Epigraph:

We will show them Our Signs in the universe and also among their own selves, until it becomes manifest to them that the Quran is the truth. (Al Quran 41:53)

He is the Mighty, the Forgiving; Who created the seven heavens, one above the other. You will not see any flaw in what the Lord of Mercy creates. Look again! Can you see any flaw? Look again! And again! Your sight will turn back to you, weak and defeated. (Al Quran 67:2-4)

Written and collected by Zia H Shah MD, Chief Editor of the Muslim Times

Islam is the world’s second-largest religion, with approximately 2 billion followers, trailing Christianity’s 2.3 billion.

Muslims’ belief in Islam stems from a combination of theological convictions, spiritual experiences, cultural influences, and personal reflections. Key factors include:

1. Monotheistic Faith

At the heart of Islam is the belief in a singular, all-powerful God (Allah). This monotheistic principle, known as tawhid, emphasizes God’s uniqueness and sovereignty, forming the foundation of Islamic theology. Muslims affirm this through the shahada, the declaration that “There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the messenger of God.”

PBS

2. Prophetic Tradition

Muslims believe that God has communicated with humanity through a series of prophets, including Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and finally Muhammad. They view Muhammad as the last prophet, entrusted with delivering God’s final and complete guidance for humankind.

Encyclopaedia Britannica

3. The Qur’an

Considered the literal word of God, the Qur’an serves as the ultimate source of spiritual guidance and law for Muslims. Its teachings cover all aspects of life, providing a comprehensive framework for personal conduct and community relations.

Encyclopaedia Britannica

4. Sense of Purpose and Meaning

Islam offers a worldview where life is imbued with purpose and meaning, aligning with the divine will. This perspective fosters a sense of balance and mental well-being among adherents.

Islamicity

5. Community and Identity

Belonging to the global Muslim ummah (community) provides individuals with a strong sense of identity and solidarity. Shared rituals, values, and traditions reinforce communal bonds and offer a collective sense of belonging.

6. Rational Inquiry and Personal Conviction

Islam encourages the use of reason and reflection. Many Muslims find that the religion’s teachings resonate with their personal experiences and rational understanding of the world, leading to a deep, personal conviction in their faith.

A very small minority come to religion by asking the ultimate questions and study of nature, even though all agree that there are more than 750 verses in the Quran encouraging humanity to study nature and ask the ultimate questions.

Al-Islam

In summary, Muslims’ adherence to Islam is influenced by a combination of doctrinal beliefs, spiritual fulfillment, communal ties, and personal insights, all of which contribute to a profound and enduring commitment to their faith.

My hope and prayer is that in our century of informational explosion, there will be greater emphasis and universal participation in what is number six above, rational inquiry and study of nature.