What Is Islam and What Do Muslims Believe? – A Complete Beginner’s Guide
Have you ever wondered what Islam really teaches and what Muslims believe?
Islam is one of the world’s major religions, followed by more than 1.9 billion people across every continent. Yet many people know very little about its beliefs, practices, and values — or they may only hear about Islam through news headlines and stereotypes.
In this educational guide, we’ll explain what Islam is, who Muslims worship, the core beliefs of the religion, the Five Pillars of Islam, daily Muslim life, and the peaceful principles that guide Islamic teachings.
This article is designed for students, beginners, researchers, and anyone who wants a clear, respectful, and authentic understanding of Islam.
What Is Islam?
What Does the Word “Islam” Mean?
The word “Islam” comes from the Arabic root word Salam, which means peace, safety, and submission. In Islamic belief, Islam means “submission to the will of Allah (God).”
Muslims believe that true peace comes from submitting to God and living according to His guidance.
Who Do Muslims Worship?
Muslims worship one God, known in Arabic as Allah. Allah is the same God worshiped by Jews and Christians — the Creator of the universe, all-powerful, merciful, and just verified stripe accounts.
Islam strictly teaches monotheism, meaning the belief in only one God, without partners, children, or equals.
Who Is the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him)?
Why Is Prophet Muhammad Important in Islam?
Muslims believe that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the final messenger of God in a long line of prophets that includes Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all).
He was born in Mecca in the year 570 CE and received the first revelation of the Qur’an at the age of 40.
What Was His Message?
His message focused on:
- Worshiping one God alone
- Living honestly and morally
- Helping the poor and needy
- Establishing justice and compassion
Muslims follow his teachings as recorded in the Qur’an and the Hadith (sayings and actions of the Prophet).
What Are the Core Beliefs of Islam?
What Do Muslims Believe In?
The six basic articles of faith in Islam are:
- Belief in one God (Allah)
- Belief in angels
- Belief in holy books (Qur’an, Torah, Psalms, Gospel)
- Belief in prophets
- Belief in the Day of Judgment
- Belief in divine destiny (Qadar)
These beliefs shape how Muslims understand life, purpose, and the afterlife.
What Are the Five Pillars of Islam?
The Five Pillars of Islam are the foundation of Muslim worship and daily practice.
1. Shahada (Declaration of Faith)
“There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
2. Salah (Prayer)
Muslims pray five times a day facing the Kaaba in Mecca.
3. Zakat (Charity)
Muslims give a portion of their wealth to help the poor and support the community.
4. Sawm (Fasting in Ramadan)
During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset to develop self-control and spiritual awareness.
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)
Every Muslim who is physically and financially able must perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
What Is the Qur’an and Why Is It Important?
What Is the Qur’an?
The Qur’an is the holy book of Islam and is believed to be the literal word of God revealed to Prophet Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel.
It covers topics such as:
- Faith and worship
- Moral guidance
- Family and social life
- Justice and human rights
How Do Muslims Treat the Qur’an?
Muslims treat the Qur’an with great respect, recite it daily, memorize it, and follow its teachings in their lives.
How Do Muslims Practice Islam in Daily Life?
What Does a Typical Muslim Day Look Like?
Daily life for a Muslim includes:
- Five daily prayers
- Reading or listening to the Qur’an
- Honest work and ethical behavior
- Helping family and community
- Avoiding harmful actions
Real-World Example
A Muslim student begins the day with Fajr prayer before sunrise, attends school or work, prays during breaks, and ends the day with Isha prayer, keeping spiritual awareness throughout daily activities.
What Values Does Islam Teach?
Islam strongly emphasizes:
- Peace and mercy
- Justice and fairness
- Honesty and trust
- Kindness to parents
- Helping the poor and orphans
- Respect for all human beings
The Qur’an teaches: “Whoever saves one life, it is as if he has saved all of humanity.” (Qur’an 5:32)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Is Islam a peaceful religion?
Yes. Islam teaches peace, mercy, justice, and respect for all people. The word “Islam” itself comes from the root meaning peace.
Do Muslims believe in Jesus?
Yes. Muslims believe Jesus (Isa) is a great prophet of God, born miraculously, and highly respected in Islam.
Why do Muslim women wear hijab?
Hijab is worn as a sign of modesty, faith, and obedience to God. It is a personal act of worship and identity.
Do Muslims worship Muhammad?
No. Muslims worship only Allah. Prophet Muhammad is honored as a messenger, not worshiped.
Is Islam only for Arabs?
No. Islam is a universal religion followed by people of all races, nationalities, and cultures worldwide.
How to Build Topical Authority With Internal Links
To strengthen SEO and educational authority, link this article to:
- What Is the Qur’an and How to Read It
- Life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)
- Meaning of the Five Daily Prayers
- Islamic History Timeline
Final Thoughts: Understanding Islam With Knowledge and Respect
Islam is a religion built on faith, worship, morality, and compassion. By learning its true teachings, people can better understand the values that guide more than a billion Muslims around the world.
If you are curious about Islam, continue exploring authentic sources, speak with aged stripe accounts knowledgeable scholars, and approach learning with an open heart and respectful mind.
Want to learn more about Islam?
Explore our beginner guides, Qur’an explanations, and Islamic lifestyle articles to deepen your understanding.