Islamic Beliefs
Understanding the core beliefs of Islam and how they relate to other faiths, based on the authentic teachings of the Salaf.
The Six Articles of Faith
The foundation of Islamic belief consists of six essential articles of faith. These are the core beliefs that every Muslim must accept and understand.
1. Belief in Allah (Tawhid)
Believing in Allah's oneness, His unique attributes, and that He alone is worthy of worship. This includes belief in His names and attributes as described in the Quran and authentic Hadith.
2. Belief in Angels
Believing in the existence of angels as created beings of light who carry out Allah's commands. They are neither male nor female and do not eat, drink, or sleep.
3. Belief in Divine Books
Believing in the books revealed by Allah to His messengers, including the Torah, Psalms, Gospel, and the Quran as the final and complete revelation.
4. Belief in Messengers
Believing in all the prophets and messengers sent by Allah, from Adam to Muhammad (ﷺ), who is the final messenger sent to all of humanity.
5. Belief in the Day of Judgment
Believing in the resurrection, the gathering of all people, the weighing of deeds, and the eternal life in Paradise or Hell based on one's faith and actions.
6. Belief in Divine Decree
Believing that everything that happens is by Allah's will and knowledge, while humans have free will and are accountable for their choices and actions.
The Islamic View of Jesus (Isa عليه السلام)
Islam holds Jesus (Isa عليه السلام) in the highest regard as one of the greatest prophets and messengers of Allah. However, there are important differences from other faiths.
What Islam Affirms About Jesus
- • He was a prophet and messenger of Allah
- • He was born miraculously to the Virgin Mary
- • He performed miracles by Allah's permission
- • He preached monotheism and submission to Allah
- • He will return before the Day of Judgment
What Islam Rejects About Jesus
- • That he is divine or the son of God
- • That he was crucified or died for sins
- • That he is part of a trinity
- • That he is equal to Allah
- • That he should be worshipped
Quran 3:59: "Indeed, the example of Jesus to Allah is like that of Adam. He created Him from dust; then He said to him, 'Be,' and he was."
Core Islamic Beliefs
Monotheism (Tawhid)
The fundamental belief that Allah is One, Unique, and has no partners, equals, or associates. He alone is worthy of worship, and all acts of worship must be directed to Him alone.
Finality of Prophethood
Muhammad (ﷺ) is the final prophet and messenger of Allah. No prophet will come after him, and his message is complete and perfect for all of humanity until the Day of Judgment.
Accountability and Free Will
Every person has free will and is accountable for their choices and actions. On the Day of Judgment, all people will be judged based on their faith and deeds.
The Quran as Divine Revelation
The Quran is the literal word of Allah, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) through the Angel Gabriel. It is preserved and unchanged, serving as the final and complete guidance for humanity.
Common Misconceptions
"Muslims worship Muhammad"
Fact: Muslims worship only Allah. Muhammad (ﷺ) is revered as the final prophet and messenger, but he is not worshipped. Muslims follow his teachings and example, but direct all worship to Allah alone.
"Islam is a new religion"
Fact: Islam is the same message preached by all prophets from Adam to Muhammad (ﷺ). It is the final and complete form of the monotheistic message that has always existed.
"Muslims don't believe in other prophets"
Fact: Muslims believe in all prophets and messengers sent by Allah, including Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and many others. They are all respected and honored in Islam.
"Islam promotes violence"
Fact: Islam promotes peace, justice, and mercy. The word "Islam" itself means "peace" and "submission to Allah." Violence is only permitted in self-defense or to stop oppression.
Further Study
Essential Topics to Study
- • Tauhid: Understanding Islamic monotheism
- • Aqeedah: Islamic creed and beliefs
- • Prophets: Stories and lessons from the prophets
- • Hereafter: Belief in the Day of Judgment
- • Quran: Understanding the divine revelation
Recommended Actions
- • Study authentic Islamic sources
- • Learn from qualified scholars
- • Read the Quran with translation
- • Study authentic Hadith collections
- • Ask questions and seek clarification
Remember: Islamic beliefs are based on clear evidence from the Quran and authentic Hadith. Always verify information from reliable sources and avoid following innovations or unauthentic practices. May Allah guide us to the correct understanding of our faith.