (in Arabic, if possible):

’Ash-hadu ’an la ilaha ’illaal-lah!

Wa ‘ash-hadu ‘an-na Muhammadan rasulul-lah

Wa ‘ash-hadu ‘an-na ‘isa abdul-lahi wa rasuluhu

Bari’tu min kulli dinin yukhalifu dinal-Islam

The meaning of this is as follows:



I bear witness that there is no (true) god except Allah.

And I bear witness that Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger.

And I bear witness that Jesus is the slave and messenger of Allah.

deny and refuse any religion except Islam.

Also you can say:



I (firmly) believe in Allah, His Angels, His scriptures, His Messengers, the Last Day, and in the ability of Allah to will the existence of good or bad.

I promise Allah not to associate with Him (in worship) anyone or anything (whatsoever), and,

I will steadfastly perform Salat (the Five Prayers), and

I will give out Zakat (special Islamic system of charity), and

I will never steal, and

Never commit adultery (or fornication), and

Never illegally kill a person, and

Never disobey Allah.

Praise be to Allah Who has guided me to belief !

Note: The person in charge, in front of whom a new Muslim has announced his conversion to Islam, prays Allah for him with such prayers: Allah may forgive me and you! And Allah may accept (submission) from me and you! O Allah! Accept him with those on whom You did bestow your Grace, of Prophets, the Sincere (lovers of Truth), the Witnesses, and the righteous! What a beautiful Fellowship!







CHAPTER 5

What is Islam?



Islam is (composed of) three (main) areas: Utterance, faith, and deeds.

The utterance was explained in chapter 4.

Faith is to believe in Allah, the Angels, the Heavenly Scriptures, Prophets, the last Day and in the ability of Allah to will the existence of good or bad.

Deeds are: Salat (Prayers), Zakat (Alms-giving), Siyam (Fasting), and Hajj (Pilgrimage).





CHAPTER 6

FAITH IN ALLAH



We believe that Allah is one God, our Lord and the Lord of everything,

Allah is the Creator of everything,

All other than Him are created, and are servants who share nothing with Allah.

Even Angels and Prophets are merely created servants submitting to Allah.

Among them are Jesus and Muhammad (Peace be upon them); both have no trace of deity (godhood).

Allah is the Living Self-Subsisting, Eternal, the First without a beginning and the Last without an end.

He hears everything and sees everything.

He is Most Gracious, Most Merciful, All-Dominating,

He has the Most beautiful Names and the Noblest Attributes.

He has created us out of nothing,

And made us in the best form.

He has given us all graces and bounties.

Hence we are not permitted to worship or submit to any other than Him, whether a favorite Angel or a chosen Prophet!

Whoever directs his prayers, bows or prostrates (in worship), or offers sacrifice to any other than Allah, he is an infidel! and not a Muslim even if he declares that he is a Muslim:





Allah says: “Say: Truly my prayer and my service of sacrifice, my life and my death, are (all) for Allah, the Cherisher of the Worlds. No partner has He. This I am commanded and I am the first of those who submit to His Will”. [The Qur’an 6:162 -163]

Islam is the religion of Monotheism: it denies the Dualism of Magians and the Trinity of Christians. Islam teaches that Allah is One and only One. No one shares with Him, His Dominion or His Command. He has the Most beautiful Names and the Noblest Attributes:

Allah says: “Say! He is Allah, the One. He is the Most Unique, the Eternal,the Absolute. He neither gives birth, nor is He born. And there is none like unto Him. “ [Al Qur’an 112).









CHAPTER 7

FAITH IN ANGELS



Allah has created Angels to worship Him, to carry out His commands and to be His messengers to His Prophets.

One of the angels is Gabriel who used to bring down Revelation to our Prophet Muhammad 'Alayhis-Salatu was-Salamu (peace be upon him).

Another Angel is Michael who is in charge of rain falling.

A third one is the "Angel of Death" who is in charge of taking the souls of people whose death is due.

Angels are but servants honored by Allah.

Hence we honor them and speak of them respectfully.

But we worship none of them, nor do we take them as Allah's sons or daughters (as infidels claim).

We worship only Allah who created them in this wonderful kind of creation.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: "And they say: The Most Gracious has begotten a son, Glory be to Him! They are but servants raised to honor. They do not speak before He speaks, and they act (in all things) by His command. He knows what is before them and what is behind them, and they offer no intercession except for those whom He accepted, and they stand in awe and reverence of Him. If any of them should say, ‘I am a God besides Him’, such one We should reward with Hell. Thus do We reward those who do wrong”. [The Qur’an 21:26-29]







CHAPTER 8

FAITH IN HOLY SCRIPTURES



Allah has sent down to a number of Messengers, Books in order to proclaim them to mankind.

These Books contain the Words of Allah.

Among them are the Sheets of Ibrahim (Abraham), Taurat revealed to Moosa (Moses), Az-Zabour (psalms) revealed to Dawood (David), The Injil (Gospel) revealed to Isa (Jesus), And The Qur’an sent down to Muhammad, (Peace be upon them all).

Jews and Christians distorted some parts of their Books (Taurat and Injil).

Being the last Book assuredly guarded from corruption, The Qur’an confirms the truth in the previous Books and guards it.

Whatever, in those Books, differs from The Qur’an is corrupted or abrogated.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: “To you We sent the scripture in truth Confirming the scriptures that came before it, And guarding it...” [The Qur’an 5:48].

Allah revealed The Qur’an in Arabic and has firmly promised to protect. His last Message from all corruption; He says about The Qur’an: “We have, without doubt, sent down the Message, and We will assuredly guard it (from corruption)” [The Qur’an 15:9]





CHAPTER 9

FAITH IN PROPHETS



We believe that: Allah chose from among mankind some Prophets to deliver His Guidance.

From among those Prophets He selected Some Messengers.

He sent to the Messengers Laws and commanded them to proclaim these laws and to clarify them to their people.

Some of the great Messengers of Allah were Nooh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Moosa (Moses), Isa (Jesus), and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).

Embracing Islam does not mean to disbelieve in Moosa, Isa, or any other prophet.

Islam teaches you how to believe correctly in all Prophets.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says in The Qur’an: “To you We sent the Scripture in Truth, Confirming the scriptures that came before it, And guarding it...” [The Qur’an 5:48]. Meaning: Clarifying the Truth they distorted.

Allah mentioned’ names of a number of Prophets, He says: “Say you (Muslims): We believe in Allah, and the revelation given to us, and to Ibrahim, lsma‘il, Isaac, Ya‘qoob (Jacob) and the Tribes, and that which was given to Moosa (Moses), and Isa (Jesus), and that which was given to all Prophets from their Lord. We make no difference between one and another of them, and we submit to Allah (in Islam)” [The Qur‘an 2:136]

The first Prophet was Adam, father of mankind, Alayhis-Salam (Peace be upon him).

Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam ‘Alayhis-Salatu was-Salamu (Peace be upon him) is the Seal (the last) of the prophets. No prophet is to come after him up to the end of this world.

Hence the fact that Islam is the only true religion to remain up to the Last Day.

He is Muhammad son of Abdullah son of Abdul-Muttalib. He is an Arab from (the famous tribe) of The Quraysh, a descendant of Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma‘il (Ishmael) – Alayhimus-salatu was-salamu – (Peace, and prayers of Allah be upon them).

He was born in Makkah (Mecca) in 571 AD (Known as the Year of the Elephant).

Allah sent Revelation to him when he was 40 years old.

He stayed in Makkah 13 years calling people to (believe in) Allah.

Only a limited number of people believed in him.

After that he emigrated to Al-Madinah and invited its people to believe in Allah, and they accepted.

He became the leader of Makkah in the year 8 AH He died at the age of 63 after the whole of The Qur’an was revealed, and all Arabs embraced Islam.





CHAPTER 10

FAITH IN THE LAST DAY



We believe that there will be another life after this life.

When the determined term of this life comes to an end, Allah will command an Angel to sound the Trumpet and all mankind and all other creatures will die.

Then he (Angel) will sound it again, when, behold, all dead since Adam will stand out of their graves.

Then, Allah will gather all people to account them for what they did:

Those who believed (in Allah), accepted the Messengers (as truthful) and did good deeds (commanded by Allah), Allah will put them in Paradise.

In Paradise, they will enjoy eternal Bliss.

But those who rejected the Messengers and disobeyed Allah’s commands, will be put in Hell.

In Hell Fire, they will be in continuous eternal punishment.

O Allah! We ask Your Paradise and seek refuge with You from Fire of Hell! Aameen!

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: “As for those who had transgressed all bounds; and had preferred the life of this world; the Abode will be Hell-Fire. And for those who had feared of standing in front of their Lord’s (Tribunal); and had restrained (their) souls from lower desires; their Abode will be Paradise.” (The Qur’an 79:37-41)





CHAPTER 11

FAITH IN FATE AND DIVINE DECREE



We believe in the timeless knowledge of Allah and in His power to plan and execute His plans and nothing could happen in His Kingdom against His will.

His knowledge and power are in action and command at all times over His creation.

He is Wise and Merciful and whatever He does must have a meaningful purpose.

If this is established in our minds and hearts, we should accept with good faith all that He does,

Although we may fail to understand it fully, or think it is bad.





CHAPTER 12

IBADAT (RELIGIOUS DEEDS)



Deeds in Islam are of two main categories:

‘Ibadat, these are the rituals, or devotional duties, of worship: Salat, Zakat, Siyam, and Hajj.

Mu’amalat, these include all life activities related to the individual, family, society, or the whole ‘Ummah (Muslim Community at large), political, economic, cultural, legal, ethical…, national or international.

Mu‘amalat when carried out in fulfillment of Allah’s Shari’a (Law) will be a sort of “Worship” in the general sense.

In this pamphlet, Mu’amalat will not be dealt with. You have to consult in each case either a book of Fiqh (Islamic Law) or any well informed Muslim scholar or authority.

The practical Pillars (Foundations) of Islam are Five:





The two Shahadas (Declarations of submission to Allah)

Salat (Prayer)

Zakat (Poor Due)

Siyam (Fasting of Ramadhan)

Hajj (Pilgrimage)





CHAPTER 13

THE TWO SHAHADAS (DECLARATIONS)



Ash-Shahadah means to say, with a firm belief in heart, and mind, the following:



’Ash-hadu ’an Laa ’ilaha ’illal-Lahu,

Wa’ash-hadu ’anna Muhammadan rasulul-Lah.

The meaning of these is:



I bear witness that there is no (true) god except Allah,

and I bear witness that Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger.

These imply two things:



That are deeds must be sincere to God alone.

That we only worship God as Muhammad taught.





CHAPTER 14

SALAT (PRAYER)



We pray five times everyday:



The Fajr (dawn) prayer. Two Rak‘ahs (Units). Its time starts just after dawn and ends at sunrise.

The Dhuhr (noon) prayer. Four Rak‘ahs. Time starts just after sun moves down from its zenith and ends at the midpoint between zenith and sunset.

The Asr (Late afternoon) prayer: Four Rak‘ahs. Time starts after the end of the Dhuhr prayer and ends at sunset.

The Maghrib (Sunset) prayer: Three Rak‘ahs. Time starts just after sunset.

The Isha’ (Evening) prayer: Four Rak‘ahs. Preferable time starts when twilight disappears and ends at midnight.





CHAPTER 15

AT-TAHARAH (PURITY)



A Muslim must be pure and clean when he performs his prayer, (otherwise his prayers will not be valid).

At-Taharah is of two types: Wudu’, (Ablution) and Ghusl (full Ablution).

WUDU’ (Ablution) which is performed as follows:



Have Niyyah (the clear intention) of performing wudu’.

Say: "Bismil-Lahi r-rahmani r-rahim" (in the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful).

Wash the hands, rinse the mouth and clear with water the inside of the nose (sniffing).

Wash the face.

Wash the arms up to the elbows (start with the right arm)

Rub the head with wet hands, and the ears.

Wash the feet up to the ankles (starting with the right foot)

Say the two Shahadahs.

No need for reapplying Wudu’ as long as it has not been invalidated.

Wudu' is invalidated by: Passing of excrement, urine, wind or by sleeping.

GHUSL (Taking a shower):



A Muslim must take Ghusl after:



Ejaculation of semen because of any reason.

Intimate intercourse.

For women: End of Menstruation period.

End of the childbirth period.

Ghusl is washing the whole body with clean water.



TAYAMMUM (Dry Ablution):



In case of not having water for Wudu or Ghusl, or being unable to use it for any reason, apply the Dry Ablution:



Have Niyyah (the clear intention) of performing Tayammum’.

Say: "Bismillahir-rahmanir-rahim" (in the name of Allah, The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful).

Hit the palms once on any clean dust-containing material,

then rub the face with the palms, then the hands.





CHAPTER 16

HOW TO PERFORM SALAT (PRAYERS)?



The best way for men is to perform salat in congregation with Muslims in the mosque. There you will be given more reward by Allah and you will leam easily how to pray.

Be sure that your body, clothes and place are clean.

Stand facing towards the direction of QIBLAH, that is the direction of the Sacred mosque in Makkah, in Al Hijaz (Saudi Arabia).

Raise the hands to the shoulder level and say: “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest).

Fold the hand on the chest, the right hand over the left.

Recite Al-Fatihah (The Opening Chapter of The Qur’an) and another chapter or some verses of The Qur’an (See App. 1)

Say. “Allahu Akbar” while making Ruku‘ (bowing and bending the body at a right angle placing the palms on the knees)

Say in Ruku’: “Subhana rabbiyal-atheem” (Glory be to my Lord, the Great!) three times.

Go back to the standing position saying: “Sami‘a ’allahu liman hamidah! Rabbana wa lakal-hamd.” (Indeed, Allah listens to one who praises Him O! Our Lord! All praises be to You)

Then, you say “Allahu Akbar” and immediately fall down to make the first Sajdah (Prostration) with forehead, nose, palms, knees and toes resting on the ground,-saying: “Subhana rabbiyal ’a‘la” (Glory be to my Lord, Most High) Three times.

Move from sajdah (prostration) position to sitting posture while saying; “Allahu Akbar!” While sitting, say “Rabbighfirli warhamni” (O My Lord! Forgive me! and have mercy on me)

After this, another sajdah is done in the same way with “Allahu Akbar” uttered before it, and “Subhana rabbiyal ’a‘la” Three times during Sujud.

After completing the second sajdah, one “Rak‘ah” is completed.

Stand up saying “Allahu Akbar” in order to begin a new Rak‘ah, exactly as the first Rak‘ah.

After finishing the second “Rak‘ah” you sit down and recite Part One and Part Two of “At-Tashahhud”.

Finally you turn the face to the right hand side and say: “As-Salamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatul-lah” which means Peace be upon you and The Mercy of Allah!

Then you do the same to the left side.

Thus a two- Rak‘ah prayer is completed, such as the Fajr Prayer.

As for 4 Rak‘ah prayers such as the Dhuhr, only the first part of At-Tashahhud is recited after completing the second Rak‘ah. Then you stand up to perform two more Rak‘ahs in the same way, but without reciting any verses from The Qur’an after Al-Fatihah.

The ‘Asr and t ‘Isha’ prayers are performed exactly as the Dhuhr.

In the Maghrib Prayer, the final Tashahhud and “As-Salam…” come after the third Rak‘ah.





WHY WE PRAY



The Muslim observes his Prayers to show devotion and obedience to Allah, because Prayer is one of the greatest forms of worship that Allah likes His servants to offer.

To thank Him for creating us in the best form of creation.

Because He has guided us to the Deen (Complete way of Life, Religion) of Islam.

Prayer is a chance for a Muslim to express to his Lord whatever he feels and needs through Divine Words of Allah i.e. the Qur’an.

To remember his Lord and not forget His commands amid life’s pre-occupations.

To ask Allah, The Exalted, to give him aid and continuous guidance in the darkness of life.

To strengthen love and fear of Allah in the Muslim’s heart so that he might remain sticking to the Right Path of Islam, and its laws and manners.

Gaining good rewards from Allah and having our sins forgiven.

To rejoice when he finds himself on the Last Day pleased with the great reward allotted to him in the Gardens of Bliss.

Prayer is a unique training and developmental program which, if well and devotedly performed, can achieve for Muslims many valuable physical, ethical and spiritual gains such as cleanliness, health, order, punctuality, brotherhood, equality, social consolidation,… etc.





CHAPTER 17

ZAKAT (Poor Due, Alms)



WHAT IS ZAKAT



The term “Zakat” originally means: growth, and purity.

In Islamic Law, it means paying every lunar year a certain percentage of your savings to certain charitable usage defined by The Qur’an.

If you have, for that period, an amount of money equal to the value of 85 grams of pure gold (now 1985, is about $1000) or more, you must pay 2.5%.

Zakat is paid for the poor and the needy Muslims, for the wayfarers, for propagating Islam or fighting for Islam, for helping new Muslims or encouraging non-Muslims to embrace Islam, for those who are burdened with debts and are unable to pay them.

If you have articles of trade, you calculate their Zakat in the same way.

You can ask some Muslim scholar or refer to any good reference book to know more about Zakat.

WHY WE PAY ZAKAT



To show devotion to Allah Who commanded us to do so and informed us that He loves the charitable.





CHAPTER 18

SAWM, or SIYAM (Fasting)



ABOUT THE FAST



In Ramadan, (the 9th month of the lunar Islamic year) Muslims fast in obedience to Allah’s command and in gratitude for Allah’s Grace for revealing His Glorious Book, The Qur’an, in Ramadan.

Sawm (Fasting) is to abstain from eating, drinking and intimate intercourse from dawn to sunset.

If sick or on a journey, a Muslim is permitted to break his fast.

If he breaks the fast, he has to make it up by fasting a number of days equal to the days in which he broke fasting in Ramadan.

After the end of Ramadan comes “Eid al-Fitr” (the Holy day of Breaking the Fast) which is the 1st day of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan.

On the Eid morning, all Muslims congregate, in open grounds or in mosques, to perform “ Eid Prayer” to express their happiness and gratitude to Allah for enabling them to complete this duty of Fasting.

Concerning this important duty, Allah says: “O you who believe. Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may (observe) piety and self-restraint” [The Qur’an 2:183]

Also, He says: “Ramadan is the month in which was sent down The Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (signs) for guidance and judgement (between right and wrong). So, every one of you who is present (at his home, village, or town) during that month should fast it, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by other days”. [The Qur’an 2:185].





WHY WE FAST



We fast in obedience to Allah’s command, and because Allah loves those who fast.

To show our gratitude to Allah’s Grace of sending down His Guidance, The Qur’an, to guide us and the whole humanity.

To thank Allah for making us of those who believe in The Qur’an.

And because He enabled us to memorize His Book, to recite it, to study and understand it, and to benefit in its guidance.

To develop control on our material desires Allah planted in our nature.

To control ourselves in front of all things prohibited by Allah.

Fasting makes us remember the needy who suffer from hunger and deprivation.

Hence, to become more sympathetic to them and help them with part of what Allah has bestowed upon us.

To check our engrossment in our desires, and increase our care for our spiritual entity through intensifying our deeds and acts of worship in this month of The Qur’an.

To increase our share of sincerity, consience, patience, discipline, as well as many healthful benefits.

Above all these, the great reward Allah promised to give us on the Last Day.





CHAPTER 19

HAJJ (THE PILGRIMAGE)



WHAT IS HAJJ



Hajj is a journey to ’Al-Ka‘bah (the sacred House of Allah) in Makkah (Mecca) with the intention of obeying Allah’s command and performing certain prescribed rites there. (For the details of performing Hajj, you may consult any Islamic reference book on the subject).

Performing Hajj is obligatory, once in a lifetime, upon every mature Muslim provided he is able (physically and financially).

The whole journey of Hajj and its rites conform to a unique form, the principles of Islam and commemorate Islamic milestones related to Prophets Ibraheem (Abraham), Ismael and Muhammad, ‘Alayhimus-salam.

The rites of Hajj are performed, in general, in the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah (the last month of the Islamic Year).

On the 9th of Dhul Hijah the culminating rite is performed at Mount ‘Arafat’ where all pilgrims, sometimes about two million, gather.

Pilgrims’ stand at ‘Arafat to declare their supplications to Allah and their repentance and need of His Mercy and Forgiveness.

This reminds us of the Grand Assembly on the Day of Judgment.

The next day (the tenth) is the great Eid ’Al-’Adha (The Feast of Sacrifice) when pilgrims offer their sacrifices. After slaughtering their sacrifices, pilgrims go to Makkah and make Tawaf (circumbulate) seven times around Al-Ka‘bah.

Muslims everywhere slaughter their sacrifices (of camels, cows, or sheep) after performing the Eid Prayer.

These sacrifices were prescribed in commemoration of the great sacrifice of Prophet Abraham (Alayhis-salam) when he was about to slaughter his only son, Ismael, whom he loved much, when Allah ordered him to do so to test his loyalty and obedience to Him.

After completing the acts of Hajj, you can enjoy visiting The Mosque of Prophet Muhammad – sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wa salam – in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah (the illuminated town) and attend some Prayers there. The reward for praying at that Mosque is great.

When in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, pay a greeting visit to the Prophet’s grave and to his noble companions’ graves, in the Islamically accepted form.

Also visiting the Holy Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem is recommendable in Islam.





WHY WE PERFORM HAJJ



Purposes and lessons of performing Hajj are so many. Among them are:



Responding in obedience to Allah’s commands.

To be grateful to Allah for His Grace and Favors on us, such as health, wealth and children.

To glorify Allah by visiting and making Tawaf (gowing around) His Sacred House, Al-Ka‘bah.

(Al-Ka‘bah is the first House built on earth for worshipping Allah, which Ibrahim – The Friend – and his son Isma‘il erected by the instruction of Allah).

To pray at Al-Ka‘ba, which is the Qiblah (direction) to which all Muslims turn their faces in the five daily prayers.

To visit and stand in devotion to Allah at the Sacred Mountains such as Mount ‘Arafat. There we celebrate the praises of Allah, purify our souls and repent of all sins.

To see the places where Ibrahim, the noble Friend and Prohpet of Allah, and his first son Ismail – Alayhis-salam – stayed and worshiped Allah.

To visit the places where Prophet Muhammad – alayhis-salam – was born, brought up, received the Divine Message, suffered and struggled for spreading the light of Allah.

To meet our Muslim brethren coming from all countries, and to see the actualization of brotherhood, equality, cooperation and love among Muslims regardless of their differences in nationality, color, standard of living, and other worldly matters. To see the universality of Islam.

To practice patience, sacrifice, endurance, simplicity and other spiritual capacities we are in urgent need of.

To come back cleansed of our sins, so as to start a new page in our life, hoping to keep it free from sins until the end of life, so that we may be accepted and well rewarded by Allah in the Hereafter.





CHAPTER 20

HOW TO DEVELOP YOUR ISLAM?



Becoming a Muslim after becoming convinced is opening a plain page in your deed record.

Whatever bad deeds you have committed before, Allah will forgive because of your embracing Islam.

Becoming a Muslim is like starting a new life.

You have to grow and develop in Islam. How can you do so? By the following:





Firstly: Increasing your knowledge of Islam, through:



Reading the Qur’anic text.

Reading some interpretations of the Qur’an.

Reading Traditions (Sayings) of Prophet Muhammad, ‘Alayhis-salatu was-salamu).

Reading the biography of Prophet Muhammad –‘Alayhis-salatu was-salamu).

Reading the biographies of the great Muslim figures among our righteous fore-Muslims who propagated Islam and proclaimed it to mankind.

Attending Jumu‘ah (Friday) congregational prayer, listening to its Khutbah (sermon) and praying with Muslims.

Attending the two ‘Eid (holiday) prayers.

Performing the five daily prayers in congregation at the mosque whenever you are able to do so.

Attending Islamic religious, teaching sessions.

Contacting scholars, shaikhs, mosque imams (leaders) and preachers, introducing yourself to them and asking them about any Islamic matter you need to know. They are always happy to provide you with the required clarification.

Having one or more friends of good Muslims who are fairly knowledgeable about Islam to be your permanent reliable reference.

Read as much as you can of the basic sources of Islam (The Qur’an and As-Sunnah) and of the authentic and trustworthy writings about Islam to understand it more.

You will learn a lot about the laws and systems of Islam related to worship, family structure, life activities, manners, economic and public affairs.

You will know the ideology of Islam and its view in regard to creation, the universe, man, and life.

Islam is not rituals or morals only, it is in fact a comprehensive system for society, a constitution for the state and a way of life.





Secondly: Doing good deeds as much as you can:



Try to do good deeds more than the five basic duties mentioned before, such as:

Performing voluntary prayers, in addition to the compulsory five daily prayers.

Helping the poor and the needy by extra charity in addition to Zakat, or by assisting them in carrying out their necessary difficult duties.

Fasting a day or more other than in Ramadan.

Taking part in useful social projects aimed at reforming Muslim Society.

Inviting others to embrace Islam.





CHAPTER 21

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ISLAM



Becoming a Muslim means that you have achieved a lot of good for yourself.

It is like owning a valuable treasure.

The owner of a treasure will have many enemies who strive to take his treasure away from him.

And you have gained the treasure of Islam.

Some people will try to drive you away from your Deen (Religion).

Those people are the foes of Allah.

The foes of Allah are devils whether from among Jinn (whom we do not see) or from among human beings.

Human devils may try to mock at you.

Or, they may try to persuade you by money so that you may turn back from your Religion.

They may accuse Islam of many things, or cloud your mind with some misconceptions.

You have to know that Allah has said in the Qur’an “And no question do they bring to you but We reveal to you the truth and the best explanation” (The Qur’an 25:33).

So, consult Muslim scholars about what Allah has revealed in the Qur’an to answer such misconceptions.

As for Jinn devils they whisper into your heart. “Would you desert your fathers’ and forefathers’ religion, and follow a different one?”

Would you follow a religion that tasks you with prayers, fasting and giving others your property? And that deprives you from wine… etc.”

In fact, many people grow up, and find themselves traditionally following and honoring their parents’ religions and beliefs.

All followers of true, or false religions are like that, but the problem is: which of these religions is the true one and which is the false?

Surely, Islam is the only Deen (Religion) which is pure and free from all types of superstitions, polytheism and paganism.

It is the Deen of pure Monotheism.

When you feel these whispers of Jinn devils, recite:

Rabbi ’a‘uthu bika min hamazatish-Shayateen, Wa ‘a’udhu bika rabbi ‘an yahduroon (The Qur’an 23:97-98) “O my Lord ! I seek refuge with you from the suggestions of the Evil Ones. And I seek refuge with You, O my Lord!, lest they should come near me”.

And recite also the chapters Al-Falaq and An-Nas of the Quran. These are included in Appendix (I) with transliteration.





CHAPTER 22

HOW TO INVITE OTHERS TO ISLAM?



Our noble Prophet Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam – said: “If Allah guides one person to Islam through you, it is better for you, than having the greatest wealth.”

He also said: “Whoever calls (others) to guidance has the same reward as the rewards of those who follow him, without decreasing anything from their rewards.”

Therefore be keen to invite to Islam those non-Muslims whom you know.

Start with people who are closest to you, such as: your parents, wife, son, daughter, brother, then relatives and friends.

Allah (Glory be to Him) said to His Messenger Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ’Allahu ‘alaihi wasallam – [The Qu’an 26:214], “And admonish your nearest Kinsmen”.

Make clear to them the right religion, and make them interested in it!

Tell them of the glad tidings of which Allah has promised, and the blessings and favors that Allah will endow upon them in this world and the next if they follow Islam.

Warn them of Allah’s wrath upon them if they disbelieve in the Holy Quran which He has revealed to be a guidance to everyone.

Or if they disbelieve in Prophet Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam – whom He has sent as a mercy to the worlds.

Invite them with love and sincerity.

And you, yourself, should be an example of good character.

Be quick in doing good and in helping others. If you do so:



You will be a propagator of Islam by your actions as well as your words.

Your friends will be quick to accept when you invite them to Islam, and then Allah will lead them to guidance.

They will come to know that what you say is the truth.

They will consequently accept Islam and love this religion and love you too.

You must know well the wise approach of inviting others to Islam and teaching them. Thus you should speak what is suitable for every occasion.

One of the wise sayings of Arabs is: “There is suitable speech for each situation.“

Allah (Glory be to Him) says in Al Qur’an: “Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching, and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious, for your Lord knows best who have strayed from His path and who receive guidance.” [The Qur’an 16:125]

If you do not know Arabic, it is strongly advisable for you to learn that language so as to be able to understand Islam through its original sources.

If you do so, you will be able to speak with confidence about Islam, because you have direct knowledge of Allah’s words, of the sayings of His messenger Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam – and of the statements of Muslim scholars.

Presenting copies of this booklet to those whom you would like to invite to Islam will help you inshallah (God willing) in propagating this religion of Allah.





CHAPTER 23

MUHARRAMAT

(THE FORBIDDEN THINGS)



Allah (Glory be to Him) has prescribed for us in the Holy Qur’an and in the Sunnah (Traditions of the Prophet) many laws:

Some of these are obligations and others are Muharramat (forbidden things, when something is prohibited we say it is Haram).

As for the obligations, I have already pointed them out previously.

As for the Muharramat, some of the most important of them are the following:





First: Forbidden Foods:



Dead Meat: These are the dead bodies of animals which died naturally, (i.e. without being Islamically slaughtered) or by being strangled, or by falling from a high place, or by being partly eaten by a wild animal, and were not slaughtered before being dead.

Also, those animals slaughtered by other than Muslims, Jews or Christians.

But the meats of dead sea animals are not forbidden.

Blood poured forth.

Flesh of the Pig (pork).

Meat which has, when slaughtered, had the name of anything or anyone other than Allah invoked upon it, or that was slaughtered to glorify any one other than Allah.

The meat of beasts of prey, such as lions, dogs... etc, and those of preying birds that attack with their claws, such as eagles, vultures… etc.

The meat of domestic donkeys and asses.

The meat of animals that feed on filthy things, except if they are isolated and fed clean food for sufficient time.

Any food spoiled by filth until it is cleaned by water if it is possible.

Wine and all kinds of intoxicants.

Foodstuffs containing toxic elements which are harmful to our bodies.





Second: Forbidden Deeds:



Allah Hates these deeds and their doers and punishes them:



To associate (in worship) anything or anyone with Allah.

To be disobedient to our parents.

To give false testimony.

To kill a person whom Allah has forbidden to, except by Law (Legally).

Adultery and fornication.

To steal.

To take anything, unjustly, from the property of an orphan,

To desert the battle-field while fighting unbelievers.

To falsely accuse with adultery or fornication a chaste Muslim woman or man.

To uncover “Awra” infront of anybody.

To take others’ wealth illegally, by means of bribery, robbery trickery, or deceit.

To bribe in order to take others’ properties illegally, or to get what you have no right to.

To marry mother, daughter, sister, paternal aunt, maternal aunt, brother’s daughter, sister’s daughter, whether they are through blood or foster relationship, your father’s wife, your son’s wife, your wife’s mother or daughter.

A Muslim man is not permitted to marry a non-Muslim woman unless she becomes Muslim; but he can marry a Christian or a Jewish woman.

A Muslim woman is not permitted to marry a non-Muslim man, even a Christian or a Jew, unless he becomes a Muslim.

To take part in back-biting or scandals.





CHAPTER 24

Allah’s AWLIYA (Allah’s Friends)



“Allah’s friends” are those true Muslims whom He loves and who love Him.

They are all the righteous Muslims who truly believe in Allah and constantly follow His commands.

Their reward is a good life in this world, and nearness to Allah in the Hereafter, in His Paradise.

However, they cannot do anything to help anybody after their death, nor in their life except through normal reasons.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says of them: “Behold! Verily on ‘friends of Allah’ there is no fear, Nor shall they grieve. Those who believe and constantly guard against evil. For them are Glad Tidings in this life and in the Hereafter; No change can there be in the Words of Allah, This is indeed the supreme felicity” [The Qur’an 10:62-64]

Therefore, be a good Muslim and you will be one of them.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: “Those who obey Allah and the Messenger. Are with those who are blessed by Allah, Of the prophets, the (sincere) believers, the martyrs and the righteous (doers of good). And how excellent a company are they!” [The Qur’an 4:69]

On top of “Allah’s Friends” are His Noble Prophets.

And among them too are the true and sincere followers of Prophets.

And Prophet Muhammad’s companions and wives (Mothers of the Faithful).

The best of his companions are the Ten who were mentioned by name by Prophet Muhammad – Salla ‘Allahu alaihi wa sallam – as those who will be in Paradise.

These chosen companions are distinguished and known for their precedence, firmness and sacrifice in Islam.

On top of these Ten are the four righteous Caliphs (Khalifas) who were chosen by Muslims to rule the Muslim state after Prophet Muhammad – Salla ‘Allahu alaihi wa sallam – They are (in their caliphate order);

Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (The sincere believer) (d. 13 AH)

‘Umaru Ibnul _Khattab (d. 23 AH)

‘Uthmanu bnu Affan, (d. 35 AH)

‘Aliy-yu bnu ‘Abi Talib. (d. 40 AH)

The rest of the Ten are: Az Zubayr ibn Al-Awwam, Sa‘d ibn Abi Waqqas, Talhatu ibn ‘Ubaydillah, ‘Abdurrahman ibn ‘Awf, ‘Abu ‘Ubaidah ‘Amru ibn Al-Jarrah and Sa‘eed ibn Zayd. (May Allah be pleased with them and with all other companions).





CHAPTER 25

ISLAMlC MORALS



A Muslim always speaks the truth, he never tells lies.

A Muslim is true to his word, not treacherous, honest, does not betray.

A Muslim does not speak badly of other Muslims behind their backs.

A Muslim is courageous, not cowardly.

A Muslim is very enduring in situations of defending the truth, bold in saying the truth.

A Muslim is just with others, even against himself; does not transgress others’ rights; also, does not accept to be treated unjustly by anyone; he is strong and does not accept to be humiliated by anybody.

A Muslim consults about all of his affairs, and (after that) puts himself in Allah’s hands.

A Muslim performs his work as perfectly as he can.

A Muslim is modest, merciful, does good and enjoins it, abstains from evil and forbids it.

A Muslim strives and fights for the victory of Allah’s cause, and for His Deen (religion) to spread.

A Muslim woman wears her Islamic dress which must cover the whole of her body, in front of any stranger (whom she can marry).





CHAPTER 26

AD‘IYA

(SPECIAL SUPPLICATIONS)



Before you start eating or drinking, say: (bismillahi) meaning: “(I start) in the name of Allah”.

Eat with your right hand.

When you finish eating or drinking, say: (al-humdu lillah) meaning: “All praise is due to Allah”.

When you meet any brother in Islam, shake hands with him, smile at him, and greet him, saying: (as-salamu alaykum wa rahmatul-lahi), meaning “Peace be upon you and Allah’s mercy”.

And when a Muslim brother greets ye first, answer his greeting by saying: (wa ‘alaykumu s-salamu wa rahmatul-lahi wa barakatuh) which means: “And upon you (too) be the peace, and the mercy of Allah, and His blessings”.

When you see the dawn breaking or the fall of evening, say: (Asbahna (or Amsayna) ‘ala fitratil-Islam) “We enter the morning (or evening) with our Islamic nature pure”. (Wa kalimatul Ikhlas), and with the statement of sincere faith”. (Wa deeni nabiy-yina Muhammad) “Adhering to the Path of our Prophet Muhammad”. (Wa millati abina Ibrahima hanifan musliman) “And to the Path of our father Abraham, true in faith, a Muslim’ (Wa maa ’ana minal mushrikina) “And, certainly, I am not a polytheist”.

When you see the new moon, say: (Hilala Khayrin wa rushdin) “(You be) a moon of goodness and straight forwardness”, (Allahumma ahillahu ‘alayna bilyumni wal Iman) “Allah ! Make it dawn on us with blessing and belief”. (Was-salamati wal-Islam) “And with safety, and submission!”

When you visit a sick person, say: (Bismillah)”In the name of Allah” (Allahumma Adh-hibil ba’s rab-ban-nasi) “O Allah! Take harm away, Lord of mankind!” (Allahumma ishfi wa ‘antash-shafi) “O Allah Heal (him) ! Your are (really) the healer,” (la shifa ’illa shifa’uka) “(In fact) there is no healing but the healing you give. “ (Shifa’an la yughadiru saqaman) “Grant recovery that leaves no ailment behind!”

When you enter the mosque say: (bismillah “In the name of Allah” (Was-salatu was-salamu ‘ala rasulillahi) “ Blessings and peace be upon Allah’s Messenger.” (Allahumma ‘ighfir li dhunubi) “O Allah ! Forgive me my sins, “(wa ftah li abwaba rahmatika) “And open for me the gates of your mercy”

When you go out of the mosque, say the same, but, instead of the last portion, say:

(wa ftah li abwaba fadlika) “And open for me the gates of your grace!”

When you go to your home, say: (Al-hamdu lil-lahil allathi ’at‘amana wa saqana wa ’aawana) “Praise be to Allah Who provides us with food, drink and shelter!”. (Fakam miman la kafiya lahu wala mu’wiya) “So many are there who have none giving them provision or shelter.” Repeat whenever you can, these favorite phrases of glorification,

(Subhanallah) “Glory be to Allah.!”.

(Walhamdulillah) “Praise be to Allah !”.

(Wa la’ilaha,illal-laah) “No (true) god except Allah

(Wallahu akbar) “Allah is the Greatest !”

(Wa la hawla wa la quwwata ’illa bil-lahi) ‘There is no power nor strength save by Allah !”.

Also, repeatedly send your prayers of blessings to Prophet Muhammad – Salla ‘Allahu alaihi wa sallam –, particularly when you hear his name uttered, or when you utter it; you will say: (Sallal-lahu alaihi wa sallama) “May Allah give him blessings and peace!”





CHAPTER 27

MUSLIM WOMAN



Women in Islam are the sisters of men.

She, just as man, is created by Allah.

Thus, she is invited to become Muslim.

She is commanded to have belief in Allah, obedience and love to Him.

Also, she must believe in the message of Prophet Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam.

Commanded to fulfill Salat, Siyam, Zakat and Hajj in worship to Allah.

Required to follow the Shari‘ah (Law) of Allah, exactly as man.

To bring up her children on the bases of Islam and its good morals, and to protect them.

She puts on full dress which covers all of her body in the presence of strangers.

When in her period (of menstruation or confinement) she abstains from praying, fasting, reciting The Quran, and remaining in mosques.

When her period expires, she must have Ghusl (Taking a bath), and make up for fasting, not for prayers.

She is exempted from attending Salat Al-Jumu`ah (Friday congragation Prayer )

She is not permitted to marry a non Muslim ( Christian ,Jew or atheist ) unless he announcees his faithful embrace of Islam .



Appendix 1

(Chapters from The Quran)



Surat Al-Fatihah



Bismil-lahi r-rahmani r-rahim(i)

’Al-hamdu lil-lahi rabbil-‘aalameen(a)

‘Ar-rahmanir r-rahim(i)

Maliki yawmid-deen(i)

lyyaka na‘budu wa Iyyaka nasta‘in(u)

Ihdina s-sirata l-mustaqeem(a)

Siratal-ladhina ’an‘amta ‘alayhim, ghayril-magdhoobi ‘alayhim waladdaal-leen(a)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Praise be to Allah the Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds.

Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Master of the Day of Judgement.

You (alone) do we worship, and Your aid we seek

Show us the straight way!

The way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, those whose portion is not wrath and who do not go astray.





Surat Al-‘Asr (Time through Ages) - 103



Bismil-lahi r-rahmani r-rahim(i)



Wal-‘asr(i)

Innal-’insana lafee khusr(in)

’lllal-ladhina ’aamanoo wa ‘amilus-saalihati

Wa tawasaw bil-haqqi wa tawasaw bis-sabr(i)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



By (the token of) time (through the ages)

Verily man is in loss,

Except those who have faith, and do righteous deeds

and join together in mutual teaching of truth and of constant patience [The Qur’an 103]





Surat Al-Ikhlas (Purity of Faith) - 112



Bismil-lahir rahmani r-rahim(i)



Qul huwa l-lahu ahad (un)

’Al-lahus-samad(u)

Lam yalid wa lam yulad

Wa lam yakun lahu kufuwan ’ahad(un)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



1. Say: He is Allah, the One and the Only,



2. Allah, the Eternal, the Absolute;



3. He begets not, nor is He begotten;



4. And there is none like unto Him



Surat Al-Kawthar (Abundance) - 108



Bismil-lahir rahmanir rahim(i)



’Inna ’a‘taynakal-kawthar(a)

Fa salli li rabbika wanhar

Inna shani’uka huwal-’abtar(u)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



To you have we granted the Fount (of Abundance)

Therefore to your Lord turn in Prayer and Sacrifice.

For who hates you, he will be cut off (from future hope).

Surat Al-Falaq (The Dawn) - 113



Bismi l-lahi r-rahmani r-rahim(i))



Qul ’a‘udhu bi rabbil -falaq(i)

Min sharri ma khalaq(a)

Wa min sharri ghasiqin ’idha wa qab(a)

Wa min sharrin-naf-fathati fil-uqad(i)

Wa min sharri hasidin idha hasad(a)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of the Dawn,

From the mischief of created things;

And from the mischief of darkness as it overspreads;

And from the mischief of those who practice secret arts;

And from the mischief of the envious one as he practices envy.

Surat An-Nas (Mankind) - 114



(Bismil-lahir rahmanir-rahim(i))



Qul ’a‘udhu bi rabbin-nas(i)

Maliki n-nas(i)

ilahi n-nas(i)

Min sharri l-waswasi l-khannas(i)

’Alladhi yuwaswisu fi sudurin-nas(i)

Minal-jinnati wa n-nas(i)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



Say: I seek refuge with the Lord and Cherisher of Mankind,

The King (or Ruler) of Mankind,

The (True) god of Mankind,

From the mischief of the Whisperer (of Evil), who withdraws (after his whisper),

The same) who whispers into the hearts of Mankind

Among Jinn kind, and Mankind.





Appendix 2

AT-TASH-SHAHHUD (Witnessing)



AT-TASHAHHUD



(at-tahiyyatu li-lahi) (was-salawatu) (wat-tayibatu)

(’As-salamu ‘alayka) (’ay-yuhan-nabiyyu) (wa rahmatul-lahi) (wa barakatuhu)

(’As-salamu ‘alayna)(wa ‘ala ‘ibadil-lahi s-salihinah)

(’Ash-hadu ‘al-laa ’ilaha ’illal-lahu)

(wa ’ash-hadu ’anna Muhammadan)(‘Abduhu wa rasuluhu)

All reverence is due to Allah, and (all) worship, and (all) good,

Peace be upon you, o Prophet!, and the mercy of Allah, and His blessings.

Peace be upon us all, and upon the righteous servants of Allah,

I bear witness that there is no god but Allah,

And I bear witness that Muhammad, is His servant and His Messenger.

Prayers for Abraham (after At-Tashahhud)



’Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad

Wa ‘ala ’aali Muhammad

Kama sallayta ‘ala ’Ibrahim

Wa ‘ala ’aali Ibrahim

Wa barik ‘ala Muhammad

Wa ‘ala ’ali Muhammad

Kama barakta ‘ala ’Ibrahim

Wa ‘ala ’ali Ibrahim

Fil ‘aalamina

’In-naka hamidun majeed

Allah! Send Your grace on Muhammad

And on the Family of Muhammad

As you have sent your grace on Ibrahim

And on the Family of Ibrahim

And send your blessings on Muhammad

And on the Family of Muhammad.

As you have blessed Ibrahim.

And the Family of Ibrahim.

In this world and in the Hereafter

Verily, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious



O you people, adore your Lord who created you and those who came before you, that you may have the chance to be righteous”. (The Qur’an 2:21)



Your Way to Islam



An invitation to all to join the faithful in their progress to Allah’s blessing. “Those who obey Allah and His Messenger are in the Company of those who are blessed by Allah, The Prophets, The Sincere (faithful), the Witnesses (Martyrs) and the Righteous (who do good), and what a beautiful fellowship!” (The Qur’an 4:69).



CHAPTER 1

PREFACE



Behold all that is around you on earth: things, plants, insects, animals, birds and fish...

Don’t you see that they have accurate systems governing and guiding their life?

Behold all that is above you in space: sun, moon, planets, stars, clouds, wind ... etc., aren’t they all functioning properly and accurately and rendering valuable services to our life on earth?

Think of yourself, of your organs, of your numerous and efficient body systems, how they are cooperatively functioning to secure healthful life for you!

Who created all these fantastic things? Who established their accurate systems? Who is controlling this huge and complicated universe?

No one dared so far to claim creating, or being able to create, any single thing, even a hair!!

The Creator and The Sustainer of all these Creatures is One only; if there were more than one there would have been confusion in the heavens and the earth! That One is Allah (the only true God).

It is very logical, then, to acknowledge this fact, to know our Creator and Provider to be grateful to Him, and to submit ourselves and our life to His Wise and Merciful Guidance.

Our Creator has endowed us with intellect to understand and with freedom to choose the right path.

Allah has showed us the right path through his messengers sealed by Mohammad and His Books completed by The Qur’an.

In front of us there are two ways: one is leading to bliss in this life and in the Hereafter that is Islam.

The other is leading to misery and loss in this world, and to eternal punishment in the Hereafter. The choice is ours, what are we going to choose? May Allah guide us into the Right Path! Aameen!





CHAPTER 2

ISLAM WHY? FOR WHOM? WHEN?



Islam.... Why?



Because Islam is the religion chosen by Allah for all humanity.

Because Islam is the religion of all prophets since Adam to Mohammad (Peace be upon them all).

Because Islam is the religion delivered by all Messengers of Allah and Islam is the seal of all heavenly revelations, and

Because Prophet Muhammad – Sallallahu alayhi wasallam – the Messenger of Islam is the last of God’s apostles, and

Because The Qur’an is the last of Allah’s scriptures.

Allah ta’ala (Glory be to Him) says: “Do they seek other than the Deen (Religion) of Allah? While all creatures in the heavens and on earth have, Willingly or unwillingly, bowed to His Will (accepted Islam), and to Him shall they All be brought back,” (The Qur’an 3:83) “If anyone desires a Deen (Religion) other than Islam (submission to Allah) it will never be accepted from him; and in the Hereafter he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (everything) (The Qur’an 3:85).





Islam... for whom?



For every person upon whom Allah has bestowed life and intellect.

For those who can see the blessings of Allah.

For those who can hear the Words of Allah.

For those who can comprehend the signs of Allah.

For those whose hearts are full of love and gratitude to Allah.

For you, for me, and for those whose blessed hearts are open to faith.





Islam ... When?



Now and always.

Obey your heart’s call to faith.

It is your life chance.

A golden chance that might not strike your heart again.

Answer Allah’s call. He summons you.

“But your God is one God, submit your wills to Him (in Islam), and give the good news to those who humble themselves.” [The Qur’an 22:34].





CHAPTER 3

THE GREAT TRIP



If you become convinced that Islam is the true religion,

Seek a trustworthy Islamic authority such as an Islamic Center, a mosque, or an Islamic Organization.

Contact the person in charge and tell him about your wish to embrace Islam.

The person in charge will ask you some questions to know how far you are convinced with Islam.

This pamphlet will provide you with answers for such questions.

Before you reach that honorable occasion, i.e., declaring conversion to Islam, wash the whole of your body with the intention of converting to Islam. It is also recommended for this very special occasion, to shave under-arm and pubic hair, dress up, and apply a pleasant-smelling perfume to the body.





CHAPTER 4

WHAT DO YOU SAY TO DECLARE

YOUR CONVERSlON TO lSLAM?



To achieve this, it is sufficient to say (in Arabic, if possible):

’Ash-hadu ’an la ilaha ’illaal-lah!

Wa ‘ash-hadu ‘an-na Muhammadan rasulul-lah

Wa ‘ash-hadu ‘an-na ‘isa abdul-lahi wa rasuluhu

Bari’tu min kulli dinin yukhalifu dinal-Islam

The meaning of this is as follows:



I bear witness that there is no (true) god except Allah.

And I bear witness that Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger.

And I bear witness that Jesus is the slave and messenger of Allah.

deny and refuse any religion except Islam.

Also you can say:



I (firmly) believe in Allah, His Angels, His scriptures, His Messengers, the Last Day, and in the ability of Allah to will the existence of good or bad.

I promise Allah not to associate with Him (in worship) anyone or anything (whatsoever), and,

I will steadfastly perform Salat (the Five Prayers), and

I will give out Zakat (special Islamic system of charity), and

I will never steal, and

Never commit adultery (or fornication), and

Never illegally kill a person, and

Never disobey Allah.

Praise be to Allah Who has guided me to belief !

Note: The person in charge, in front of whom a new Muslim has announced his conversion to Islam, prays Allah for him with such prayers: Allah may forgive me and you! And Allah may accept (submission) from me and you! O Allah! Accept him with those on whom You did bestow your Grace, of Prophets, the Sincere (lovers of Truth), the Witnesses, and the righteous! What a beautiful Fellowship!







CHAPTER 5

What is Islam?



Islam is (composed of) three (main) areas: Utterance, faith, and deeds.

The utterance was explained in chapter 4.

Faith is to believe in Allah, the Angels, the Heavenly Scriptures, Prophets, the last Day and in the ability of Allah to will the existence of good or bad.

Deeds are: Salat (Prayers), Zakat (Alms-giving), Siyam (Fasting), and Hajj (Pilgrimage).





CHAPTER 6

FAITH IN ALLAH



We believe that Allah is one God, our Lord and the Lord of everything,

Allah is the Creator of everything,

All other than Him are created, and are servants who share nothing with Allah.

Even Angels and Prophets are merely created servants submitting to Allah.

Among them are Jesus and Muhammad (Peace be upon them); both have no trace of deity (godhood).

Allah is the Living Self-Subsisting, Eternal, the First without a beginning and the Last without an end.

He hears everything and sees everything.

He is Most Gracious, Most Merciful, All-Dominating,

He has the Most beautiful Names and the Noblest Attributes.

He has created us out of nothing,

And made us in the best form.

He has given us all graces and bounties.

Hence we are not permitted to worship or submit to any other than Him, whether a favorite Angel or a chosen Prophet!

Whoever directs his prayers, bows or prostrates (in worship), or offers sacrifice to any other than Allah, he is an infidel! and not a Muslim even if he declares that he is a Muslim:





Allah says: “Say: Truly my prayer and my service of sacrifice, my life and my death, are (all) for Allah, the Cherisher of the Worlds. No partner has He. This I am commanded and I am the first of those who submit to His Will”. [The Qur’an 6:162 -163]

Islam is the religion of Monotheism: it denies the Dualism of Magians and the Trinity of Christians. Islam teaches that Allah is One and only One. No one shares with Him, His Dominion or His Command. He has the Most beautiful Names and the Noblest Attributes:

Allah says: “Say! He is Allah, the One. He is the Most Unique, the Eternal,the Absolute. He neither gives birth, nor is He born. And there is none like unto Him. “ [Al Qur’an 112).









CHAPTER 7

FAITH IN ANGELS



Allah has created Angels to worship Him, to carry out His commands and to be His messengers to His Prophets.

One of the angels is Gabriel who used to bring down Revelation to our Prophet Muhammad 'Alayhis-Salatu was-Salamu (peace be upon him).

Another Angel is Michael who is in charge of rain falling.

A third one is the "Angel of Death" who is in charge of taking the souls of people whose death is due.

Angels are but servants honored by Allah.

Hence we honor them and speak of them respectfully.

But we worship none of them, nor do we take them as Allah's sons or daughters (as infidels claim).

We worship only Allah who created them in this wonderful kind of creation.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: "And they say: The Most Gracious has begotten a son, Glory be to Him! They are but servants raised to honor. They do not speak before He speaks, and they act (in all things) by His command. He knows what is before them and what is behind them, and they offer no intercession except for those whom He accepted, and they stand in awe and reverence of Him. If any of them should say, ‘I am a God besides Him’, such one We should reward with Hell. Thus do We reward those who do wrong”. [The Qur’an 21:26-29]







CHAPTER 8

FAITH IN HOLY SCRIPTURES



Allah has sent down to a number of Messengers, Books in order to proclaim them to mankind.

These Books contain the Words of Allah.

Among them are the Sheets of Ibrahim (Abraham), Taurat revealed to Moosa (Moses), Az-Zabour (psalms) revealed to Dawood (David), The Injil (Gospel) revealed to Isa (Jesus), And The Qur’an sent down to Muhammad, (Peace be upon them all).

Jews and Christians distorted some parts of their Books (Taurat and Injil).

Being the last Book assuredly guarded from corruption, The Qur’an confirms the truth in the previous Books and guards it.

Whatever, in those Books, differs from The Qur’an is corrupted or abrogated.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: “To you We sent the scripture in truth Confirming the scriptures that came before it, And guarding it...” [The Qur’an 5:48].

Allah revealed The Qur’an in Arabic and has firmly promised to protect. His last Message from all corruption; He says about The Qur’an: “We have, without doubt, sent down the Message, and We will assuredly guard it (from corruption)” [The Qur’an 15:9]





CHAPTER 9

FAITH IN PROPHETS



We believe that: Allah chose from among mankind some Prophets to deliver His Guidance.

From among those Prophets He selected Some Messengers.

He sent to the Messengers Laws and commanded them to proclaim these laws and to clarify them to their people.

Some of the great Messengers of Allah were Nooh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Moosa (Moses), Isa (Jesus), and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).

Embracing Islam does not mean to disbelieve in Moosa, Isa, or any other prophet.

Islam teaches you how to believe correctly in all Prophets.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says in The Qur’an: “To you We sent the Scripture in Truth, Confirming the scriptures that came before it, And guarding it...” [The Qur’an 5:48]. Meaning: Clarifying the Truth they distorted.

Allah mentioned’ names of a number of Prophets, He says: “Say you (Muslims): We believe in Allah, and the revelation given to us, and to Ibrahim, lsma‘il, Isaac, Ya‘qoob (Jacob) and the Tribes, and that which was given to Moosa (Moses), and Isa (Jesus), and that which was given to all Prophets from their Lord. We make no difference between one and another of them, and we submit to Allah (in Islam)” [The Qur‘an 2:136]

The first Prophet was Adam, father of mankind, Alayhis-Salam (Peace be upon him).

Muhammad, the Prophet of Islam ‘Alayhis-Salatu was-Salamu (Peace be upon him) is the Seal (the last) of the prophets. No prophet is to come after him up to the end of this world.

Hence the fact that Islam is the only true religion to remain up to the Last Day.

He is Muhammad son of Abdullah son of Abdul-Muttalib. He is an Arab from (the famous tribe) of The Quraysh, a descendant of Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma‘il (Ishmael) – Alayhimus-salatu was-salamu – (Peace, and prayers of Allah be upon them).

He was born in Makkah (Mecca) in 571 AD (Known as the Year of the Elephant).

Allah sent Revelation to him when he was 40 years old.

He stayed in Makkah 13 years calling people to (believe in) Allah.

Only a limited number of people believed in him.

After that he emigrated to Al-Madinah and invited its people to believe in Allah, and they accepted.

He became the leader of Makkah in the year 8 AH He died at the age of 63 after the whole of The Qur’an was revealed, and all Arabs embraced Islam.





CHAPTER 10

FAITH IN THE LAST DAY



We believe that there will be another life after this life.

When the determined term of this life comes to an end, Allah will command an Angel to sound the Trumpet and all mankind and all other creatures will die.

Then he (Angel) will sound it again, when, behold, all dead since Adam will stand out of their graves.

Then, Allah will gather all people to account them for what they did:

Those who believed (in Allah), accepted the Messengers (as truthful) and did good deeds (commanded by Allah), Allah will put them in Paradise.

In Paradise, they will enjoy eternal Bliss.

But those who rejected the Messengers and disobeyed Allah’s commands, will be put in Hell.

In Hell Fire, they will be in continuous eternal punishment.

O Allah! We ask Your Paradise and seek refuge with You from Fire of Hell! Aameen!

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: “As for those who had transgressed all bounds; and had preferred the life of this world; the Abode will be Hell-Fire. And for those who had feared of standing in front of their Lord’s (Tribunal); and had restrained (their) souls from lower desires; their Abode will be Paradise.” (The Qur’an 79:37-41)





CHAPTER 11

FAITH IN FATE AND DIVINE DECREE



We believe in the timeless knowledge of Allah and in His power to plan and execute His plans and nothing could happen in His Kingdom against His will.

His knowledge and power are in action and command at all times over His creation.

He is Wise and Merciful and whatever He does must have a meaningful purpose.

If this is established in our minds and hearts, we should accept with good faith all that He does,

Although we may fail to understand it fully, or think it is bad.





CHAPTER 12

IBADAT (RELIGIOUS DEEDS)



Deeds in Islam are of two main categories:

‘Ibadat, these are the rituals, or devotional duties, of worship: Salat, Zakat, Siyam, and Hajj.

Mu’amalat, these include all life activities related to the individual, family, society, or the whole ‘Ummah (Muslim Community at large), political, economic, cultural, legal, ethical…, national or international.

Mu‘amalat when carried out in fulfillment of Allah’s Shari’a (Law) will be a sort of “Worship” in the general sense.

In this pamphlet, Mu’amalat will not be dealt with. You have to consult in each case either a book of Fiqh (Islamic Law) or any well informed Muslim scholar or authority.

The practical Pillars (Foundations) of Islam are Five:





The two Shahadas (Declarations of submission to Allah)

Salat (Prayer)

Zakat (Poor Due)

Siyam (Fasting of Ramadhan)

Hajj (Pilgrimage)





CHAPTER 13

THE TWO SHAHADAS (DECLARATIONS)



Ash-Shahadah means to say, with a firm belief in heart, and mind, the following:



’Ash-hadu ’an Laa ’ilaha ’illal-Lahu,

Wa’ash-hadu ’anna Muhammadan rasulul-Lah.

The meaning of these is:



I bear witness that there is no (true) god except Allah,

and I bear witness that Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger.

These imply two things:



That are deeds must be sincere to God alone.

That we only worship God as Muhammad taught.





CHAPTER 14

SALAT (PRAYER)



We pray five times everyday:



The Fajr (dawn) prayer. Two Rak‘ahs (Units). Its time starts just after dawn and ends at sunrise.

The Dhuhr (noon) prayer. Four Rak‘ahs. Time starts just after sun moves down from its zenith and ends at the midpoint between zenith and sunset.

The Asr (Late afternoon) prayer: Four Rak‘ahs. Time starts after the end of the Dhuhr prayer and ends at sunset.

The Maghrib (Sunset) prayer: Three Rak‘ahs. Time starts just after sunset.

The Isha’ (Evening) prayer: Four Rak‘ahs. Preferable time starts when twilight disappears and ends at midnight.





CHAPTER 15

AT-TAHARAH (PURITY)



A Muslim must be pure and clean when he performs his prayer, (otherwise his prayers will not be valid).

At-Taharah is of two types: Wudu’, (Ablution) and Ghusl (full Ablution).

WUDU’ (Ablution) which is performed as follows:



Have Niyyah (the clear intention) of performing wudu’.

Say: "Bismil-Lahi r-rahmani r-rahim" (in the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful).

Wash the hands, rinse the mouth and clear with water the inside of the nose (sniffing).

Wash the face.

Wash the arms up to the elbows (start with the right arm)

Rub the head with wet hands, and the ears.

Wash the feet up to the ankles (starting with the right foot)

Say the two Shahadahs.

No need for reapplying Wudu’ as long as it has not been invalidated.

Wudu' is invalidated by: Passing of excrement, urine, wind or by sleeping.

GHUSL (Taking a shower):



A Muslim must take Ghusl after:



Ejaculation of semen because of any reason.

Intimate intercourse.

For women: End of Menstruation period.

End of the childbirth period.

Ghusl is washing the whole body with clean water.



TAYAMMUM (Dry Ablution):



In case of not having water for Wudu or Ghusl, or being unable to use it for any reason, apply the Dry Ablution:



Have Niyyah (the clear intention) of performing Tayammum’.

Say: "Bismillahir-rahmanir-rahim" (in the name of Allah, The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful).

Hit the palms once on any clean dust-containing material,

then rub the face with the palms, then the hands.





CHAPTER 16

HOW TO PERFORM SALAT (PRAYERS)?



The best way for men is to perform salat in congregation with Muslims in the mosque. There you will be given more reward by Allah and you will leam easily how to pray.

Be sure that your body, clothes and place are clean.

Stand facing towards the direction of QIBLAH, that is the direction of the Sacred mosque in Makkah, in Al Hijaz (Saudi Arabia).

Raise the hands to the shoulder level and say: “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest).

Fold the hand on the chest, the right hand over the left.

Recite Al-Fatihah (The Opening Chapter of The Qur’an) and another chapter or some verses of The Qur’an (See App. 1)

Say. “Allahu Akbar” while making Ruku‘ (bowing and bending the body at a right angle placing the palms on the knees)

Say in Ruku’: “Subhana rabbiyal-atheem” (Glory be to my Lord, the Great!) three times.

Go back to the standing position saying: “Sami‘a ’allahu liman hamidah! Rabbana wa lakal-hamd.” (Indeed, Allah listens to one who praises Him O! Our Lord! All praises be to You)

Then, you say “Allahu Akbar” and immediately fall down to make the first Sajdah (Prostration) with forehead, nose, palms, knees and toes resting on the ground,-saying: “Subhana rabbiyal ’a‘la” (Glory be to my Lord, Most High) Three times.

Move from sajdah (prostration) position to sitting posture while saying; “Allahu Akbar!” While sitting, say “Rabbighfirli warhamni” (O My Lord! Forgive me! and have mercy on me)

After this, another sajdah is done in the same way with “Allahu Akbar” uttered before it, and “Subhana rabbiyal ’a‘la” Three times during Sujud.

After completing the second sajdah, one “Rak‘ah” is completed.

Stand up saying “Allahu Akbar” in order to begin a new Rak‘ah, exactly as the first Rak‘ah.

After finishing the second “Rak‘ah” you sit down and recite Part One and Part Two of “At-Tashahhud”.

Finally you turn the face to the right hand side and say: “As-Salamu ‘alaykum wa rahmatul-lah” which means Peace be upon you and The Mercy of Allah!

Then you do the same to the left side.

Thus a two- Rak‘ah prayer is completed, such as the Fajr Prayer.

As for 4 Rak‘ah prayers such as the Dhuhr, only the first part of At-Tashahhud is recited after completing the second Rak‘ah. Then you stand up to perform two more Rak‘ahs in the same way, but without reciting any verses from The Qur’an after Al-Fatihah.

The ‘Asr and t ‘Isha’ prayers are performed exactly as the Dhuhr.

In the Maghrib Prayer, the final Tashahhud and “As-Salam…” come after the third Rak‘ah.





WHY WE PRAY



The Muslim observes his Prayers to show devotion and obedience to Allah, because Prayer is one of the greatest forms of worship that Allah likes His servants to offer.

To thank Him for creating us in the best form of creation.

Because He has guided us to the Deen (Complete way of Life, Religion) of Islam.

Prayer is a chance for a Muslim to express to his Lord whatever he feels and needs through Divine Words of Allah i.e. the Qur’an.

To remember his Lord and not forget His commands amid life’s pre-occupations.

To ask Allah, The Exalted, to give him aid and continuous guidance in the darkness of life.

To strengthen love and fear of Allah in the Muslim’s heart so that he might remain sticking to the Right Path of Islam, and its laws and manners.

Gaining good rewards from Allah and having our sins forgiven.

To rejoice when he finds himself on the Last Day pleased with the great reward allotted to him in the Gardens of Bliss.

Prayer is a unique training and developmental program which, if well and devotedly performed, can achieve for Muslims many valuable physical, ethical and spiritual gains such as cleanliness, health, order, punctuality, brotherhood, equality, social consolidation,… etc.





CHAPTER 17

ZAKAT (Poor Due, Alms)



WHAT IS ZAKAT



The term “Zakat” originally means: growth, and purity.

In Islamic Law, it means paying every lunar year a certain percentage of your savings to certain charitable usage defined by The Qur’an.

If you have, for that period, an amount of money equal to the value of 85 grams of pure gold (now 1985, is about $1000) or more, you must pay 2.5%.

Zakat is paid for the poor and the needy Muslims, for the wayfarers, for propagating Islam or fighting for Islam, for helping new Muslims or encouraging non-Muslims to embrace Islam, for those who are burdened with debts and are unable to pay them.

If you have articles of trade, you calculate their Zakat in the same way.

You can ask some Muslim scholar or refer to any good reference book to know more about Zakat.

WHY WE PAY ZAKAT



To show devotion to Allah Who commanded us to do so and informed us that He loves the charitable.





CHAPTER 18

SAWM, or SIYAM (Fasting)



ABOUT THE FAST



In Ramadan, (the 9th month of the lunar Islamic year) Muslims fast in obedience to Allah’s command and in gratitude for Allah’s Grace for revealing His Glorious Book, The Qur’an, in Ramadan.

Sawm (Fasting) is to abstain from eating, drinking and intimate intercourse from dawn to sunset.

If sick or on a journey, a Muslim is permitted to break his fast.

If he breaks the fast, he has to make it up by fasting a number of days equal to the days in which he broke fasting in Ramadan.

After the end of Ramadan comes “Eid al-Fitr” (the Holy day of Breaking the Fast) which is the 1st day of Shawwal, the month following Ramadan.

On the Eid morning, all Muslims congregate, in open grounds or in mosques, to perform “ Eid Prayer” to express their happiness and gratitude to Allah for enabling them to complete this duty of Fasting.

Concerning this important duty, Allah says: “O you who believe. Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may (observe) piety and self-restraint” [The Qur’an 2:183]

Also, He says: “Ramadan is the month in which was sent down The Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (signs) for guidance and judgement (between right and wrong). So, every one of you who is present (at his home, village, or town) during that month should fast it, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by other days”. [The Qur’an 2:185].





WHY WE FAST



We fast in obedience to Allah’s command, and because Allah loves those who fast.

To show our gratitude to Allah’s Grace of sending down His Guidance, The Qur’an, to guide us and the whole humanity.

To thank Allah for making us of those who believe in The Qur’an.

And because He enabled us to memorize His Book, to recite it, to study and understand it, and to benefit in its guidance.

To develop control on our material desires Allah planted in our nature.

To control ourselves in front of all things prohibited by Allah.

Fasting makes us remember the needy who suffer from hunger and deprivation.

Hence, to become more sympathetic to them and help them with part of what Allah has bestowed upon us.

To check our engrossment in our desires, and increase our care for our spiritual entity through intensifying our deeds and acts of worship in this month of The Qur’an.

To increase our share of sincerity, consience, patience, discipline, as well as many healthful benefits.

Above all these, the great reward Allah promised to give us on the Last Day.





CHAPTER 19

HAJJ (THE PILGRIMAGE)



WHAT IS HAJJ



Hajj is a journey to ’Al-Ka‘bah (the sacred House of Allah) in Makkah (Mecca) with the intention of obeying Allah’s command and performing certain prescribed rites there. (For the details of performing Hajj, you may consult any Islamic reference book on the subject).

Performing Hajj is obligatory, once in a lifetime, upon every mature Muslim provided he is able (physically and financially).

The whole journey of Hajj and its rites conform to a unique form, the principles of Islam and commemorate Islamic milestones related to Prophets Ibraheem (Abraham), Ismael and Muhammad, ‘Alayhimus-salam.

The rites of Hajj are performed, in general, in the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah (the last month of the Islamic Year).

On the 9th of Dhul Hijah the culminating rite is performed at Mount ‘Arafat’ where all pilgrims, sometimes about two million, gather.

Pilgrims’ stand at ‘Arafat to declare their supplications to Allah and their repentance and need of His Mercy and Forgiveness.

This reminds us of the Grand Assembly on the Day of Judgment.

The next day (the tenth) is the great Eid ’Al-’Adha (The Feast of Sacrifice) when pilgrims offer their sacrifices. After slaughtering their sacrifices, pilgrims go to Makkah and make Tawaf (circumbulate) seven times around Al-Ka‘bah.

Muslims everywhere slaughter their sacrifices (of camels, cows, or sheep) after performing the Eid Prayer.

These sacrifices were prescribed in commemoration of the great sacrifice of Prophet Abraham (Alayhis-salam) when he was about to slaughter his only son, Ismael, whom he loved much, when Allah ordered him to do so to test his loyalty and obedience to Him.

After completing the acts of Hajj, you can enjoy visiting The Mosque of Prophet Muhammad – sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wa salam – in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah (the illuminated town) and attend some Prayers there. The reward for praying at that Mosque is great.

When in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, pay a greeting visit to the Prophet’s grave and to his noble companions’ graves, in the Islamically accepted form.

Also visiting the Holy Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem is recommendable in Islam.





WHY WE PERFORM HAJJ



Purposes and lessons of performing Hajj are so many. Among them are:



Responding in obedience to Allah’s commands.

To be grateful to Allah for His Grace and Favors on us, such as health, wealth and children.

To glorify Allah by visiting and making Tawaf (gowing around) His Sacred House, Al-Ka‘bah.

(Al-Ka‘bah is the first House built on earth for worshipping Allah, which Ibrahim – The Friend – and his son Isma‘il erected by the instruction of Allah).

To pray at Al-Ka‘ba, which is the Qiblah (direction) to which all Muslims turn their faces in the five daily prayers.

To visit and stand in devotion to Allah at the Sacred Mountains such as Mount ‘Arafat. There we celebrate the praises of Allah, purify our souls and repent of all sins.

To see the places where Ibrahim, the noble Friend and Prohpet of Allah, and his first son Ismail – Alayhis-salam – stayed and worshiped Allah.

To visit the places where Prophet Muhammad – alayhis-salam – was born, brought up, received the Divine Message, suffered and struggled for spreading the light of Allah.

To meet our Muslim brethren coming from all countries, and to see the actualization of brotherhood, equality, cooperation and love among Muslims regardless of their differences in nationality, color, standard of living, and other worldly matters. To see the universality of Islam.

To practice patience, sacrifice, endurance, simplicity and other spiritual capacities we are in urgent need of.

To come back cleansed of our sins, so as to start a new page in our life, hoping to keep it free from sins until the end of life, so that we may be accepted and well rewarded by Allah in the Hereafter.





CHAPTER 20

HOW TO DEVELOP YOUR ISLAM?



Becoming a Muslim after becoming convinced is opening a plain page in your deed record.

Whatever bad deeds you have committed before, Allah will forgive because of your embracing Islam.

Becoming a Muslim is like starting a new life.

You have to grow and develop in Islam. How can you do so? By the following:





Firstly: Increasing your knowledge of Islam, through:



Reading the Qur’anic text.

Reading some interpretations of the Qur’an.

Reading Traditions (Sayings) of Prophet Muhammad, ‘Alayhis-salatu was-salamu).

Reading the biography of Prophet Muhammad –‘Alayhis-salatu was-salamu).

Reading the biographies of the great Muslim figures among our righteous fore-Muslims who propagated Islam and proclaimed it to mankind.

Attending Jumu‘ah (Friday) congregational prayer, listening to its Khutbah (sermon) and praying with Muslims.

Attending the two ‘Eid (holiday) prayers.

Performing the five daily prayers in congregation at the mosque whenever you are able to do so.

Attending Islamic religious, teaching sessions.

Contacting scholars, shaikhs, mosque imams (leaders) and preachers, introducing yourself to them and asking them about any Islamic matter you need to know. They are always happy to provide you with the required clarification.

Having one or more friends of good Muslims who are fairly knowledgeable about Islam to be your permanent reliable reference.

Read as much as you can of the basic sources of Islam (The Qur’an and As-Sunnah) and of the authentic and trustworthy writings about Islam to understand it more.

You will learn a lot about the laws and systems of Islam related to worship, family structure, life activities, manners, economic and public affairs.

You will know the ideology of Islam and its view in regard to creation, the universe, man, and life.

Islam is not rituals or morals only, it is in fact a comprehensive system for society, a constitution for the state and a way of life.





Secondly: Doing good deeds as much as you can:



Try to do good deeds more than the five basic duties mentioned before, such as:

Performing voluntary prayers, in addition to the compulsory five daily prayers.

Helping the poor and the needy by extra charity in addition to Zakat, or by assisting them in carrying out their necessary difficult duties.

Fasting a day or more other than in Ramadan.

Taking part in useful social projects aimed at reforming Muslim Society.

Inviting others to embrace Islam.





CHAPTER 21

HOW TO PROTECT YOUR ISLAM



Becoming a Muslim means that you have achieved a lot of good for yourself.

It is like owning a valuable treasure.

The owner of a treasure will have many enemies who strive to take his treasure away from him.

And you have gained the treasure of Islam.

Some people will try to drive you away from your Deen (Religion).

Those people are the foes of Allah.

The foes of Allah are devils whether from among Jinn (whom we do not see) or from among human beings.

Human devils may try to mock at you.

Or, they may try to persuade you by money so that you may turn back from your Religion.

They may accuse Islam of many things, or cloud your mind with some misconceptions.

You have to know that Allah has said in the Qur’an “And no question do they bring to you but We reveal to you the truth and the best explanation” (The Qur’an 25:33).

So, consult Muslim scholars about what Allah has revealed in the Qur’an to answer such misconceptions.

As for Jinn devils they whisper into your heart. “Would you desert your fathers’ and forefathers’ religion, and follow a different one?”

Would you follow a religion that tasks you with prayers, fasting and giving others your property? And that deprives you from wine… etc.”

In fact, many people grow up, and find themselves traditionally following and honoring their parents’ religions and beliefs.

All followers of true, or false religions are like that, but the problem is: which of these religions is the true one and which is the false?

Surely, Islam is the only Deen (Religion) which is pure and free from all types of superstitions, polytheism and paganism.

It is the Deen of pure Monotheism.

When you feel these whispers of Jinn devils, recite:

Rabbi ’a‘uthu bika min hamazatish-Shayateen, Wa ‘a’udhu bika rabbi ‘an yahduroon (The Qur’an 23:97-98) “O my Lord ! I seek refuge with you from the suggestions of the Evil Ones. And I seek refuge with You, O my Lord!, lest they should come near me”.

And recite also the chapters Al-Falaq and An-Nas of the Quran. These are included in Appendix (I) with transliteration.





CHAPTER 22

HOW TO INVITE OTHERS TO ISLAM?



Our noble Prophet Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam – said: “If Allah guides one person to Islam through you, it is better for you, than having the greatest wealth.”

He also said: “Whoever calls (others) to guidance has the same reward as the rewards of those who follow him, without decreasing anything from their rewards.”

Therefore be keen to invite to Islam those non-Muslims whom you know.

Start with people who are closest to you, such as: your parents, wife, son, daughter, brother, then relatives and friends.

Allah (Glory be to Him) said to His Messenger Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ’Allahu ‘alaihi wasallam – [The Qu’an 26:214], “And admonish your nearest Kinsmen”.

Make clear to them the right religion, and make them interested in it!

Tell them of the glad tidings of which Allah has promised, and the blessings and favors that Allah will endow upon them in this world and the next if they follow Islam.

Warn them of Allah’s wrath upon them if they disbelieve in the Holy Quran which He has revealed to be a guidance to everyone.

Or if they disbelieve in Prophet Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam – whom He has sent as a mercy to the worlds.

Invite them with love and sincerity.

And you, yourself, should be an example of good character.

Be quick in doing good and in helping others. If you do so:



You will be a propagator of Islam by your actions as well as your words.

Your friends will be quick to accept when you invite them to Islam, and then Allah will lead them to guidance.

They will come to know that what you say is the truth.

They will consequently accept Islam and love this religion and love you too.

You must know well the wise approach of inviting others to Islam and teaching them. Thus you should speak what is suitable for every occasion.

One of the wise sayings of Arabs is: “There is suitable speech for each situation.“

Allah (Glory be to Him) says in Al Qur’an: “Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and beautiful preaching, and argue with them in ways that are best and most gracious, for your Lord knows best who have strayed from His path and who receive guidance.” [The Qur’an 16:125]

If you do not know Arabic, it is strongly advisable for you to learn that language so as to be able to understand Islam through its original sources.

If you do so, you will be able to speak with confidence about Islam, because you have direct knowledge of Allah’s words, of the sayings of His messenger Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam – and of the statements of Muslim scholars.

Presenting copies of this booklet to those whom you would like to invite to Islam will help you inshallah (God willing) in propagating this religion of Allah.





CHAPTER 23

MUHARRAMAT

(THE FORBIDDEN THINGS)



Allah (Glory be to Him) has prescribed for us in the Holy Qur’an and in the Sunnah (Traditions of the Prophet) many laws:

Some of these are obligations and others are Muharramat (forbidden things, when something is prohibited we say it is Haram).

As for the obligations, I have already pointed them out previously.

As for the Muharramat, some of the most important of them are the following:





First: Forbidden Foods:



Dead Meat: These are the dead bodies of animals which died naturally, (i.e. without being Islamically slaughtered) or by being strangled, or by falling from a high place, or by being partly eaten by a wild animal, and were not slaughtered before being dead.

Also, those animals slaughtered by other than Muslims, Jews or Christians.

But the meats of dead sea animals are not forbidden.

Blood poured forth.

Flesh of the Pig (pork).

Meat which has, when slaughtered, had the name of anything or anyone other than Allah invoked upon it, or that was slaughtered to glorify any one other than Allah.

The meat of beasts of prey, such as lions, dogs... etc, and those of preying birds that attack with their claws, such as eagles, vultures… etc.

The meat of domestic donkeys and asses.

The meat of animals that feed on filthy things, except if they are isolated and fed clean food for sufficient time.

Any food spoiled by filth until it is cleaned by water if it is possible.

Wine and all kinds of intoxicants.

Foodstuffs containing toxic elements which are harmful to our bodies.





Second: Forbidden Deeds:



Allah Hates these deeds and their doers and punishes them:



To associate (in worship) anything or anyone with Allah.

To be disobedient to our parents.

To give false testimony.

To kill a person whom Allah has forbidden to, except by Law (Legally).

Adultery and fornication.

To steal.

To take anything, unjustly, from the property of an orphan,

To desert the battle-field while fighting unbelievers.

To falsely accuse with adultery or fornication a chaste Muslim woman or man.

To uncover “Awra” infront of anybody.

To take others’ wealth illegally, by means of bribery, robbery trickery, or deceit.

To bribe in order to take others’ properties illegally, or to get what you have no right to.

To marry mother, daughter, sister, paternal aunt, maternal aunt, brother’s daughter, sister’s daughter, whether they are through blood or foster relationship, your father’s wife, your son’s wife, your wife’s mother or daughter.

A Muslim man is not permitted to marry a non-Muslim woman unless she becomes Muslim; but he can marry a Christian or a Jewish woman.

A Muslim woman is not permitted to marry a non-Muslim man, even a Christian or a Jew, unless he becomes a Muslim.

To take part in back-biting or scandals.





CHAPTER 24

Allah’s AWLIYA (Allah’s Friends)



“Allah’s friends” are those true Muslims whom He loves and who love Him.

They are all the righteous Muslims who truly believe in Allah and constantly follow His commands.

Their reward is a good life in this world, and nearness to Allah in the Hereafter, in His Paradise.

However, they cannot do anything to help anybody after their death, nor in their life except through normal reasons.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says of them: “Behold! Verily on ‘friends of Allah’ there is no fear, Nor shall they grieve. Those who believe and constantly guard against evil. For them are Glad Tidings in this life and in the Hereafter; No change can there be in the Words of Allah, This is indeed the supreme felicity” [The Qur’an 10:62-64]

Therefore, be a good Muslim and you will be one of them.

Allah (Glory be to Him) says: “Those who obey Allah and the Messenger. Are with those who are blessed by Allah, Of the prophets, the (sincere) believers, the martyrs and the righteous (doers of good). And how excellent a company are they!” [The Qur’an 4:69]

On top of “Allah’s Friends” are His Noble Prophets.

And among them too are the true and sincere followers of Prophets.

And Prophet Muhammad’s companions and wives (Mothers of the Faithful).

The best of his companions are the Ten who were mentioned by name by Prophet Muhammad – Salla ‘Allahu alaihi wa sallam – as those who will be in Paradise.

These chosen companions are distinguished and known for their precedence, firmness and sacrifice in Islam.

On top of these Ten are the four righteous Caliphs (Khalifas) who were chosen by Muslims to rule the Muslim state after Prophet Muhammad – Salla ‘Allahu alaihi wa sallam – They are (in their caliphate order);

Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (The sincere believer) (d. 13 AH)

‘Umaru Ibnul _Khattab (d. 23 AH)

‘Uthmanu bnu Affan, (d. 35 AH)

‘Aliy-yu bnu ‘Abi Talib. (d. 40 AH)

The rest of the Ten are: Az Zubayr ibn Al-Awwam, Sa‘d ibn Abi Waqqas, Talhatu ibn ‘Ubaydillah, ‘Abdurrahman ibn ‘Awf, ‘Abu ‘Ubaidah ‘Amru ibn Al-Jarrah and Sa‘eed ibn Zayd. (May Allah be pleased with them and with all other companions).





CHAPTER 25

ISLAMlC MORALS



A Muslim always speaks the truth, he never tells lies.

A Muslim is true to his word, not treacherous, honest, does not betray.

A Muslim does not speak badly of other Muslims behind their backs.

A Muslim is courageous, not cowardly.

A Muslim is very enduring in situations of defending the truth, bold in saying the truth.

A Muslim is just with others, even against himself; does not transgress others’ rights; also, does not accept to be treated unjustly by anyone; he is strong and does not accept to be humiliated by anybody.

A Muslim consults about all of his affairs, and (after that) puts himself in Allah’s hands.

A Muslim performs his work as perfectly as he can.

A Muslim is modest, merciful, does good and enjoins it, abstains from evil and forbids it.

A Muslim strives and fights for the victory of Allah’s cause, and for His Deen (religion) to spread.

A Muslim woman wears her Islamic dress which must cover the whole of her body, in front of any stranger (whom she can marry).





CHAPTER 26

AD‘IYA

(SPECIAL SUPPLICATIONS)



Before you start eating or drinking, say: (bismillahi) meaning: “(I start) in the name of Allah”.

Eat with your right hand.

When you finish eating or drinking, say: (al-humdu lillah) meaning: “All praise is due to Allah”.

When you meet any brother in Islam, shake hands with him, smile at him, and greet him, saying: (as-salamu alaykum wa rahmatul-lahi), meaning “Peace be upon you and Allah’s mercy”.

And when a Muslim brother greets ye first, answer his greeting by saying: (wa ‘alaykumu s-salamu wa rahmatul-lahi wa barakatuh) which means: “And upon you (too) be the peace, and the mercy of Allah, and His blessings”.

When you see the dawn breaking or the fall of evening, say: (Asbahna (or Amsayna) ‘ala fitratil-Islam) “We enter the morning (or evening) with our Islamic nature pure”. (Wa kalimatul Ikhlas), and with the statement of sincere faith”. (Wa deeni nabiy-yina Muhammad) “Adhering to the Path of our Prophet Muhammad”. (Wa millati abina Ibrahima hanifan musliman) “And to the Path of our father Abraham, true in faith, a Muslim’ (Wa maa ’ana minal mushrikina) “And, certainly, I am not a polytheist”.

When you see the new moon, say: (Hilala Khayrin wa rushdin) “(You be) a moon of goodness and straight forwardness”, (Allahumma ahillahu ‘alayna bilyumni wal Iman) “Allah ! Make it dawn on us with blessing and belief”. (Was-salamati wal-Islam) “And with safety, and submission!”

When you visit a sick person, say: (Bismillah)”In the name of Allah” (Allahumma Adh-hibil ba’s rab-ban-nasi) “O Allah! Take harm away, Lord of mankind!” (Allahumma ishfi wa ‘antash-shafi) “O Allah Heal (him) ! Your are (really) the healer,” (la shifa ’illa shifa’uka) “(In fact) there is no healing but the healing you give. “ (Shifa’an la yughadiru saqaman) “Grant recovery that leaves no ailment behind!”

When you enter the mosque say: (bismillah “In the name of Allah” (Was-salatu was-salamu ‘ala rasulillahi) “ Blessings and peace be upon Allah’s Messenger.” (Allahumma ‘ighfir li dhunubi) “O Allah ! Forgive me my sins, “(wa ftah li abwaba rahmatika) “And open for me the gates of your mercy”

When you go out of the mosque, say the same, but, instead of the last portion, say:

(wa ftah li abwaba fadlika) “And open for me the gates of your grace!”

When you go to your home, say: (Al-hamdu lil-lahil allathi ’at‘amana wa saqana wa ’aawana) “Praise be to Allah Who provides us with food, drink and shelter!”. (Fakam miman la kafiya lahu wala mu’wiya) “So many are there who have none giving them provision or shelter.” Repeat whenever you can, these favorite phrases of glorification,

(Subhanallah) “Glory be to Allah.!”.

(Walhamdulillah) “Praise be to Allah !”.

(Wa la’ilaha,illal-laah) “No (true) god except Allah

(Wallahu akbar) “Allah is the Greatest !”

(Wa la hawla wa la quwwata ’illa bil-lahi) ‘There is no power nor strength save by Allah !”.

Also, repeatedly send your prayers of blessings to Prophet Muhammad – Salla ‘Allahu alaihi wa sallam –, particularly when you hear his name uttered, or when you utter it; you will say: (Sallal-lahu alaihi wa sallama) “May Allah give him blessings and peace!”





CHAPTER 27

MUSLIM WOMAN



Women in Islam are the sisters of men.

She, just as man, is created by Allah.

Thus, she is invited to become Muslim.

She is commanded to have belief in Allah, obedience and love to Him.

Also, she must believe in the message of Prophet Muhammad – Sallal-lahu ‘alayhi wasallam.

Commanded to fulfill Salat, Siyam, Zakat and Hajj in worship to Allah.

Required to follow the Shari‘ah (Law) of Allah, exactly as man.

To bring up her children on the bases of Islam and its good morals, and to protect them.

She puts on full dress which covers all of her body in the presence of strangers.

When in her period (of menstruation or confinement) she abstains from praying, fasting, reciting The Quran, and remaining in mosques.

When her period expires, she must have Ghusl (Taking a bath), and make up for fasting, not for prayers.

She is exempted from attending Salat Al-Jumu`ah (Friday congragation Prayer )

She is not permitted to marry a non Muslim ( Christian ,Jew or atheist ) unless he announcees his faithful embrace of Islam .



Appendix 1

(Chapters from The Quran)



Surat Al-Fatihah



Bismil-lahi r-rahmani r-rahim(i)

’Al-hamdu lil-lahi rabbil-‘aalameen(a)

‘Ar-rahmanir r-rahim(i)

Maliki yawmid-deen(i)

lyyaka na‘budu wa Iyyaka nasta‘in(u)

Ihdina s-sirata l-mustaqeem(a)

Siratal-ladhina ’an‘amta ‘alayhim, ghayril-magdhoobi ‘alayhim waladdaal-leen(a)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Praise be to Allah the Cherisher and Sustainer of the Worlds.

Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Master of the Day of Judgement.

You (alone) do we worship, and Your aid we seek

Show us the straight way!

The way of those on whom You have bestowed Your Grace, those whose portion is not wrath and who do not go astray.





Surat Al-‘Asr (Time through Ages) - 103



Bismil-lahi r-rahmani r-rahim(i)



Wal-‘asr(i)

Innal-’insana lafee khusr(in)

’lllal-ladhina ’aamanoo wa ‘amilus-saalihati

Wa tawasaw bil-haqqi wa tawasaw bis-sabr(i)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



By (the token of) time (through the ages)

Verily man is in loss,

Except those who have faith, and do righteous deeds

and join together in mutual teaching of truth and of constant patience [The Qur’an 103]





Surat Al-Ikhlas (Purity of Faith) - 112



Bismil-lahir rahmani r-rahim(i)



Qul huwa l-lahu ahad (un)

’Al-lahus-samad(u)

Lam yalid wa lam yulad

Wa lam yakun lahu kufuwan ’ahad(un)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



1. Say: He is Allah, the One and the Only,



2. Allah, the Eternal, the Absolute;



3. He begets not, nor is He begotten;



4. And there is none like unto Him



Surat Al-Kawthar (Abundance) - 108



Bismil-lahir rahmanir rahim(i)



’Inna ’a‘taynakal-kawthar(a)

Fa salli li rabbika wanhar

Inna shani’uka huwal-’abtar(u)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



To you have we granted the Fount (of Abundance)

Therefore to your Lord turn in Prayer and Sacrifice.

For who hates you, he will be cut off (from future hope).

Surat Al-Falaq (The Dawn) - 113



Bismi l-lahi r-rahmani r-rahim(i))



Qul ’a‘udhu bi rabbil -falaq(i)

Min sharri ma khalaq(a)

Wa min sharri ghasiqin ’idha wa qab(a)

Wa min sharrin-naf-fathati fil-uqad(i)

Wa min sharri hasidin idha hasad(a)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



Say: I seek refuge with the Lord of the Dawn,

From the mischief of created things;

And from the mischief of darkness as it overspreads;

And from the mischief of those who practice secret arts;

And from the mischief of the envious one as he practices envy.

Surat An-Nas (Mankind) - 114



(Bismil-lahir rahmanir-rahim(i))



Qul ’a‘udhu bi rabbin-nas(i)

Maliki n-nas(i)

ilahi n-nas(i)

Min sharri l-waswasi l-khannas(i)

’Alladhi yuwaswisu fi sudurin-nas(i)

Minal-jinnati wa n-nas(i)

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.



Say: I seek refuge with the Lord and Cherisher of Mankind,

The King (or Ruler) of Mankind,

The (True) god of Mankind,

From the mischief of the Whisperer (of Evil), who withdraws (after his whisper),

The same) who whispers into the hearts of Mankind

Among Jinn kind, and Mankind.





Appendix 2

AT-TASH-SHAHHUD (Witnessing)



AT-TASHAHHUD



(at-tahiyyatu li-lahi) (was-salawatu) (wat-tayibatu)

(’As-salamu ‘alayka) (’ay-yuhan-nabiyyu) (wa rahmatul-lahi) (wa barakatuhu)

(’As-salamu ‘alayna)(wa ‘ala ‘ibadil-lahi s-salihinah)

(’Ash-hadu ‘al-laa ’ilaha ’illal-lahu)

(wa ’ash-hadu ’anna Muhammadan)(‘Abduhu wa rasuluhu)

All reverence is due to Allah, and (all) worship, and (all) good,

Peace be upon you, o Prophet!, and the mercy of Allah, and His blessings.

Peace be upon us all, and upon the righteous servants of Allah,

I bear witness that there is no god but Allah,

And I bear witness that Muhammad, is His servant and His Messenger.

Prayers for Abraham (after At-Tashahhud)



’Allahumma salli ‘ala Muhammad

Wa ‘ala ’aali Muhammad

Kama sallayta ‘ala ’Ibrahim

Wa ‘ala ’aali Ibrahim

Wa barik ‘ala Muhammad

Wa ‘ala ’ali Muhammad

Kama barakta ‘ala ’Ibrahim

Wa ‘ala ’ali Ibrahim

Fil ‘aalamina

’In-naka hamidun majeed

Allah! Send Your grace on Muhammad

And on the Family of Muhammad

As you have sent your grace on Ibrahim

And on the Family of Ibrahim

And send your blessings on Muhammad

And on the Family of Muhammad.

As you have blessed Ibrahim.

And the Family of Ibrahim.

In this world and in the Hereafter

Verily, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious

www.cyberistan.org/islamic/islam1.html

[It is God who raised the skies without support, as you can see, then assumed His throne, and enthralled the sun and the moon (so that) each runs to a predetermined course. He disposes all affairs, distinctly explaining every sign that you may be certain of the meeting with your Lord] (Ar-Ra`d 13:2)











The last of the Abrahamic religions, following Judaism and Christianity, Islam considers the creation of the universe as ultimate proof of the existence of one Creator who “is that dimension which makes other dimensions possible; He gives meaning and life to everything” (Rahman) According to the teachings of Islam, Allah (God) is the one and only god, the absolute Creator of the universe, its components and its laws. Allah is the beginning and the end of all things, and this is the foundation for Islam’s teachings.



The Qur’an is the word of Allah as passed down to Muslims through the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and the existence of only one version of the Qur’an (there are no dissimilarities between any two copies) attests to the reverence in which Muslims hold it. For Muslims, the Qur’an, containing the word of Allah, provides irrefutable proof of His existence. Along with the Qur’an, nature provides another source for the proof of Allah’s existence. This intimate relationship between the Qur’an and nature is shown in the phrase ayat, which refers to signs of Allah’s existence in nature and also refers to the verses in the Qur’an.



The Creation



In Islam, the world as man knows it, begins and ends with Allah. Unlike Christianity and Judaism, the creation process is not described in detail, but referred to as a starting point for Allah’s power. The creation story in Islam is described in the Qur’an as the creation of the universe by Allah’s will with a single command: “Be!” Several verses in the Qur’an highlight Allah’s power of creation: [Creator of the heavens and the earth from nothingness, He has only to say when He wills a thing: “Be,” and it is] (Al-Baqarah 2:117) and, [That is how God creates what He wills, when He decrees a thing, He says “Be,” and it is] (Aal `Imran 3:47).



Man’s relationship with nature materialises in Islamic living in several ways, the most significant and obvious being death



In this manner, Allah created the heavens and the earth, the sun and the moon, and the rest of the universe. He created the plants and the animals, and placed them on Earth, and He decreed upon them the laws by which the natural order of all creation functions. The universe is an independent entity, it exists according to those laws and does not require (divine) intervention, yet it cannot “warrant for its own existence and it cannot explain itself” (Rahman). In Islam, this in itself is considered conclusive proof of Allah’s existence. The laws placed by Allah take into account all natural phenomena and provide further proof for Allah’s greatness, which the Qur’an describes in detail. [He ushers in the dawn, and made the night for rest, the sun and moon a computation. Such is the measure appointed by Him, the Omnipotent and All-Wise] (Al-An`am 6:96). Natural law, as decreed by Allah, “reflects and issues from the order that exists in the Divine Realm” (Nasr) where Allah exists.



Mankind & Nature



Islam invites man to discover the laws of nature and the ways in which the universe exists.



Man was created from clay, and is thus part of nature, not separate from it. This relationship with nature materialises in Islamic living in several ways, the most significant and obvious being death. Muslim burials require the corpse to be washed, have all items removed, and placed in the ground within three days—for an easier return to the earth whence it came.



Within Allah’s universe, man was given a special place. In Islamic teachings, in contrast to those of Christianity, man was not made in God’s image. Rather, Allah distinguished man from His other creations by breathing His own spirit into man. This preferential treatment of God’s creation gave man two privileges not made available to the rest of creation: (1) freedom of choice and (2) specialised knowledge or “creative knowledge” (Rahman).



Freedom of choice allows man the ability to make the decision whether or not to worship Allah and follow His will. The universe, as described before, is governed by the laws decreed for it by Allah, and has, therefore, been in submission to Allah since its creation. Man, however, was given the ability to think, rationalize, and argue the presence of a creator, and then decide whether to submit to Him or not.



An Open Invitation to Knowledge and Learning



Creative knowledge was first displayed—according to the teachings of Islam—when, after the angels questioned Allah as to why he had created man in the form of Adam, Allah challenged the angels and Adam to name objects. The angels were unable to bestow names upon things, whereas Adam could, giving him superiority over those that he had named and demonstrating his Creator’s power.



Islam is a natural religion.



As part of man’s privilege, Islam, through the Qur’an, invites man to discover the laws of nature and the ways in which the universe exists. There is no threat to Allah’s supremacy in this way, because if Allah wills something to remain a mystery (such as Himself) then man has no possible way of discovering whatever Allah chooses to remain hidden. On the contrary, when man sees for himself the extent to which the universe has been meticulously planned and provided for, Allah’s infinite wisdom becomes apparent. Man is invited to question, discover, explore, and manipulate the world around him and use it for his benefit.



There are three types of learning encouraged in Islam, all of which will (or should) inevitably lead to acknowledgement and recognition of Allah’s power. These are: (1) the discovery of nature, its laws, and how it can be used for the benefit of mankind; (2) the exploration of the history and the geography of the physical world and its peoples; and (3) knowledge of oneself (Rahman).



This encouragement to learn and discover has led to a proliferation of Arab scholars in the fields of the natural sciences and mathematics. In Islamic philosophy, one must always seek knowledge, both within and without, as knowledge illuminates the path on which one must travel. Ignorance is an unfavourable state of being, as the process pf acknowledging the existence and power of Allah is one of enlightenment through knowing.



“Nature exists for man to exploit for his own ends, while the end of man himself is nothing else but to serve God, to be grateful to him, and to worship him alone” (Rahman). Islam suggests that nature was created by Allah specifically for mankind’s use and so must be recognised and respected as a gift for which man must be grateful. There are three reasons for creation: (1) “to serve as a collection of signs, or ayat, of the power and goodness of Allah”; (2) “to serve Allah and to be submissive to God’s will”; and (3) “for the use of humans” (Timm).



For more on Islam and nature, read:



Environment and Values: An Islamic Perspective



A Pioneer of the Environment



Water in Islam



The Love of Animals



Natural law in Islam is based on the laws Allah created for nature, which as mentioned earlier, reflected the laws of Allah’s divine realm. Man is expected to discover Allah’s will and to follow it, because “Islam suggests that discovering the truth, learning the truth, and believing in the truth are all possible” (Ezzati).



Allah created the universe, bestowed human beings with a privileged position within it, and left the world to function under the laws He had decreed for it. Allah observes how people treat the bounty He has given them, and the universe is allowed to exist, with little intervention, for a certain length of time. At the end of this time, following portents of the end of the world as we know it, mankind is brought in front of Allah for Judgment Day. Islam’s eschatology places Allah’s role as mankind’s judge as the progression from His role as mankind’s Creator, and man will be punished or rewarded for his deeds in Allah’s universe.



Islam is a natural religion, in that its teachings advocate the utilisation of nature for man’s benefit, along with the preservation of the universe that Allah has placed in mankind’s safekeeping.



References:



Ali, A. Al-Qurān: A Contemporary Translation. New Jersey: Princeton University Press, 2001.



Ezzati, A. Islam and Natural Law. London: ICAS Press, 2002.



Nasr, S.H. Religion and the Order of Nature. Oxford: Oxford University Press, 1996.



Rahman, F. Major Themes of the Qur’an. Chicago: Bibliotheca Islamica, 1980.



Timm, R.E. “The Ecological Fallout of Islamic Creation Philosophy.” Worldviews and Ecology: Religion, Philosophy and the Environment. Eds. M.E. Tucker and J.A. Grim, New York: Orbis Books, 1994. 83-95





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* Nehal El-Hadi is a Masters student at the Faculty of Environmental Studies, York University (Toronto, Canada) focusing on environmental journalism in the Canadian media. Her interests lie in the use of journalism as an agent for social change and understanding the place of nature in society.



More Articles:



Allah:

Islam and the Nature of the Universe - Does God Exist? - Pondering on the Signs of God - Transcendentalism and Tawheed





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Angels:

Angels in Islam: Creatures of Light - Creatures of Light - Mary and the Angels





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Revelation:

Proof & Guidance - The Revelation of the Bible





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Messengers:

Jesus Through a Muslim Lens - The Story of Jesus, Son of Mary - The Story of Mary and the Birth of Jesus - Prophethood - Stories of the Prophets in the Qur’an





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Afterlife:

The Resurrection - Defining Heaven - Death: A Reality





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Fate & Destiny:

Qadar: A Measured Destiny - Divine Decree - Are We Predestined? - Divine and Human Will - Fate or Free Will? - Are We “Born to Be Free”?

The story of Creation includes many things, the creation of Man and the creation of creatures other than Man. For example: throne, heavens and earth, mountains, seas and rivers, animals, plants, stars, winds, moon, day, and light.



I deduced that you mean by Islamic creation story the creation of earth and heaven. Hope I was right. I will quote some verses from Qur’an that speak about this issue. The Qur’an says what means:



*{Your Guardian-Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six days, then He established Himself on the throne [of authority]: He draweth the night as a veil o’er the day, each seeking the other in rapid succession: He created the sun, the moon, and the stars, [all] governed by laws under His command. Is it not His to create and to govern? Blessed be Allah, the Cherisher and Sustainer of the worlds!}* (Al-A`raf 7:54)



This verse assures that the heavens and earth were created in six days and the verse does not differentiate between their creations; that is, it mentions their creation together. But there are other verses that show the stages of this creation. The Qur’an says what means:

*{Say: “Is it that ye deny Him Who created the earth in two days? And do ye join equals with Him? He is the Lord of [all] the worlds.” He set on the [earth] mountains standing firm, high above it, and bestowed blessings on the earth, and measured therein all things to give them nourishment in due proportion, in four days, in accordance with [the needs of] those who seek [sustenance]. Moreover, He comprehended in His design the sky, and it had been [as] smoke: He said to it and to the earth: “Come ye together, willingly or unwillingly.” They said: “We do come [together], in willing obedience.” So He completed them as seven firmaments in two days and He assigned to each heaven its duty and command. And We adorned the lower heaven with lights, and [provided it] with guard. Such is the decree of [Him] the Exalted in might, Full of knowledge.}* (Fussilat 41:9-12)



Ibn Kathir says in his tafseer (explanation of Qur’an): “Those verses explain vastly the verse *{Your Guardian-Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six days}*, they differentiate the days taken to create earth and that taken for heaven. The verses mentioned that Allah first created earth as it is the base and after it the ceiling is created, Allah said what means:

*{It is He Who hath created for you all things that are on earth; then He turned to the heaven and made them into seven firmaments. And of all things He hath perfect knowledge.}* (Al-Baqarah 2:29)



The “days” of creation had two tafseers: either they are days as ours or one day as a thousand years of our days. The Qur’an says what means:

*{...verily a day in the sight of thy Lord is like a thousand years of your reckoning.}* (Al-Hajj 22:47)



Or the day could be even longer than that. The Qur’an also says what means:

*{[Whereby] the angels and the Spirit ascend unto Him in a Day whereof the span is fifty thousand years}* (Al-Ma`arij 70:4)



The point is that we should not understand the word translated as day to mean a 24-hour period. The two verses below stress that earth and heaven were created in six days. The Qur’an says what means:

*{Verily your Lord is Allah, Who created the heavens and the earth in six days, then He established Himself on the throne [of authority], regulating and governing all things. No intercessor [can plead with Him] except after His leave [hath been obtained]. This is Allah your Lord; Him therefore serve ye: will yet not receive admonition?}* (Yunus 10:3)



*{He it is Who created the heavens and the earth in six days—and His throne was over the waters—that He might try you, which of you is best in conduct. But if thou wert to say to them, “Ye shall indeed be raised up after death,” the unbelievers would be sure to say, “This is nothing but obvious sorcery!”}* (Hud 11:7)



Hope this answered your question. Let me know if you want more details


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