Islam
Last Updated (Friday, 23 July 2010 07:48) Written by Interfaith Ministries Wednesday, 13 January 2010 11:55
The Arabic word Islam simply means "submission" and derives from a word meaning "peace". 
The major prophet of Islam is Muhammad, who was born in Makkah in the year 570. As he grew up, he became known for his truthfulness, generosity and sincerity. At the age of 40, while engaged in a meditative retreat, Muhammad received his first revelation from God. The Qur'an is the holy text of Islam and is considered to be the "word of God" brought by the Angel Gabriel.
Population:
World - 1 billion
United States - estimated 5 - 7 million
Houston- 300,000
Tenets: The Five Pillars of Islam are the framework for everyday Muslim Life.
- Faith - There is no god worthy of worship except God. Muhammad is His messenger. This declaration of faith is called the Shahada, a simple formula that all the faithful pronounce.
- Prayer - Salat is the name for the obligatory prayers that are performed five times a day and are a direct link between the worshipper and God. Prayers are said at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day. Although it is preferable to worship together in a mosque, a Muslim can pray almost anywhere.
- The Zakat - All things belong to God, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The word zakat means both "purification" and "growth". Possessions are purified by setting aside a portion for those in need and are believed to encourage growth in believers.
- The Fast - Every year in the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from first light until sundown, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations. The Fast is regarded as a method of self purification. By denying oneself worldly comforts, a fasting person gains sympathy with those who go hungry, and, subsequently, experiences spiritual growth.
- Pilgrimage, Hajj - The annual pilgrimage called Hajj to the house of God and the physical focus of prayer called the Makkah is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to perform it. Nearly two million people go to Makkah each year from every corner of the globe.
Links
Islamic Society of Greater Houston
Interfaith Ministries has compiled this information from various resources. If you have any suggestions, please feel free to This e-mail address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it .