Dawah Companion

Category: Basics of Islam

  • The Life After Death (Aakhirah)

    Introduction:

    Belief in life after death — al-Akhirah — is a fundamental pillar of Islamic faith. It answers one of humanity’s oldest questions: What happens after we die? Islam teaches that death is not the end but a transition — from this temporary world (dunya) to the eternal life that follows.The Qur’an describes this world as a test, and the Hereafter as the true home where every soul will meet its final recompense. “And this worldly life is nothing but amusement and diversion; but the home of the Hereafter is best for those who fear Allah. Will you not then reason?”— Surah Al-An‘am (6:32)

    The Certainty of Death:

    No human, rich or poor, powerful or weak, can escape death. It is the one event that unites all creation — a divine decree that none can delay or hasten. “Every soul shall taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:185) Death in Islam is not annihilation but separation: the soul departs from the body and begins a new phase of existence known as Barzakh.

    The Journey of the Soul:

    The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ described, in vivid detail, what happens to the soul at death. According to Sahih Muslim (2872), he said: “When the believing soul is about to depart, angels with bright faces come down to it… They say, ‘O good soul, come out to the forgiveness of Allah and His pleasure.’ Then it comes out easily, like water flowing from a jug.” For the unbelieving soul, the process is difficult: “When the soul of the disbeliever is about to depart, angels with dark faces come down… They say, ‘O wicked soul, come out to the anger of Allah.’ It is pulled out as wool is pulled through a thorny branch.”— Sahih Muslim, 2872

    After burial, the soul enters a waiting realm called Barzakh — a stage between death and resurrection. Here, the soul experiences either peace and comfort or punishment, depending on its faith and deeds. “And behind them is a barrier (barzakh) until the Day they are resurrected.”— Surah Al-Mu’minun (23:100) The Prophet ﷺ said: “When a person is placed in his grave, two angels come to him and ask: ‘Who is your Lord? What is your religion? Who is your Prophet?’”— Sunan Abu Dawood (4753) Those who answer correctly experience comfort, while those who reject faith face torment until the Resurrection.

    The Day of Resurrection (Yawm al-Qiyāmah)

    Allah will resurrect every soul for judgment.The Qur’an describes this event with awe-inspiring power: “When the earth is shaken with its [final] earthquake and the earth discharges its burdens, and man says, ‘What is [wrong] with it?’ That Day, it will report its news.”— Surah Az-Zalzalah (99:1–4) “As We began the first creation, We will repeat it; [it is] a promise binding upon Us.”— Surah Al-Anbiya (21:104)

    On that Day: The dead will rise from their graves. The records of deeds (Suhuf al-A‘mal) will be opened.The scales (Mīzan) will be set to weigh actions. Every hidden truth will be revealed. “Whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.”— Surah Az-Zalzalah (99:7–8)

    The Judgment:

    Every human will stand before Allah to account for their actions — nothing will be hidden. “And We shall set up the scales of justice for the Day of Resurrection, so no soul will be wronged at all.”— Surah Al-Anbiya (21:47) Prophets, angels, and witnesses will testify. For the believer, even small deeds done sincerely for Allah’s sake will be rewarded abundantly. For the rejecter, denial of truth and injustice toward others will lead to punishment. “On that Day, faces will be radiant, looking at their Lord; and on that Day, [other] faces will be gloomy, expecting that there will be done to them some great calamity.”— Surah Al-Qiyamah (75:22–25)

    Paradise (Jannah)

    For the righteous, eternal life begins in Paradise — a place of unimaginable peace, beauty, and joy. “No soul knows what delight of the eyes is kept hidden for them — as a reward for what they used to do.”— Surah As-Sajdah (32:17) The Qur’an describes rivers of milk and honey, gardens beneath which rivers flow, and everlasting companionship and contentment.But beyond all of that is the greatest reward: seeing the face of Allah.> “For those who have done good is the best [reward] and even more.”— Surah Yunus (10:26) According to Sahih Muslim (181), “even more” refers to gazing upon Allah’s countenance — the ultimate joy of the believers.

    Hellfire (Jahannam)

    Hell is the abode for those who rejected truth, oppressed others, and turned away from divine guidance.It is described as a place of fire, regret, and spiritual agony.> “Indeed, those who disbelieve in Our verses — We will drive them into a Fire. Every time their skins are roasted through, We will replace them with other skins so they may taste the punishment.”— Surah An-Nisa (4:56) Hell is not mere vengeance; it is perfect justice — the consequence of rebellion against the Creator and harm toward His creation. “And they will cry, ‘Our Lord, remove us; we will do righteousness, other than what we were doing!’ But it will be said, ‘Did We not give you long enough life for whoever would remember to remember?’”— Surah Fatir (35:37)

    Eternal Justice and Mercy:

    Allah’s justice is absolute, and His mercy encompasses all. Even those punished will admit that Allah wronged them not — they wronged themselves. “Indeed, Allah does not wrong the people at all, but it is the people who are wronging themselves.”— Surah Yunus (10:44) And for those who repented sincerely, even after sinning, Allah promises forgiveness. “Say, ‘O My servants who have transgressed against themselves, do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins.’”— Surah Az-Zumar (39:53)

    The Purpose Behind the Hereafter:

    The belief in the Ākhirah gives meaning to life, accountability to actions, and hope beyond suffering. Without it, morality becomes hollow and justice incomplete. “Did you think that We created you aimlessly and that to Us you would not be returned?”— Surah Al-Mu’minun (23:115) The Hereafter reminds every human being: Life is short, deeds are recorded, and eternity awaits.

    Conclusion:

    The life after death is not a myth or mystery — it is a promise of truth from the One who created life and death. For the believer, it is a return to mercy. For the disbeliever, it is the unveiling of denial. The wise one is he who prepares for what inevitably comes. The Prophet ﷺ said: “The intelligent one is he who controls himself and works for what is after death, and the foolish one is he who follows his desires and hopes upon Allah.”— Sunan al-Tirmidhi (2459) May Allah make us among those who remember death, live righteously, and meet Him with hearts at peace. “O tranquil soul, return to your Lord, well-pleased and pleasing [to Him]. Enter among My servants and enter My Paradise.”— Surah Al-Fajr (89:27–30)

    References:

    Qur’an:Surah Al-An‘am (6:32) Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:185) Surah Al-Mu’minun (23:100, 23:115) Surah Az-Zalzalah (99:1–8) Surah Al-Anbiya (21:47, 21:104) Surah Al-Qiyamah (75:22–25) Surah As-Sajdah (32:17)Surah Yunus (10:26, 10:44) Surah An-Nisa (4:56) Surah Fatir (35:37)Surah Az-Zumar (39:53) Surah Al-Fajr (89:27–30)

    Hadith:Sahih Muslim, 2872, 181 Sunan Abu Dawood, 4753 Sunan al-Tirmidhi, 2459

    Kitab al-Ruh — Ibn al-Qayyim

    Sharh al-Aqidah al-Tahawiyyah — Ibn Abi al-‘Izz

    Al-Qiyamah wa’l-Akhirah — Imam al-Bayhaqi

    The End of the World — Dr. Muhammad Al-Areefi

    Life After Death — Dr. Bilal Philips

    Islamic Creed Series: Belief in the Last Day — Ibn Uthaymeen

  • The Five Pillars of Islam

    Introduction:

    Islam is not only a faith or belief — it is a way of life built upon devotion, discipline, and balance.Just as a building stands firm upon its foundation, a Muslim’s life stands upon five essential pillars that define faith, worship, and spiritual growth.These pillars were established by Allah and practiced by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ as the framework of true submission.They unite all Muslims — rich and poor, Arab and non-Arab — in the same acts of worship, reflecting the unity and purpose of the Islamic faith. The Prophet ﷺ said:“Islam is built upon five [pillars]:Testifying that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is His Messenger,establishing prayer,paying zakah,fasting Ramadan,and performing pilgrimage to the House.”— Sahih al-Bukhari, Sahih Muslim.

    1. The Shahadah — Declaration of Faith:

    At the heart of Islam lies a statement so simple, yet so profound:> “Ash-hadu an lā ilāha illā Allāh,wa ash-hadu anna Muḥammadan rasūlullāh.” “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”

    This testimony affirms two truths:Tawheed (Oneness of God): Only Allah deserves worship, without partners or intermediaries.Risalah (Prophethood): Muhammad ﷺ is the final messenger sent to guide humanity.It is not a mere statement of words, but a declaration that transforms the heart, mind, and actions.Through it, one enters Islam and begins a new life of purpose, forgiveness, and peace.> “So know that there is no deity except Allah and ask forgiveness for your sin.”— Surah Muhammad (47:19)

    2. Salah — The Five Daily PrayersPrayer is the spiritual heartbeat of a Muslim’s life.It is performed five times daily — at dawn, noon, afternoon, sunset, and night — serving as a direct link between the believer and the Creator.> “Indeed, I am Allah. There is no deity except Me, so worship Me and establish prayer for My remembrance.”— Surah Ta-Ha (20:14)Through Salah, the Muslim disconnects from the world and reconnects with the Source of peace.It purifies the heart, disciplines the soul, and reminds man of his dependence on Allah.Each bow and prostration symbolizes humility, obedience, and love for the Creator.When performed sincerely, prayer becomes a shield against sin and spiritual decay.> “Indeed, prayer restrains from immorality and wrongdoing.”— Surah Al-‘Ankabut (29:45)

    3. Zakah — Purification Through Charity:

    The word Zakah literally means “purity” and “growth.”It is a compulsory act of giving 2.5% of one’s eligible wealth each year to the poor and needy.Zakah purifies wealth from selfishness and greed, while uplifting those in need.It transforms material gain into spiritual reward and strengthens social solidarity within the Muslim community.> “Take from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase, and invoke [Allah’s blessings] upon them.”— Surah At-Tawbah (9:103)Unlike voluntary charity (Sadaqah), Zakah is a divine obligation — a pillar that ensures justice and compassion coexist in society.

    4. Sawm — Fasting in the Month of Ramadan:

    Every year during the blessed month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset — abstaining from food, drink, and worldly desires.> “O you who have believed, fasting has been prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become righteous.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:183)

    Fasting is not mere hunger or thirst; it is a school of self-discipline, empathy, and spiritual renewal.It teaches patience, gratitude, and awareness of the poor.Through fasting, the believer learns that true satisfaction is not in consumption, but in connection — with Allah.The nights of Ramadan are filled with prayer, Qur’an recitation, and forgiveness, culminating in Laylat al-Qadr — the Night of Decree — a night greater than a thousand months.> “Fasting is for Me, and I will reward it.”— Hadith Qudsi, Sahih al-Bukhari

    5. Hajj — Pilgrimage to MakkahThe fifth pillar is the Hajj, an obligatory pilgrimage to the Sacred House in Makkah for those physically and financially able.It is performed once in a lifetime and represents the unity of humanity before their Creator.> “And proclaim to the people the Hajj; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass.”— Surah Al-Hajj (22:27)

    During Hajj, millions of Muslims — from every nation and background — stand side by side in identical white garments, symbolizing equality, humility, and submission.They retrace the footsteps of Prophet Abraham (Ibrāhīm), his wife Hājar, and their son Ishmael (Ismā‘īl), reaffirming the timeless message of faith and sacrifice.> “And complete the Hajj and ‘Umrah for Allah.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:196)

    Hajj is a powerful reminder that life itself is a journey toward Allah, and that all humans will one day stand before Him with nothing but their deeds.

    The Spiritual Wisdom Behind the Five Pillars:

    The Five Pillars are not arbitrary rituals; they are divine disciplines that nurture the body, mind, and soul.Shahadah purifies belief.Salah purifies the heart.Zakah purifies wealth.Sawm purifies the desires.Hajj purifies the entire life.Together, they create a balanced Muslim — devoted to Allah, conscious of others, and spiritually awakened.They transform faith into action, turning belief into a living, breathing way of life.> “Whoever submits his face to Allah while being a doer of good — he has grasped the firmest handhold.”— Surah Luqman (31:22)

    Conclusion:

    The Five Pillars of Islam are more than obligations — they are the path to purification, peace, and Paradise.They shape the Muslim’s relationship with Allah and with humanity, forming the moral and spiritual foundation of Islamic civilization.By living through these pillars, a believer turns every moment — from prayer to patience, from charity to service — into an act of worship.They remind us that faith is not just believed, but lived.> “This day I have perfected for you your religion, completed My favor upon you, and chosen for you Islam as your religion.”— Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:3)

  • The Six Articles of Faith

    Introduction:

    Faith (Imān) in Islam is more than mere belief — it is conviction rooted in the heart, spoken on the tongue, and demonstrated through action.It forms the foundation of a Muslim’s worldview and relationship with the Creator.Just as the Five Pillars establish the framework for a Muslim’s practice, the Six Articles of Faith define the framework for a Muslim’s belief.

    Together, they form the complete structure of Islam — belief and action, faith and obedience. “The Messenger has believed in what was revealed to him from his Lord, and [so have] the believers.All of them have believed in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day, and in the divine decree — good and bad.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285)

    The Six Articles of Faith:

    According to the hadith of Angel Jibrīl (Gabriel), when he came in human form and asked the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ about faith, the Prophet replied:> “It is to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and to believe in divine decree — both its good and its bad.”— Sahih MuslimLet us explore each pillar of faith in detail.

    1. Belief in Allah (Tawheed): The first and greatest foundation of faith is belief in Allah, the One True God.He is the Creator, Sustainer, and Lord of all that exists.> “Allah — there is no deity except Him, the Ever-Living, the Sustainer of existence.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255)This belief includes:

    Tawheed ar-Rububiyyah: Believing Allah alone is the Creator and Controller of the universe.

    Tawheed al-Uluhiyyah: Worshipping Allah alone, without partners or intermediaries.

    Tawheed al-Asma wa-Sifat: Affirming Allah’s Names and Attributes as revealed, without distortion or denial.To truly know Allah is to love and obey Him — to live every moment conscious of His presence and mercy.> “There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.”— Surah Ash-Shura (42:11)

    2. Belief in the Angels: Angels (Mala’ikah) are noble beings created from light.They do not eat, sleep, or disobey Allah — they exist solely to fulfill His commands.> “They exalt Him night and day and do not slacken.”— Surah Al-Anbiya (21:20)Each angel has specific duties, such as:Jibrīl (Gabriel): Brings revelation to the prophets.Mīkā’īl (Michael): Oversees rain and sustenance.Isrāfīl: Will blow the Trumpet to signal the Day of Resurrection.Mālik: Guardian of Hellfire.The Recording Angels: Write every deed — good or bad.Belief in angels reminds us that the unseen world is real and that every action is witnessed and recorded.> “And indeed, [appointed] over you are keepers — noble and recording; they know whatever you do.”— Surah Al-Infitar (82:10–12)

    3. Belief in the Revealed Books: Throughout history, Allah has revealed divine scriptures as guidance for mankind.Muslims believe in all of them in their original form:

    Scripture: Prophet: Description:

    Suhuf (Scrolls) – Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) – Early scriptures of wisdom and guidance.

    Tawrah (Torah) – Prophet Musa (Moses) – Law and commandments revealed to guide the Children of Israel.

    Zabur (Psalms) – David – Book of praises and hymns.

    Injil (Gospel) – Jesus Revelation confirming the Torah and bringing light and mercy.

    Qur’an – Muhammad ﷺ – Final, complete, and preserved revelation for all humanity. “He has sent down upon you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming what was before it. And He revealed the Torah and the Gospel.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:3) Historical facts and research indicate that previous scriptures were altered or lost, while the Qur’an remains perfectly preserved. It serves as the final criterion for distinguishing between truth and falsehood. As stated in Surah Al-Hijr (15:9), “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur’an, and indeed, We will be its guardian.”

    4. Belief in the Messengers:

    Allah sent messengers to every nation, calling them to worship Him alone.They were the best of humanity — chosen, sincere, and trustworthy.> “And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger, [saying], ‘Worship Allah and avoid false gods.’”— Surah An-Nahl (16:36)Some of the known messengers include:Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and finally Muhammad ﷺ — the Seal of the Prophets.

    Muslims love and respect all prophets equally, recognizing that they all carried the same divine message: Tawheed (Oneness of God). “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets.”— Surah Al-Ahzab (33:40)Belief in all prophets unites humanity under one timeless message — that salvation lies in sincere submission to the One God.

    5. Belief in the Last Day:

    The belief in the Hereafter gives purpose and accountability to human life.Every soul will taste death, and every deed — small or great — will be judged. “So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.”— Surah Az-Zalzalah (99:7–8)The Day of Resurrection will expose every truth.The righteous will be rewarded with Paradise — eternal peace and joy — while the wicked will face punishment for their rebellion.> “And those who believed and did righteous deeds will be admitted to gardens beneath which rivers flow, abiding therein forever.”— Surah Al-Hajj (22:23)Belief in the Last Day makes a believer live consciously — striving for justice, honesty, and mercy, knowing that ultimate judgment belongs to Allah alone.

    6. Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar):

    The final pillar of faith is belief in Divine Decree, that everything — good or bad — occurs by the knowledge, will, and wisdom of Allah. “Indeed, all things We created with predestination.”— Surah Al-Qamar (54:49)This belief has four components:

    1. Knowledge: Allah knows everything before it happens.

    2. Writing: All things are recorded in the Preserved Tablet (Al-Lawh al-Mahfuz).

    3. Will: Nothing occurs except by Allah’s permission.

    4. Creation: Allah is the Creator of all that exists.

    Belief in Qadar teaches balance — to strive with effort while trusting Allah’s plan.It removes despair in hardship and arrogance in success. “No calamity befalls except by the permission of Allah, and whoever believes in Allah — He will guide his heart.”— Surah At-Taghabun (64:11)

    The Unity of Faith and Action: These six beliefs are not theoretical ideas; they are living truths that shape a Muslim’s heart, morals, and behavior.Faith (Imān) must be reflected in righteous deeds (‘Amal Sālih).True belief inspires humility, justice, and mercy.It transforms the individual — and through him, the world. “Those who believe and do righteous deeds — for them are the Gardens of Bliss.”— Surah Luqman (31:8)

    Conclusion: The Six Articles of Faith form the spiritual foundation of Islam.They answer life’s deepest questions — Who created us? Why are we here? What happens after we die?They anchor the believer’s heart in truth, guiding him through joy and hardship with trust in Allah’s wisdom.Faith in Islam is not blind — it is enlightened belief built upon revelation, reason, and purpose. “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day and does righteousness — We will remove from him his misdeeds and admit him to gardens beneath which rivers flow.”— Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:65)The one who believes in these six pillars and lives accordingly attains peace in this life and eternal success in the next.

    References:

    Qur’anic References: Surah Al-Baqarah (2:255, 2:285)Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:3)Surah An-Nahl (16:36)Surah Al-Hijr (15:9)Surah Ash-Shura (42:11)Surah Az-Zalzalah (99:7–8)Surah Al-Qamar (54:49)Surah Al-Taghabun (64:11)Surah Al-Infitar (82:10–12)Surah Al-Hajj (22:23)Surah Luqman (31:8)Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:65)

    Hadith References: Sahih Muslim, Book of Faith (Kitab al-Iman), Hadith of Jibrīl

    Sahih al-Bukhari, Book of Tawheed. Musnad Ahmad, on belief in Qadar and Divine Decree.

    Classical Islamic Works: Al-‘Aqidah al-Tahawiyyah by Imam Abu Ja‘far al-Tahawi

    Sharh al-‘Aqidah al-Wasitiyyah by Ibn Taymiyyah

    Kitab al-Tawheed by Muhammad ibn ‘Abd al-Wahhab

    Al-Ibanah ‘an Usul ad-Diyanah by Imam al-Ash‘ari

    The Fundamentals of Tawheed — Dr. Bilal Philips

    Islamic Creed Series — Sheikh Muhammad ibn Salih al-‘Uthaymeen

    A Brief Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam — I.A. Ibrahim

  • The Qur’an: Revelation and Preservation

    Introduction:

    The Qur’an is the final revelation from Allah (God) to mankind — a book of guidance, mercy, and truth. Revealed to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ over 23 years, it completes the chain of divine scriptures that began with the Torah, Psalms, and Gospel.Unlike earlier revelations, the Qur’an was divinely protected from corruption, preserved in both hearts and manuscripts — fulfilling Allah’s promise: “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Reminder, and indeed, We will guard it.”— Surah Al-Hijr (15:9)

    The Qur’an: God’s Final Revelation:

    Allah sent revelation to every nation through prophets — from Adam to Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all). Each conveyed one consistent message: to worship Allah alone.The Qur’an confirms this timeless message and stands as the final, universal revelation for all humanity. “Say, ‘O mankind, indeed I am the Messenger of Allah to you all — to Him belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. There is no deity except Him; He gives life and causes death.’”— Surah Al-A‘raf (7:158)It also affirms the truth found in earlier scriptures while exposing distortions made by human hands:> “And We have revealed to you, [O Muhammad], the Book in truth, confirming what was before it of the Scripture and as a criterion over it.”— Surah Al-Mā’idah (5:48)

    The Process of Revelation:

    The Qur’an was revealed gradually over 23 years — addressing the evolving circumstances of the early Muslim community.The Archangel Jibreel (Gabriel) conveyed Allah’s words directly to the Prophet ﷺ:> “The Trustworthy Spirit has brought it down upon your heart, [O Muhammad] — that you may be of the warners.”— Surah Ash-Shu‘ara (26:193–194)This gradual revelation strengthened the believers and allowed them to internalize divine guidance step by step: “And those who disbelieve say, ‘Why was the Qur’an not revealed to him all at once?’ Thus [it is] that We may strengthen thereby your heart, and We have spaced it distinctly.”— Surah Al-Furqan (25:32)

    Preservation Through Memorization:

    From the beginning, memorization was central to Qur’anic preservation. The Prophet ﷺ himself memorized the revelation, and his companions (Sahabah) followed his example. He said: “The best among you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”— Sahih al-Bukhari, 5027 Dozens of companions — including Ubayy ibn Ka‘b, Abdullah ibn Mas‘ud, Zayd ibn Thabit, and others — memorized the Qur’an completely. This oral transmission (known as tawātur) ensured an unbroken chain of reciters, preserving every word precisely as revealed.The Prophet ﷺ also reviewed the Qur’an with Jibreel annually during Ramadan. In the year of his death, this review occurred twice, confirming its final form.— Sahih al-Bukhari, 4998; Sahih Muslim, 2450.Today, millions of Muslims — including children as young as seven — have memorized the entire Qur’an in Arabic, maintaining a living, global preservation that no other scripture possesses.

    Preservation in Written Form:

    During the Prophet’s lifetime, revelation was recorded by appointed scribes, such as Zayd ibn Thabit, Ali ibn Abi Talib, and Mu‘awiyah ibn Abi Sufyan. They wrote on parchment, bones, palm leaves, and leather under the direct supervision of the Prophet ﷺ.After his passing, following the Battle of Yamamah (where many memorizers were martyred), Caliph Abu Bakr (RA) ordered a full compilation to safeguard the Qur’an.This task was assigned to Zayd ibn Thabit — the Prophet’s chief scribe.— Sahih al-Bukhari, 4986. The compiled manuscript was later preserved with Hafsah bint Umar (RA), the Prophet’s wife.During the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan (RA), standardized copies were made from this master compilation and distributed to major Islamic regions — Makkah, Kufah, Basrah, and Damascus — ensuring unity of recitation.— Sahih al-Bukhari, 4987; Ibn Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Masahif.

    Linguistic and Textual Consistency:

    Over fourteen centuries have passed, yet the Qur’an remains identical across the world. Early manuscripts — such as the Topkapi Manuscript (Istanbul) and the Sana’a Manuscript (Yemen) — match today’s Qur’anic text precisely. Even non-Muslim scholars have recognized this phenomenon.Sir William Muir wrote: “There is probably in the world no other book which has remained twelve centuries with so pure a text.”— (The Life of Mahomet, 1878, Vol. 1, p. 22) The Qur’an itself challenges skeptics to produce anything comparable: “And if you are in doubt about what We have sent down upon Our servant, then produce a surah like it — and call upon your witnesses other than Allah, if you should be truthful.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:23)This linguistic miracle (i‘jaz al-Qur’an) remains unmatched — its eloquence, rhythm, and depth defy imitation.

    A Living Miracle:

    The Qur’an’s preservation is not confined to history; it continues every day.In every generation, millions memorize, recite, and teach it in its original language. No other book has ever been preserved through such a living community of believers.> “No falsehood can approach it from before it or from behind it; [it is] a revelation from the All-Wise, Worthy of Praise.”— Surah Fussilat (41:42)The Qur’an’s impact is both spiritual and intellectual — it guides the heart, shapes society, and continues to inspire scholars, poets, and thinkers across the globe.

    Conclusion:

    The Qur’an is the Word of God, revealed to the final Messenger ﷺ, preserved perfectly by divine will.It is the ultimate source of truth, morality, and spiritual healing. “This is the Book about which there is no doubt — a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2)To read the Qur’an is to hear the Creator speak — His message, unchanged and eternal.It calls every human being to faith, reflection, and submission to the One who created all things.

    References:

    1. The Qur’an: 2:2, 2:23, 5:48, 7:158, 15:9, 25:32, 26:193–194, 41:42

    2. Sahih al-Bukhari: Hadith 4986, 4987, 4998, 5027

    3. Sahih Muslim: Hadith 2450

    4. Ibn Abi Dawud, Kitab al-Masahif

    5. Al-Suyuti, Al-Itqan fi Ulum al-Qur’an

    6. Sir William Muir, The Life of Mahomet, Vol. 1 (1878)

  • Is the Qur’an Preserved?

    Introduction:

    One of the most important facts of Islam is that the Qur’an is the unchanged word of Allah, perfectly preserved since it was revealed over 1,400 years ago.Many non-Muslims, and even some Muslims, wonder: Can we really be sure that the Qur’an we have today is the same as what was revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ?This article will explore the Islamic evidence, historical facts, and scholarly consensus on the preservation of the Qur’an.

    The Qur’an’s Own Claim:

    The Qur’an explicitly declares that Allah Himself guarantees its preservation: “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Reminder (the Qur’an), and indeed, We will surely guard it.”— Surah Al-Ḥijr (15:9)This verse is both a divine promise and a fulfilled prophecy.For over fourteen centuries, the Qur’an has remained intact — word for word, letter for letter — despite the rise and fall of empires, languages, and cultures.

    How the Qur’an Was Preserved:

    1. Through Memorization (Hifz)From the time of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, thousands of his companions memorized the Qur’an completely.They were known as ḥuffāẓ (guardians of the Qur’an). The Prophet ﷺ said:“The best among you are those who learn the Qur’an and teach it.”(Sahih al-Bukhari, 5027)To this day, millions of Muslims around the world — from Nigeria to Indonesia — memorize the Qur’an entirely, often from a young age.This oral preservation is unique to the Qur’an; no other scripture in history has been memorized so widely and precisely.

    2. Through Written PreservationDuring the Prophet’s lifetime:The Qur’an was written down on parchments, bones, and leaves by appointed scribes.He personally reviewed the recitations of the Qur’an each Ramadan with the angel Jibrīl (Gabriel).After his death, under the Caliph Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him), the written materials and memorized recitations were compiled into a single copy, supervised by the companions who had memorized the entire Qur’an.Later, during Caliph Uthman’s era, standard copies were produced and distributed to major Muslim regions to preserve one unified reading, eliminating any regional differences in dialect or pronunciation.These copies, known as the “Mushaf of Uthman,” became the foundation of all Qur’anic manuscripts today.

    3. Through Continuous Recitation (Tawātur)The Qur’an has been transmitted generation after generation through a process called tawātur, meaning:> “A transmission by so many people in every generation that it is impossible for them to have conspired upon a lie.”This chain of reciters connects every modern Qur’an reader directly back to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

    What Scholars and Historians SayImam Al-Nawawi (d. 676 AH): “The Qur’an is preserved by Allah from any alteration, addition, or omission.”(Al-Tibyan fi Adab Hamalat al-Qur’an) Orientalist scholar Arthur Jeffery, though critical of Islam, admitted: “The Qur’an as we have it today is practically identical with what was in circulation in the Prophet’s lifetime. “Even non-Muslim historians recognize the Qur’an’s textual stability, especially compared to other ancient scriptures.

    Manuscript Evidence:

    Early Qur’anic manuscripts from the 7th century CE, such as: The Topkapi Mushaf (Turkey)The Samarkand Mushaf (Uzbekistan)The Birmingham Manuscript (UK)—all confirm the same text found in the Qur’an recited by Muslims today. When compared letter-by-letter, these manuscripts match the standard Uthmanic Qur’an, differing only in spelling conventions and minor diacritical marks — not in words or meanings.

    Addressing Common Misconceptions:

    1. There are different versions of Qur’an: There is only one Qur’an, but multiple authentic recitations (Qirā’āt) — each taught by the Prophet ﷺ and passed through sound chains of narration.These are not different versions but different accepted modes of pronunciation, much like different accents in reciting the same text.
    2. Early Muslims disagreed about the Qur’an: Minor differences in dialect, and pronunciation existed, but the content was the same. Caliph Uthman’s compilation standardized the Qur’an without changing any revelation.
    3. The Qur’an was written long after the Prophet: No — it was written and memorized during his lifetime.Every verse was confirmed by him before it was recited publicly.The companions cross-checked both written and memorized versions for accuracy.

    Why This Preservation Matters:

    1. It proves the truthfulness of Allah’s promise (Qur’an 15:9).

    2. It ensures that Islam’s guidance remains unaltered and reliable for all generations.

    3. It gives Muslims a direct link to the words of Allah, not human authors or translations.

    Conclusion:

    The Qur’an is not just another ancient book — it is the living word of Allah, perfectly preserved in memory, writing, and recitation. Its preservation is: Divinely promised, Historically proven, and Universally witnessed among Muslims across centuries. No other scripture can make — or prove — such a claim. “This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:2)

    References:

    1. Qur’an 15:9, 2:2, 22:38

    2. Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 5027

    3. Al-Tibyan fi Adab Hamalat al-Qur’an — Imam al-Nawawi

    4. The Preservation of the Qur’an, Dr. Mustafa al-Azami

    5. The History of the Qur’anic Text, M.M. al-Azami

    6. Birmingham Qur’an Manuscript Study, University of Birmingham

  • Who is Prophet Muhammad?

    Muhammad, Prophethood, Revelation, Qur’an, Messenger of Allah

    Introduction:

    The name Muhammad ﷺ is among the most mentioned in the world, yet also one of the most misunderstood.Muslims revere him not as a divine being, but as the final Prophet and Messenger of Allah, sent to guide humanity with the message of pure monotheism (Tawheed) — the worship of one God. He is the man through whom the Qur’an was revealed, whose life serves as the perfect example of faith, morality, justice, and compassion.This article introduces who Prophet Muhammad ﷺ truly was, why Muslims follow him, and how his life continues to impact billions today.

    Birth and Early Life:

    Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was born in Makkah (modern-day Saudi Arabia) around 570 CE, into the noble tribe of Quraysh.His father, ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abdul-Muttalib, passed away before his birth, and his mother, Aminah bint Wahb, died when he was just six years old.He was raised by his grandfather and later by his uncle Abu Talib.Even before prophethood, he was known among his people as “Al-Amīn” (the Trustworthy) for his honesty, fairness, and integrity.

    The Call to ProphethoodAt the age of 40, while meditating in the cave of Hira, Muhammad ﷺ received the first revelation through the angel Jibrīl (Gabriel):> “Read in the name of your Lord who created…”— Surah Al-‘Alaq (96:1)This marked the beginning of his 23-year mission as the final Messenger of God, confirming the messages of Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all).

    The Message of Islam: Prophet Muhammad ﷺ called people to the same timeless truth preached by all prophets: “Worship Allah; you have no deity other than Him.”— Surah Al-A‘raf (7:59)His mission was not to found a new religion, but to restore the original message of monotheism that had been altered or forgotten over time. The essence of his message included:

    1. Oneness of God (Tawheed) — Allah alone deserves worship.

    2. Righteous conduct — truthfulness, justice, mercy, and humility.

    3. Accountability — belief in the Hereafter and responsibility for one’s deeds.

    4. Equality of all humans — regardless of race, tribe, or status.

    5. Peace and compassion — “The most merciful are shown mercy by The Most Merciful.” (Hadith)

    Opposition and Perseverance:

    The early years of his mission in Makkah were met with severe hostility. He and his followers were mocked, tortured, and boycotted because his message challenged the idol-worship and social injustices of the time. Despite persecution, he responded with patience and forgiveness, never abandoning his message or compromising his integrity.After 13 years of struggle in Makkah, he and his followers migrated to Madinah — an event known as the Hijrah (Migration) — marking the beginning of the Islamic calendar.

    The Prophet as a Leader:

    In Madinah, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ became:A spiritual leader — teaching faith and devotion.A political leader — establishing justice and rule of law.A military leader — defending the community from aggression.A reformer — uplifting women, orphans, and the poor.He established the Constitution of Madinah, one of the first written charters guaranteeing rights and coexistence between Muslims, Jews, and other tribes.

    Character and Morality: The Qur’an describes him as:> “And indeed, you are of a great moral character.”— Surah Al-Qalam (68:4)He was gentle, forgiving, humble, and generous. He mended clothes, served his family, and never sought revenge for personal harm.When his enemies were finally defeated, he entered Makkah without pride or vengeance, declaring forgiveness for all. “No blame will there be upon you today. May Allah forgive you; He is the Most Merciful of the merciful.”— Qur’an 12:92 (words of Prophet Yusuf, repeated by Muhammad ﷺ upon conquest)

    The Final Revelation: Shortly before his death, the Prophet ﷺ delivered his Farewell Sermon during his final pilgrimage (Hajj). It summarized the entire message of Islam: “O people, your Lord is One, and your father (Adam) is one.An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor a non-Arab over an Arab, except by piety.”— Hadith (Musnad Ahmad)Soon after, he received the final revelation:> “Today I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favor upon you, and chosen Islam as your religion.”— Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:3)He passed away in 632 CE at the age of 63, leaving behind a complete, preserved faith and a global community of believers. Was Muhammad Truly a Prophet?Muslims believe Muhammad ﷺ’s prophethood is proven by:

    1. The Qur’an itself — unmatched in eloquence, consistency, and preservation.

    2. Fulfilled prophecies — in the Qur’an and authentic Hadiths.

    3. His personal example — unmatched moral character and sincerity.

    4. The transformation he led — from idol-worship to ethical monotheism.

    5. Predictions in earlier scriptures — such as Deuteronomy 18:18 and John 14:16, which describe a coming prophet like Moses.

    What the Qur’an Says About Him: “Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the Seal of the Prophets.”— Surah Al-Ahzab (33:40)> “And We have not sent you except as a mercy to the worlds.”— Surah Al-Anbiya (21:107)He was not sent to one nation or tribe, but to all humanity, as a messenger of mercy, truth, and justice.

    Conclusion:

    Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was a messenger, reformer, teacher, and mercy to mankind — not a god or a man seeking power.His message was universal, timeless, and clear:> “Worship Allah alone and follow the guidance revealed.”Through his teachings and example, the world witnessed spiritual, moral, and social transformation unmatched in history.Muslims follow him not out of blind faith, but because his message is confirmed by revelation, reason, and the enduring legacy of good he left behind.

    References:

    1. Qur’an 33:40, 21:107, 68:4, 5:3
    2. Sahih al-Bukhari & Sahih Muslim — Authentic Hadith collections.
    3. “Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum” (The Sealed Nectar) by Safiur Rahman al-Mubarakpuri
    4. “Muhammad: His Life Based on the Earliest Sources” by Martin Lings
    5. “The 100: A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History” by Michael H. Hart

  • What is Islam? – An Understanding of the Faith of Submission to God’s Will

    Introduction:

    The word “Islam” comes from the Arabic root S-L-M, which means peace, purity, submission, and obedience.In essence, Islam means “submission to the will of Allah”, the One True God.A person who follows Islam is called a Muslim, meaning “one who submits.”Islam is not a new religion. It is the same message of monotheism that was revealed to all prophets — from Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, to the final Messenger, Muhammad ﷺ.

    The Core Meaning of Islam:

    At its heart, Islam is about:Recognizing the Creator of the heavens and the earth,Submitting one’s life and will to Him,Living in accordance with His guidance.This message is summarized in the Qur’an:> “Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:19)> “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be among the losers.”— Surah Aal ‘Imran (3:85)

    Belief in One God:

    The foundation of Islam is Tawheed — the belief that Allah is One, Unique, and has no partners. “Say: He is Allah, the One.Allah, the Eternal Refuge.He neither begets nor is born,Nor is there to Him any equivalent.”— Surah Al-Ikhlas (112:1–4)Muslims believe that Allah:Has no father, mother, or son.Has no equal or rival.Alone deserves all worship, prayer, and devotion.This same message was preached by all prophets, including Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all).

    Belief in the Prophets:

    Islam teaches that throughout history, Allah sent prophets to guide humanity.Each prophet brought the same essential message:> “Worship Allah alone and avoid false gods.”Some of the prophets mentioned in the Qur’an include:Adam — the first man and prophetNoah (Nūḥ)Abraham (Ibrāhīm)Moses (Mūsā)Jesus (ʿĪsā)Muhammad (ﷺ) — the final messengerMuslims believe in all of them — not as divine beings, but as messengers of God.> “The Messenger has believed in what was revealed to him from his Lord, and [so have] the believers.All of them have believed in Allah and His angels and His books and His messengers.”— Surah Al-Baqarah (2:285)

    The Qur’an — The Final Revelation:

    Muslims believe that Allah revealed divine scriptures to different prophets.Among them:The Torah to MosesThe Psalms (Zabur) to DavidThe Gospel (Injeel) to JesusAnd finally, the Qur’an to Prophet Muhammad ﷺThe Qur’an is unique because:It has been perfectly preserved in Arabic for over 1,400 years.It contains no contradictions.It covers belief, law, morals, science, and guidance for all humanity.> “Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur’an, and indeed, We will be its guardian.”— Surah Al-Hijr (15:9)

    The Five Pillars of Islam:

    Islam is not only a belief but a way of life. Its foundation rests on five pillars, which every Muslim follows: Pillar Arabic Term Description

    1️⃣ Shahadah Declaration of faith: “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.”

    2️⃣ Salah Performing the five daily prayers at prescribed times.

    3️⃣ Zakah Giving charity (2.5% of savings) to purify wealth and help the poor.

    4️⃣ Sawm Fasting during the month of Ramadan to develop self-control and piety.

    5️⃣ Hajj Pilgrimage to Makkah once in a lifetime, if physically and financially able.These acts of worship strengthen a Muslim’s connection with Allah and purify the soul.

    The Six Articles of Faith:

    Every Muslim must believe in the six pillars of faith:

    1. Belief in Allah

    2. Belief in His Angels

    3. Belief in His Books

    4. Belief in His Messengers

    5. Belief in the Last Day

    6. Belief in Divine Decree (Qadar) — that all things happen by Allah’s knowledge and will.

    The Purpose of Life:

    According to Islam, the purpose of human life is simple and profound: “And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.”— Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:56)Worship in Islam is not limited to rituals — it includes every act done sincerely for Allah’s sake: working honestly, helping others, being truthful, and showing kindness.

    Islam and Peace:

    True Islam brings peace:Peace within oneself — through submission to Allah,Peace with others — through justice, mercy, and compassion,Peace in society — through moral and spiritual discipline.The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:> “The Muslim is the one from whose tongue and hand people are safe.”— Sahih al-Bukhari (10)

    Who Is a Muslim?

    Anyone who sincerely declares the testimony of faith becomes a Muslim:> “Ash-hadu an lā ilāha illā Allāh,wa ash-hadu anna Muḥammadan rasūlullāh.”(I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.)This simple statement marks the beginning of a new relationship with the Creator — one built on faith, forgiveness, and hope.

    Conclusion:

    Islam is the religion of all prophets, the message of submission to one God, and the path to inner peace and eternal salvation. It calls humanity to:Worship Allah alone, Follow His final messenger, Muhammad ﷺ, Live righteously, and Prepare for the Hereafter. “This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favor upon you and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.”— Surah Al-Ma’idah (5:3)

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