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Understanding Islam

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Understanding Islam
My reading choices – Saleh A. Alsulaiman
‫متارات من قراءاتي‬

Understanding Islam

Knowledge is Freedom - ‫العلم نور‬

My reading choices – Saleh A. Alsulaiman
‫متارات من قراءاتي‬

Islam is a world religion and the people who practice it are called Muslims. All Muslims share the same essential beliefs, values and God centered approach to the world. Islam is practiced by people from many different cultures. The Qur’an is the prime source of Muslims’ faith and practice, and the wording has not been changed from when it was originally transcribed fourteen centuries ago. The five pillars of Islam are the basis of a Muslim’s life. They are: • Belief that there is only one God and that Muhammad (pbuh*) is His Last Prophet and Messenger; • Prayers, which are, performed five times each day; • Fasting in the month of Ramadhan; • Charity in which a percentage of earnings is given to the poor; • Pilgrimage (Hajj) to the holy city of Mecca is required once in a lifetime if the means are available. Islamic dress may vary depending on a person’s country of birth or origin. However, it should be modest and dignified for both women and men and should not emphasize the body.
* ‘Peace be upon him’ is a sign of respect to the mention of Muhammad

Knowledge is Freedom - ‫العلم نور‬

My reading choices – Saleh A. Alsulaiman
‫متارات من قراءاتي‬

Myths about Islam
All Arabs are Muslims/All Muslims are Arabs. Muslims may come from any country in the world. An Arab person could identify with any faith or be an atheist. Women are oppressed in Islam. The Qur’an clearly defines the rights of women. Women re regarded as individuals in their own right. Neither men nor women are superior to each other. People who are of Middle Eastern appearance are Muslim. A Muslim person can be of any appearance because Muslims come from all parts of the world. Jihad means Holy War. Jihad has several meanings. Principally, it means striving to live one’s faith. It can also mean a

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