Islam: An Introduction

Islam is an Arbaic word that means 'self-surrender.' It is related to the word Salam which means peace. Peace be upon you is a universal greeting that is used by Muslims (Ruthven 1). One of the names of Allah is "He is the Peace." (islam101.com) Islam is a way of life. One must submit to the One God, one must live with the Creator in Peace (islam101.com). They must live in peace with other people; one's self and the environment (islam101.com) A Muslim can be anyone who has obedience, allegiance, and loyalty to Allah.

Islam is not names after a person in the case if some other religions. Christianity was named after Jesus Christ, Buddhism was named after Gotama Buddha, Confucianism after Confucius and Marxism was named after Karl Marx. Islam was not names after a tribe either, such as Hinduism after Hindus and Judaism named after Judah. Those that submit and surrender to Allah are called "Muslims" (islam101.com)

Muslim is the term given to the followers of Islam. Muslims may be Africans, Americans, Arabs, Chinese, Europeans, Indians, Indonesians, Malaysians, Pakistanis, Persians, Turks or other nationalities.

In Islam there are six essential articles of faith followed by Muslims. Those beliefs concern Allah, Angels, Holy Books, Prophets, Predestination and the Day of Judgment.

Allah is an Arabic word for God or Supreme Being (McCloud, 193). "In the name of Allah, the merciful, the compassionate," is used in the beginning of each Sura in the Holy Quran except for the ninth Sura (Wilson, 21) Allah is known as "Ruler of the Universe" "Lord of the Worlds" and as the "Lord of the Day of Judgment." These phrases are found in the Quran and repeated during prayer. Allah has ninety-nine names. It has been noted that the Camel has so mush dignity because the camel knows the one hundredth name (Wilson, 22).