Are there sects in Islam?

Islam is one path, has one direction, and is based on one methodology -- that which prophet Muhammad taught according to the instruction he received from god. the religion god ordained for mankind was meant to be a unifying factor. in fact, he addressed mankind in the Qur'an, saying:

" and this is my path, which is straight, so follow it, and do not follow [other] ways for they will separate you from his way." [1]

This divine command emphatically makes it binding on all muslims to be united as one community of believers; thus, all forms of schism and sectarianism are un-islamic.

The prophet's companions and following generations adhered very closely to the path of god, and thus he protected them from separating in this manner. but with later generations certain factors led to the emergence of divisions and divergence, among them: increasing concern with worldly affairs, the influence of non-Muslim cultures, and political rivalries. initially, some small groups split off from the path adhered to by the majority of Muslims. they introduced innovations into the religion and followed opinions differing from the original teachings of the prophet.

These schisms were rejected and opposed by the recognized scholars of Islam and the majority of Muslims, which meant that initially they were contained and that their influence did not become widespread during the major part of Islamic history. the majority of Muslims remained on the sunni [2] path, and whenever forms of deviation emerged among them, the pious scholars always hastened to oppose them and point out their error.

Prophet Muhammad foretold that such divergences would emerge. he warned against schism and instructed Muslims to remain within the main body of Islam.

Nevertheless, over the centuries a number of people have deviated and corrupted their religion, forming sects that claim to belong to Islam but whose stated beliefs are clearly contrary to it. some have distorted the concept of god and attributed to him what is unfitting or incompatible with his divine status - claiming, for example, that everything in existence is god or that he is incarnate or present within his creation, while the Qur'an states that he is superior to his creation and distinct from it. and some have been misguided regarding various major tenets of Islam to the degree that they no longer submit to god and obey him, while others have innovated and changed some of the prescribed forms of worship.

Those sects which deviated from mainstream Islam are not the same as the schools of Islamic jurisprudence [3] which developed within it and are based on the immutable principles of the faith. these eminent schools of thought have provided a vision of the highest degree of scholarship for Islamic legislation and serve to complement one another. differences and disagreements within the framework of Islam do not become matters of partisanship and intolerance except among the extremely ignorant.

Islam recognizes the individuality of human beings and that not all diversity of opinion and difference in analysis is negative. however, the kind of dissension that leads to divisions and sectarianism has been denounced in the qur'an:

"indeed, those who have divided their religion and become sects -you, [o Muhammad], are not [associated] with them in anything. their affair is only [left] to Allaah; then he will inform them about what they used to do." [4]

Although Muslims now appear to be divided more than ever before, the number of divisions in Islam remain fewer than in other religions. one can still find many Islamic associations calling people to truth, proclaiming god's original message, and naming against that which is contrary to it. salvation does not depend on affiliation with any specific group but rather on true faith proven by obedience to god and upright conduct in the manner revealed by him.

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Footnotes:

[1]  6:153 the subtitle change in the verse from first to third person expresses the progressive process of distancing oneself from god’s path.

[2]  a Sunni is one who takes his religion from the Qur'an and Sunnah, i.e., the authentically narrated teachings of prophet Muhammad as practiced by him and his righteous followers.

[3]the hanafi, maliki, shafi'i and hanbali schools and a few others less known.

[4]  6:159

Isn't Islam fatalistic?

Muslims know that all things are from god and occur by his will. thus, they tend to worry less about material matters and view the life of this world in proper perspective. a Muslim believer relies completely on god and knows that whatever happens is always for the best, whether he recognizes it or not, so he graciously accepts whatever cannot be changed.

However, this does not mean that a Muslim sits around awaiting destiny and takes no positive action in life. on the contrary, Islam demands action and effort to change every undesirable situation, and this is a requirement of the faith. it totally rejects the teaching that one should not go to a doctor when ill but only pray to god for cure. if human beings had no ability to act, god could not justly expect them to do and not to do certain things. far from being "fatalistic," Islam teaches that man's main obligation in life is to exert effort in obedience to god, which includes seeking benefit and avoiding harm.

Islam teaches that human beings should take positive action in life and supplement it with prayer. some people are lazy and careless and then blame the negative result on destiny or fate. some even say that if god had willed, they would not have sinned or committed crimes. all this is entirely incorrect because he has provided complete guidance and instruction on how to live and has ordered upright conduct at all times. god has not ordered anything that man cannot do or prohibited anything he cannot avoid because his justice is complete and perfect. each individual is held responsible within the limits of his own ability, but not beyond it.

Although our deeds and our destiny are decreed by god and known to him, it does not mean he compels us to do anything. rather, he willed to give us options about our course of action; and thus, whatever decisions we make are within the framework ill his will. god knows what every person will choose to do and then allows him to do it, while not necessarily approving of his choice. while he does not call anyone to account for what is beyond his control, human beings are indeed responsible for every free choice they make, and they will find the consequences of their choices and actions in both this life and the next.

"Cause and Effect" is a natural law created by god to be utilized by his creatures. it is the law by which one's destiny is determined. so the destiny of each individual is predetermined by god, but it is also the direct result and consequence of his or her own choices and actions, and this is what the creator has willed and decreed.

Why should someone be a Muslim? Can't we follow any religion we please?

There are many people who follow the teachings of a religion as best they can and others who believe in god in some way without practicing any formal religion.[1] many have abandoned the thought that there could be any true religion because nearly all religions claim to be true. and some allow that all religions are legitimate paths to god and are acceptable to him. so how is Islam different from other religions?

Islam has several unique features which can be confirmed through deeper study:

• Islam is the only religion whose sources have remained free of human alteration and interference.
• Its divinely revealed scripture is in harmony with established facts of science, clearly bearing the signature of the creator of this universe.
• Islam provides answers to the essential fundamental questions which occur to the mind of every intelligent person, those related to the purpose of creation and life, and concerning a further existence after death.
• Islam is the only religion which insists upon worship of the creator alone and completely rejects the worship of any aspect of creation.
• Islam dispenses with all intermediaries between man and god and allows every individual to contact him directly, thus eliminating religious hierarchies and other sources of exploitation which have characterized the history of religions throughout the ages. In Islam no cleric or establishment can come between a person and his creator.
• While monotheistic faiths share a fundamental belief in god, their understanding of him differs greatly. Islam declares that god is unique and in no way similar to any of his creation; nor does he merge with it in any form. his attributes are those of complete and absolute perfection without the slightest deficiency or limitation.
• Unlike other religions and ideologies which emphasize some aspects of human nature at the expense of others, Islam accommodates the physical, intellectual and spiritual aspects of man. Islamic beliefs and practices are natural and appeal to common sense. they present a balanced program of life that fulfills both physical and spiritual needs.
• Islam prohibits blind following without knowledge and is based upon evidence and logic. the rational mind is the basis for religious accountability and responsibility. all aspects of Islamic belief are clear, without any obscurity or ambiguity. it contains no tenet that contradicts reason or observable reality, and it calls on people to study and contemplate as a means of strengthening faith.
• Islam's religious, moral, economic, political and social ethics are permanent and remain constant. they are governed by a set of unchanging principles which include such universal values as justice, freedom, equality, brotherhood and social responsibility. history provides an outstanding example in the model Islamic society established by prophet Muhammad and his companions and maintained for decades by devoted Muslims, where truth and transparency, justice, and compassion were implemented as a vital expression of the religion.

Islam also declares that it is the religion of truth, for this is stated unambiguously in the Qur'an. however, the creator does not force his preference on anyone. he wants people to accept right guidance by their own choice and free will because that is what makes them worthy of his approval and reward. the Qur'an states:

" there is no compulsion in [accepting] religion. the truth has been made distinct from falsehood." [2]

"had allah willed, he would have made you one nation [united in religion], but [he intended] to test you in what he has given you; so hasten to [all that is] good. to allah is your return all together" [3]

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Footnotes:

[1]anyone to whom god's message was not adequately conveyed yet believed in him and tried to worship him with sincere intention will be judged by god according to what is in his heart and mind, for he is the ultimate judge of all affairs. the Qur'an states that god never punishes a people until after he has sent them a messenger with the clear order to worship their creator alone without any associates. it also states that he does not punish for what people are unable to know or what is beyond their capability.

^[2]2:256.   

^[3]5:48.

Are the Good Deeds of Non-believers Rewarded?

Prophet Muhammad disclosed that god rewards according to the intention of each individual. the non-believer expects to be rewarded for his deeds in the present life because he denies or doubts the existence of another life after his death. thus, he is keen that people should recognize what he does; when he is praised and his deed publicized, he is pleased, for this is the reward he sought. he might also obtain a sum of money in payment for it or a prize. this is the compensation he likes most, and god grants it to him. but he is not given additional reward in the hereafter simply because he neither desired it nor worked for it.

The believer, on the other hand, is not duly concerned with compensation in this life because he is striving for the greater eternal reward of the hereafter. he does so by worshipping god as he stipulated and by working patiently, honestly and correctly to the best of his ability, even when no person appreciates his efforts. because his deeds are done seeking god's acceptance, they are appreciated by him and rewarded.

Islam teaches that there are two conditions for god's approval and reward of any deed: 

1) that it is done explicitly for his acceptance and approval and 

2) that it is consistent with the methods ordained by him. in other words, a person must work for god according to the terms he has specified and not according to his own preferences or those of other people. in order to know exactly what god expects of his servants, it is necessary to refer to the legislation revealed by him in its final form through Muhammad, the final prophet.

What is the Purpose of our Creation?

Non-believers are unable to provide any convincing reason for the existence of this universe or of human life. people who believe there is a creator assume that creation occurred by his will. but in a world where everything is shown to have a purpose, it is natural for a human being to wonder about the purpose of his own creation. one is surely justified in expecting the creator who put us on this earth to inform us why he did so and what he expects of us.

The qur'an informs us that he did just that. it says god created us for a test here on earth, conveying his words:

"then did you think that we created you uselessly and that to us you would not be returned?"  [1]

A non-believer might decide that the objective of his life will be to collect wealth, obtain position or pursue pleasure to the greatest extent possible. but none of this will benefit him in the long run. according to his final scripture, god created man to test him with certain responsibilities [2]. he did not intend life on this earth to necessarily be comfortable or satisfying but merely a trial of limited duration, the punishment and rewards of which will be due in the hereafter.

As mentioned previously, most of creation is "Muslim" in that it is programmed to obey the physical laws set by god, and (his is why the universe functions with balanced equilibrium. man, however, was given a free will and the ability to either obey or disobey. but god will not allow his universal balance lo be upset indefinitely by defiant, corrupt and sinful people, so he only grants human beings a measure of freedom in a temporary world. the scheme of birth, development, decline and death provides each with the opportunity to prove to himself without a doubt what he will deserve on the day of judgement, which god created for the manifestation of his ultimate justice.

This life is very meaningful and purposeful to the believing Muslim because he realizes that it will determine his outcome and permanent position in the next life. he lives to earn the approval of his creator in preparation for the final return to him.

We all recognize that people make things to perform specific functions for them, in other words, to serve them. god has made us to serve him, but with one major difference; it is not for the benefit of the creator himself but for the benefit of us, his creation. the purpose of our existence is thus stated in the qur'an:

"i did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship me.” [3]

But man's worship of god is not automatic like the vast majority of created beings but by his own choice and effort, and this is what entitles him to honor and reward.

"how should one worship god in order to fulfill that purpose?" this question can undoubtedly best be answered by him. god has provided every element of his creation, living and inanimate, with guidance. we can thus expect that he would provide us with guidance as well. his revelation instructs humanity what to do, what to avoid, and the reason for it. it informs man what is expected of him, how to accomplish it, and the results of continual positive effort. through prophet Muhammad, god revealed to man the ways of worship suitable to his physical and psychological nature and individual talents, and in harmony with his particular role on the earth. these, in combination, are what enable him to fulfill the purpose of his creation.

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Footnotes:

^[1]23:115-1 16.

[2]as stated in 18:7, 67:2 and 76:2.
[3]51:56

Why only one God? Could He not create another God like Himself?

The implication here is that the existence of dual or plural deities is possible and hence probable in the view of a polytheist. however, if the questioner claims that god can create another like himself, we ask, "how can this created being be god, who created all things, when it has itself been created? how can it be like god since it has a beginning, whereas god has existed from eternity? in reality, the phrase "create another god" is an erroneous contradiction because the mere fact that something is created means that it cannot be god. it is obviously illogical and irrational to say that something is god and cannot be god simultaneously.

The other implication in this question is that if we answer, "he cannot," then the power of god must be limited, negating his divinity. these suggestions are not valid because the absolute and unlimited power of god pertains to what is rationally possible and not what is rationally impossible. so when we say no, which is correct, it does not mean that the power of god is limited. rather, it affirms the perfection of his power, meaning that he is not incapable of doing anything that is rationally possible.

Our minds cannot grasp the extent of his power, nor can our imaginations. therefore, we must admit our inability to contain the essence and nature of god within the limits of our intellect.

What is the purpose of worship, and why should people worship at all?

The idea of servitude has become distasteful to the modern secular mindset which concerns itself with individual liberties. some might say that humanity has no need to worship, and that doing so compromises freedom. they forget, however, that absolute freedom is neither possible nor even desirable for all members of a society, and that is why every social order has its laws and restrictions.

Studies in human psychology confirm that man is a worshipper by instinct, that worship is instilled in him as part of his nature, and that he tends to direct it to whatever he considers worthy - other human beings, revered customs or superstitions, materialist ideologies, or his own personal inclinations. an object of worship is that to which one devotes the greatest portion of his thought and effort. so one either worships god or he worships something other than him - along with him or instead of him. the worship of god alone is liberating in that it frees one from servitude to all else.

Many people misunderstand the concept of worship, assuming that it is merely the practice of certain rituals. but in reality it includes everything done seeking the acceptance of the one worshipped. according to islam, the worship of god means willing obedience to his orders and prohibitions which, besides prayer and other religious obligations, include the fulfillment of promises and agreements, honesty and precision in work, teaching and counseling, encouraging righteousness, assisting others, opposing injustice and so on.

Worship is the right of the creator upon his creation. it is based on the perception that everything was brought into existence by god and is dependent upon him in whose hand is life and death, benefit and harm, and the outcome of every matter. further, it is based on the knowledge that man is an accountable being in need of god's continuing guidance and acceptance. islam confirms that although it is his divine right, god does not gain anything from the worship of his servants, nor is he harmed by their refusal. he ordains worship for the benefit of the worshipper himself, and this benefit is obtained by him or her in both this life and the next. when a believer understands that our creator and sustainer deserves to be worshipped, he wants to do so because of his gratitude and love for his lord and because it is inherently right and correct.

If Islam opposes idol worship, why do Muslims pray to a square structure?

The simple cube-shaped stone building located in makkah is called the ka'bah or the sacred house. it is the point toward which muslims face when they pray. although muslims face the direction of ka'bah during prayer, they do not worship it. muslims worship and pray only to god.

The ka'bah was built by the prophet abraham and his son ishmael in response to god's command over 4,000 years ago. abraham consecrated the house for the worship of the one true god and invited all of humanity to visit it for that purpose. even today muslims who are physically and financially able are required to make a pilgrimage to it once in a lifetime. the ka'bah has remained at the center of a continuous tradition of worship and devotion up to the present day, symbolic of permanence, constancy and renewal.

There were periods in human history during which mankind deviated from the monotheism taught by god's prophets. before the advent of muhammad, religion among the arabs had degenerated into polytheism and paganism, and makkah was completely submerged in idolatry; some 360 idols had been placed in and around the ka'bah to be worshipped there along with god. prophet muhammad was sent to restore to mankind the pure monotheism taught by all the messengers of god and reinstate the worship of him alone. this he accomplished, and the ka'bah was finally cleared of all manmade deities.

Among the ancient religious rites particular to the ka'bah is walking around it. this suggests the integrating and unifying power of monotheism in human life and how a muslim's existence should revolve around a pure devotion to god. the ka'bah symbolizes the unity of all true religion, the brotherhood of all the prophets, and the essential consistency of their message.

When muslims pray facing toward this single central point, they are reminded of their common purpose and long-term goal. even when standing directly before the ka'bah in prayer, one is not to look at it but rather at the ground before him. the spiritual focus is on god alone and never upon any created object.

Do Muslims worship God or Allah?

One of the biggest misconceptions about islam concerns the name "Allaah." some people believe that Muslims worship a different god than Christians, Jews and others, and some missionary organizations distribute literature in English in which they say such things as: "allah is the god of the Muslims" and "Muhammad told people to believe in the god, allah." they thus imply and reinforce the idea that "Allaah" is some sort of false deity.

This is totally incorrect because "Allaah" is the same word that arabic-speaking christians and jews use for god. if you pick up an arabic bible, you will find the word "Allaah" wherever "God" is used in English. "Allaah" is also the proper name of god. therefore, Muslims use the name "Allaah" even when they speak other languages.

"Allaah" is a special word. it indicates the only entity in existence who truly possesses the qualities of divinity and lordship, the creator and sustainer of the heavens and earth. it is the name of the only being worthy of worship, the one upon whom all creation is dependant at every moment. this name belongs to god alone and no one else.

"Allaah" is the only word in the arabic language equivalent to "God" with a capital "G." it is also a unique word grammatically since it cannot be made plural or given a masculine or feminine gender. this is consistent with the Islamic concept of god. in English and other languages the word "God" can be used in various forms such as "God," "Gods" or "Goddess," all with different connotations and meanings. the only difference between "God" (meaning a false god or any object of worship) and "god" (meaning the one true god) is a capital "g." thus, a more accurate translation of "Allaah" might be "the one and only true god."

But there is another important point, which is that Islam is particularly concerned with the correct concept of god.

Someone can have an erroneous concept of him whether he uses the name ''Allaah" or the word "God." followers of previous religions gradually deviated from the original pure belief in god due to the fact that their scriptures were not adequately protected from loss and alteration. none of these are still available for study in their original form or language.

But this is not true of the last divinely revealed message, the Qur'an. hence, the accurate concept of god can be found therein.

Don't all World Religions have Similar Objectives?

There are many areas in which religions agree, but there are also significant theological and practical differences between them. undeniably, one will find in every religion expressions of wisdom, high moral values, warnings against evil, and promotion of good works. but what distinguishes Islam from other faiths is that it goes beyond simply urging people to be generous and morally upright. Islam identifies human problems and prescribes practical solutions to them, both individually and collectively.

Although there are a variety of religious communities in the world, each of them content with its own version of "the truth," islam represents the completion of divinely revealed religion and the finalized legal code for mankind. for this reason the qur'an states:

"verily, the religion in the sight of God is islam." [1]

The divine messages revealed prior to that of prophet muhammad all called for the worship of god alone and contained some legislation. however, each of them was addressed to a specific people at a specific period of time in order to remedy particular problems and circumstances such as moral degeneration, economic injustices and excessive materialism, misuse of power and political oppression. the final message of islam addresses these same social evils but as part of a comprehensive program for the amendment, reform and benefit of every nation, community and individual that will exist until the end of the world.

The prophethood of muhammad launched an era in which divine guidance became openly universal, more comprehensive in scope, and precisely detailed. the responsibility for man's fate and moral well-being depends completely on his own free choice and willing initiative to respond to the invitation of his creator.

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Footnotes:

[1] 3:19.          ان الدين عند الله الاسلام  
                     Verily, The Religion in the sight of Allaah is Islam

What is the Ruling on Plural Marriage?.

Praise be to Allaah.

Allaah has allowed men to have more than one wife, as He says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with the orphan girls then marry (other) women of your choice, two or three, or four; but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one or (slaves) that your right hands possess. That is nearer to prevent you from doing injustice”

[Surah Al-Nisa’ 4:3]

This clearly shows that plural marriage is permissible, and that according to Islamic sharee’ah a man may marry one, two, three or four wives, but it is not permissible for him to marry more than four. This is the view of the mufassireen and fuqaha’; the Muslims are unanimously agreed on this point and there is no difference of opinion.

It should be noted that there are conditions attached to plural marriage:

1. Justice and fairness.

Because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning): 

“but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one” 

[Surah An-Nisa’ 4:3]. 

This verse shows that justice is a condition of plural marriage being permissible. If a man fears that he will not be able to treat his wives fairly if he marries more than one, then it is forbidden for him to marry more than one. What is meant by justice here is treating all wives equally with regard to spending, clothing, staying overnight and other material matters which are within his ability to control.

With regard to justice and equal treatment in the area of love, he is not held accountable for that, and it is not required of him because it is not possible to control it. This is what is meant by the words of Allaah (interpretation of the meaning):

“You will never be able to do perfect justice between wives even if it is your ardent desire”

[Surah An-Nisa’ 4:129]

i.e., with regard to love of the heart.

2 . Being able to afford spending on plural wives.

The evidence for this is the verse in which Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And let those who find not the financial means for marriage keep themselves chaste, until Allaah enriches them of His Bounty”

[Surah Al-Noor 24:33]

In these verses Allaah commands the one who is able to get married but cannot afford it to remain chaste. One of the reasons for not be able to afford to get married is not having enough to pay the mahr (dowry) or not being able to spend on one’s wife. 

[Al-Mufassal fi Ahkaam al-Mar’ah, vol. 6, p. 286.]

Some of the scholars are of the view that plural marriage is better than restricting oneself to one wife. Shaykh Ibn Baaz (may Allaah have mercy on him) was asked: Is the basic principle concerning marriage plural marriage or marriage to one wife? He replied: The basic principle in sharee’ah is plural marriage for those who can afford it, if there is no fear of injustice, because of the many interests that are served by that, such as keeping himself and those whom he marries chaste, kind treatment of them, producing lots of children and increasing the numbers of the ummah and the numbers of those who worship Allaah alone. This is indicated by the words of Allaah (interpretation of the meaning):

“And if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with the orphan girls then marry (other) women of your choice, two or three, or four; but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one or (slaves) that your right hands possess. That is nearer to prevent you from doing injustice”

[Surah An-Nisa’ 4:3]

And because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) married more than one wife, and Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“Indeed in the Messenger of Allaah (Muhammad) you have a good example to follow”

[Surah Al-Ahzaab 33:21]

One of the companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “As for me, I will not eat meat,” and another said, “As for me I will pray and never sleep”; another said, “As for me I will fast and never break my fast,” and another said: “As for me, I will never marry women.” When news of that reached him, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) addressed the people. He praised Allaah then he said: “You are the ones who said such and such. As for me, by Allaah, I fear Allaah more than you do, but I fast and I break my fast, I pray and I sleep, and I marry women. Whoever turns away from my Sunnah has nothing to do with me.” These great words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) include both marriage to one woman and plural marriage.

[Majallat al-Balaagh, issue no. 1015; Fataawa ‘Ulama al-Balad al-Haraam, p. 386.]

Isn't it True that Islam is an Arab Religion?

This mistaken assumption is possibly based on the fact that prophet muhammad was an arab, that most of the first generation of muslims were arabs, and that the qur'an is in the arabic language.

But in actual fact, only about 18 percent of muslims in the world today are arabs. the largest muslim populations are found in indonesia, the indian sub-continent and other parts of asia. islam is also widespread in many parts of africa, and there are substantial minorities in europe, north and south america, and oceania. islam is the fastest growing major religion in the world, and its adherents on all continents include both arabs and non-arabs.

Further, not all Arabs are Muslims, for there are significant communities of christian Arabs as well as a number who belong to other religions or profess atheism. while "Arab" is a geographic and cultural term, "Muslim" refers to an adherent to the religion of Islam.

While the revelation was still in its early stages, the qur'an disclosed that islam is indeed a global religion. Allah addressed his prophet therein, saying:

"and we have not sent you but as a mercy to [all] the worlds." [1]

"and we have not sent you except comprehensively to mankind, as a bringer of good tidings and a warner, but most of the people do not know."  [2]

Islam is meant for all people regardless of race, nationality, cultural or religious background. from the commencement of his mission, the prophet's companions came from a wide range of lands and races. among them was an African, a byzantine, a Persian and a Jewish scholar. all were united in the brotherhood of faith.

There are many references in the qur'an to the universal nature of islam. it frequently addresses humanity, saying, "o mankind" or "o people." the prophet, his companions and their followers made every effort to spread the message of truth to all nations and peoples. he naturally began the propagation of god's message among his own people, the arabs, but that does not mean it was restricted to them - rather, only that initially conveying it to those nearest him was the logical first step toward the realization of a long-term goal. later in his mission when conditions became more favorable, he sent letters of invitation to islam to the rulers of the byzantine and persian empires, abyssinia, egypt, damascus, bahrain, yamamah, omanand others who represented the influential world figures of the day. whatever, their response to it, the prophet's message was fully acknowledged by the major powers of his time.

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Footnotes:

[1]21:107

^[2]34:28.

What is a Muslim?

A Muslim is someone who practices islam; that is, who willingly submits to the revealed directives of god. everything in the universe is inherently submissive to god, functioning according to the natural laws created by him. human beings are physically "muslim" in that their bodies function according to the genetic program set by god for the period of time he has decreed.

A ''Muslim" in the religious sense, however, is someone who consciously commits himself to the worship of god alone, not according to his own inclinations or those of other men but according to the method conveyed by god through his appointed prophets. the qur'an gives many examples of people who lived before Muhammad and believed in and obeyed the prophet that god had sent them. they entered paradise because of their obedience to god, and that is the meaning of "islam."

All the prophets of god, from adam to muhammad, and those who believed and followed each of them during the period of his prophethood [1] were called "muslims." but since prophet muhammad was the last of god's messengers to mankind, a "muslim" can now only be defined as one who accepts and complies with the final, completed message conveyed by god through him. for rationally, the most recently revised legislation always supersedes and invalidates whatever came before it

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Footnotes

 [1] i.e., until another prophet was sent after

What is Islam?

"Islam" is an arabic word which means peaceful, willing submission - submission to the code of conduct ordained by god. so islam is a religion, but it is also a complete way of life based upon a voluntary relationship between an individual and his creator. it is the way of life ordained by god which was taught by each of his prophets and messengers. what distinguishes islam from other religions is that it refuses to accept any form of creation whatsoever as a deity worthy of worship. instead, it emphasizes the exclusive worship of the one god who created the entire universe and to whom all creation will eventually return.

Monotheism is the foundation of islam and its most important concept which cannot be compromised in any way. not only is god acknowledged as the sole creator and sustainer of everything in existence, but islam declares that he is the only true deity and he alone is worthy to be worshipped. further, it recognizes that the attributes of god are nothing like those of his creation and cannot be compared to it; he is absolute, perfect and unique.

Clear your Doubts about Islam

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• Foreword
• What is Islam?
• What is a Muslim?
• Isn't it True that Islam is an Arab Religion?
• Don't all World Religions have Similar Objectives?
• Do Muslims worship God or Allah?
• If Islam opposes idol worship, why do Muslims pray to a square structure?
• What is the purpose of worship, and why should people worship at all?
• How do you know there is Life after Death?
• Why should someone be a Muslim? Can't we follow any religion we please?
• Isn't Islam fatalistic?
• Are there sects in Islam?  
• Who was Muhammad?
• Do Muslims worship Muhammad?
• Why should Muhammad be the Final Prophet? Haven't there been others after him?
• Didn't Muhammad write the Qur'an or borrow from the earlier scriptures?
• How does the Qur'an differ from other Scriptures?
• Is it true that Muslims don't believe in Jesus? What does Islam say about him?
• What is Shari'ah?
• What are the "pillars" of Islam?
• Why is alcohol prohibited?
• Why is pork prohibited?
• Why do Muslims allow the slaughter of animals?
• What is the Islamic View on Suicide; "mercy" Killings and Abortion?
• Doesn't Islamic Law Encourage Vengeance?
• Why does Islam Demand Harsh Punishments for Sex outside of Marriage?
• Why is a woman's share of inheritance half that of a man's?
• Why is the testimony of two women required in place of one man?
• Isn't Islam intolerant of other religions? How are Muslims supposed to treat people of other Faiths?
• What is Islam's Attitude toward Western Civilization Today?
• Why is so much of the Muslim world underdeveloped?
• If Islam is such a good religion, why do we find many Muslims dishonest, unreliable and lazy?
• What is Islam's view about education, science and technology?
• Does Islam Accept Slavery?
• Is There Any Mention of Human Rights in Islam?
• Doesn't Islam Oppress Women?
• Are Men and Women Considered Equal?
• Why does Islam keep Women Behind the Veil?
• Why is a Muslim Man Allowed to have more than one Wife?
• Why Does Islam Prohibit a Woman from Having more than one Husband?
• How can a Muslim Be Happy?
• Why are so many Muslims Fundamentalists and Extremists?
• Doesn't Islam promote Terrorism, making it a Threat to the World?
• Wasn't Islam spread by the Sword?
• Isn't Islam a Militant Religion?
• What is the Meaning of Jihad?

Foreword

No one can deny that islam is very much in the spotlight today. in spite of extremely negative portrayals by  western media (or perhaps because of them), increasing numbers of people are seeking to find out more about it. and more often than not, they are being pleasantly surprised by the fruits of their research. in fact, more people are embracing

Islam today than they did prior to september 11, 2001.

However, there does remain a great deal of misconception and misunderstanding on the subject, frequently fueled by political policies which deem it in their interest to support islam's enemies. in addition, muslims themselves, at first shocked and confused by the events of recent years, did not really know how to respond to the challenge. now they have been rudely awakened to the urgency of refuting the many false claims and accusations being spread against their way of life and of defending the truth, and accordingly, the rights and honor of muslims everywhere on earth.

Islam is the religion and way of life of about one-fifth of the world's population. muslims are of diverse nationalities, cultures and races, but their religion teaches that all men are essentially equal and that no distinction should be made between them on the basis of such superficial differences as color, class status or personal beliefs as long as they remain peaceful and law-abiding citizens. the behavior of certain misguided groups or individuals outside the fold of mainstream islam cannot be attributed to the religion any more than violence in north ireland or mafia activities can be attributed to christianity.

People of secular cultures often fail to understand why practicing muslims cannot always fit in completely with modern westernized lifestyles, why they insist upon a particular type of dress, or upon prayer at particular times. they tend to perceive muslim attitudes as unnecessarily demanding and uncompromising. misunderstandings are frequently due to unmistakable differences between the western concept of religion and that of muslims. islam can indeed seem strange to a society in which religion no longer plays a major role in everyday life; but to a dedicated muslim, islam is life, and there is no division between the secular and the sacred.

Because religious practice occupies a narrow place in his outlook, the adherent to western culture often does not comprehend the relationship between a muslim and his religion or what motivates him to take a particular direction in life. but in the view of islam, religion is not merely a personal issue or something symbolic pertaining to a limited area of one's existence. on the contrary, it involves molding a balanced way of life suitable not only to muslims but to everyone who inclines toward peace, justice and respect for rights. more simply, it can be said to mean the pursuit of happiness, security and moral perfection. in the hearts of muslims their religion remains both a secure refuge and the most effective motivator for tackling all kinds of challenges. at the same time, it preserves the distinctive character of the muslim believer and the pattern of his particular culture.

An individual in the west might see religion within a limited context pertaining to worship alone - a private matter between a person and god. but in islam it is a dynamic system that organizes the progression of life according to basic general principles and flexible rulings that guarantee potential benefit from advancements in science and technology as well as new material facilities. since there is no conflict between islam and scientific research, every new discovery in the world of matter, energy, time and space only increases the believer in faith and humility towards him who devised, projected and systematized such a plan and then assigned to mankind his place and noble role within it. within this understanding it remains to be said that knowledgeable muslims are not in need of secularism since they have no problem with religion.

How do you know there is Life after Death?

We live in a world that demands logic and proof and is not content with only belief. someone might wonder how a rational, practical minded person could believe in life after death. people tend to assume that anyone who believes in the hereafter does so on the basis of blind faith. but in fact, belief in the hereafter is completely logical. and it is the only way the injustices of this world can be reconciled with a just and all- powerful creator.

We know that in addition to physical pleasures and comforts there are certain ideal conditions that human beings instinctively desire and strive to attain, such as love, respect, security and contentment. though many people are able to acquire a portion of these objectives here on earth, there remains one that is largely unobtainable - and that is justice. most people hold the conviction that life is not fair: that they have often been misunderstood or not appreciated, that in some way they have been harmed, cheated or oppressed. daily newscasts disclose the killing, torture, displacement and starvation of countless innocent people by powerful tyrants and nations, lives ruined by the vicious or careless acts of others or by natural disasters, and the poor and helpless being subjected to theft and deception. seldom is even partial justice ever restored. yet, every human being desires justice. even if he does not seek it for others, he certainly wants justice for himself.

So why has the creator instilled in man a longing for something he cannot experience in this world? the answer is that this life is only one portion of his existence and that the logical conclusion which restores the equilibrium found in all creation is in the hereafter. it is there that every person will be fully and precisely compensated for his good and evil deeds. this is the perfect and absolute justice which god has promised all people.

The present life is a trial in preparation for the next realm of existence. the explanation given by the qur'an about the necessity of life after death is what the moral consciousness of man demands. if there was no life after death, the belief in god would be meaningless, or it would be a belief in some kind of indifferent and negligent deity who, after having created the human race, is no longer concerned with its welfare.

But certainly, god is just. he will indeed punish the tyrants who have killed thousands and caused suffering to their families, corrupted institutions and societies, enslaved people and nations, robbed, deprived and plundered. and what about i hose who patiently endured so much injustice and hardship, suffered to uphold truth, saved lives or sacrificed in order to assist many people? what earthly compensations could possibly restore the balance for them?

This can only take place in an eternal life where every individual affected in the least by someone's actions will testify for or against him, and where the innermost thoughts and intentions, known completely to god, will be judged precisely and perfectly. since man's term of life in this world is limited and because numerous individuals are affected by one's actions, adequate rewards and punishments are impossible in the present life. the qur'an states categorically that the day of resurrection must come and that god will then decree the fate of each soul according to its record of deeds.

Additionally, god has stated in the qur'an that the present creation is in itself a clear proof that he is able to create and re-create as he wills, whatever he wills, however he wills and whenever he wills, for god originates and repeats creation with equal ease. consider these words revealed to his final prophet:

"say, 'travel through the land and observe how he began creation. then Allah  (الله سبحانه و تعالى) will produce the final creation.'' [1]

"did we fail in the first creation? but they are in confusion over a new creation."[2]

"is not he who created the heavens and the earth able to create the likes of them? yes, and he is the knowing creator.”[3]

"do they not see that allah, who created the heavens and earth and did not fail in their creation, is able to give life to the dead?" [4]

"does man not remember that we created him before, while he was nothing” [5]

"and you have already known the first creation, so will you not remember?" [6]

"have they not considered how allah begins creation and then repeats it? indeed that, for allah, is easy." [7]

"and it is he who begins creation; then he repeats it, and that is easier for him." [8]

"as we began the first creation, we will repeat it. [that is] a promise binding upon us. indeed, we will do it." [9]

in fact, the material of creation is already in existence, merely to be developed once again at his command. observable evidence of this ongoing process is now being presented regularly by astronomers and specialists in other fields of modern science.

________________________

Footnotes:

[1]   29:20

[2]   50:15

[3]   36:81

[4]   46:33

[5]   19:67

[6]   56:62

[7]   29:19

[8]   30:27

[9]   21:104

Ang Sinumang Tumalikod sa Islam ay Papalitan

يَاأَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مَنْ يَرْتَدَّ مِنْكُمْ عَنْ دِينِهِ فَسَوْفَ يَأْتِي اللَّهُ بِقَوْمٍ يُحِبُّهُمْ وَيُحِبُّونَهُ أَذِلَّةٍ عَلَى الْمُؤْمِنِينَ أَعِزَّةٍ عَلَى الْكَافِرِينَ يُجَاهِدُونَ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ وَلَا يَخَافُونَ لَوْمَةَ لَائِمٍ ذَلِكَ فَضْلُ اللَّهِ يُؤْتِيهِ مَنْ يَشَاءُ وَاللَّهُ وَاسِعٌ عَلِيمٌ

Sinabi ng Allaah - subhanahu wa ta'ala,

"O kayong mga nanampalataya, sinuman sa inyo ang tumalikod sa kanyang relihiyon ay papalitan sila ng Allah ng ibang tao na minamahal ng Allah at nagmamahal sa Kanya. Mahabagin sa mga mananampalataya at malupit sa Kuffar. Mga Nakikibaka sa Landas ng Allaah at Hndi Natatakot sa Paninisi ng mga Naninisi. Ito ang biyaya ng Allah na binibigay niya sa sinumang kanyang naisin. Tunay na ang Allah ay Mapagbigay at Pinakamaalam."

[Suratul Maidah: 58]

ANG KAHALINTULAD NG MAYBAHAY NA MATUWID

"Ang Matuwid na Babae dito sa Dunya (Mundo), Ibig sabihin ang Maybahay, Magiging Mas Mainam, Mainam ang amoy, at mas lalong kalugod lugod sa kanyang asawa kaysa sa Hoor Al 'Ayn (mga babae sa Jannah) sa Akhirah (Kabilang Buhay). Tunay na pinabatid sa atin ng Propeta  (salallaahu alaihi wasalaam) na ang unang grupo na papasok sa Jannah ay Kahalintulad ng Kabilugang Buwan na Maliwanag."

- Sheikh Muhammad bin Saalih Al Uthaimeen (rahimahullaah)

[http://www.ibnothaimeen.com/all/noor/article_1313.shtml]

DAWAH, GOOD MANNERS FIRST?

In the Name of Allaah, the Most Gracious, the Ever Merciful…

One of the great senior scholars of this era, Shaykh Saalih ibn Fowzaan al-Fowzaan(may Allaah preserve him), was asked:

Is this manner of da’wah (Islamic propagation) correct: One that begins by inviting the people to good manners at first?

The shaykh responded by saying:

No, this is misguidance, a contradiction to the da’wah of the Messengers. This is the call of the hizbees (bigoted sectarians) nowadays. It is a false da’wah, because it is contradictory to the methodology of the Messengers. What they (really) desire is that people remain upon their (various) beliefs, whether they are (the beliefs of) the Qubooriyyah (gravesite fanatics), idol-worship, or sufism. What is important (to them) is just to gather the people together, merely for the sake of following them (i.e. their group) exclusively.

Source: This Arabic recording.

IMPORTANT COMMENTARY:

1. When the Prophet (may Allaah raise his rank and grant him peace) sent Mu’aath ibn Jabal (may Allaah be pleased with him) to Yemen, he told him:

إنك تقدم على قوم من أهل الكتاب، فليكن أول ما تدعوهم إلى أن يوحدوا الله تعالى، فإذا عرفوا ذلك، فأخبرهم أن الله قد فرض عليهم خمس صلوات في يومهم وليلتهم، فإذا صلوا، فأخبرهم أن الله افترض عليهم زكاة في أموالهم، تؤخذ من غنيهم فترد على فقيرهم، فإذا أقروا بذلك فخذ منهم، وتوق كرائم أموال الناس

“Verily, you are going to a people from Ahlul-Kitaab (i.e. the Jews and Christians), so let the first thing you invite them to be to worship Allaah alone. If they understand that (and accept it), then inform them that Allaah has ordained upon them five daily prayers. If they pray, then inform them that Allaah has ordained upon them the payment of zakaat from their wealth, taken from their rich and given back to their poor. If they agree to that, then take (zakaat) from them, but abstain from the people’s best (most expensive) belongings.”

 [Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim]

From this and many other clear evidences, we learn that the focus and priority of theda’wah of the Prophet Muhammad (may Allaah raise his rank and grant him peace) was totowheed. Other essential matters of the Religion were presented only after people accepttowheed.

This same methodology is also evident from the many Quraanic passages describing theda’wah of Allaah’s Prophets and Messengers. Refer to the book The Methodology of the Prophets in Calling to Allaah by Shaykh Rabee’ ibn Haadee for a more complete discussion of this important topic.

2. Shaykh Saalih al-Fowzaan, in the above fatwaa, is not saying that good manners inda’wah is not important, nor is he saying that calling the people to good manners is not from Islaamic da’wah. He is merely assisting the Ummah to redirect their focus and priority in giving da’wah back to its original theme – that Allaah has the sole right to be worshipped.

3. Many Muslims today incorrectly assume that, since manners are highly stressed in Islaam, we should make them our priority when giving da’wah. There is a difference between giving da’wah with good manners and beginning one’s da’wah by inviting to good manners.

4. Making good manners the focus and priority of da’wah causes us to resemble the Christians, whose great Prophet and Messenger called them to worship Allaah alone from his very first words after birth, announcing himself as a worshipper of Allaah alone! [Soorah Maryam, 19:30-36] However, you find modern Christians explaining their religion as merely good morals and manners. Not only have they taken towheed out of the priorities of their da’wah, they have removed it from the religion altogether! Muslims must be wise enough to learn from the mistakes of the people who came before us. We must not follow in their footsteps into the traps of Shaytaan.

5. Every Muslim is a daa’ee (caller, one who invites to Islaam), through his/her actions and behavior, and we are all required to implement Islaam properly in our lives and be good examples of Muslims. However, it is not correct to say that any Muslim knows enough to get involved in organized da’wah work and outreach programs. How often we see ignorant Muslims who wish to serve their Religion cause extensive harm and corruption in the name of da’wah! Knowledge must come before this kind of da’wah work. We must shun the corrupt form of ”do-it-yourself” da’wah, independent of the scholars of Islaam and their advice and direction.

And Allaah knows best.

Translation and commentary by: Moosaa Richardson

Source: http://www.bakkah.net/en/calling-to-good-manners-firstly-is-contradictory-to-prophetic-dawah-work-shaykh-saalih-al-fowzaan.htm