In the journey of faith, knowledge serves as a guiding light, illuminating the path of righteousness and deepening our connection with the Creator. For Muslims, understanding the core tenets of their religion is not merely an academic exercise but a fundamental aspect of a meaningful and conscious life. This comprehensive guide aims to explore the essential Facts Every Muslim Should Know, from the foundational beliefs to the historical milestones that have shaped the Ummah (community). Whether you are a new Muslim seeking guidance, a parent wondering how to teach kids about Islam, or a lifelong believer wishing to refresh your knowledge, this exploration into the basics of Islam is designed to be both informative and spiritually enriching. Embarking on this journey of knowledge is a blessed endeavor, and for every piece of understanding we gain, we should say, Alhamdulillah (Praise be to God).

What is Islam?

At its heart, the answer to “what is islam?” is beautifully simple yet profound. The word “Islam” is an Arabic term meaning “submission” or “surrender” to the will of the one and only God, Allah. It is a monotheistic faith that teaches that there is only one God, whose proper name is Allah, and that a life of peace and tranquility is achieved through conscious submission to His divine guidance. This submission is not a passive resignation but an active and willful act of worship, trust, and love. Islam is not just a religion but a complete way of life, providing a framework for morality, social justice, and personal conduct. It emphasizes a direct relationship with God, without the need for intermediaries. The core message of Islam has been consistent through all of God’s prophets, from Adam to Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and finally, Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon them all. These are some of the most fundamental things every muslim should know.

What do Muslims believe?

The belief system in Islam is encapsulated in the Six Articles of Faith, known as *Iman*. These articles form the bedrock of a Muslim’s worldview and are essential to understanding the Islamic faith. Anyone asking “what do I need to know about the muslim religion” should start here. These beliefs are:

• Belief in Allah:

This is the cornerstone of Islam—the belief in the absolute oneness of God (Tawhid). Muslims believe that Allah is the sole Creator, Sustainer, and Ruler of the universe. He is unique, incomparable, and has no partners, children, or parents. He is described by His beautiful names and attributes mentioned in the Qur’an, such as Ar-Rahman (The Most Merciful) and Al-Ghafur (The Forgiving).

•  Belief in His Angels (Mala’ikah):

Muslims believe in the existence of angels, spiritual beings created from light who are perfectly obedient to God. They carry out His commands, such as delivering revelations (like the Angel Jibril/Gabriel), recording human deeds, and guarding individuals.

• Belief in His Divine Books (Kutub):

  Muslims believe that Allah sent down sacred books to His messengers as guidance for humanity. These include the Scrolls of Abraham, the Torah of Moses, the Psalms of David, and the Gospel of Jesus. The Qur’an is the final and most complete of these revelations, sent to the Prophet Muhammad.

• Belief in His Messengers (Rusul):

  Muslims believe in all the prophets and messengers sent by God, starting with Adam and ending with Muhammad (peace be upon him). They were human beings chosen to deliver God’s message to their people. Believing in all of them without distinction is a requirement of faith.

• Belief in the Day of Judgment (Yawm al-Qiyamah):

Muslims believe in a final day when all of humanity will be resurrected and held accountable for their deeds. Every individual will be judged by Allah with perfect justice and mercy. This belief instills a sense of moral responsibility and purpose in a Muslim’s life.

• Belief in Divine Decree (Qadr):

This is the belief that everything that happens in the universe, both good and bad, is by the will and knowledge of Allah. It does not negate free will; rather, it acknowledges that humans have the choice to act, but the ultimate outcome is in God’s hands. This belief fosters trust in God’s plan and provides comfort during times of hardship.

Facts Every Muslim Should Know

Beyond the core articles of faith, there are numerous practical and theological Facts Every Muslim Should Know to live a life in accordance with Islamic principles. These concepts are integral to daily life and worship, forming the structure of a Muslim’s spiritual practice. Understanding these is key to knowing what every Muslim should know about their deen (religion).

Who is Allah?

Allah is the Arabic name for the one true God. He is the Creator and Sustainer of everything in existence. The most fundamental concept in Islam is *Tawhid*, the absolute oneness of Allah. The Qur’an repeatedly emphasizes that He is One, He has no partners, and nothing is comparable to Him. Chapter 112 of the Qur’an, Surah Al-Ikhlas, provides a concise and powerful definition: “Say, ‘He is Allah, the One. Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, Nor is there to Him any equivalent.'” Muslims believe He is All-Knowing, All-Powerful, and Ever-Present. Yet, He is also described as being closer to a person than their own jugular vein, emphasizing a personal and intimate relationship. He is the Most Merciful (Ar-Rahman), the Most Compassionate (Ar-Rahim), and the Most Forgiving (Al-Ghafur). When we sin, we turn to Him and say Astaghfirullah (I seek forgiveness from God), knowing His mercy encompasses all things.

What is the Qur’an?

The Qur’an is the sacred scripture of Islam. Muslims believe it to be the literal word of God, revealed to the final prophet, Muhammad, through the Angel Gabriel (Jibril) over a period of approximately 23 years. It is the ultimate source of guidance, law, and wisdom for Muslims. The Qur’an is unique in that it has been perfectly preserved in its original Arabic language for over 1400 years. It covers a vast range of topics, including theology, morality, law, history, and guidance for personal and community life. For Muslims, its verses are a source of comfort, healing, and inspiration. To truly grasp its profound meanings, many Muslims undertake an online arabic course, as the beauty and depth of the text are most apparent in its original form.

Who is Prophet Muhammad?

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the last and final messenger sent by God to humanity. Born in Mecca in the year 570 CE, he was known for his honesty and integrity even before his prophethood. At the age of 40, he received the first revelation of the Qur’an. His life, known as the *Seerah*, is the primary example for Muslims to follow in all aspects of life. He was not a divine being but a mortal man chosen by God to deliver His final message. His teachings and practices, known as the *Sunnah*, are the second source of Islamic law after the Qur’an. Studying his life is crucial for every Muslim, and an online seerah course can provide deep insights into his character, struggles, and leadership.

What are the five pillars of Islam?

The Five Pillars of Islam are the foundational acts of worship that are obligatory for all able-bodied Muslims. They provide the framework for a Muslim’s life, putting their beliefs into action. These pillars are among the most important basic things every muslim should know.

1. Shahada: The declaration of faith.
2. Salah: The five daily prayers.
3. Zakat: Obligatory charity.
4. Sawm: Fasting during the month of Ramadan.
5. Hajj: The pilgrimage to Mecca.

What is Salah in Islam?

Salah is the ritual prayer performed by Muslims five times a day. The answer to “What is Salah in Islam?” is that it is a direct line of communication with Allah. It involves a series of prescribed physical movements—standing, bowing, prostrating, and sitting—accompanied by recitation of verses from the Qur’an and supplications. The five prayer times are set from dawn to night (Fajr Prayer, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha) and serve as a constant reminder of God’s presence throughout the day. Salah is a spiritual pillar that cleanses the soul, brings peace to the heart, and strengthens one’s faith. It is a cornerstone of a Muslim’s daily routine and one of the most vital Facts Every Muslim Should Know.

What is the Islamic testimony of faith (shahada)?

The Shahada is the first pillar of Islam and the declaration that lies at the heart of the faith. It is the statement: *”Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Rasulu-Allah.”* This translates to: “I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.” Uttering this phrase with sincere conviction is the entry point into Islam. It encapsulates the entire creed, affirming both the oneness of God (Tawhid) and the prophethood of Muhammad. This simple yet profound statement is a constant affirmation of a Muslim’s identity and belief.

Why do Muslims pray daily?

Muslims pray five times a day as an act of obedience to God’s command in the Qur’an. Daily prayer serves multiple purposes. It is a form of gratitude for God’s blessings, a means of seeking His forgiveness and guidance, and a way to maintain a constant connection with the Creator. The structure of the day around prayer helps to instill discipline and mindfulness. It provides regular pauses from worldly affairs to refocus on one’s spiritual purpose. Prayer acts as a shield against wrongdoing and a source of inner peace and tranquility. It is a spiritual nourishment that the soul needs, just as the body needs food and water. This is one of the key Facts Every Muslim Should Know about their daily obligations.

What is zakat?

Zakat is the third pillar of Islam and a mandatory form of charity. It is a specified percentage (2.5%) of a Muslim’s surplus wealth that must be given annually to the poor and needy. The term *zakat* means “to purify,” and giving it is believed to purify one’s remaining wealth and soul from greed and miserliness. Zakat is a fundamental right of the poor over the wealth of the rich. It functions as a social security system, ensuring that the basic needs of the most vulnerable members of society are met. It fosters compassion, reduces economic inequality, and promotes social solidarity within the Muslim community.

What is sadaqa?

While Zakat is an obligatory charity, *Sadaqa* is a voluntary act of giving. It can be any form of charity given out of compassion and generosity, with the intention of pleasing God. Sadaqa is not limited to financial aid; it can be a kind word, a smile, helping someone in need, or even removing a harmful object from a path. The scope of Sadaqa is vast, and its rewards are immense. Unlike Zakat, there is no minimum amount or specific time for giving Sadaqa. It is a beautiful expression of faith and an opportunity to earn blessings at any time. This distinction is one of the important Facts Every Muslim Should Know.

What holidays do Muslims celebrate?

The main Festivals in Islam are the two Eids. These are joyous occasions for celebration, prayer, and community gathering.

Eid al-Fitr:

The “Festival of Breaking the Fast,” it marks the end of Ramadan. It is a three-day celebration that begins with a special congregational prayer in the morning. Muslims dress in their best clothes, visit family and friends, exchange gifts, and give charity to the poor so they too can celebrate.

Eid al-Adha:

The “Festival of the Sacrifice,” it commemorates Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to God. It takes place during the Hajj pilgrimage. Those not on Hajj also celebrate by sacrificing an animal (like a sheep, goat, or cow) and distributing the meat among family, friends, and the poor. This festival lasts for four days.

 Ramadan

Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and is observed by Muslims worldwide as a month of fasting, prayer, reflection, and community. It is considered the holiest month in Islam because it was during Ramadan that the first verses of the Qur’an were revealed to Prophet Muhammad. It is a time for increased spiritual devotion, self-discipline, and empathy for the less fortunate. Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. The month is a spiritual bootcamp designed to purify the soul and bring one closer to God.

Why do Muslims have to fast for a full month?

Fasting during Ramadan (*Sawm*) is the fourth pillar of Islam and an act of worship commanded by Allah in the Qur’an. The month-long duration serves several profound purposes. Spiritually, it cultivates *taqwa* (God-consciousness) and self-restraint. By abstaining from permissible things like food and water, a person learns to control their desires and stay away from the impermissible. Socially, it fosters empathy for those who experience hunger daily, encouraging charity and compassion. Physically, it can have health benefits by detoxifying the body. The sustained period of 29 or 30 days is designed to instill lasting habits of discipline and devotion that a Muslim can carry throughout the year. This is a crucial part of what every Muslim should know about this pillar.

What is the significance of the Hajj pilgrimage?

Hajj, the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia, is the fifth pillar of Islam. It is a religious duty that must be performed at least once in a lifetime by every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able to do so. The Hajj involves a series of complex rituals performed over several days, including circling the Kaaba (Tawaf) and standing on the plains of Arafat. Its significance is immense. It is a powerful symbol of unity, as millions of Muslims from all corners of the globe, regardless of race, nationality, or social status, come together dressed in simple white garments, standing equal before God. It is a spiritual journey that cleanses a person of their sins and represents a rebirth of faith.

When was the Islamic calendar introduced?

The Islamic calendar, also known as the Hijri calendar, was introduced during the time of the second Caliph, Umar ibn al-Khattab, around 638 CE. The Muslim community needed a standardized way to date events and correspondence. After consultation with other senior companions of the Prophet, it was decided that the most pivotal event in Islamic history—the *Hijra* (migration) of Prophet Muhammad from Mecca to Medina in 622 CE—would mark the beginning of the calendar. This event was chosen because it represented the establishment of the first Islamic state and a new era for the Muslim community. The calendar is lunar-based, with each month beginning at the sighting of the new moon, making its years about 11 days shorter than the solar Gregorian calendar.

Who accepted Islam first?

The first person to accept Islam was Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, the beloved wife of Prophet Muhammad. When he returned home, shaken and terrified after receiving the first revelation in the Cave of Hira, she comforted him, believed in his message without hesitation, and became his strongest supporter. Following her, the first to embrace Islam from different demographics were:

• Ali ibn Abi Talib: The Prophet’s young cousin, who was living with him at the time. He was the first child to accept Islam.
• Zayd ibn Harithah: A freed slave and the adopted son of the Prophet. He was the first freed slave to become a Muslim.
• Abu Bakr As-Siddiq: The Prophet’s closest friend and a respected leader in Mecca. He was the first free adult man to accept Islam and was instrumental in bringing many other prominent Meccans to the faith.

This is one of the historical Facts Every Muslim Should Know.

When was the Quran first revealed?

The first revelation of the Qur’an occurred in the year 610 CE. Prophet Muhammad, then 40 years old, was in the habit of retreating to the Cave of Hira on a mountain near Mecca for solitude and reflection. It was during one of these retreats, in the last ten nights of the month of Ramadan, that the Angel Gabriel (Jibril) appeared to him. The angel commanded him, “Iqra!” which means “Read!” or “Recite!”. The Prophet, being unlettered, replied that he could not read. The angel repeated the command twice more before revealing the first five verses of Surah Al-Alaq (Chapter 96): “Recite in the name of your Lord who created – Created man from a clinging substance. Recite, and your Lord is the most Generous – Who taught by the pen – Taught man that which he knew not.” This marked the beginning of his prophethood and the 23-year period of Quranic revelation.

How was the Quran revealed and compiled?

The Qur’an was revealed to Prophet Muhammad gradually over a period of approximately 23 years, from 610 CE until his death in 632 CE. The revelations came in response to specific events, questions, or needs of the nascent Muslim community. The Prophet would memorize the verses and then dictate them to his companions, who served as scribes. Many companions also memorized the entire Qur’an.

During the Prophet’s lifetime, the Qur’an existed in memorized form and on various written materials like parchment, palm leaves, and stones, but not as a single bound book. After the Prophet’s death, during the caliphate of Abu Bakr, many of the companions who had memorized the Qur’an were martyred in the Battle of Yamama. Fearing that parts of the Qur’an might be lost, Umar ibn al-Khattab urged Abu Bakr to compile it into a single volume. Zayd ibn Thabit, a chief scribe of the Prophet, was tasked with this monumental project. He painstakingly gathered the written fragments and cross-referenced them with the memorized versions from the companions.

Later, during the caliphate of Uthman ibn Affan, as Islam spread to non-Arab lands, variations in pronunciation began to appear. To preserve the Qur’an’s integrity, Uthman ordered the creation of a standardized master copy based on the dialect of the Quraysh tribe (the Prophet’s tribe). This version, known as the *Mushaf Uthmani*, was then copied and sent to the major centers of the Islamic empire, and all other versions were destroyed to prevent divergence. This meticulous process ensures that the Qur’an read by Muslims today is the same as that which was revealed to the Prophet. This history is a fascinating subject, often covered in an **online Islamic History Course**.

Women in the Quran

The Qur’an brought about a revolutionary change in the status of women, granting them rights and dignity they did not have in pre-Islamic Arabia. It addresses women directly and holds them spiritually equal to men. The Qur’an states that both men and women were created from a single soul and that both are equally accountable to God. It granted women the right to own property, inherit, choose their own spouse, and seek divorce. It condemned the pre-Islamic practice of female infanticide and established women as individuals with their own legal identity. The Qur’an mentions several exemplary women, most notably Maryam (Mary), the mother of Jesus, who is the only woman mentioned by name and has an entire chapter named after her. Other significant women include the wives of the Prophet, the Queen of Sheba, and the mother of Moses, all portrayed as figures of faith, intelligence, and strength. Understanding this context is vital when considering how to teach kids about Islam and its principles of justice and equality.

When was the Qibla changed?

The *Qibla* is the direction that Muslims face during their daily prayers (Salah). Initially, for about 13 years in Mecca and for the first 16-17 months after the migration to Medina, Muslims faced Jerusalem. This was a command from Allah and aligned them with the direction of prayer of previous prophets. However, Prophet Muhammad had a deep desire to face the Kaaba in Mecca, the house of worship built by Abraham and his son Ishmael.

Approximately 16 months after the Hijra, while the Prophet was leading the Dhuhr (midday) prayer in Medina, a revelation came from Allah (Qur’an 2:144) commanding him to turn towards the Kaaba. The Prophet immediately turned during the prayer, and the congregation behind him followed suit. This event, which took place in a mosque now known as Masjid al-Qiblatayn (The Mosque of the Two Qiblas), was a pivotal moment. It established a distinct identity for the Muslim community and oriented them towards the ancient center of monotheism established by their patriarch, Abraham. This is one of the key historical Facts Every Muslim Should Know.

When did the Azan start?

The *Azan*, or the call to prayer, was instituted in the first year after the migration to Medina. As the Muslim community grew, there was a need for a way to notify people of the prayer times and call them to the mosque. The companions discussed various options, such as using a bell like the Christians or a horn like the Jews, but none felt right.

The solution came through a dream. A companion named Abdullah ibn Zayd saw a dream in which a man taught him the specific words of the Azan. He rushed to the Prophet to tell him, and the Prophet recognized it as a true vision from God. He instructed Abdullah to teach the words to Bilal ibn Rabah, a former Abyssinian slave known for his beautiful and powerful voice. Bilal ascended a high place and made the first-ever call to prayer. His voice became the symbol of the Azan, and he was honored as the first *Muezzin* (caller to prayer) in Islam. The Azan remains a powerful and unifying symbol in the Muslim world today.

How to learn Islam step by step?

Learning Islam is a gradual process. A good way to how to learn Islam step by step is to follow a structured approach:

• Start with the Foundation: Begin by thoroughly understanding the Five Pillars and the Six Articles of Faith. These are the non-negotiable fundamentals.
• Learn to Pray: Focus on learning the method and meaning of Salah, as it is the most frequent act of worship.
• Read the Qur’an: Start reading the Qur’an with a reliable translation in your language to understand its core message. An online arabic course can later help you connect with the original text.
• Study the Prophet’s Life (Seerah): The life of Prophet Muhammad is the practical application of Islam. An online seerah course is an excellent way to learn about his character and teachings.
• Explore Hadith: Begin with a simple collection of authentic Hadith (sayings of the Prophet), like Imam Nawawi’s Forty Hadith, to understand his wisdom. A guided hadith online course can provide context.
• Seek Knowledge from Scholars: Listen to lectures from reliable scholars and consider enrolling in courses, such as an online Islamic History Course, to broaden your understanding.
• Practice and Reflect: The most important step is to apply what you learn in your daily life and constantly reflect on your relationship with Allah. Always ask for His guidance, for He is the best of teachers.

In Conclusion

The journey of seeking knowledge in Islam is a lifelong pursuit, a path that brings one closer to Allah with every step. From understanding the profound simplicity of “La ilaha illa Allah” to appreciating the intricate history of the Qur’an’s compilation, these are more than just facts; they are the pillars that support a conscious and fulfilling faith. The Facts Every Muslim Should Know are not meant to be a finite list but a starting point for a deeper exploration of the vast ocean of Islamic knowledge. By internalizing these basics, a Muslim can build a strong foundation for their faith, navigate the complexities of life with divine guidance, and find peace in submission to the Creator. May Allah increase us all in beneficial knowledge. This is the ultimate goal for anyone seeking to learn what every Muslim should know.

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