The word "Islam" simply means submission to God, and a "Muslim" is one who follows the laws of Islam. The Islamic religion was founded by Muhammed, who died A.D. 632, in Medina, Saudi Arabia. He left no instructions as to who would succeed him as leader, so thus today there are two major branches of Islam, the "Sunni", and the "Shi'a", each following a different line of succession from Muhammed.

All Muslims share these common beliefs: they believe in "Allah", who is unique, all-powerful, gracious and merciful to all Muslims. Muhammed is Islam's highest prophet, but their holy book, the"Qur'an", also refers to Jesus as "The Word of God", though they deny His death on the cross, His resurrection, and His deity. Jesus is their second highest prophet, yet is only one prophet among 124,000, according to the Qur'an.

The Islamic faith is lived out according to five "pillars" that must be adhered to if one is to hope for salvation. The five pillars are:

1. Reciting the Creed "shahada" "There is no God but Allah and Muhammed is his prophet."

2. Prayer "salat" At five set times a day, facing the holy city Mecca.

3. Almsgiving "sakat" Both obligatory and voluntary giving to the poor.

4. Fasting "sanm" Especially during the holy month of Ramadan.

5. Pilgrimage "hajj" At least once in a lifetime to Mecca, known as The Hajj.

(Close this window)