The Unity of God

Question

The concept of unity of God in the Qur’an is very clear, but do we have any evidence from other religious scriptures pointing in the same direction? And if so, what then seems to be the difference, if indeed any, between Islam and all these other religions?

Answer

There are many reasons to believe that many of the other religious scriptures (other than the Qur’an) do contain within their pages truths originating from the one and only true God. To a Muslim, the great prophets (like Abraham, Moses, and Jesus) in Christianity and Judaism, are of course true prophets of Allah mentioned in the Qur’an. In Islam, these religions too are sometimes respectfully referred to as “religions from the sky”. Further to the 25 God’s Messengers (Rasul) mentioned by name, the Qur’an also made reference to the fact that there had been great many prophets (Nabi) whose names are not mentioned. So, Muslim scholars are always open to the possibility that God’s truths could well have found their way into numerous scriptures of religions other than Islam, Christianity and Judaism.

Such being the case, it should not be at all surprising to a Muslim that the idea of Unity of God might well be found in many religious scriptures of the world. But is that really the case? Well, let us examine scriptures of some of the world’s major (other than Islam) religions :

Judaism

As exclaimed by Moses (pbuh): “Hear, O Israel: The Lord our God, the Lord is one.” Deuteronomy 6:4.

“I am the Lord, and there is no other; apart from Me there is no God.”

Isaiah 45:5.

“You shall have no other gods before me. You shall not make for yourself an idol in the form of anything in heaven above or on the earth beneath or in the waters below. You shall not bow down to them or worship them; for I, the Lord your God, am a jealous God.”

Exodus 20:3-5

Christianity

Jesus Christ (pbuh) said the following in the Bible:

“This is eternal life, that they may know You, the only true God, and Jesus Christ whom You have sent.”

John 17:3

“How can you believe, when you receive glory from one another and you do not seek the glory that is from the one and only God?”

John 5:44

“The most important commandments,” answered Jesus, “is this: ‘Hear, O Israel, the Lord our God, is one Lord’”

Mark 12:29

As described by Paul in his Letter to Timothy:

“Now to the King eternal, immortal, invisible, the only God, be honor and glory forever and ever. Amen.”

1 Timothy 1:17

Hinduism

“Ekam evadvitiyam“

(He (God) is One only without a second.)

Chandogya Upanishad 6:2:1

Meaning in English: “Sages (learned Priests) call one God by many names.“

Rigveda 1:164:46

“Ma cid anyad vi sansata sakhayo ma rishanyata“

(O friends, do not worship anybody but Him, the Divine One. Praise Him alone.)

Rigveda 8:1:1

“Ekam Brahm, dvitiya naste neh na naste kinchan“

(There is only one God, not the second; not at all, not at all, not in the least bit.)

Brahma Sutra of Hinduism

Sikhism

“Ek Onkar, Sat Naam, Karta Purakh, Nirbhau Nirvair, Akal Murat, Ajuni, Saibham, Gurprasad”

(There exists but one God, who is called The True, The Creator, Free from fear and hate, Immortal, Not begotten, Self-Existent, Great and Compassionate.)

Granth Sahib, Mulmantra Pg.1

Meaning in English: “There is only the One Supreme Lord God; there is no other at all.”

Granth Sahib, Pg. 45

Meaning in English: “God is merciful and infinite. The One and Only is all-pervading.”

Granth Sahib, Pg. 710

Clearly, the above verses from religious scriptures of Judaism, Christianity, Hinduism and Sikhism, without a doubt, affirmed the truth of the unity of God in the strongest of terms. It is very important to also note that, like the relevant verses of the Qur’an, many of the above verses are in the form of a statement that a father would use to remind his child not to fall for something dangerous, knowing fully well the child might just still fall for it! The child for example, might later fall for drugs taking, assuring his father: don’t worry dad, I only take it because it helps me, trust me!

So, with such amazing similarity on the concept of ‘Unity of God’ between all the above mentioned major world’s religions, what then seems to be the difference between them? From a Muslim’s point of view, the difference is in the ‘implementation’ of the concept in one’s daily ‘religious life’ and in fact also ‘normal life’. It could be that a certain scripture may state a certain principle ‘from the sky’, but then falls short in defining the daily life (including religious life) consequents of such principle. Worse still, things become ‘neutralised’ when other parts of the same scripture state principles in direct contradiction to the one ‘from the sky’.

Muslims also believe the Qur’an to be the only surviving verbatim (word for word) Word of God, no more no less words. As such, there is no vagueness or contradiction in it, especially with regard to important matters of basic belief in God. In Islam, the concept of ‘Unity of God’ is very basic and central to the belief in God, to the point, getting it even ‘very slightly wrong’ would render one’s ‘belief’ or ‘faith’ in God and religion, impotent, and in fact almost completely meaningless. Understandably so, for what use is submission and worship when it is directed to the wrong god? The great importance of the doctrine of the Unity of God in Islam is well reflected in the fact that in addition to being a constant reminder throughout the Qur’an, a whole chapter of the Qur’an is dedicated to it – an extremely brief (mere four short verses!) surah (chapter) number 112, also known as Al-Ikhlas, meaning ‘Sincerity or Purity’:

Say: He is Allah, the One and only. Allah, the Eternal, Absolute. He begets not, nor is He begotten. And there is none like unto Him.

To summarise, in Islam, any and all worships must be directed to Allah alone, without any ‘intercessor’ or ‘partner’ alongside Him. As is well known, Muslims love and revere the last and final Prophet Muhammad (s.a.w), but by his own teaching, would never ‘worship’ him as god. Doing so would amount to shirk (assigning partner to Allah) which is the biggest sin against God. Nothing and no one in the whole universe can benefit, aid or protect us without Allah’s will. The message to always remember is: “Worship only the Creator, not His creations.”

Question:

What is the concept of God in Islam? From the viewpoint of adherents of other religions such as Christianity and Hinduism, God in Islam (Allah) seems a very ‘distant’ and ‘impersonal’ God, since no representation of Him is allowed in whatsoever manner or form. Is it not so?

Answer:

Islam is a God centered religion. In anything that a Muslim does, God always comes first and everything else is ‘adjusted’ accordingly. That being the case, it is very important to a Muslim that the one true God be clearly distinguished from false deities.

The holy Qur’an offers the most concise definition of God in four-versed Chapter 112, named Al-Ikhlas, meaning ‘purity’;

“Say: He is Allah, The One and only. Allah, the Eternal, Absolute (Assamad). He begets not, nor is He begotten. And there is none like unto Him” (Qur’an: 112:1-4)

It is absolutely essential that Allah is One-and-Only. There cannot be more than one God co-existing at the same time, else there will be chaos as the ‘overlapping Gods’ would fight one another to absolute destruction. Imagine a car driven by two different drivers. Now imagine what would happen if the universe which is far more complex than a car is administered by more than one God!

Allah is also eternal and absolute. There is no beginning or ending for God. God is also free from any needs. God does not require sustenance from his creation. To the contrary, it is He who provides sustenance for all.

God does not give birth. If God were to ‘give birth’, then His ‘children’ too would be Gods, which would mean there would be more than one God. God’s children would give birth to more Gods! Then we would end up with overlapping Gods leading to total destruction as mentioned earlier.

God Himself must be unborn. The moment we say God is born we are instantly faced with two main problems. First, it would mean God has at least a ‘Parent’ which implies the Parent must be greater than God. Is it possible for someone else to be greater than God? Secondly, it would mean God did not exist at one point in time and only later came into existence. Who then created and managed the universe in His absence?

God is the Creator while the entire universe is His creation. Could the Creator and the creation be the same? Could the character of the Creator and His creation be the same? The creation is subject to time and space whilst the Creator is not limited in time and space. Therefore, NOTHING in our physical universe could resemble God.

The above four verses of the Qur’an also serve as the “touchstone” of theology in Islam. Supposed if you wanted to sell gold to a goldsmith, the goldsmith will first use a touchstone to verify the gold whether it is 24 karat, 18 karat or maybe imitation gold. Not everything that glitters is gold! Similarly if there is any ‘candidate’ claiming divinity, we would put the candidate through the above “acid tests”. If he/she/it could pass the tests, then Muslims should/would not have any problem worshipping him/her/it as God. But the tests are so stringent that only the one true Almighty God could pass. Any false deity would fail miserably.

Yes, I have indeed been asked how Muslims could worship such a ‘distant’ and ‘impersonal’ God (as opposed to ‘personal Gods’ represented by idols, etc) as Allah. On this matter, the holy Qur’an explains:

“When My servants ask you concerning Me, I am indeed close (to them): I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calleth on Me: Let them also, with a will, listen to My call, and believe in Me: that they may walk in the right way” (Qur’an 2:186)

“It was We who created man, and We know what dark suggestions his soul makes to him: for We are nearer to him than (his) jugular veins.” (Qur’an 50:16).

As can be readily understood from the above two verses (there are numerous other verses too describing how ‘personal’ God can be), Allah is not at all ‘impersonal’, ‘distant’ or ‘unapproachable’.

]]> http://www.shahkirit.com/2008/05/27/what-is-the-concept-of-god-in-islam/feed/ http://www.shahkirit.com/2008/04/25/shah-kirit-video-lecture-on-youtube-follow-up-on-explanation/ http://www.shahkirit.com/2008/04/25/shah-kirit-video-lecture-on-youtube-follow-up-on-explanation/#comments Fri, 25 Apr 2008 07:00:33 +0000 Shah http://www.shahkirit.com/?p=17 It has been 3 weeks since the release/posting of my explanation/apology note (dated 4th April) on the subject of my lecture posted on YouTube. Following that, the secretary general of the Islamic Information & Services (IIS) has also released a press statement (dated 10th April) on the same subject, giving a much wider background to it, including description of IIS (the organization which I am proud to be part of) and its activities.

Subsequent to the above releases, I am happy to report the following healthy developments:

• The video posting, traced back to some Malaysian students in Cairo, was taken off the YouTube by the students themselves, after considering IIS’s explanation and request;
• I have personally received telephone calls from open minded Hindus, acknowledging the facts contained in the above explanation note and press release, concurring with us that there had been no misrepresentation of any Hindu scripture and no intent to insult;
• Many callers also expressed appreciation of our effort to settle the matter by promptly issuing an explanation/apology, while at the same time ensuring the video was immediately taken off the YouTube.

However, as always, there are those who want to exploit the matter for their own ‘political’ end, needing controversies to stay relevant and continue to be seen as a ‘champion of the people’. The level of desperation can be gauged by the fact that some of them saw it ‘profitable’ to actually re-load the video (on their website/blog) that we had removed from YouTube only days before.

Unfortunately, to this day, I still receive some of the most shockingly uncivilized and ‘unholy’ remarks from Hindus who are supposedly acting in defense of the holiness of Hinduism. Examples of these filths can also be found as opinions/comments posted on some Hindu websites which had earlier publicised my telephone number and address, to initiate personal harassments and attacks on me and my family members. Sure enough, it had caused me and my family a lot of hardship as abuses and even threats of physical harm started pouring in. This, plus the fact that certain Hindu organizations had seen it fit to make a police report on me, had forced me to also make a police report on all the abuses and especially the threats. Fortunately, being a Hindu myself once, I know better than to judge Hindus by these people. No, they do not represent the Hindu majority, nor reflect the peaceful and tolerant nature of Hinduism.

I realize by now that some people are just not capable of being objective and nothing much can be done about that. For the rest however, we would again extend our humble invitation to assess the matter objectively and sincerely. I take it that most have already done so, since no Hindu organization has so far responded to our previous invitation for any further clarification or dialogue, if deemed necessary. Lastly, I would urge knowledgeable Hindus (especially those in high positions) to make their views heard in order to rescue the image of Hindus and Hinduism in this country, and not leave it in the hands of those who are destroying it, perhaps unknowingly.

Thank you.
Shah Kirit Kakulal Govindji

IIS (Islamic Information & Services Foundation)

on the

Unauthorized posting on ‘YouTube’

of Shah Kirit’s video lecture on Hinduism

This press statement comes out of necessity, due to continuous and deliberate escalation and exploitation of the above stated incident by certain quarters. It is an effort to further clarify the matter, in addition and subsequent to the speaker’s own written explanation which has been posted on www.shahkirit.com and www.iis.org.my , and also officially communicated (dated 8^thApril’08) to President of Hindu Sangam, Malaysia. A copy is also attached to this statement, for easy reference.

IIS is happy to report that the speaker’s compact yet sincere and truthful explanation has found deep appreciation and acceptance by many, including educated and broad minded Hindus who are keen to put the matter to rest. Unfortunately and as expected, there are those who are in a state of ‘high emotion’ who are either unable or unwilling to see the facts as they are. From the numerous loose and not to mention highly inflammatory remarks (mostly on the internet) of the most dangerous kind, some almost seem to ‘enjoy’ themselves – reflecting a worrying attitude of total disregard for peace and harmony in a multiracial country. If there had been a case of “insulting religion”, it certainly could not be found on Shah Kirit’s video, but rather on these irresponsible remarks.

From some of the remarks made, it is obvious the true nature of the lecture and hence the full meanings of the speaker’s own explanatory note and apology were not fully comprehended. It is not our intention here to repeat what has been declared and clarified in the note, but for the sake of those who genuinely care to know and take an objective view of the entire scenario, we append below the necessary facts around the incident:

• First and foremost, it was neither the speaker nor IIS who posted the lecture video on the YouTube, and IIS has since traced it to an overseas source, and demanded it be removed
• The lecture is not a “recent close-door ceramah” as reported to some newspapers; it is 5 years old - during the ‘learning curve’ period of the speaker’s career in comparative religion
• The lecture was on the subject of basic belief in Hinduism, specific for the purpose of missionary work training, limited to the group in attendance, and not for public viewing
• The basic content of the lecture is derived entirely and faithfully from authentic Hindu scriptures without any deliberate exaggeration or dishonest interpretation, although attempts to make the lecture simple and ‘light’ (to suit the audience) could be misunderstood by some people as ‘mocking’
• For the record, it is IIS’s policy and guiding principle to adhere to the well known teaching of Islam NOT to mock or ridicule any religion; and any objective and discerning viewer of the video will observe such was the manner by which the speaker approached the subject but without straying from what is written in the relevant scriptures
• In spite of all the above conditions, the speaker has been gallant enough to express regret and offer public apology to all concerned, and further, he has also offered follow up eye-to-eye clarifications if deemed appropriate by any and all of the established Hindu organizations in the country, including Hindu Sangam and Hindraf.

Lastly, in case it is not well known to some quarters, IIS has an excellent record for proactively and continuously seeking and maintaining good inter-faith relation with many organizations in the country, including Hindu Sangam (an umbrella organization for more than 200 Hindu organizations), Pure Life Society (headed by the honorable Datin Paduka Mother Mangalam), and various Buddhist and Christian organizations in the country. Our inter-faith activity aims at promoting true understanding between various faiths and cultures based on knowledge rather than conjecture, and actual contact rather than diplomacy via remote.

In this big effort of IIS, Br. Shah Kirit plays a major role, and has personally undertaken numerous lectures, explaining Islam, in venues all over Malaysia, including government departments, private corporations, universities, temples and churches. IIS also offers programs for Muslims and new ‘reverts’ to Islam, including our enormously popular weekly Friendly Comparative Religion course – always stressing the importance of maintaining good inter-human and inter-faith relation and interfaith sensitivity through basic knowledge in the belief systems of other religions.

As always, IIS will be more than happy and ready to receive delegations from any religious organizations, pertaining to this specific issue, or any other related issues, at our headquarters in Taman Setiawangsa, Kuala Lumpur.

Sabariah Abdullah

Secretary General

Islamic Information & Services Foundation, IIS

It has come to my attention that the video of a talk on ‘Hinduism’ which I gave almost five (5) years ago in Kedah, in response to a request for a simple lay-man’s explanation on the basic belief in Hinduism (for purpose of Islamic missionary work training) has been posted on YouTube by an unknown and unauthorized person overseas. We are currently investigating his/her identity and possible motive.

I would like to reiterate here that the talk is old and was for the specific purpose of missionary work training only, limited to the group in attendance, and definitely NOT for public viewing. This is very evident from the talk itself, especially towards the end when the speaker stressed again and again the point of being discrete about the material. Further, it is very much against the teachings of Islam to mock or ridicule any religion, and I assure you that was never the speaker’s intention.

However, since the material is now in the public domain, I would request that all those whom I have unintentionally offended, to please review the whole thing with the above explanation in mind. Perhaps, you would then perceive it in a different light. Please note also that in addition to material that Hindus may find ‘negative’ to the Hindu cause, there is also material which is positive, such as when the speaker strived to dispel negative misconceptions regarding Hindus’ intent in Malaysia. Of course, looking back, I would never have approached the subject in such ‘frank & candid’ manner had I known it would one day find its way into the public domain. It has been a valuable personal lesson for me.

To all that this particular lecture has caused antagonism and grief, I’m extending my sincere regret and apology, and I promise to do everything in my power to get the video removed from YouTube. I am also willing to meet up with any of the official Hindu organizations (such as Hindu Sanggam), if necessary, for a more detailed discussion/clarification relating to the video.

Thank you.

Yours sincerely,

Shah Kirit Kakulal Govindji
4′th April 2008

Spiritual rights
The Qur’an says in 4:124 “If any do deeds of righteousness – be they male or female – and have faith, they will enter heaven and not the least injustice will be done to them”. In 49:13 “Verily the most honored in the sight of Allah is the Most righteous of you” - regardless whether you are male or female. In 33:35 “For believing man and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant, for men and women who humble themselves, for man and women who give in charity, for man and women who fast, for men and women who guard their chastity, for men and women who engage much in God’s praise – for them God has prepared forgiveness and great rewards”. This verse clearly specifies that both men and women have equal spiritual responsibilities.

Economical rights
Islam gave the economical rights to women 1300 years before the West. It was only in 1870 in England that West recognized the rights of married women to own or dispose any of her property without consultation. In Islam, an adult Muslim woman can own or dispose any of her property without consultation.

A Muslim woman is allowed to work if she wishes to work. There is not a single verse from the Qur’an or authentic Hadith that prevents or prohibits a woman to do any work that is lawful and within the preview of Islamic law. A true Muslim society requires women to take up profession such as doctors. We do need female gynecologist, female nurses, female teachers etc. Women are also allowed to do business and the best example I can give is Khadijah the wife of Prophet Muhammad. She was one of the most successful businessperson of her time.

In Islam a woman has no financial obligations! All financial obligations are laid on the shoulders of men in the family. Before the woman is married, it is the duty of the father and the brothers to look after her needs such as food, shelter, clothing etc. and once she is married it becomes the duty of the husband and her sons. In genuine cases where two ends do not meet and there is financial crisis, the woman has the option to work but absolutely on her own free will. I use to say to my wife; ‘my money is your money and your money is only your money’.

When a woman gets married, she is also on the receiving end. For a marriage to solemnize in Islam, ‘Maher’ or dowry is compulsory to be given to the woman. It is mentioned in Qur’an 4:4 “Give the woman in dowry, a marital gift”. There is no upper or lower limit for dowry.

Social rights
Firstly let us look at the rights of the daughters. Islam prohibits infanticide, the killing of female children. It was a common practice in pre-Islamic Arabia for female children to be buried alive. It is mentioned in 81: 8-9 “When the female child is buried alive and when she questions you for what crime was she killed”.

Islam also prohibits for rejoicing at the birth of a male child and being saddened at the birth of a female child. In 16:58-59 “When news is brought to one of them on the birth of a female child, his face darkens and is filled with inward grief! He hides in shame from his people for the news he has received”.

In the Hadith of Ahmad, the prophet has said that “Anyone who brings up two daughters properly, on the Day of Judgment they will be like this to me” indicating they will be very close to the prophet.

Let’s look into the rights of a wife in Islam. All previous civilizations considered women to be the instrument of devil but the Qur’an refers to woman as ‘Mohsana’, which means fortress against devil. When a good woman marries a man, she prevents the husband from going to the wrong path and keeps him on the straight path - ‘Siratul Mustaqeem’.

Islam forbids monasticism and it is mentioned in S.B. 7:3:4 “Those who has the means to marry, they should marry – for it will help them to lower their gaze and guard their modesty”.

The Qur’an says in 4:19 “You are forbidden to inherit woman against their will”. Therefore the permission of both the male and female are required in a marriage. A father cannot force his daughter to marry against her wishes.

In S.B. 7:43:69 “A lady was forced by her father to marry against her will – and she went to see the prophet (pbuh) and the prophet invalidated the marriage”.

Another Hadith in Ibn Hanbal Hadith # 2469 “A daughter was forced by her father to get married – and when the daughter approached the prophet (pbuh), he said she can either continue or invalidate the marriage”.

The Qur’an says in 2:187 “Your wives are your garments and you are their garments”. Garments are used to conceal and beautify. Similarly husbands and wives should conceal one another’s mistakes and beautify each other.

4:19 “Treat your wife on a footing of equity and kindness even if you dislike her, for you may be disliking a thing which Allah has made good for you.

The rights of a mother
The Qur’an says in 4:1 “Respect the womb that bore you”. It further says in 46:15, 6:151 and 31:14 “You have to be kind to your parents”.

Educational rights
The first verse that was revealed to Prophet Muhammad was “Read, proclaim or recite in the name of thy Lord” (Qur’an 96:1). The first guidance that was ordained by Almighty God to mankind, both male and female was not to pray, fast or give in charity but it was to read! Islam pays the utmost importance to education.

It is reported in S.B. “The women once approached Prophet Muhammad and said; ‘you are usually surrounded by men, why don’t you give us one particular day so we too can ask you questions’ – and the prophet agreed”.

Aishah the wife of the prophet has herself narrated no less than 2210 hadiths. She has also guided all the four Righteous Caliphs. She has taught no less than 88 scholars. In present day example, she was not only a professor but she was the professor of the professors! She was also an expert in the field of medicine and mathematics.

There are several other examples in Islam where women held high positions in society as far as knowledge was concern. Safiya was an expert in the field of fiqh i.e. Islamic Jurisprudence. Umm Salma has taught no less than 32 scholars. Saeeda Nafisa the grand daughter of Hassan was also been said to have taught Imam Shafie.

Legal rights
Islamic law protects the life and property of both male and female. The Qur’an says in 5:30 “As to the thief, whether he be man or woman, cut of his or her hand as a punishment for the crime, an example from Allah”.

24:2 “If any commits fornications, be it man or woman, flog them with 100 stripes”. Imagine Islam gave both male and female equal legal rights 1400 years ago when it was common for a man who committed a murder, he can put his wife to replace him for the death penalty.

In 24:4 “If any of you put a charge against the chastity of a woman, produce four witnesses, and if they falter flog them with 80 stripes”. For small crimes in Islam you require 2 witnesses while for a big crime 4 witnesses are required. Accusing a woman falsely in Islam is considered as a big crime, therefore you require 4 witnesses. See how much Islam protects the good name of women!
Islam guarantees inheritance to women in no less than 10 verses in the Qur’an (i.e. 2: 180, 240, 4: 7-9, 11-12, 19, 33, 176, 5:105-108).

Political rights of women
Islam gave women the rights to vote some 1400 years ago. They too can take part in the process of law making. In 60:12 “O prophet when the believing women come to thee with an oath of fealty”. The Arabic word used here is ‘Bayan’ where the women came to the prophet and they agreed with him being the head of the state. According to a famous hadith: “Caliph Omar was having discussion with several companions and was considering of putting an upper limit for the dowry since young men were discourage from getting married. A lady from the back seat objected and quoted 4:20 ‘You can even give a heap of treasure, a heap of gold in dowry’. She said when the Qur’an doesn’t put any upper limit on dowry then who is Omar to put a limit? Immediately Caliph Omar said: ‘Omar was wrong and the lady is right’.

We can continue talking about various rights Islam has given to women for several days altogether but time does not permit me to do so now. Anyway I will like to end by narrating two hadiths that clearly shows how high has Islam elevated the status of women. According to a hadith related by Ahmad in Ibn Majah ” Paradise lies at the feet of the mother”. This does not mean that every step that my mother takes in the street, the rocks and soil becomes paradise.

In S.B. 8:2:2 “A man approached and asked prophet Muhammad (pbuh): ‘Who deserves most my love, attention and companionship’? The prophet replied ‘your mother’. The man asked ‘after that who’? The prophet said ‘your mother’. The man asked ‘after that who’? Again the prophet replied ‘Your mother’. The man asked again ‘after that who’ and the prophet replied ‘Your father’. In short the gold medal, silver medal and the bronze medal goes to the mother and the father has to be satisfied with the consolation prize!

“Say: He is Allah, The One and only. Allah, the Eternal, Absolute. He begets not, nor is He begotten. And there is none like unto Him”. (Qur’an 112: 1-4)

The word ‘Assamad’ is difficult to translate. It means ‘absolute existence’, which can be attributed only to Allah (swt), all other existence being temporal or conditional. It also means that Allah (swt) is not dependant on any person or thing, but all persons and things are dependant on Him.

Surah Ikhlas (Chapter 112) of the Glorious Qur’an is the touchstone of theology. Any candidate to divinity must be subjected to this ‘acid test’. Since the attributes of Allah given in this chapter are unique, false gods and pretenders to divinity can be easily dismissed using these verses.

The following verse of the Glorious Qur’an conveys a similar message:
“No vision can grasp Him but His grasp is over all vision: He is above all comprehension, yet is acquainted with all things.” (Al-Qur’an 6:103)

BY WHAT NAME DO WE CALL GOD?
The Muslims prefer calling the Supreme Creator, Allah, instead of by the English word ‘God’. The Arabic word, ‘Allah’, is pure and unique, unlike the English word ‘God’, which can be played around with.

If you add ‘s’ to the word God, it becomes ‘Gods’, that is the plural of God. Allah is one and singular, there is no plural of Allah. If you add ‘dess’ to the word God, it becomes ‘Goddess’ that is a female God. There is nothing like male Allah or female Allah. Allah has no gender. If you add the word ‘father’ to ‘God’ it Becomes ‘God-father’. Godfather means someone who is a guardian. There is no word like ‘Allah-Abba’ or ‘Allah-father. If you add the word ‘mother’ to ‘God’, it becomes ‘God-mother’. There is nothing like ‘Allah-Ummi’, or ‘Allah-mother’ in Islam. Allah is a unique word. If you prefix tin before the word God, it becomes tin God i.e., fake God. Allah is a unique word, which does not conjure up any mental picture nor can it be played around with. Therefore the Muslims prefer using the Arabic word ‘Allah’ for Almighty God. Sometimes, however, while speaking to the non-Muslims we may have to use the inappropriate word god, for Allah. Since the intended audience of this article is general in nature, consisting of both Muslims as well as non-Muslims, I have used the word God instead of Allah in several places in this article.

“Say: ‘Call upon Allah, or call upon Al-Rahman. By whatever name ye call upon Him, (it is well): For to Him belong the most beautiful names.”

(Qur’an 17:110, see also 7:180, 20:8, 59:24)

1. He believes in One God, Supreme and Eternal, Infinite and Mighty, Merciful and Compassionate, Creator and Provider. This belief, in order to be effective, requires complete trust and hope in God, submission to His Will and reliance on His aid. It secures man’s dignity and saves him from fear and despair, from guilt and confusion.

2. The true Muslim believes in the angels of God. They are purely spiritual and splendid beings whose nature requires no food or drink or sleep. They have no physical desires of any kind nor material needs. They spend their days and nights in the service of God. There are many of them, and each one is charged with a certain duty. If we cannot see the angels with our naked eyes, it does not necessarily deny their actual existence. Belief in the angels originates from the Islamic principle that knowledge and truth are not entirely confined to the sensory knowledge or sensory perception alone (16:49-50; 21:19-20).

3. The true Muslim believes in all the scriptures and revelations of God. They were the guiding light, which the messengers received to show their respective peoples the Right Path of God. In the Qur’an a special reference is made to the books of Abraham, Moses, David and Jesus. The Muslims believe that the only authentic and complete book of God that survived in its original form today is the Qur’an. Nothing of it is missing and no more of it is expected. Its authenticity is beyond doubt. The Qur’an was made so by God Who revealed it and made it incumbent upon Himself to protect it against interpolation and corruption of all kinds. Thus it is given to the Muslims as the standard or criterion by which all the other books are judged. So whatever agrees with the Qur’an is accepted as Divine truth, and whatever differs from the Qur’an is either rejected or suspended. God says: ‘Verily We have, without doubt, sent down the Qur’an; and We will assuredly guard it’ (15:9; cf. 2:75-79; 5:13-14, 41, 45, 47; 6:91; 41:43).

4. He believes in all the messengers of God without any discrimination among them. Every known nation had a Warner or messenger from God. Some of their stories have been related in the Qur’an and some others not. The Holy Qur’an mention the names of twenty five of them, and the Muslim believes in them all and accepts them as authorized messengers of God. It may be useful to mention here the names of some of the great messengers like Noah and David, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac and Moses, John the Baptist, Jesus and Muhammad, may the peace and blessings of God be upon them all. They were, with the exception of Muhammad, known as “national” or local messenger and for that time period. But their message, their religion, was basically the same and was called ISLAM, because it came from One and the Same Source, namely, God, to serve one and the same purpose, and that is to guide humanity to the Straight Path of God. Among them Muhammad stands as the Last Messenger and Mercy to all. The Qur’an commands the Muslims thus:
“We believe in God, and the revelation given to us, and to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and the Tribes; and that, which was given to Moses and Jesus, and that which was given to all prophets from their Lord. We make no discrimination between one and another of them, and we bow to God” (2:136, cf. 3:84; 4:163-165; 6:84-87).

5. The true Muslim believes in the Last Day of Judgment. This world will come to an end some day, and the dead will rise to stand for their final and fair trial. Everything we do in this world, every intention we have, every move we make, every thought we entertain, and every word we say, all are counted and kept in accurate records. On the Day of Judgment they will be brought up. People with good records will be generously rewarded and warmly welcomed to the Heaven of God, and those with bad records will be punished and cast into Hell. The real nature of Heaven and Hell and the exact description of them are known to God only. There are descriptions of Heaven and Hell in the Qur’an and the Traditions of Muhammad but they should not be taken literally. In Heaven, said Muhammad, there are things that no eye has ever seen, no ear has ever heard, and no mind has ever conceived. However, the Muslim believes that there definitely will be compensation and reward for the good deeds, and punishment for the evil ones. That is the Day of Justice and final settlement of all accounts.

6. The true Muslim believes in the timeless knowledge of God and in His power to plan and execute His plans. God is not indifferent to this world nor is He neutral to it. His knowledge and power are in action at all times to keep order in His vast domain and maintain full command over His creation. He is Wise and Loving, and whatever He does must have a good motive and a meaningful purpose. If this is established in our minds, we should accept with good Faith all that He does, although we may fail to understand it fully, or even think it is bad. We should have strong Faith in Him and accept whatever He does because our knowledge is limited and our thinking is based on individual or personal considerations, whereas His knowledge is limitless and He plans on a universal basis. The Qur’an says, “It is possible that you dislike a thing that is good for you. And that you love a thing, which is bad for you. But God knows and you know not”. (Qur’an 2:216)

We cannot do everything, and He graciously holds us responsible only for the things we do. The timeless knowledge and power of God to execute His plans do not prevent us from making our own plans in our own limited sphere of power. On the contrary, He exhorts us to think, to plan and to make sound choices, but if things do not happen the way we wanted or planned them, we should not lose Faith or surrender ourselves to mental strains and shattering worries. We should try again and again, and if the results are not satisfactory, then we know that we have tried our best and cannot be held responsible for the results, because what is beyond our capacity and responsibility is the affair of God alone. The Muslims call this article of Faith the belief in ‘Qadaa’ and ‘Qadar’, which simply means, in other words, that the Timeless Knowledge of God anticipates events, and that events take place according to the exact knowledge of God (Qur’an, for example, 18:29; 41:46; 53:33-62; 54:49; 65:3; 76:30-31).

Beside the above six principles, Muslims also believe that:
A. The true Muslim believes that God’s creation is meaningful and that life has a sublime purpose beyond the physical needs and material activities of man. The purpose of life is to worship God. This does not simply mean that we have to spend our entire lives in constant seclusion and absolute meditation. To worship God is to know Him; to love Him; to obey His commandments; to enforce His law in every aspect of life; to serve His cause by doing the right and shunning the evil; and to be just to Him, to ourselves, and to our fellow human beings. To worship God is to “live” life not to run away from it. (see 21:17-18; 51:56-58; 75:37).

B. The true Muslim believes that man enjoys an especially high-ranking status in the hierarchy of all the known creatures. He occupies this distinguished position because he alone is gifted with rational faculties and spiritual aspirations as well as powers of action. But the more his rank excels, the more his responsibility grows. He occupies the position of God’s viceroy on earth. The fact that God chose His messengers from the human race shows that man is trustworthy and capable, and that he can acquire immense treasures of goodness (2:30-34; 6:165; 7:11; 17:70-72, 90-95).

C. The true Muslim believes that every person is born “Muslim”. This means that the very course of birth takes place in accordance with the Will of God, in realization of His plans and in submission to His Commands. It also means that every person is endowed with spiritual potentialities and intellectual inclinations that can make him a good Muslim, if he has the right access to Islam and is left to develop his innate nature. Many people can readily accept Islam if it is properly presented to them. This is so because Islam is the universal religion of God, the Maker of human nature, Who knows what is best for human nature (30:30; 64:1-3; 82:6-8).

D. The true Muslim believes that every person is born free from sin and all claims to inherited virtue. He is like a blank book. When the person reaches the age of maturity he becomes accountable for his deeds and intentions, if his development is normal and if he is sane. Man is not only free from sin until he commits sin, but he is also free to do things according to his plans on his own responsibility.

This Islamic concept of freedom is based upon the principle of God’s justice and the individual’s direct responsibility to God. Each person must bear his own burden and be responsible for his own actions, because no one can expiate for another’s sin. (Qur’an, 41:46; 45:15; 53:31-42; 74:38; the concept of Sin below):

E. The true Muslim believes that man must work out his salvation through the guidance of God. This means that in order to attain salvation a person must combine Faith and action, belief and practice. Faith without action is as insufficient as action without Faith. In other words, no one can attain salvation until his Faith in God becomes dynamic in his life and his beliefs are translated into reality. This is in complete harmony with the other Islamic articles of Faith. It shows that God does not accept lip service, and that no true believer can be indifferent as far as the practical requirements of Faith are concerned. It also shows that no one can act on behalf of another or intercede between him and God (see, for example, the Qur’an, 10:9-10; 18:30; 103:1-3).

F. The true Muslim believes that God does not hold any person responsible until He has shown him the Right Way. This is why God has sent many messengers and revelations, and has made it clear that there would be no punishment before giving guidance and sounding the alarm. So, a person who has never come across any Divine revelations or messenger, or a person who is insane is not held responsible to God for failing to obey the Divine instructions (see, for example, the Qur’an 4:165; 5:16 & 21; 17:15).

This point is very important for every Muslim. There are many people in the world who have not heard of Islam and have no way of knowing about it. Such people may be honest and may become good Muslims, if they find their way to Islam. If they do not know and have no way of knowing, they will not be responsible for failing to be Muslims. Instead, the Muslims who can present Islam to such people will be the ones responsible for failing to invite them to Islam and show them what Islam is. This calls upon every Muslim throughout the globe not only to preach Islam in words but also – and more importantly – to live it in full (see, for example, the Qur’an, 3:104; 16:125).

G. The true Muslim believes that Faith is not complete when it is followed blindly or accepted unquestioningly unless the believer is reasonably satisfied. If Faith is to inspire action, and if Faith and action are to lead to salvation, then Faith must be founded on unshakable convictions without any deception or compulsion. In other words, the person who calls himself a Muslim because of his family traditions, or accepts Islam under coercion or blind imitation is not a complete Muslim in the sight of God. A Muslim must build his Faith on well-grounded convictions beyond any reasonable doubt and above uncertainty. If he is not certain about his Faith, he is invited by God to search in the open book of Nature, to use his reasoning powers, and to reflect on the teachings of the Qur’an. He must search for the indisputable truth until he finds it, and he will certainly find it, if he is capable and serious enough (see, for example, the Qur’an, 2:170; 43:22-24).

(Qur’an, 5:16-17; 12:109; 18:30; 56:80).

Submission to the good Will of God, together with the obedience to His beneficial Law, is the best safeguard of peace and harmony. It enables man to make peace between himself and his fellow men on the one hand, and between the human community and God on the other. It creates harmony among the elements of Nature. According to Islam, everything in the world, or every phenomenon other than man is administered by God-made Laws. This makes the entire physical world necessarily obedient to God and submissive to His laws, which, in turn, means that it is in a state of Islam, or it is Muslim. The physical world has no choice of its own but obeys the Law of the Creator, the Law of Islam or submission. Man is singled out as being endowed with intelligence and the power of making choices and he is invited to submit to the good Will of God and obey His Law. As a result he will be with the truth and in harmony between himself and all the other elements of Nature. But if he chooses disobedience he will deviate from the Right Path and will be inconsistent. Besides, he will incur the displeasure and punishment of the Lawgiver.

The concept of God in Islam describes Him as the Most Merciful and Gracious, and the Most Loving and most concerned with the well being of man, and as Full of Wisdom and care for His Creatures. His Will, accordingly, is a Will of Benevolence and Goodness, and whatever Law He prescribes must be in the best interest of mankind.

The word Islam is derived from two Arabic words sharing same root:
Salaam – Peace, Harmony, Tranquility, purity
Aslama – Willing Obedience, Willing Submission, Total Surrender.

Therefore Islam means; Only through submission to the Will of God and by obedience to His Law can one achieve true peace and be in harmony with the created and the creator Himself. Muslims are those who submit themselves in obedience to Almighty God. Therefore anyone who does not follow his or her own will but follows the will of Almighty God is a Muslim. Other than human beings, the entire physical world is obedient to God and submissive to His Laws, which means that it is in a state of Islam, or it is Muslim. The physical world has no choice of its own but obeys the Law of the Creator.

Human is singled out as being endowed with intelligence and the power of making choices and he is invited to submit to the good Will of God and obey His Law. When a human chooses to obey God, he/she is known as Muslim, and as a result will be with the truth and in harmony between him/herself and all the other elements of Nature. But if he/she knowingly chooses disobedience to God, he/she is known as Kafir, and he/she will deviate from the Right Path and will be inconsistent. Besides, he/she will incur the displeasure of the Lawgiver.

The Fundamental Articles Of Faith In Islam
1. Belief in God.
The following four verses from Surah Ikhlas of Qur’an gives the most concise definition of God in Islam: “1 Say: He is God, The One and only. 2 God, the Eternal, Absolute. 3 He begets not, nor is He begotten. 4 And there is none like unto Him”. (Qur’an 112: 1-4)

For a Muslim, Surah Ikhlas of the Glorious Qur’an is the touchstone of theology. Any candidate to divinity must be subjected to this ‘acid test’. Since the attributes of God given in this chapter are unique, false gods and pretenders to divinity can be easily dismissed using these verses.

The following verse of the Glorious Qur’an conveys a similar message: “No vision can grasp Him but His grasp is over all vision: He is above all comprehension, yet is acquainted with all things.” (Al-Qur’an 6:103)

The Muslims prefer calling the Supreme Creator, Allah, instead of by the English word ‘God’. The Arabic word, ‘Allah’, is pure and unique, unlike the English word ‘God’, which can be played around with. Allah is a unique word, which does not conjure up any mental picture nor can it be played around with. Therefore the Muslims prefer using the Arabic word ‘Allah’ for Almighty God. However, while addressing the non-Muslims we may have to use the word God, for Allah.

Arab Christians too refer to God the Father as Allah. In the Malay Bible; Al–Kitab, God is also referred as Allah. In the Hindu Scriptures and Sikh’s scripture Grant Sahib, among others, also refers to God as Allah.

“Say: ‘Call upon Allah, or call upon Al-Rahman. By whatever name ye call upon Him, (it is well): For to Him belong the most beautiful names.” (Qur’an 17:110)

2. Belief in Angels.
The true Muslim believes in the angels of God. They are purely spiritual and splendid beings whose nature requires no food or drink or sleep. They have no physical desires of any kind nor material needs. They spend their days and nights in the service of God. There are many of them, and each one is charged with a certain duty. If we cannot see the angels with our naked eyes, it does not necessarily deny their actual existence. Belief in the angels originates from the Islamic principle that knowledge and truth are not entirely confined to the sensory knowledge or sensory perception alone (refer Qur’an 16:49-50; 21:19-20).

3. Belief in Scriptures.
The true Muslim believes in all the scriptures and revelations of God. They were the guiding light, which the messengers received to show their respective peoples the Right Path of God. In the Qur’an a special reference is made to the books of Abraham, Moses, David and Jesus. The Muslims believe that the only authentic and complete book of God that survived in its original form today is the Qur’an, the Last and Final Revelation of God. Nothing of it is missing and no more of it is expected. Its authenticity is beyond doubt. The Qur’an was made so by God Who revealed it and made it incumbent upon Himself to protect it against interpolation and corruption of all kinds. Thus it is given to the Muslims as the standard or criterion by which all the other books are judged. So whatever agrees with the Qur’an is accepted as Divine truth, and whatever differs from the Qur’an is either rejected or suspended. God says: ‘Verily We have, without doubt, sent down the Qur’an; and We will assuredly guard it’ (Qur’an 15:9; also refer 2:75-79; 5:13-14, 41, 45, 47; 6:91; 41:43).

4. Belief in Messengers of God.
A Muslim believes in all the Messengers of God without any discrimination among them. Every known nation had a Warner or Messenger from God. Some of their stories have been related in the Qur’an and some others not. The Holy Qur’an mentions the names of twenty five of them, and the Muslim believes in them all and accepts them as authorized messengers of God. It may be useful to mention here the names of some of the great messengers like Noah and David, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac and Moses, John the Baptist, Jesus and Muhammad, may the peace and blessings of God be upon them all. They were, with the exception of Muhammad, known as “national” or local messenger and time bound. But their message, their religion, was basically the same and was called ISLAM, because it came from One and the Same Source, namely, God, to serve one and the same purpose, and that is to guide humanity to the Straight Path of God. Among them Muhammad stands as the Last Messenger and Mercy to all. The Qur’an commands the Muslims thus:
“We believe in God, and the revelation given to us, and to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and the Tribes; and that, which was given to Moses and Jesus, and that which was given to all prophets from their Lord. We make no discrimination between one and another of them, and we bow to God” (Qur’an 2:136, also refer 3:84; 4:163-165; 6:84-87).

5. Belief in Judgment Day.
The true Muslim believes this world will come to an end some day, and the dead will rise to stand for their final and fair trial. Everything we do in this world, every intention we have, every move we make, every thought we entertain, and every word we say, all are counted and kept in accurate records. On the Day of Judgment they will be brought up. People with good records will be generously rewarded and warmly welcomed to the Heaven of God, and those with bad records will be punished fairly. The real nature of Heaven and Hell and the exact description of them are known to God only. There are descriptions of Heaven and Hell in the Qur’an and the Traditions of Muhammad but they should not be taken literally. In Heaven, said Muhammad, there are things that no eye has ever seen, no ear has ever heard, and no mind has ever conceived.

6. Timeless Knowledge of God.
The true Muslim believes in the Timeless Knowledge of God and in His power to plan and execute His plans. His knowledge and power are in action at all times to keep order in His vast domain and maintain full command over His creation. He is Wise and Loving, and whatever He does must have a good motive and a meaningful purpose. We should have strong Faith in Him and accept whatever He does because our knowledge is limited and our thinking is based on individual or personal considerations, whereas His knowledge is limitless and He plans on a universal basis.

The timeless knowledge and power of God to execute His plans do not prevent us from making our own plans in our own limited sphere of power. On the contrary, He exhorts us to think, to plan and to make sound choices, but if things do not happen the way we wanted or planned them, we should not lose Faith or surrender ourselves to mental strains and shattering worries. We should try again and again, and if the results are not satisfactory, then we know that we have tried our best and will not be held responsible for the results, because what is beyond our capacity and responsibility is the affair of God alone. The Qur’an says, “It is possible that you dislike a thing that is good for you. And that you love a thing, which is bad for you. But God knows and you know not” (Qur’an 2:216)
The Muslims call this article of Faith the belief in ‘Qadaa’ and ‘Qadar’, which simply means, in other words, that the Timeless Knowledge of God anticipates events, and that events take place according to the exact knowledge of God (refer Qur’an 18:29; 41:46; 53:33-62; 54:49; 65:3; 76:30-31).

The Fundamental Duties In Islam
Shahadah (Declaration of Faith): Declaring knowingly and voluntarily ‘La Ilaha Ilallah Muhammadar Rasulullah’ (There is no god but Allah; Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah). All other duties in Islam originate from Shahadah.

Solat (Prayer): Offered minimum five times a day in congregation or individually and keeps a believer in constant touch with his/her Creator. Develops the qualities of self-discipline, steadfastness, honesty, truthfulness and courage. Promotes humility while removing arrogance.

Zakat (Welfare Contribution): Compulsory upon every Muslims who owns wealth more than his needs to pay the fix rate to the Islamic state. The Islamic state is responsible for providing basic necessities of food, clothing, shelter, medicine and education to every citizen. Zakat is a means of narrowing the gap between rich and poor. No one should have any fear of insecurity or poverty.

Sawm (Fasting): Muslims refrain from eating or drinking from sunrise to sunset in the month of Ramadhan. It is a means of achieving self-control designed to raise a person’s moral and spiritual standards above selfishness, greed, laxity and other vices.
Hajj (Pilgrimage): A duty once in a lifetime upon every Muslims who can afford. Hajj symbolizes the unity of humankind and is an annual assembly of Muslims from all over the world.

Women’s rights in Islam
Spiritual rights: Both men and women are equal spiritually in the sight God. Spiritual equality has been guaranteed in the Qur’an some 1400 years ago whereas debate on whether women has soul continued in the West until the 18th Century.

“If any do deeds of righteousness – be they male or female – and have faith, they will enter heaven and not the least injustice will be done to them”. (Qur’an 4:124).
“Verily the most honored in the sight of Allah is the Most righteous of you” (Qur’an 49:13)

-regardless whether you are male or female.
“For believing men and women, for devout men and women, for true men and women, for men and women who are patient and constant, for men and women who humble themselves, for man and women who give in charity, for man and women who fast, for men and women who guard their chastity, for men and women who engage much in God’s praise – for them God has prepared forgiveness and great rewards” (Qur’an 33:35). This verse clearly specifies that both men and women have equal spiritual responsibilities.

Economical Rights: Islam gave the economical rights to women 1300 years before the West. It was only in 1870 in England that West recognized the rights of married women to own or dispose any of her property without consultation with men. In Islam, an adult Muslim woman can own or dispose any of her property without consultation.
A Muslim woman is allowed to work if she wishes to work. There is not a single verse from the Qur’an or authentic Hadith that prevents or prohibits a woman to do any work that is lawful and within the preview of Islamic law. A fully and truly Muslim society requires women to take up profession such as doctors (we do need female gynecologists), nurses, teachers etc. Women are also allowed to do business and the best example is Khadijah the wife of Prophet Muhammad. She was one of the most successful businessperson of her time.

In Islam a woman has no financial obligations! All financial obligations are laid on the shoulders of men in the family. Before the woman is married, it is the duty of the father and the brothers to look after her needs such as food, shelter, clothing etc. and once she is married it becomes the duty of the husband and her sons. In genuine cases where two ends do not meet and there is financial crisis, the woman has the option to work but absolutely on her own free will.

When a woman gets married, she is also on the receiving end. For a marriage to solemnize in Islam, ‘Maher’ or dowry is compulsory to be given to the woman. There is no upper or lower limit for dowry. “Give the woman in dowry, a marital gift” (Qur’an 4:4)
Educational Rights; the first verse that was revealed to Prophet Muhammad was “Read, proclaim or recite in the name of thy Lord” (Qur’an 96:1). The first guidance that was ordained by Almighty God to mankind, both male and female was not to pray, fast or give in charity but it was to read! Islam pays the utmost importance to education.
It is reported in S.B. “The women once approached Prophet Muhammad and said; ‘you are usually surrounded by men, why don’t you give us one particular day so we too can ask you questions’ – and the prophet agreed”.

Aishah the wife of the prophet has herself narrated no less than 2210 hadiths. She has also guided all the four Righteous Caliphs. She has taught no less than 88 scholars. She was also an expert in the field of medicine and mathematics.

There are several other examples in Islam where women held high positions in society as far as knowledge were concern. Umm Safiya was an expert in the field of fiqh i.e. Islamic Jurisprudence. Umm Salma has taught no less than 32 scholars. Saeeda Nafisa the grand daughter of Hassan was also been said to have taught Imam Shafie.

Legal Rights: In previous civilizations, women were considered mere chattel. When a man commits murder, he can replace himself with his wife to receive death penalty. Both men and women receive equal punishment and Islamic law protects the life and property of both. “As to the thief, whether he be man or woman, cut of his or her hand as a punishment for the crime, an example from Allah” (Qur’an 5:38).

“If any commits fornications, be it man or woman, flog them with 100 stripes” (Qur’an 24:2).

“If any of you put a charge against the chastity of a woman, produce four witnesses, and if they falter flog them with 80 stripes” (Qur’an 24:4). See how much Islam protects the good name of women!

Islam guarantees inheritance to women in the Qur’an (Qur’an 2:180,240, 4:7-9,11-12,19,33,176, 5:105-108).

Political Rights: Islam gave women the rights to vote some 1400 years ago. They too can take part in the process of law making. “O prophet when the believing women come to thee with an oath of fealty” (Qur’an 60:12). The Arabic word used here is ‘Bayan’ where the women came to the prophet and they agreed with him being the head of the state. According to a famous hadith: “Caliph Omar was having discussion with several companions and was considering of putting an upper limit for the dowry since young men were discourage from getting married. A lady from the back seat objected and quoted 4:20 ‘You can even give a heap of treasure, a heap of gold in dowry’. She said when the Qur’an doesn’t put any upper limit on dowry then who is Omar to put a limit? Immediately Caliph Omar said: ‘Omar was wrong and the lady is right’.

Social Rights: Daughters: Islam prohibits infanticide, the killing of female children. It was a common practice in pre-Islamic Arabia for female children to be buried alive. It is still practiced in some third world countries. “When the female child is buried alive and when she questions you for what crime was she killed” (Qur’an 81:8-9).

Islam also prohibits for rejoicing at the birth of a male child and being saddened at the birth of a female child. “When news is brought to one of them on the birth of a female child, his face darkens and is filled with inward grief! He hides in shame from his people for the news he has received” (Qur’an 16:58-59).

In the Hadith of Ahmad, the prophet has said that “Anyone who brings up two daughters properly, on the Day of Judgment they will be like this to me” indicating they will be very close to the prophet.

Wife: Previous civilizations considered women to be the instrument of devil (i.e.; ‘Pandora’ – a female creature and all evil origins from her) but the Qur’an refers to woman as ‘Mohsana’, which means fortress against devil. When a good woman marries a man, she prevents the husband from going to the wrong path and keeps him on the straight path.
Islam forbids monasticism and it is mentioned in Shahih Bukhari (S.B.) 7:3:4 “Those who has the means to marry, they should marry – for it will help them to lower their gaze and guard their modesty”.

The Qur’an says in 4:19 “You are forbidden to inherit woman against their will”. Therefore the permission of both the male and female are required in a marriage. A father cannot force his daughter to marry against her wishes.

In S.B. 7:43:69 “A lady was forced by her father to marry against her will – and she went to see the prophet (pbuh) and the prophet invalidated the marriage”.

In Ibn Hanbal Hadith # 2469 “A daughter was forced by her father to get married – and when the daughter approached the prophet (pbuh), he said she can either continue or invalidate the marriage”.

“Your wives are your garments and you are their garments” (Qur’an 2:187). Garments are used to conceal and beautify. Similarly husbands and wives should conceal one another’s mistakes and beautify each other.

“Treat your wife on a footing of equity and kindness even if you dislike her, for you may dislike a thing which Allah has made good for you” (Qur’an 4:19).

Mother: “Respect the womb that bore you” (Qur’an 4:1).
“Be kind to your parents” (Qur’an 6:151, 31:14, 46:15).

The following two hadiths clearly shows how high has Islam elevated the status of women. According to a hadith related by Ahmad in Ibn Majah, Prophet Muhammad has said: “Paradise lies at the feet of the mother”.
In S.B. 8:2:2 “A man approached and asked Prophet Muhammad (pbuh): ‘Who deserves most my love, attention and companionship’? The prophet replied ‘your mother’. The man asked ‘after that who’? The prophet said ‘your mother’. The man asked ‘after that who’? Again the prophet replied ‘Your mother’. The man asked again ‘after that who’ and the prophet replied ‘Your father’. In short the gold medal, silver medal and the bronze medal goes to the mother and the father has to be satisfied with the consolation prize!

SOME WORDS OF WISDOM FROM THE QUR’AN AND PROPHET MUHAMMAD.
“God commands justice and doing good and giving to relatives. And He forbids indecency and doing wrong and tyranny” (Qur’an 16:90).
“O you who believe! Enter absolutely into peace. Do not follow in the footsteps of Satan. He is an outright enemy to you” (Qur’an 2:208).
“If anyone kills a person – unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land – it would be as if he kill the whole nation: and if anyone saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole nation” (Qur’an 5:32).
“Help you one another in righteousness and piety, but help you not one another in sin and rancor” (Qur’an 5:2).
“If you do judge, judge between them justly” (Qur’an 5:42).
“O you who believe! Be upholders of justice, bearing witness for God alone, even against yourselves or your parents and relatives. Whether they are rich or poor” (Qur’an 4:135).
“O Mankind! We created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other (not that you may despise each other). Verily the most honored of you in the sight of God is (he who is) the most righteous you” (Qur’an 49:13).
“For We assuredly sent amongst every people a messenger, (with the command), ‘serve God and eschew Evil’.” (Qur’an 16:36)
“O you who believe! Show integrity for the sake of God, bearing witness with justice. Do not let hatred for a people incite you into not being just. Be just. That is closer to faith” (Qur’an 5:8).
“Let there be no compulsion in religion: Truth stands clear from Error” (Qur’an 2:256)

The Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) Last Sermon
“…O People, listen to me in earnest, worship God, say your five daily prayers (Salah), fast during the month of Ramadan, and give your wealth in Zakat. Perform Hajj if you can afford to.
All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor does a black have any superiority over white except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves.
Remember, one day you will appear before God and answer your deeds. So beware, do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.
O People, no Prophet or Apostle will come after me and no new faith will be born. Reason well, therefore, O People, and understand words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the QUR’AN and my example, the SUNNAH and if you follow these you will never go astray.
All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly. Be my witness, O God, that I have conveyed your message to your people”.
Prophet Muhammad, (peace and blessings be upon him), said: “Beware! Whoever is cruel and hard on a non-Muslim minority, or curtails their rights, or burdens them in more than they can bear, or takes anything from them against their free will; I (Prophet Muhammad) will complain against the person on the Day of Judgment.”