What is Islam

In Arabic the literal meaning of Islam is submission and obedience, technically the word demonstrates submission and obedience to the word of ‘Allah’ which Muslims need to express throughout their everyday life, beginning from the cradle to grave and from dusk till dawn. It is derived the root word of salaam, which means peace. Islam encourages Muslims to consciously hence loyally submit to the commands of Allah and the teachings of the holy prophet.

The Muslim population worldwide according to various sources (BBC) approximates to 1 billion devotees. In Britain, contrary to constant tabloid allusions the population exceeds just over 1.6 million approximately 2.5 percent of Britain’s population. Although the above figures are continuously increasing with reverts entering into the folds of Islam seeking to quench their thirst through spiritual, moral, ethical physical and religious fulfilment.

Islam is fundamentally an Ibrahimic religion which consolidates and completes the monotheistic teachings of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S). It strengthens the message and mission brought by all the prophets, in particular Moses and Jesus (May peace be upon them) signing as the final testament. Permitting some of that which was prohibited for them and prohibiting some of that which was permissible for them. Islam is simply not a religion to be paid mere lip service; rather it is an all-encompassing way of life that ought to be practised consistently for it to truly take a positive effect in ones life.

  • Prophethood was revealed unto the Prophet Muhammad 1400 years ago. This was the very beginning in the initiation of Islam.
  • Muslim is an active noun which expresses a person who has embraced Islam.
  • Jesus, Moses and Abraham are respected and highly revered prophets of God.
  • Muslims believe that the final Prophet was Muhammad (peace be upon him).
  • Allah is an Arabic term for god, which the Muslims use to refer to their God.
  • The Sunnah is the practical example of Prophet Muhammad.
  • Five fundamental Pillars form the basis of Islam.

These pillars are the declaration of faith, praying salah five times a day, giving 2.5 percent of their annual income charity, fasting during the month of Ramadhan and perform Hajj-once in a lifetime pilgrimage to Mecca.


The Bolton Council of Mosques (BCoM)