Questions and Answers about Islam

Man must believe, whether in the true God or in any false deity, which he might call god or something else. This deity could be a tree, a star in the sky, a woman, one's boss at work, a scientific theory, or it could even be some personal whim. However, he must have faith in something that he could follow and sanctify and refer to in his life course, and he might even die for its sake. This is what we call "worship", and worshiping the true God is what sets man free from being a slave to others and to the society.

The true God is the Creator and worshiping other than the true God implies the claim that they are deities. The God must be a creator and the proof of his being a creator must be either by witnessing what he has created in the universe or by revelation from God Who is proven to be a Creator. So, if this claim has no proof to support it, neither from the creation of the witnessed universe nor from the words of the Creator, then such deities are definitely false deities.

It is noticed that in hard times man tries to focus on a single truth and resorts to only one God. Science has proven the unity of matter and the unity of the universal system through examining the manifestations and phenomena of the universe, and through the resemblance and similarity that exist in it.

Let us imagine what would happen to the children of the same family if their parents disagree on an important issue, and how their disagreement would lead to the loss of their children and the destruction of their future. Similarly, what would be the case if two gods or more rule the Universe?!... More

In the Middle East, the Christians, Jews, and Muslims use the word "Allah" to refer to God. It means the only true God, the God of Moses and Jesus. The Creator has introduced Himself in the Noble Qur’an by the name "Allah" and by other names and attributes. Moreover, the word "Allah" was mentioned 89 times in the early edition of the Old Testament.

"The Creator" is one of the attributes of Allah Almighty that has been mentioned in the Qur’an.

{He is Allah, the Creator, the Maker, the Fashioner. He has the most beautiful names. All that is in the heavens and earth glorifies Him, for He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise.} [2] Surat al-Hashr: 24.... More

This question is the result of a misconception about the Creator and comparing Him to the creation. Such misconception is refuted by mind and logic, for instance:

Can man answer the simple question: What is the smell of the red color? There is no answer to such a question, of course, because the red color is not classified among things that could be smelled.

The company that manufactures a commodity like the television or the fridge, for instance, sets rules and criteria for using the device and writes such instructions in a manual that explains the usage method and attaches it to the device. The consumer must follow such instructions if he wants to benefit from the device; however, the manufacturing company does not yield to these rules.... More

Belief in the Creator is built upon the fact that things do not appear without a cause, not to mention the fact that the huge material populated universe and the creatures in it possess an intangible awareness and comply with the immaterial mathematical rules, and to explain the existence of a material and limited universe, we need an independent source that is both immaterial and eternal.

Coincidence could never have brought the universe to existence because coincidence is not a main cause; rather, it is a secondary result that depends on the availability of other factors (the existence of time, place, matter, and energy) that could lead to the existence of something by coincidence. So, the word "coincidence" could not be used to explain anything because it is nothing at all.

For instance, if someone entered his room and found the glass of the window broken, he would then ask his family about the one who broke it. They would answer saying: It was broken by coincidence. The answer here is wrong because he did not ask about how the window was broken; rather, he asked about the one who broke the window. Thus, coincidence is a description of the act but not the doer of the act. The right answer in this case is to say that so-and-so broke it, then, they could clarify that the one who broke it did that by accident or deliberately. The same applies exactly to the universe and creatures.... More

Although we could see the rainbow and the mirage, yet they do not actually exist. Moreover, we believe in the existence of gravity without seeing it just because its existence was proven by the material science.

{No vision can encompass Him, but He encompasses all vision, and He is the Most Subtle, the All-Aware.} [22] Surat al-An‘ām: 103.

As an example to make things clear only, man cannot describe something immaterial like the "idea". He cannot identify its weight in grams, its length in centimeters, its chemical structure, its color, its pressure, its form, and its image.... More

As an example to make things clear only, bearing in mind that Allah has the highest attributes, when man uses an electronic device and controls it from outside, he by no means enters inside the device.

If we assume that Allah can do this because He is capable of doing anything, we must also admit that the Creator, the One and Only God, and the Majestic never does what does not befit His majesty, for Allah is far Exalted above that.

For example, while bearing in mind that Allah has the highest attributes, any priest or religious personality does not go out naked in the street despite his ability to do so because going out in public in that image does not befit his religious status.... More

It is known, according to the human laws, that violating the rights of the king or the one in charge does not stand on an equal footing with other crimes. So, what about the King of all kings?! The right of Allah Almighty upon His slaves is to be worshiped alone, as the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Allah's right upon His servants is that they should worship Him and associate no partners with Him...Do you know what is the servants' right upon Allah if they do so?" I said: "Allah and His Messenger know best." He said: "The right of the servants upon Allah is that He should not punish them."

It is enough to imagine giving someone a gift and that person thanks and praises someone else for that gift. Bearing in mind that Allah has the highest attributes, this is how the slaves deal with their Creator; He has granted them limitless blessings, but they show gratitude to others and the Creator after all does not need them.

When the Lord of the worlds uses the word "We" to refer to Himself in many of the Qur’anic verses, this indicates that He alone combines all the attributes of beauty and majesty. In the Arabic language, this also indicates power and greatness. Moreover, in the English language it is called the "royal we" where the plural pronoun is used to refer to someone who holds a high office like the king, the monarch, or the sultan. However, the Qur’an always stresses the fact that Allah is One when it comes to worship.

{Say, “The truth is from your Lord. Whoever wills may believe, and whoever wills may disbelieve...} [28] Surat al-Kahf: 29.

The Creator could have made us forced on obeying and worshiping Him; however, compulsion does not achieve the goal behind creating man.

The divine wisdom is manifested in creating Adam and distinguishing him with knowledge.... More

When one finds himself very rich and extremely generous, he invites his friends and loved ones for food and drink.

Such attributes of ours are nothing but an insignificant part of what Allah has, as Allah, the Creator, possesses the attributes of majesty and beauty. He is the Most Compassionate, the Most Merciful, the Giver, and the Generous. He created us to worship Him, to have mercy upon us, to make us happy and to give us, if we worship Him with sincere devotion and obey His commands. All the beautiful human attributes are derived from His attributes.

He created us and granted us the ability to choose, so, we either choose the path of obedience and worship or deny His existence and choose the path of rebellion and sins.... More

If Allah wanted to give His creation the chance to choose whether to exist in life or not, then, they had to exist in the first place. How could mankind have a say while being non-existent? It is a matter of existence and non-existence. Actually, man's attachment to life and his fear for it are the greatest evidence on how satisfied he is with such a blessing.

The blessing of life is a test for mankind to distinguish the kind person who is content with his Lord from the mean person who is displeased with Him. So, the wisdom of the Lord of the worlds behind the creation is to extract those who are content with Him to win His Paradise in the Hereafter.

This question shows how the misconception could obliterate the mind's logical thinking when taking control of it, and it is one of the proofs of the Qur’an's miraculousness,... More

Religion is a way of life that regulates man's relation with his Creator and with those around him, and it is the path that leads to the Hereafter.

The need for religion is more essential than the need for food and drink. Man is religious by nature, so if he is not guided to the true religion, he will invent a religion for himself as what happened in the pagan religions that were invented by people. Man needs security in this life as well as in the Hereafter and after his death,

and the true religion is what guarantees its followers complete security in both abodes. For example,

if we are walking along a road and we do not know its end, we have two options: either to follow the instructions written on the signboards that are on the way, or to try guessing which could lead us to be lost and destroyed.... More

First of all, the true religion must be compatible with man's initial natural disposition that needs a direct relationship with its Creator without the interference of mediators, which represents man's virtues and good qualities.

It also has to be a religion that is easy and simple, understood and not complicated, and appropriate for every time and place.

It must be a consistent religion for all generations, countries, and all types of people along with various laws that fit man's need in all times. It must not accept additions or omissions depending on personal desires as in the case of customs and traditions that have been established by people.... More

When humanity perishes, none will remain except the Ever-Living Who never dies. Whoever says that the commitment to morals under the umbrella of religion is unimportant is like one who studies for twelve years and at the end says that he does not want the certificate.

{We will turn to whatever deeds they did and turn them into scattered dust.} [41] Surat al-Furqān: 23.

Populating the earth and good morals are not the objectives of religion; rather, they are a means. The objective of religion is to acquaint man with his Lord, then with the source of his existence, his way, and his destiny. A good end and destiny cannot be attained except through knowing the Lord of the worlds by worshiping Him and winning His pleasure. The way to achieve this is by populating the earth and adopting good morals on condition that one's deeds are meant to seek Allah's pleasure.... More

The mind's role is to judge things and approve them; however, the mind's inability to reach the purpose behind man's existence, for instance, does not cancel its role; rather, it gives religion the chance to inform it of what it has failed to realize. The religion informs the mind of its Creator, the source of its existence, and the purpose behind its existence, then the mind carries out the process of understanding, judging, and approving such information. Thus, acknowledging the Creator's existence does not deactivate the mind or logic.

Many people, in our present time, believe that light exists outside the boundaries of time, yet they cannot accept the fact that the Creator does not submit to the rules of time and place, i.e., Allah Almighty is before everything and after everything and none of His creatures can encompass Him.

Many believe that when the connected particles are separated they keep communicating with each other at the same time, yet they cannot accept the idea that the Creator is present with His servants with His knowledge wherever they go. Man believes that he possesses a mind without seeing it, yet he refuses to believe in Allah without seeing Him.

Many refuse to believe in Paradise and Hellfire, yet they accept the existence of other worlds that they cannot see. The material science informs man that he should believe in things that do not exist in the first place like the mirage, and he actually believes in it; however, at the time of death, the physics and chemistry will be of no avail to mankind as they have promised them with nothing but non-existence.... More

As a matter of fact, religion is commitment and responsibility. It makes the conscience alert and urges the believer to hold himself accountable for all his deeds, the big and small. The believer is responsible for himself, his family, his neighbor, and even for the passerby. He utilizes the available means and relies upon Allah, and I do not think that such are the qualities of the opium addicts. [43] Opium is a kind of drug extracted from the poppy plant and that is used in making heroin.

The real opium of the people is atheism not faith, since atheism calls its followers to materialism and to marginalizing their relationship with their Creator by rejecting religion and abandoning responsibilities and duties, and by urging them to enjoy the instant moment despite the consequences. Hence, they do whatever they like in the absence of the worldly punishment, believing that there exists no divine watcher or reckoner, and no resurrection or reckoning. Is this not the real description of addicts?!

It is possible to distinguish the right religion from others through three main points, which are: [44] Quoted from "Khurāfat al-Ilhād" by Dr. ‘Amr Sharīf, the edition of 2014.

. The attributes of the Creator or God in this religion.

. The qualities of the messenger or the prophet.... More

There is something called the sound Fitrah (natural disposition) or the sound logic. So, whatever conforms to logic and to the sound natural disposition and the sound mind is from Allah, and whatever is complicated is from human beings.

For example,

If we were told by a cleric, whether a Muslim, Christian, Hindu, or of any other religion, that the universe has one Creator alone, Who has no partner and no child, and Who does not come to earth in the form of a man, an animal, a rock, or an idol, and that we must worship Him alone and resort to Him alone during calamities, then verily, this is the religion of Allah. However, if a cleric, be he a Muslim, Christian, Hindu, etc., tells us that Allah is embodied in any form that is known to mankind and that we must worship Allah and resort to Him through some person, prophet, priest, or saint, then this is from human beings.... More

The teachings of Islam are flexible and inclusive of all aspects of life because it is a religion that is related to the human natural disposition that Allah created. This religion is compatible with the norms of this natural disposition, which are:

. Having belief in the One and Only God, Who is the Creator, Who has no partner or child. He is not embodied in the form of a man, animal, idol, or a stone, and He is not a trio. . Worshiping this Creator alone without taking mediators. He is the Creator of the universe and everything within it. Nothing is like Him, and people must worship the Creator alone through communicating with Him directly when repenting of a certain sin or when asking for help, and not through a priest, saint, or any other mediator. . The Lord of the worlds is Most Merciful to His creatures more than the mother is to her children, as He forgives them whenever they return and repent to Him. . It is the Creator's right to be worshiped alone, and it is man's right to be directly connected to his Lord.

.The creed of Islam is substantiated, clear, simple, and far away from blind belief. Islam does not only address the heart and emotions and does not depend on them as a foundation for belief; rather, it confirms its principles through convincing and irrefutable arguments, clear evidence, and correct justifications that control the minds and find their way to the hearts as well, and all this through the following:... More

The Pillars of faith are:

Belief in Allah: "It is the firm belief that Allah is the Lord and Sovereign of everything, the only Creator, the One worthy of worship and submission, the One Who possesses the attributes of perfection, and the One Who is Exalted above any deficiency, along with being committed to this and acting upon it." [70] "Siyāj al-‘Aqīdah al-Imān Billāh" by ‘Abdul-‘Azīz ar-Rājihi (p.9).

Belief in the Angels: It is the belief in their existence and in the fact that they are creatures from light who obey Allah Almighty and never disobey Him.... More

Belief in all the messengers sent by Allah to mankind, without making distinction between them, is one of the pillars of the Muslim's creed without which his faith is invalid. Moreover, the denial of any messenger or prophet contradicts the basic principles of the religion. All prophets of Allah brought glad tidings of the advent of the last Prophet, Muhammd (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him). Furthermore, many of the prophets and messengers sent by Allah to various nations were mentioned in the Noble Qur’an like Nūh (Noah), Abraham, Ismā‘īl (Ishmael), Is-hāq (Isaac), Ya‘qūb (Jacob), Yūsuf (Joseph), Moses, David, Sulaymān (Solomon), and Jesus, and there are others who were not mentioned. So, the probability that some of the religious characters in Hinduism and Buddhism, like Rama, Krishna, and Gautama Buddha, could be from the prophets who were sent by Allah is not totally far-fetched. However, there is no supporting evidence from the Noble Qur’an on that; thus, the Muslim must not believe in it. Differences between creeds appeared only when people started sanctifying and worshiping their prophets instead of Allah.

{We have sent messengers before you; of them are some whose stories We have told you, and some We have not. It was not for a messenger to bring a sign except with Allah’s permission. But when the decree of Allah comes, judgment will be passed with justice, thereupon the people of falsehood will be in utter loss.} [73] Surat Ghāfir: 78.

{The Messenger believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, as do the believers. All of them believe in Allah, His angels, His Books, and His messengers, [saying], “We make no distinction between any of His messengers.” And they say, “We hear and obey. Grant us Your forgiveness, our Lord, and to You is the [final] destination.”} [74] Surat al-Baqarah: 285.... More

As for the angels, they are great creatures of Allah. They were created from light and have a natural disposition to goodness. They obey the commands of Allah Almighty, exalt Him, and worship Him without ever getting bored or tired.

{They glorify Him day and night tirelessly.} [76] Surat al-Anbiyā’: 20.

{...who never disobey whatever Allah commands and do whatever they are commanded.} [77] Surat at-Tahrīm: 6.... More

All proofs from the universe and phenomena indicate the fact that there is a constant process of reconstruction and recreation in life. There are many examples of this including the revival of earth after its death with rain.

{He brings the living out of the dead and the dead out of the living, and gives life to the earth after its death. This is how you will be brought forth.} [79] Surat ar-Rūm: 19.

Another evidence on resurrection is the perfect system of the universe that is flawless, even the extremely minute electron cannot move from one orbit to another inside the atom unless it gives or takes an amount of energy that is equal to its movement. So, how could you believe that in such a system the murderer or the oppressor could escape without being reckoned or punished by the Lord of the worlds?!... More

Allah brings the dead to life just as He created them the first time.

Allah Almighty said:

{O people, if you are in doubt concerning the Resurrection, then We surely created you from dust, then from a drop of sperm, then from a clot, then from a lump of flesh – formed or unformed – so that We may make it clear to you [Our power]. We settle in the wombs whatever We will for an appointed term. Then We bring you out as infants, then [We nurture you] so that you may reach your maturity. Then some of you die, while others are left to reach the decrepit old age so that they may know nothing after having knowledge. You see the land lifeless, then as soon as We send down rain on it, it stirs and swells to life and brings forth every type of pleasant plant.} [82] Surat al-Hajj: 5.... More

Allah will bring His servants to account at the same time just as He provides for them at the same time.

{Your creation and resurrection is only like that of a single soul. Indeed, Allah is All-Hearing, All Seeing.} [85] Surat Luqmān: 28.

Everything in the universe falls under the control of the Creator. He alone possesses comprehensive and absolute knowledge, and the ability and strength to subjugate everything to His will. The sun, the planets, the galaxies all function thoroughly since the beginning of the creation, and these same thoroughness and ability apply to the creation of mankind. The harmony between the human bodies and their souls proves that it is impossible to make such souls inhabit animals' bodies or roam among the plants and insects, and reincarnation is even impossible among human beings. Allah Almighty has distinguished man with the mind and knowledge and has made him a vicegerent on earth. He preferred him and honored him and granted him a higher status than many of His creatures. And out of the Creator's wisdom and justice, there will be the Day of Judgment when Allah alone shall resurrect the creatures and bring them to account. They will end up either in Paradise or in Hellfire, and all the good and evil deeds will be weighed on that Day.

{So whoever does an atom’s weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom’s weight of evil will see it.} [86] Surat az-Zalzalah: 7-8.

When someone, for instance, wants to buy something from the store and decides to send his first son to buy him that thing because he knows in advance that this boy is wise and will go straight to buy him what he wants exactly. The father also knows that his other son will get distracted by playing with his peers and lose the money. Actually, this is only an assumption upon which the father built his judgment.

Being aware of the destinies does not contradict our free will because Allah is aware of our deeds based on His complete knowledge of our intentions and choices, bearing in mind that Allah has the highest attributes, and He knows the nature of mankind. Allah is the One Who created us and knows what lies in our hearts, the good or evil desires, and knows our intentions and deeds. Writing down such knowledge does not contradict our free will, knowing that Allah's knowledge is absolute while people's expectations could be right or wrong.

It is possible for man to act in a way that displeases Allah; however, his act will not contradict Allah's will. Allah has granted His servants the will to choose, yet even if their acts are sinful, they still remain within the boundaries of Allah's will and can never go against it because the Almighty Lord has not given anyone the ability to transcend His will.... More

The main purpose of life is not to enjoy a transient feeling of happiness; rather, it is to attain inner and profound peace by knowing and worshiping Allah.

Fulfilling this divine purpose will lead to eternal bliss and true happiness. Therefore, if this becomes our main target, it will be easier for us to confront any problem or trouble for the sake of reaching this target.

Let us imagine a person who has never experienced any suffering or pain. Owing to his luxurious life, he will forget Allah and will, thus, fail in carrying out the mission that he has been created for. Then, compare this person to another whose hard and painful experiences have led him to Allah and to accomplishing his mission in life. According to the Islamic teachings, the one whose sufferings have led him to Allah is better than the one who has never suffered and whose pleasures led him far away from Him.... More

An exam is meant to distinguish between the students and classify them into levels and degrees before starting their new practical life. Despite the shortness of the exam, it decides the student's future towards this new life that he is approaching. The same applies to life, despite its shortness, it is an abode of affliction and trial for mankind to be classified into various degrees and levels when heading towards the Hereafter. Man leaves this worldly life only with his deeds and not with material things, thus, he must understand that he has to work in this life for the sake of the Hereafter and seek the reward there.

Man could achieve happiness by submitting to Allah and obeying Him and by being content with His decree and predestination.

Many claim that everything does not have an essential meaning and, consequently, we are free to find a meaning to ourselves for the sake of attaining a satisfactory life. The denial of the purpose behind our existence is, in fact, a self-deceit. It is as if we are telling ourselves: "Let us assume or pretend that we have a goal in this life", like the children who pretend while playing that they are doctors, nurses, or parents. We can never achieve happiness unless we know our purpose in life.

If a person was placed in a luxurious train against his will and he found himself riding in the first class, a fancy and comfortable experience and something extremely luxurious, will he be happy during this journey without getting answers for questions that are on his mind like: How did I ride this train? What is the purpose behind this journey? Where is it heading? How could he be happy if such questions remain unanswered? Even if he starts enjoying all the luxuries that are at his disposal, he will never achieve true and genuine happiness. Could a delicious meal in this journey be sufficient to make him forget these questions? This kind of happiness is fake and temporary and can only be achieved by deliberately neglecting the process of finding an answer to such vital questions. It is something like the fake ecstasy resulting from the consumption of intoxicants that leads one to his doom. Therefore, true happiness could only be attained when man finds answers to these existential questions.... More

Yes, Islam is available for all people. Every child is born with a sound natural disposition, worshiping Allah without a mediator (being a Muslim). So he, without the interference of family, school, or any religious authority, worships Allah directly until the age of puberty, when he becomes competent for religious duties and is held accountable for his deeds. At this time, he either takes Jesus as a mediator between himself and Allah and becomes a Christian, takes Buddha as a mediator and becomes a buddhist, or Krishna and becomes a Hindu, or takes Muhammad as a mediator and, thus, deviates totally from Islam, or remains on the religion of Fitrah (sound natural disposition) worshiping Allah alone. The one who follows the message of Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) that he conveyed from his Lord is following the right religion that conforms to the sound Fitrah, and anything else is considered deviation even taking Muhammad as a mediator between oneself and Allah.

"Every newborn is born with sound natural disposition, then his parents either turn him into a Jew, a Christian, or a Zoroastrian." [88] Narrated by Muslim.

The right religion that came from the Creator is only one religion. It is built upon belief in the One and Only Creator and worshiping Him alone. Anything else other than this is invented by people. It will be sufficient to visit India, for instance, and say in public: "The Creating God is One", and everybody will reply in unison: "Yes, the Creator is One." This is actually what is written in their books. [89] However, they differ and fight, and may even slaughter one another, because of an essential point, which is: the form and shape in which Allah comes to earth. For example, the Indian Christian says: "Allah is one, but He is embodied in three hypostases (the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit)". Moreover, some of the Indian Hindus say: "Allah comes in the form of an animal, a human being, or an idol." In Hinduism: (Chāndogya Upanishad 6:1-2). "He is only one God and there is no second god besides Him." (Vedas Śvetāśvatara Upanishad: 4:19, 4:20, 9:6). "The God, there is no fathers and no master." "It is not possible to see Him, no one can see Him with the eye." "He has no like." (Yajurveda 9:40). "Those who worship the elements of nature (air, water, fire, etc.) delve into darkness. They drown in darkness. Those who worship the Sāmbūti (things that are handmade like the idol, rock, etc)..." (Christianity): (Gospel of Matthew 10:4). "Then Jesus said to him: 'Go away devil, because it is written: You prostrate to your God and you worship Him alone.'" (Book of Exodus 5-3: 20). "You should have no other gods before Me. Do not make a statue or an image of what is in the heaven above, what is in the earth below, and what is in water from underneath the earth. Do not prostrate to them and do not worship them because I am the Lord, your God, a jealous God. I miss the parents' mistakes in the children in the third and fourth generations of those who hate Me."

If people think profoundly, they will discover that all problems and differences between the religious sects and the religions themselves are due to the mediators whom the people take between themselves and their Creator. For example, the Catholic and Protestant sects and other sects, and the Hindu sects, they all differ on the way of communicating with the Creator not on the concept of the Creator's existence. So, if they had all worshiped Allah directly, they would have been united.

During the time of Prophet Ibrāhīm (Abraham) (peace be upon him), for instance, whoever worshiped the Creator alone was adopting the religion of Islam, which is the true religion, yet whoever took a priest or saint as a mediator between himself and the Creator was adopting falsehood. The followers of Abraham (peace be upon him), thus, had to worship Allah alone and to bear witness that there is no god but Allah and that Abraham is the messenger of Allah. Then, Allah sent Mūsa (Moses) (peace be upon him) to affirm Abraham's message. Abraham's followers had to accept the new prophet and to bear witness that Moses as well as Abraham are the messengers of Allah. So, whoever worshipped the calf then, for instance, was adopting falsehood.... More

The Islamic religion is built upon preaching, tolerance, and kind argument.

{Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and reason with them in the best manner. Your Lord knows best who has strayed from His way and knows best those who are rightly guided.} [90] Surat an-Nahl: 125.

Since the Noble Qur’an is the last heavenly book and Muhammad is the last Prophet, therefore, the last Sharia of Islam opens the door for everyone to engage in dialogue and discuss the foundations and principles of the religion. "There is no compulsion in religion" is a guaranteed principle in Islam. None should be compelled to adopt the sound Fitrah-based Islamic creed provided that one respects others' inviolabilities and fulfills his duties towards the country in return for allowing him to maintain his religion and providing him with security and protection.... More

The Islamic concept of enlightenment is built on a solid foundation of faith and knowledge, which combines between the enlightenment of the mind and that of the heart through faith in Allah first, then, through knowledge, which is inseparable from faith.

The European concept of enlightenment has been transferred to the Islamic communities like other western concepts. From the Islamic perspective, enlightenment does not depend merely on the mind that is not guided by the light of faith. However, at the same time one's faith is of no benefit to him if he does not use his mind, which is a blessing that Allah has bestowed on him, in thinking, contemplating, and managing his affairs in a way that fulfills public welfare that benefits people and lasts on earth.

During the dark Middle Ages, Muslims were the ones who brought the light of civilization and culture back after it had faded in all of the western and eastern countries as far as Constantinople.... More

Some of Darwin's followers, who used to consider the natural selection (a physical and irrational process) a unique creative power that solves all the complicated developmental problems without resorting to any true experimental basis, later on discovered the complicated design of the structure and function of the bacterial cells. So, they started using expressions like "intelligent bacteria", "microbic intelligence", "decision making", and "bacteria for solving problems". Consequently, the bacteria became their new deity. [104]

The Almighty Creator clarified in His Book and through His Messenger that such acts, which are attributed to bacterial intelligence, occur according to the wisdom and will of the Lord of the worlds.

{Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is the Maintainer of everything.} [105] Surat az-Zumar: 62.... More

Islam absolutely rejects this idea. The Qur’an makes it clear that Allah has distinguished Adam from all other creatures by creating him independent as a sign of honoring mankind and to achieve Allah's wisdom in making him a vicegerent on earth.

Darwin's followers deem the one who believe in the Creator of the universe as a retarded person for believing in something that he has not seen, despite the fact that the believer believes in what elevates him and grants him a higher status, whereas they believe in what degrades them and brings them to a lower status. Regardless of that, why have the rest of apes remained without developing into human beings?

A theory is a group of hypotheses that come through witnessing or reflecting on a certain phenomenon. Proving such hypotheses requires conducting successful experiments or direct observation that substantiates them. Thus, if one of the hypotheses that belong to the theory cannot be proven through experiments or direct observation, then, the whole theory will be reconsidered.... More

Science provides convincing proofs of the concept of evolution from one common origin, which is mentioned in the Noble Qur’an.

{We created from water every living thing. Will they not then believe?} [111] Surat al-Anbiyā’: 30.

Allah Almighty has created the living beings and made them intelligent and naturally disposed to adapt with the surrounding environment. It is possible for them to evolve in terms of size, shape, or height. For example, the sheep in the cold countries have a certain shape and have a skin to protect them from cold, and their wool increases or decreases depending on the temperature. Whereas, in other countries they are different. Thus, the shapes and types vary according to the variation in the environment. This even applies to human beings, who vary in terms of color, qualities, language, and appearance. No human being identically resembles another; however, they all remain human beings and do not change into another type of animals. Allah Almighty said:... More

The Noble Qur’an has rectified the concept of evolution through narrating the story of Adam's creation.

Man was not even something mentioned:

{Was there not a period of time when man was not a thing [even] mentioned?} [114] Surat al-Insān:1.... More

The existence of diverse theories and convictions among mankind does not negate the fact that there is only one valid truth. For example, regardless of the number of concepts and notions that people may have about the transportation means someone uses who owns a black car, this does not negate the fact that he owns a black car. Even if the whole world believes that this person's car is red, such a belief does not make it red. There is only one truth here and that is: the car is black.

So, the diversity of concepts and notions about something does not negate the fact that this thing has one established truth.

Bearing in mind that Allah has the highest attributes, no matter how diverse people's concepts and notions are about the origin of existence, this does not negate the existence of one truth, and that is: the existence of the One and Only Creating God Who has no form known to mankind and Who has no partner and no child. Thus, if the whole world thinks that the Creator is embodied in the form of an animal or a human being, for instance, this does not make Him so, as He is far exalted above that.... More

It is illogical to leave the decision up to a person, who is driven by his personal desires, to decide whether rape is something evil or not; rather, it is evident that rape in itself is a transgression against man's rights and a violation of his value and freedom, which indicates that rape is evil. The same applies to homosexuality, which violates the normal universal laws and the intimate relations out of wedlock. As a matter of fact, what is right is right even if the whole world agrees that it is wrong, and what is wrong is clear like the sun even if all mankind approve of it.

The same applies to the history as well, even if we assume that each era must write the history from its own perspective because the estimation of each era to what is important and significant varies from one era to another, this still does not make history relative because it does not negate the fact that events have one truth, whether we like it or not. History that is recorded by mankind, which is liable to distortion and inaccuracy and which is based on personal whims, is not like history that is recorded by the Lord of the worlds, which is extremely precise concerning the past, present, and the future.

The statement that there is no absolute truth, which is adopted by many, represents in itself a belief concerning what is right and wrong, and those who adopt it are trying to impose it on others. They adopt a certain standard of behavior and try to compel all people to stick to it. This way, they infringe the same rule that they claim to be adhering to, a situation that reveals self-contradiction.

Evidence on the existence of one absolute truth is as follows:

. The conscience (the inner deterrent): It is the number of instructive and moral principles that restrict the human behavior. It indicates the fact that the world follows a certain course and that there exist right and wrong. Such moral principles are social obligations that are not debatable and that cannot be put to a referendum. They are social facts that the society cannot dispense with in terms of their content and meaning. For example, disrespecting parents and stealing are always regarded as an abominable behavior, and cannot be interpreted as truthfulness or respect. This generally applies to all cultures in all eras.... More

The existence of mankind on the earth planet that floats in space resembles the passengers who belong to various cultures who gathered on board of an airplane that takes them on a flight to an unknown destination and with an unidentified captain. They find themselves compelled to serve themselves and to deal with the troubles occurring aboard.

They receive a message from the captain through a member of the flight crew explaining to them the reason behind their existence, the place of their take-off and their destination, and clarifying to them his personal qualities and how to communicate with him directly.

The first passenger said: Yes, it goes without saying that this airplane has a captain, and he is merciful because he sent us this person to answer our questions.... More

Does the Christian not consider the Muslim a disbeliever, for instance, because he does not believe in the Trinity, and that he will not be admitted to the Kingdom of God except through having faith in it? "Disbelief" is a term that means denial of the truth, and the truth for the Muslim is represented in Tawhīd (monotheism), and for the Christian it is the Trinity.

The Qur’an is the last book sent by the Lord of the worlds. Muslims believe in all the Books sent before the Qur’an, i.e., the Scriptures of Abraham, the Psalms, the Torah, the Gospel, etc. Muslims believe that the true message conveyed by all the Books was pure monotheism, i.e., having belief in Allah and worshiping Him alone. However, the Qur’an, unlike the previous heavenly books, was not sent exclusively to a certain category or group, and it does not have various versions, and it has not been changed; rather, it is one copy for all Muslims. The text of the Qur’an is still in its original language, the Arabic language, and it has not undergone any change, distortion, or replacement. It has still been preserved in its original form until now and it will remain so, as the Lord of the worlds has promised to preserve it. It is available among all Muslims and is memorized by many of them. The current translations of the Qur’an in various languages, which are widely spread among people, are nothing but the mere translation of the meanings of the Qur’an. The Lord of the worlds has challenged the Arabs and non-Arabs to bring the like of this Qur’an, knowing that the Arabs at that time were the masters of eloquence, rhetoric, and poetry; however, they were certain that this Qur’an could come from none but Allah. This has been a standing challenge for over fourteen centuries, and none has been able to rise to it, and this is one of the greatest proofs that it is from Allah.

If the Qur’an had come originally from the Jews, they would have hastened to attribute it to themselves. Did the Jews claim this at the time of its revelation?

Are there no differences in the legislations and transactions, including the prayer, Hajj, and Zakah? Moreover, let us consider the testimony of non-Muslims about how the Qur’an is distinguished from other books, how it could not possibly come from a human, and how it contains scientific miracles, and when a non-Muslims admits the soundness of a belief, this represents the most sufficient proof of its authenticity. It is all one message from the Lord of the worlds, and it should be one. What Prophet Muhammad brought is not a proof of its falsity; rather, it is a proof of its truthfulness. Allah challenged the Arabs who were excellent in rhetoric at that time, as well as non-Arabs to bring even the like of one verse; however, they all failed, and this is still a standing challenge.

Some of the sciences of the ancient civilizations were sound, whereas many of them were only myths and superstitions. How was an illiterate Prophet, who grew up in a barren desert, able to copy from these civilizations the sound knowledge only leaving out the myths?

There are thousands of languages and accents spread around the world, and if the Qur’an had been revealed in any of these languages, people would have wondered why it was not revealed in a different language. Allah sends the messenger speaking the language of his people, and He chose His Messenger Muhammad to be the last messenger, and the Qur’an was revealed in the language of his people. Allah has protected it against distortion and this will last till the Day of Judgment. He also chose the Aramaic language, for instance, for the Book of Jesus.

{We did not send any messenger but in the language of his people to make things clear for them...} [126] Surat Ibrāhīm: 4.

The abrogating and the abrogated represent a development in the legislation rulings like cancelling a previous ruling or replacing it with another, restricting the unrestricted, or unrestricting the restricted. It is something usual and familiar in the previous legislations since the time of Adam. For example, giving the sister in marriage to her brother was serving an interest during the time of Adam (peace be upon him). However, it became something evil in all other legislations. Working on Saturdays was likewise serving an interest in the legislation of Abraham (peace be upon him) and before him and in all other legislations; however, it became something evil in the legislation of Moses (peace be upon him). Allah Almighty ordered the Children of Israel to kill themselves after worshiping the calf; however, this ruling was abrogated after that. There are many other examples in this regard, as replacing a ruling with another is possible in the same legislation or between one legislation and another as we mentioned in the previous examples.

The doctor, for instance, who starts treating his patient with a certain medication, then by time, he increases or decreases the dosage to treat his patient gradually, is considered wise. Bearing in mind that Allah has the highest example, the existence of the abrogating and the abrogated in the Islamic rulings is an indication of the wisdom of the great Creator.

The Messenger of Allah left the Qur’an documented and written down by the Companions to recite it and teach it to others. When Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him) became the Caliph, he ordered that such scrolls should be collected to be in one place and to be used as a reference. However, during the era of ‘Uthmān, he ordered that the copies and scrolls that were available with the Companions in the various countries and in various dialects be burnt, and he sent them new copies identical with the original copy that was left by the honorable Messenger and collected by Abu Bakr, to ensure that all countries refer to the same original and only copy that was left by the Prophet.

The Qur’an has remained intact without any changes or alterations, and it has always been with Muslims throughout the ages, handing it to one another and reciting it in their prayers.

Islam does not contradict the experimental science; rather, many of the western scientists, who did not believe in Allah, have reached the reality through their scientific discoveries that there must exist a creator. Islam gives preponderance to the mind and intellect and invites people to contemplate and reflect on the universe.

As a matter of fact, Islam calls all mankind to reflect on the signs of Allah and His magnificent creation. It calls people to travel through the land and explore the universe using the mind, intellect, and logic. It also encourages people to look and examine the horizons and their own selves more than once, for they will inevitably find the answers they are looking for and will definitely find themselves believing in the existence of the Creator. People will reach the perfect conviction and certainty that this universe has emerged with deliberation and for a purpose, and at the end, they will reach the conclusion that there is no god but Allah, which Islam calls for.

{He Who created seven heavens one above another; you will not see any imperfection in the creation of the Most Compassionate. Look again; can you see any flaw? Then look again and again; your sight will turn back to you humbled and weary.} [127] Surat al-Mulk: 3-4.... More

Prophet Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) is Muhammad ibn ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abd al-Muttalib ibn Hāshim, from the Quraysh, an Arab tribe that lived in Makkah. He is from the offspring of Ismā‘īl ibn Ibrāhīm (Ishmael son of Abraham), the close friend of Allah.

As mentioned in the Old Testament, Allah has promised to bless Ishmael and bring out of his offspring a great nation.

"And as for Ishmael, I have heard thee: Behold, I have blessed him, and will make him fruitful, and will multiply him exceedingly; twelve chiefs shall he beget, and I will make him a great nation." [136] Old Testament, Genesis 17:20.... More

The human technology has succeeded in transmitting people's voices and images all around the world at the same moment, is it not possible for the Creator of mankind to make His Prophet ascend the heavens with his body and soul more than 1400 years ago? The Prophet's ascension on the back of an animal called "Al-Burāq", which was a white and tall animal, larger than a donkey and smaller than a mule. It would place its hoof at a distance which was the furthest point within its sight reach. It had a bridle and a saddle and the prophets (peace be upon them) used to ride it. [Narrated by Al-Bukhāri and Muslim]

The Isrā’ and Mi‘rāj Journey (the Prophet's night journey from Makkah to Jerusalem and his ascension from Jerusalem to the heavens) occurred in compliance with the absolute divine power and will, which are far beyond our realization and which are different from all the laws that we know. They are signs and proofs of the Lord's omnipotence, as He is the One Who created and set such laws.

In "Shaīh al-Bukhāri", which is the most authentic book of the Prophet's Hadīths, we find what indicates ‘Ā’ishah's great love for the Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and we find that she never complained about this marriage.

What is strange is that at such time, the Prophet's enemies accused him with most bitter accusations, saying that he was a poet and a madman; however, none discredited him for such a story and it has never been mentioned except now by some of the prejudiced ones. This story is either something normal that was common among people at that time, as history tells us stories of royal marriages that took place at a young age, like the age of Mary in the Christians' belief, which was close to the age of ‘Ā’ishah at the time she got married to the Prophet, when she was engaged to a man in his nineties before conceiving Jesus. There is also the story of Isabella, the Queen of England, in the eleventh century, who got married at the age of eight, and there are other stories too. [152] Or the story of the Prophet's marriage did not take place in the way they are imagining. http://muslimvilla.smfforfree.com/index.php...https://liguopedia.wordpress.com/.../19/agnes-de-france/...

The Jews of Banu Qurayzhah breached the covenant and allied with the polytheists against the Muslims, so their own evil scheme turned against them. The corporal punishment that is prescribed in their own legislation for treason and the breach of covenants was executed on them after the Prophet had allowed them to choose someone to give his verdict on their case. They chose one of the Prophet's Companions and he decided that the retaliation ruling mentioned in their own legislation be executed on them. [153] "Tārīkh al-Islām" (318- 307/2).

What is the punishment of traitors and the breachers of covenants today according to the laws of the United Nations? Just try to imagine a group of people determined to kill you and all your family and steal your money, what would you do to them? The Jews of Banu Qurayzhah breached the covenant and allied with the polytheists to eliminate the Muslims, what did the Muslims have to do then to protect themselves? The Muslims' reaction to what happened was simply practicing their right of self-defense.

The first verse reads: {There is no compulsion in religion; the truth has been made distinct from falsehood...} [154], establishes a great Islamic principle, which is the prohibition of compulsion in religion, whereas the second verse reads: {Fight those of the People of the Book who do not believe in Allah and the Last Day...} [155], tackles another issue related to those who prevent people from the way of Allah and stop them from accepting Islam. Thus, there is no real contradiction between the two verses. Surat al-Baqarah: 256. Surat at-Tawbah: 29.

Faith is a relationship between the slave and his Lord, whenever he wants to sever it, his matter is left up to Allah. However, if he declares it publicly and uses it as a pretext to fight Islam, betray it, and distort its image, then, according to the man-made war laws, he must be killed and this is indisputable.

The confusion that led to such an allegation about the punishment prescribed for apostasy stems from the illusion that all religions are equally sound, and considering faith in the Creator and worshiping Him alone and exalting Him above all deficiencies and flaws equal to disbelief in His existence, or the belief that He is embodied in the form of a human or stone, or that He has a child, while Allah is far exalted above that. The reason behind this illusion is the belief in the relativity of creed, i.e., it is possible that all religions are true, which is impossible according to the basic rules of logic. It goes without saying that faith contradicts atheism and disbelief. Hence, the one who adopts the sound creed finds that belief in the relativity of the truth is nothing but heedlessness and logical foolishness. Consequently, it is invalid to deem two contradicting creeds true.

Despite all this, the apostates who rejected the true religion are never subject to the prescribed punishment as long as they do not declare their apostasy, and they know that very well. However, they ask the Muslim community to open the door for them so they can spread their ridicule of Allah and His Messenger without being called to account and urge others to adopt disbelief and disobedience and this, for instance, is what no king accepts or allows in his kingdom. No king would accept that any of his subjects deny his existence or ridicule him or any of his courtiers, nor would he accept that someone would attribute to him what does not befit his status as a king. If this is the case with worldly kings, how about the King of all kings and the Creator and Sovereign of everything?!... More

Prophet Moses was a fighter, and so was Prophet David. Both Prophets, Moses and Muhammad (peace be upon them all), were in charge of the political and worldly affairs, and both of them emigrated from the pagan community. Moses took his people out of Egypt, while Muhammad's emigration was to Yathrib, and before that his followers had emigrated to Abyssinia escaping from the political and military authorities in the countries from where they fled for the sake of their religion. The call of Jesus (peace be upon him) was different as it was addressed to the Jews, who were not pagans, unlike Moses and Muhammad who lived in two pagan environments: Egypt and the Arab Peninsula, which made things harder and more challenging. The change that was contingent on the call of Moses and Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon them) was fundamental and comprehensive, as it was a big leap from idolatry to monotheism.

Victims of the wars that took place during the lifetime of Prophet Muhammad did not exceed one thousand, taking into account that such wars were for self-defense, repelling aggression, or protecting religion. On the other hand, millions fell victims to wars that were waged under the name of other religions.

Moreover, the mercy of Prophet Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) was manifest on the Day of the Conquest of Makkah and after Allah Almighty had granted him empowerment, as he said: "Today is a day of showing compassion". He issued a general pardon forgiving the Quraysh who spared no effort to hurt the Muslims, and meeting the offense and abuse with benevolence and kindness.... More

Jihad means striving against the self to prevent it from committing sins. The mother's Jihad is in her pregnancy by enduring the pregnancy pains. The student's Jihad is in his study. There is also the Jihad of the one who defends his property, honor, and religion. Even perseverance in performing the acts of worship, like fasting and prayer on time, is considered one type of Jihad.

So, the meaning of Jihad is not, as understood by some, killing non-Muslims from among the innocent and peaceful people.

Islam honors life, thus, it is not permissible to fight against the peaceful people and civilians, and it is an obligation to protect properties, children, and women even during wars. Moreover, deformation and mutilation are forbidden as such acts are against the morals of Islam.... More

It is not logical to say that the Life Giver commands the one to whom He has given life to kill himself and kill innocent without having committed sin, as He Almighty says: {And do not kill yourselves [or one another].} [166] There are other verses that forbid killing except with a cause, like legal retribution or repelling an attack, and without violating sanctities or proceeding towards death and subjecting oneself to destruction for the sake of serving the benefits of certain sects that have nothing to do with religion or with its objectives, and that are far from the tolerance and morals of such a great religion. The bliss of Paradise must be regarded from a broader sense, as it is not only restricted to the attainment of the Hūr ‘Īn; rather, there are what no eye has ever seen, no ear has ever heard, and no human heart has ever conceived. Surat an-Nisā’: 29.

The suffering of the youth today from the economic circumstances and their inability to attain the financial means necessary for their marriage make them an easy prey to those who advocate such shameful acts, especially those from among them who are addicts and suffer from psychological disturbances. Had the advocates of this idea been truthful, they would have done this themselves instead of sending the youth on such missions.

The word "sword" is not mentioned in the Noble Qur’an, not even once. The countries that did not witness any wars in the history of Islam are the countries where the majority of Muslims of the world live today like Indonesia, India, China, and others. The existence of Christians, Hindus, and others until today in the countries conquered by Muslims is an evidence on that. Whereas, Muslims who live in countries occupied by non-Muslims are only few, those countries in which genocides were committed and people were compelled to adopt their beliefs like the Crusades and others.

Edouard Montet, the Head of the University of Geneva, said in one of his lectures: "Islam is a fast spreading religion. It spreads by itself without any encouragement offered by organized centers. This is because each Muslim is a missionary by nature. The Muslim possesses strong faith, and the strength of his faith overwhelms his heart and mind, and this is a special advantage of Islam not found in any other religion. Hence, a Muslim glowing with faith preaches his religion wherever he goes. He transmits the infection of strong faith to whoever gets in contact with him from among the pagans. In addition to faith, Islam is compatible with social and economic circumstances. It has an amazing ability to adapt with the surroundings and to make the surroundings adapt with the requirements of this strong religion." [167] "Al-Hadīqah Majmū‘at Adab Bāri‘ wa Hikmah Balīghah" by Sulaymān ibn Sālih al-Kharāshi.

The Muslim follows in the footsteps of the righteous and the Prophet's Companions. He loves them and tries to be as righteous as they were, and he worships Allah alone just as they did. However, he does not sanctify them or take them as mediators between himself and Allah.

{...and that we do not take one another as lords besides Allah...} [168] Surat Āl ‘Imrān: 64.

Muhammad was neither a Sunni nor a Shiite; rather, he was a monotheist Muslim. Jesus also was not a Catholic or anything else. Both were the slaves of Allah alone without a mediator. Jesus did not worship himself or his mother, and similarly, Muhammad did not worship himself, his daughter, or his son-in-law.

The emergence of diverse sects due to political problems or deviations from the right religion is possible and has nothing to do with the right, clear, and simple religion. In all cases, the word "Sunnah" means full compliance with the Prophet's methodology, whereas the word "Shia" means a group of people who deviated from the methodology adopted by the majority of Muslims. Therefore, the Sunnis are followers of the Prophet's methodology and the ones on the right course in general, while the Shiites represent the sect that deviated from the right course of Islam.

{Those who have made divisions in their religion and turned into factions, you have nothing to do with them. Their case rests with Allah alone; He will inform them of what they used to do.} [169] Surat al-An‘ām: 159.... More

"Imam" is a word that means the one who leads his people in prayer or manages their affairs and their leadership. It is not a religious rank restricted to certain people. In Islam there are no classes or priesthood; rather, religion is for all. and all people are equal before Allah, i.e., there is no difference between an Arab and a non-Arab except in terms of piety and righteous deeds. The one who is more entitled to lead people in prayer and be their Imam is the one who memorizes more of the Qur’an and is well-informed about the rulings related to prayer. No matter how much Muslims revere the Imam, he, in all cases, does not listen to the confessions and does not forgive sins like the Christian priest does.

{They have taken their rabbis and monks as lords besides Allah, as well as the Messiah, son of Mary, even though they were commanded to worship only One God; none has the right to be worshiped except Him, glorified is He far above what they associate with Him.} [170] Surat at-Tawbah: 31.

Islam stresses the prophets' infallibility in what they convey from Allah, yet no priest or saint is infallible or receives revelation. It is totally forbidden in Islam to resort to anyone but to Allah when seeking aid or making a request, even if the request is addressed to the prophets themselves; as one cannot give what he does not have. How could man seek help from another man if he cannot even help himself?! All honor lies in asking Allah, while humiliation lies in asking other than Him. Is it logical to put the king on an equal footing with his subjects in terms of request?! This idea is totally unacceptable to both mind and logic. Seeking help from other than Allah despite belief in the existence of an Omnipotent God is frivolity and constitutes Shirk (polytheism), which contradicts Islam and is deemed the gravest sin.... More

The prophet is the one who received divine revelation but was not sent with a message or a new methodology. The messenger, on the other hand, is the one sent by Allah with a methodology and legislation that suit his people. Examples include the Torah revealed to Prophet Moses, the Gospel revealed to Jesus, the Qur’an revealed to Prophet Muhammad, the Scriptures of Abraham, and the Psalms of Prophet David.

It is more appropriate to send mankind human messengers to talk to their in own language and act as role models for them. Had Allah sent an angel to mankind as a messenger, and he did what they found difficult to copy, they would have argued that the angel could do what they could not.

{Say, “If there had been angels walking on earth peacefully, We would have certainly sent down to them from the heaven an angel as a messenger.”} [174] Surat al-Isrā’: 95.

{And if We had made him an angel, We would have surely made him [appear as] a man, and We would have caused them confusion just as they are confused.} [175] Surat al-An‘ām: 9.... More

Some of the proofs indicating Allah's communication with His creation through revelation are:

1. Wisdom: If someone, for instance, built a house and left it uninhabited and allowed none to inhabit it, even his children, we would normally judge him unwise or abnormal. Bearing in mind that Allah has the highest attributes, there is surely a wisdom behind the creation of the universe and the subjugation of everything in the heavens and earth to man.

2. Fitrah (sound natural disposition): Inside the human soul, there is a strong natural inclination to know one's origin, the source of one's existence, and the purpose behind such existence. Man's Fitrah always drives him to search for the cause of his existence. However, man alone cannot realize his Creator's attributes, the purpose behind his existence, and his destiny. Therefore, the interference of such unseen powers, represented in sending messengers, is necessary for revealing this truth.... More

The lesson that Allah taught mankind, on accepting Adam's repentance for eating from the forbidden tree, represents the first incident of the Lord's forgiveness to mankind. The Christians' belief of inherited sin from Adam is meaningless, as no bearer of burden will bear the burden of another. In other words, everyone will be alone responsible for his own sins, and this is a manifestation of the Lord's mercy. Man is born pure and sinless and becomes responsible for his deeds since the age of puberty.

He will not be held accountable for a sin he did not commit, as he will not be granted salvation except through his faith and righteous deeds. Allah has granted man life and gave him a free will as a trial and an affliction, and he will be responsible only for his acts.

Allah Almighty said:... More

The Creating God is Ever-Living, All-Sustainer, All-Sufficient, and Omnipotent. He does not need to die crucified, while embodied in the form of Jesus, for the sake of mankind as the Christians believe. He is the Giver and Taker of life, hence, He did not die and he was not resurrected as well. He is the One who protected His Messenger, the Jesus Christ, from being killed and crucified just as He protected His Messenger Abraham from the fire, and protected Moses from the Pharaoh and his soldiers, as He always protects and saves His righteous slaves.

{And for their saying, “We killed the Messiah, Jesus, son of Mary, the messenger of Allah.” But they did not kill him nor did they crucify him, but it was made to appear to them so. Even those who dispute about it are in doubt; they have no certain knowledge other than conjecture. But they certainly did not kill him. Rather, Allah raised him up to Himself, and Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise.} [178] Surat an-Nisā’: 157-158.

A Muslim husband respects the origin of his wife's religion, be she a Christian or a Jew, her Book, and her messenger and his faith is deemed incomplete without that. He also gives her the freedom of practicing her religious rituals. The opposite; however, is not true. If a Christian or a Jew believes that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah, we can give him our daughters in marriage.

Islam complements and completes the creed. So, if a Muslim wanted to embrace Christianity, for instance, it would be at the expense of his belief in Muhammad and the Qur’an, and he will lose his direct relation with the Lord of the worlds by believing in Trinity and resorting to priests, saints, and others. And if he wanted to embrace Judaism, it would be at the expense of his belief in Jesus and the true Gospel, although none is allowed to embrace Judaism, in the first place, because it is a national religion, not international one, and it is the epitome of ultranationalism.

The Islamic civilization dealt with its Creator in a perfect way; putting the relationship between the Creator and His creation in the right place. Whereas other human civilizations failed to do so, as they disbelieved in Allah and associated His creation with Him in belief and worship, and ascribed to Him what does not befit His majesty and dignity.

The true Muslim does not mix between civilization and urbanization. He adopts a moderate approach in determining the way of dealing with ideas and sciences and distinguishing between:

. The element of civilization: which is represented in doctrinal, logical, and intellectual aspects, and in behavioral and moral values.... More

Islam calls for good morals and prohibits evil deeds. Thus, the reason behind bad conduct of some Muslims is their cultural customs or their ignorance of their religion and their distance from the sound religion.

In this case there is no contradiction. If the driver of a splendid car, for instance, had a terrible accident because of his ignorance of the sound rules of driving, would this contradict the splendidness of the car?

The western experience came as a reaction to the dominance and alliance between the church and the state, by dominating people's properties and minds during the middle ages. However, the Islamic world has never faced such a problem due to the practicality and rationality of the Islamic system.

As a matter of fact, we need an established divine legislation that suits man in all conditions. We do not need resources that depend on man's personal whims, desires, and on mood swings, as is the situation with the legalization of usury, homosexuality and others. We do not also need references written down by the strong to be a burden on the weak as in capitalism, or communism that contradicts man's natural desire for ownership.

Muslims already have what is better than democracy, namely the Shūra (consultation) system.

Democracy: It is to consider the opinion of all your family members before taking a crucial decision on family matters, regardless of their experience, age, or level of wisdom, putting all on an equal footing, starting from the kid of kindergarten up to the wise grandfather.

Shūra, on the other hand, means consulting seniors and those who are experienced regarding what serves the interest and what does not.... More

The Hudūd have been prescribed to deter and punish whoever causes corruption deliberately. This is proven by the fact that they are not put in action in cases of unintentional killing or theft that is driven by hunger and dire need. Moreover, Hudūd are not implemented when it comes to minors, insane people, or mental patients. They are basically prescribed to protect the society, and their severity serves an interest that is ensured by religion for the society, which should be a cause of happiness for the society members. The existence of Hudūd is a mercy for people and a means for ensuring their security, thus, none would have an objection to such Hudūd except criminals, highway robbers, and corruptors out of fear for themselves. Some of these Hudūd already exist in man-made laws like the Hadd (legal prescribed punishment) of execution and others.

Those who criticize such punishments take the criminal's interest into account and forget the society's interest. They sympathize with the culprit and neglect the victim. They condemn the severity of the punishment and overlook the brutality of the crime.

Had they coupled the punishment with the crime, they would have become certain of the justice of the Sharia penalties and of its appropriateness for the crimes. On recalling, for instance, how the thief sneaks under the cover of the night, breaks locks, aims his weapon, and terrifies people; violating by that people's privacy and intending to kill whoever tries to stop him, since murder frequently takes place as an excuse to complete the theft or escape its consequences without any sense of reason, we come to realize the profound wisdom behind the severity of the Sharia penalties.... More

One of the general rules of Islam states that wealth belongs to Allah and people are entrusted with it and that wealth must not circulate only among the rich. Islam forbids the act of hoarding wealth without giving the poor and the needy a small share of it through Zakah, which is an act of worship that helps man give preponderance to sacrifice and giving out over stinginess and miserliness.

{Whatever gains Allah has bestowed upon His Messenger from the people of the towns belongs to Allah and the Messenger, and to his close relatives, orphans, the needy, and stranded wayfarers, so that wealth should not circulate only among those of you who are rich. Whatever the Messenger gives you, accept it, and whatever he forbids you, refrain from it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in punishment.} [184] Surat al-Hashr: 7.

{Believe in Allah and His Messenger, and spend [in Allah’s cause] out of what He has entrusted you with. For those among you who believe and spend, there will be a great reward.} [185] Surat al-Hadīd: 7.... More

By drawing a simple comparison between the economic system in Islam, capitalism, and socialism, for instance, it becomes obvious how Islam has achieved this balance.

Concerning the freedom of ownership:

In capitalism: private ownership is the basic principle,... More

Extremism, fanaticism, and bigotry are nothing but qualities that are basically forbidden by the right religion. The Noble Qur’an urges people in many verses to be gentle and merciful, pardoning and forgiving.

{It is by Allah’s mercy that you [O Prophet] became lenient to them. If you had been harsh and hard-hearted, they would have dispersed from you. So pardon them, seek forgiveness for them, and consult them in the important matters. But once you have made a decision, put your trust in Allah, for Allah loves those who put their trust in Him.} [194] Surat Āl ‘Imrān: 159.

{Call to the way of your Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and reason with them in the best manner. Your Lord knows best who has strayed from His way and knows best those who are rightly guided.} [195] Surat an-Nahl: 125.... More

Religion, in principle, came to alleviate many of the restrictions that people impose on themselves. In the pre-Islamic era of ignorance, for instance, abominable practices became widespread like burying girls alive, permitting certain types of food only for men and making them prohibited for women, depriving women of inheritance, eating carrion, committing adultery, consuming intoxicants, devouring the orphan's property, consuming usury among other evil acts.

One of the things that cause people to have an aversion to religion and resort to material science is the existence of contradictions in some religious concepts among some people. Hence, moderation and balance are among the major characteristics and main causes that make people interested in the right religion, and this is clearly manifest in the Islamic religion.

The problem with other religions, which emerged from the distorted sound religion, is represented in... More

{O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters, and the believing women to draw their outer garments over themselves; that is more likely that they will be known [as chaste women] and will not be harassed. And Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.} [205] Surat al-Ahzāb: 59.

The Muslim woman understands well the meaning of the term "Khusūsiyyah" (particularity). Her love for her father, brother, son, and husband made her realize the particularity of each type of love, as her love for her husband and her love for her father or brother require her to give everyone his due right. Her father's right over her, mainly showing respect and dutifulness, is different from her son's right over her such as providing care, upbringing and so on. She knows quite well when, how, and to whom she could reveal her adornment, so, her outfit in the presence of a stranger is different from what she wears in the presence of a close relative. In other words, she does not appear in the same look before all people. A Muslim woman is a free woman who refuses to be a captive of fashion and others' personal desires. She wears only what is appropriate for her and what makes her happy and pleases her Lord. See how the woman in the West has become a captive of fashion and fashion houses. Once they declare that the new trend is wearing short and tight pants, she hurries to wear it whether it fits her or makes her feel comfortable or not.

It is no secret to anyone how the woman today has turned into a commodity, as almost no commercial or flyer is devoid of an image of a naked woman. This conveys an indirect message to the western woman about her current value. When a Muslim woman conceals her adornment, she is the one who sends the world a message indicating how valuable she is, and how honored she is by Allah. So, those who deal with her must evaluate her in terms of her knowledge, culture, convictions, and ideas not in terms of her physical beauty.... More

As a matter of fact, uncovering the head is complete and utter backwardness. Is there any further backwardness beyond the time of Adam; Allah ensured for Adam and his wife concealment and clothing since the time they were created and made to live in Paradise.

{Here you will neither go hungry nor naked.} [206] Surat Taha: 118.

Allah has also provided Adam's offspring with garments to cover their private parts and as an adornment. Since then, humanity has been developing in its clothing with concealment and covering, which has become the criterion of measuring people's progress. It is well-known that people who live away from civilization, like some African nations, barely wear anything besides what covers their private parts.... More

The difference between men's physical structure and that of women is an unquestionable axiom to all people, simply because men's swimsuits differ from those of women in the West. A woman completely covers her body to ward off temptation, but has anybody ever heard of a woman charged with raping a man? Women, in the West, go on demonstrations demanding their right to have a secure life free of harassment and rape which they lack; however, we have never heard of similar demonstrations held by men.

A Muslim woman seeks justice rather than equality, since equality with man causes her to lose many of her rights and a great deal of her distinctions. Let us assume that someone has two sons at the age of five and eighteen. He wants to buy each of them a shirt. Equality, in this case, means buying them shirts of the same size, which means that one of them will have to suffer. On the other hand, justice here means buying each of them a shirt with the size that fits him, the thing that will make everybody happy.

Nowadays women try to prove that they can do whatever men do. In reality; however, this causes them to lose their uniqueness and distinction, as Allah has created the woman to do what man cannot do. It has been proven that labor pains are among the most severe pains that could be experienced by a human being. Religion came to bestow on women the honor they deserve in return for such exhaustion, and to grant them the right of not being responsible for financial maintenance or work and of being fully entitled to their own property without having to share it with their husbands like what happens in the West. Although Allah has not given man the ability to endure labor pains, yet He has given him the ability to climb mountains for instance.

If a woman, wishes to climb a mountain and work hard and claims she can do this exactly like man, she may do so; however, at the end she will be the one who gives birth to children as well, and she will be the one responsible for caring and breastfeeding them as man cannot do this in all cases. So, she will be forced to double her efforts although she had the chance to avoid this from the beginning.... More

According to global statistics, the male and female birth rates are almost equal. However, it is scientifically acknowledged that the rates of females' survival are higher than those of males. Moreover, in wars more men get killed than women. It is also scientifically proven that the average age of females is bigger than that of men which, consequently, leads to increasing the rate of widows globally than that of widowers. Thus, women will come to constitute the majority of the world population and that is why it is not practically appropriate to restrict every man to one wife.

In societies where polygamy is legally forbidden, we find it common for men to have mistresses and several intimate relations out of wedlock, which is an implicit, yet illegal, approval of polygamy. This was a predominant phenomenon before Islam, and Islam came to rectify this situation and preserve the woman's rights and dignity, turning her from a mistress to a self-respecting wife, enjoying her and her children's rights.

It is quite astonishing that these societies find no trouble in accepting affairs out of wedlock, or even same-sex marriages, and accepting relationships void of clear responsibilities, as well as accepting fatherless children. However, such societies can by no means accept a legal marriage between a man and more than one woman. Islam, on the other hand, shows great wisdom in this regard and clearly permits man to practice polygamy, for the sake of preserving the woman's dignity and rights, so long as he has less than four wives and the two conditions of justice and ability are met. Polygamy also aims at solving the problem of the woman who cannot find a single husband and has no choice except to get married to a married man or accept to be someone's mistress.... More

One of the extremely important points that is often neglected by modern society is the right that Islam has granted women but not to men. Man can only marry unmarried women, whereas a woman can either marry a single or a married man and this is meant to guarantee the attribution of children to their real father and to protect the children's rights and their inheritance from their father. Islam allows a woman to be married to a married man provided that he has less than four wives and can fulfill the conditions of justice and ability. Thus, a woman is allowed a wider range of choices from among men and has the opportunity to learn how to deal with the co-wife and how to approach marriage while being aware of the morals of this husband.

Even if we assume the possibility of maintaining the children's right through the DNA test owing to the scientific advancement, what is the mistake of the children to deserve being introduced to their father through such a test? How would this affect their mental state? Moreover, how could one woman manage to be a wife to four men with such moodiness of hers?! All this along with the diseases that she could get as a result of her intimate relation with more than one man at the same time.

Man's Qiwāmah (being in charge) is nothing but an honor bestowed on women and a responsibility placed on men's shoulders to look after women and fulfill their needs. A Muslim woman plays the role of a queen, which every woman on earth aspires to. A smart woman is the one who chooses what she should be: an honorable queen or a hardworking woman in the middle of the road.

If we admit that some Muslim men misuse Qiwāmah, this does not indicate a deficiency in the Qiwāmah system itself; rather, it indicates a deficiency in those who misuse it.

In the pre-Islamic era, women were deprived of inheritance. When Islam came, they were not only included in inheritance but they were also granted more or equal shares to those of men, and in some cases a woman is entitled to inheritance while man is not. In other cases, men get higher shares than women depending on the degree of kinship and consanguinity, and this is the case mentioned in the Noble Qur’an:

{Allah instructs you concerning [the inheritance of] your children: the share of a male is equal to that of two females...} [210] Surat an-Nisā’: 11.

A Muslim lady once said that she had not understood this point until the death of her father-in-law when her husband inherited double the amount that was inherited by his sister. He used the money to buy the missing essentials including a house for his family and a car, whereas his sister used her money to buy jewelry and saved the rest in a bank, as it is her husband's responsibility to provide the habitation and other essential needs. Only then she understood the wisdom behind this ruling and praised Allah.... More

Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) has never beat a woman in his whole life. As for the Qur’anic verse that talks about beating, it refers to non-violent beating in case of recalcitrance. In some period, this kind of beating was depicted in the man-made law of the United States of America as the permissible beating that should not leave trace on the body. That is used to prevent a graver danger like when someone shakes his son by the shoulder to wake him up from his deep slumber so as not to miss his exam.

Let us imagine that someone found his daughter standing on the edge of the window to throw herself; he will inadvertently grab her and pull her back so as not to hurt herself. This is exactly what is meant here by beating the woman; it is the husband's endeavor to prevent his wife from destroying her home and her children's future.

This, actually, comes after several stages as mentioned in the verse that reads:... More

Islam has honored the woman by considering her guiltless of Adam's sin, unlike other religions, and by holding her in high esteem.

In Islam, Allah forgave Adam and taught us how to return to Him whenever we commit a sin throughout our life. Allah Almighty said:

{Then Adam received some words from his Lord, and He accepted his repentance. He is the Accepter of repentance, the Most Merciful.} [213] Surat al-Baqarah: 37.... More

There is a total agreement between Judaism, Christianity and Islam on imposing a heavy penalty for the adultery crime. [223] The Old Testament, Book of Leviticus 20: 10-18.

In Christianity, Jesus stressed the meaning of adultery and made it inclusive of the moral conception and not just restricted to the physical and tangible act itself. [224] Christianity has made it forbidden for the adulterers to inherit the Kingdom of God; so, they will have no other option but to suffer the eternal torment in Hellfire. [225] The punishment to be inflicted on adulterers in this worldly life is that which was decided by the legislation of Moses, i.e., being stoned to death. [226] The New Testament, Gospel of Matthew 5: 27-30. The New Testament, First Epistle of the Corinthians 6: 9-10. The New Testament, Gospel of John 8: 3-11.

Moreover, scholars of the Holy Scripture admit today that the story of Jesus' forgiveness of the adulteress does not actually exist in the earliest copies of the Gospel of John; however, it was added to it later, the thing that is affirmed by the recent translations. [227] More important than all this is the declaration made by Jesus himself at the beginning of his call when he stated that he had not come to revoke the laws of Moses and the previous prophets, rather the disappearance of the heavens and the earth were less significant for him than missing one single point of Moses' legislation as mentioned in the Gospel of Luke. [228] Hence, Jesus could not have possibly suspended Moses' legislation by leaving the adulteress unpunished. https://www.alukah.net/sharia/ 0/82804/ The New Testament, Gospel of Luke 16: 17.... More

Islam calls for the establishment of justice among people and fairness in measure and weight.

{And to the people of Midian [We sent] their brother Shu‘ayb. He said, “O my people, worship Allah; you have no god other than Him. There has come to you a clear proof from your Lord. Give full measure and weight, and do not defraud people of their property, and do not spread corruption in the land after it has been set aright. That is best for you, if you are [truly] believers.} [232] Surat al-A‘rāf: 85.

{O you who believe, stand firm for Allah by bearing true testimony, and do not let the hatred of a people lead you away from justice. Be just; that is closer to righteousness. And fear Allah, for Allah is All-Aware of what you do.} [233] Surat al-Mā’idah: 8.... More

{Your Lord has ordained that you worship none but Him, and show kindness to parents. If one or both of them reach old age in your care, do not say to them a word of annoyance nor scold them, rather speak to them noble words, and lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy, and say, “My Lord, have mercy upon them as they raised me when I was small.”} [246] Surat al-Isrā’: 23-24.

{We have enjoined upon man kindness to his parents. His mother bore him in hardship and gave birth to him in hardship, and his bearing and weaning take thirty months, until when he reaches full maturity and reaches forty years, he says, “My Lord, inspire me to be grateful to Your favors which You blessed me and my parents with, and to do righteous deeds that will make You pleased; and make my offspring righteous. Indeed, I repent to you, and I am one of the Muslims [submitting to You].”} [247] Surat al-Ahqāf: 15.

{Give relatives their due, and the needy and the stranded travelers, and do not spend wastefully.} [248] Surat al-Isrā’: 26.... More

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "By Allah, he is not a believer! By Allah, he is not a believer! By Allah, he is not a believer." It was said: "Who is that, O Messenger of Allah?" He said: "One whose neighbor does not feel safe from his evil." [249] Agreed upon.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) also said: "The neighbor is the most entitled to the right of preemption, so let him wait for him even if he is absent, if they share the same road." [250] "Musnad al-Imām Ahmad".

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said as well: "O Abu Dharr, if you cook broth, increase the amount of water in it and give some to your neighbors." [251] Narrated by Muslim.... More

{There is no moving creature on earth or a bird flying with its two wings, but are communities like you. We have missed nothing in the Record, then to their Lord they will be gathered.} [253] Surat al-An‘ām: 38.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "A woman was tormented because of a cat which she had locked up until it died, and she was thrown into Hellfire for that. She neither gave it food or drink when she locked it up nor freed it so that it would eat from the vermin of the earth." [254] Agreed upon.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) also said: "A man saw a dog eating mud from (the severity of) thirst. So, he took his shoe (and filled it) with water and kept on pouring the water for the dog till it quenched its thirst. Allah accepted his deed and admitted him to Paradise." [255] Narrated by Al-Bukhāri and Muslim.... More

{Do not spread corruption on earth after it has been set aright, but call upon Him with fear and hope. Indeed, the mercy of Allah is close to those who do good.} [256] Surat al-A‘rāf: 56.

{Corruption has appeared on land and sea because of what people’s hands have earned, so that He may cause them to taste the consequence of some of their deeds, so that they may return.} [257] Surat ar-Rūm: 41.

{When they leave [you], they strive to spread corruption in the land and destroy crops and livestock, whereas Allah does not like corruption.} [258] Surat al-Baqarah: 205.... More

Islam teaches us that social duties must be built on love, kindness, and respect for others.

It laid down the standards and criteria and defined the rights and duties concerning all relations that connect the society.

{Worship Allah and do not associate any partners with Him. Be kind to parents, relatives, orphans, the needy, near and distant neighbors, close friends, wayfarers, and slaves whom you own. For Allah does not like those who are arrogant, boastful.} [260] Surat an-Nisā’: 36.... More

Islam encourages orphan sponsorship and urges the sponsor to treat the orphan the way he treats his children; however, it maintains the orphan's right to know his real family to protect his right in his father's inheritance and to avoid mixture of lineages.

The story of the western girl who learnt by coincidence after thirty years that she was adopted and, thus, committed suicide is the biggest proof of the inadequacy of the adoption law. Had they informed her when she was still young, they would have spared her such an end and would have given her the chance to look for her family.

{Do not mistreat the orphan.} [263] Surat ad-Duha: 9.... More

Meat is an essential source of protein. Humans have flat and sharpened teeth suitable and prepared for chewing and grinding meat. Allah has granted man teeth suitable for eating plants and animals, and has created his digestive system in a way that suits digestion of plant food and animal food, which is an evidence on the lawfulness of eating meat.

{...Lawful to you are all grazing livestock...} [266] Surat al-Mā’idah: 1.

The Noble Qur’an laid down some rules concerning the food:... More

The Islamic manner of slaughter, namely cutting the animal's throat and esophagus with a sharp knife, is much more merciful than the electric shock and strangulation that cause the animal to suffer. Once the blood stops flowing to the brain, the animal feels no pain. As for the shaking of the animal at the time of its slaughter, it is not caused by pain; rather, it is caused by the rapid blood flow that facilitates the process of getting all the blood out unlike other methods that block the blood inside the animal body causing harm to those who eat its meat.

The Prophet (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Verily, Allah has enjoined kindness for all things; so when you kill, kill with kindness; and when you slaughter, slaughter with kindness. Let one of you sharpen his blade and spare suffering to the animal he slaughters." [275] Narrated by Muslim.

There is a big difference between the animal's soul and man's soul. The animal's soul is the moving force of the body; once it departs by death, it becomes a lifeless body, which is a type of life. Plants and trees also possess a type of life but it is not called a soul; rather, it is called a life that flows into its parts through water without which it withers and falls.

{...We created from water every living thing. Will they not then believe?} [276] Surat al-Anbiyā’: 30.

However, it is not like man's soul that was attributed to Allah as a symbol of honor. None knows about its essence except Allah, and it is only for man. Man's soul is a divine matter and he is not required to comprehend its true essence. It is a combination of the moving force of the body along with the intellectual force (the mind), perception, knowledge, and faith and this is what makes it distinct from the animals' soul.... More

It is out of Allah's mercy and kindness to His creatures that He allowed us to eat what is pure and forbade us from eating what is impure.

{Those who follow the Messenger – the unlettered Prophet – whose description they find in their Torah and the Gospel. He enjoins them to do what is good and forbids them from what is evil; he makes lawful for them what is pure and makes unlawful for them what is impure; he relieves them of their burden and the shackles that were on them. So those who believe in him, they honor and support him, and follow the light which is sent down with him – it is they who will be successful.”} [277] Surat al-A‘rāf: 157.

Some of those who converted to Islam mentioned that the swine was the cause behind their conversion to Islam.... More

Money, from an Islamic perspective, is a means of trade, exchange of commodities, services, and construction. However, when we lend money to earn a profit, we deprive money of its chief purpose as a means of exchange and development, and we turn it into a goal in itself.

Interests, or usury, that are imposed on loans is a motivation for the loaners as they are not liable to loss. Consequently, the accrued profits that loaners get throughout the years will increase the gap between the rich and the poor. In the recent decades, governments and institutions got involved in this field on a wider range as we have witnessed many examples of the collapse of economic systems in some countries. Usury has the ability to spread corruption in society in such a way that no other crime can ever do. [282]

Allah Almighty said: Based on the Christian principles, Thomas Aquinas condemned usury, or usurious loans. The church, owing to its important religious and worldly role, managed to generalize the prohibition of usury to its subjects after it had already forbidden clergymen from practicing it since the second century. According to Thomas Aquinas, the causes behind the prohibition of interest is that it cannot be the price paid for the loaner's wait, i.e., the price of the time that the loaner already owns, as they deem this procedure a trade dealing. In the past, Aristotle used to believe that money is nothing but a means of trade not a method of gaining interests. As for Plato, he used to believe that interests entail exploitation practiced by the rich over the poor from among the society members. Moreover, usurious transactions prevailed during the time of the ancient Greeks. At that time, the creditor was entitled to sell the debtor in the slave market if the latter failed to repay his debt. The Romans' state was not different. It is worthy to mention that this prohibition was not subject to religious influences since it occurred more than three centuries before Christianity, bearing in mind that the Gospel forbade its followers from dealing in usury, and so did the Torah before that.... More

Allah Almighty has made man distinct from all other creatures by the faculty of mind. He has forbidden us from whatever could harm us, our minds, or our bodies. Thus, He has forbidden us from everything causing intoxication since it conceals and harms the mind and it leads to various types of corruption. The one who is drunk may kill others, commit adultery, steal, or commit any of such grave crimes that result from consuming intoxicants.

{O you who believe, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters and divining arrows are of Satan’s evil work; therefore avoid such [evil], so that you may be successful.} [288] Surat al-Mā’idah: 90.

Intoxicants refer to everything that causes intoxication regardless of its name or form, as the Prophet said: "Everything that causes intoxication is an Khamr (intoxicant), and everything that causes intoxication is unlawful." [289] Narrated by Muslim.... More

The testimony of faith, which includes testifying the Creator's oneness and worshiping Him alone along with testifying that Muhammad is His slave and messenger.

Constant communication with the Lord of the worlds through prayer.

Strengthening man's will and self-control as well as enhancing his feelings of mercy and familiarity with others through fasting.... More

A Muslim prays in obedience to his Lord Who commanded him to pray and Who made prayer one of the pillars of Islam.

A Muslim gets up every day at five o'clock to pray, whereas his non-Muslim friends wake up at the same time exactly to practice their morning sport. His prayer is nourishment for his body and soul, whereas sports for them is only physical nourishment. Prayer is different from supplication, which is asking Allah some need without physical movement like bowing and prostration and which a Muslim can make any time.

Let's consider how much we care about our bodies and leave our souls starving; the result of which is suicide cases beyond count committed by people enjoying the highest degrees of luxury in the world.... More

A Muslim follows the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) and prays in the exact manner the Prophet used to pray.

The Messenger of Allah (may Allah's peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Pray as you have seen me pray." [294] Narrated by Al-Bukhāri.

Through prayer, a Muslim addresses his Lord five times a day to satisfy his strong desire for communicating with Him throughout the day. It is the means that Allah provided us with to address Him, and He commanded us to adhere to it for our own interest.... More

Allah Almighty made the Ka‘bah [297], the Sacred House, the first House for worship and a symbol of the believers' unity since all Muslims from around the world form circles at the time of prayer with Makkah lying at the center. The Qur’an presents many scenes of the interaction between worshippers and nature like the glorification and recitation of the mountains and birds along with Prophet Dāwūd (David): {Indeed, We bestowed favors upon David: “O mountains, echo Allah’s praise with him, and the birds too!” And We made iron malleable for him.} [298] Islam confirms, in more than one occasion, that the whole universe with all its creatures exalt and glorify the Lord of the worlds. Allah Almighty said: Surat Saba’:10.

{The first House [of worship] established for mankind was the one at Bakkah [Makkah], full of blessings and guidance for the worlds.} [299] Surat Āl ‘Imrān: 96. The honorable Ka‘bah is a square-shaped structure, almost like a cube. It lies in the center of the Sacred Mosque in Makkah. It has a door but no windows. It has nothing inside and it is not the grave for anyone, rather, it is a prayer chamber. A Muslim who prays inside the Ka‘bah can face any direction. It was renewed several times throughout history. Prophet Abraham was the first to raise its foundations along with his son Ishmael. In one of its corners, there lies the Black Stone. It is believed that it belongs to the time of Adam (peace be upon him); however, it has no supernatural power but it represents a symbol for the Muslims.

The spherical nature of the earth, the alternation of day and night, and the Muslims' joining them with their circumambulation around the Ka‘bah and their five prayers every day from various spots on earth while facing the direction of Ka‘bah represent part of the universal system in terms of the constant and perpetual interaction to magnify and glorify the Lord of the worlds. It is a command addressed by the Creator to His Prophet Abraham to raise the foundations of the Ka‘bah and circumambulate it, and we were commanded to take the Ka‘bah as our Qiblah (direction) during the prayer.... More

The Ka‘bah was mentioned many times throughout history. People used to visit it every year even from the farthest parts of the Arabian Peninsula, which showed great reverence for its holiness. It was also mentioned in the prophecies of the Old Testament: "As they pass through the Valley of Bakkah, they turn it into a spring." [300]

The Arabs used to venerate the Sacred House during their pre-Islamic era of ignorance. When Prophet Muhammad was sent, Allah Almighty made Jerusalem his first prayer direction. Then, He commanded him to turn towards the Sacred House instead to distinguish between those who were sincere to Allah and those who turned against Him from among the followers of Prophet Muhammad. The main objective behind changing the prayer direction was to make the hearts completely devoted to Allah and to purify them from all kinds of attachment to other than Allah. Muslims, thus, submitted and turned towards the new prayer direction as instructed by the Prophet. The Jews used to consider the Prophet's facing the direction of Jerusalem in prayer as an argument supporting their stance. Old Testament, Psalms: 84.

Furthermore, such a change in the prayer direction was also a turning point and a symbol of the shift of religious leadership to the Arabs after being taken away from the Children of Israel for their breach of covenants with the Lord of the worlds.... More

There is a huge difference between paganism and revering certain places and rituals, whether religious, national, or ethnic.

According to the opinion of some scholars, throwing pebbles at the Jamrahs (stoning pillars), for instance, shows our disagreement with the devil and our abstention from following him, and is a symbol of following the example of Abraham (peace be upon him), who threw stones at the devil when the latter appeared to him and tried to prevent him from carrying out his Lord's command by slaughtering his son. [301] Similarly, performing Sa‘y (walking at a brisk pace) between Safa and Marwah is a symbol of following the example of Hājar, who kept walking at a brisk pace in search of water for her son Ishmael. In all cases and regardless of the views in this regard, all the rituals of Hajj are meant to establish the remembrance of Allah and to indicate obedience and submission to the Lord of the worlds. They are not meant to worship stones, places, or people. Meanwhile, Islam calls for worshiping one God, the Lord of the heavens and the earth and what is between them and the Creator and Sovereign of everything. Imam Al-Hākim in "Al-Mustadrak" and Imam Ibn Khuzaymah in his "Sahīh" on the authority of Ibn ‘Abbās (may Allah be pleased with him).

Can we blame someone for kissing the envelope that contains a message from his father, for instance?! All rituals of Hajj are meant to establish the remembrance of Allah and to indicate obedience and submission to the Lord of the worlds. They are not meant to worship stones, places, or people. Meanwhile, Islam calls for worshipping one God, the Lord of the heavens and the earth and what is between them and the Creator and Sovereign of everything.

{I turn my face towards the One Who originated the heavens and earth, inclining to true faith, and I am not one of those who associate partners with Allah.} [302] Surat al-An‘ām: 79.

Death caused by crowdedness during Hajj has only occurred in a limited number of years, and usually those who die because of the crowdedness are extremely rare. However, those who die because of consuming alcohol, for instance, amount to millions every year, and victims from among the crowds of football fields and the South American carnivals are even more. In all cases, death is an inevitable truth and meeting Allah is truth, and dying while performing an act of obedience is better than dying while committing a sin.

Malcolm X says:

"For the first time, after spending twenty-nine years on this earth, I stood before the Creator of everything and felt that I am a perfect human being. I have never witnessed in my life something more truthful than such establishment of brotherhood between people of all colors and races. America needs to understand Islam because it is the only religion that can solve the problem of racism." [303] A Muslim preacher and a human rights activist, an American from African origins (Afro-American). He rectified the Islamic movement course of action in America after it had strongly deviated from the Islamic creed and he called people to the sound creed.... More

There are many verses in the Qur’an that refer to Allah's mercy and His love for His slaves. However, the love of Allah Almighty for His slave is different from the slaves' love for one another. This is because according to human standards, love is a need that the lover finds with the loved one. Whereas, Allah Almighty does not need us; rather, His love for us is that of favor and mercy. It is love of the Strong for the weak, love of the Self-Sufficient for the needy, love of the Able for the helpless, and love of the Great for the insignificant, a love that is based on wisdom.

Do we allow our children to do whatever they like on the pretext of loving them? Do we allow our little children to throw themselves from the window or play with exposed electric wires on the pretext of loving them?

It is impossible to allow one to make decisions based on his personal interest and pleasure, or to make him the main focus of attention and to give precedence to his personal interests over that of the state and the influence of society and religion; giving him permission to change his sex and do whatever he wishes and act and dress the way he likes in public on the pretext that the street belongs to all.... More

{And [We sent] Lot, when he said to his people, “Do you commit such a shameful act that nobody has ever done before you? For you approach men lustfully instead of women; you are but a transgressing people.” The only reply his people gave was to say, “Drive them out of your town, for they are people who keep themselves pure!”} [305] Surat al-A‘rāf: 80-82.

This verse confirms the fact that homosexuality is not genetic and has nothing to do with the human genetic code because the people of Lūt were the first to practice this type of immorality. This corresponds with the most extensive scientific study affirming that homosexuality has nothing to do with genes. [306] "Mawsū‘at al-Kahīl lil-I‘jāz fil-Qur’ān wa as-Sunnah" https://kaheel7.net/?p=15851

Should we accept the thief's tendency to stealing? It is a tendency as well but in both cases they are abnormal tendencies, and is transgression against the human natural disposition and against nature that must be redressed.... More

Allah is All-Forgiving and Most Merciful with those who commit sins without insistence, given man's human nature and weakness, and who repent of such sins and do not mean thereby to challenge the Creator. However, Allah Almighty destroys those who challenge Him, deny His existence, or visualize Him in the form of an idol or an animal and those who exceed the limits in disobeying Him without repenting and whom Allah does not want to forgive. If one insults an animal, none will blame him; however, if one insults his parents, he will be harshly blamed. How about the Creator's right? We should not consider the insignificance of the sin; rather, we should consider the greatness of the One Whom we disobey.

Evil does not come from Allah. Evils are not of existential things, as existence is pure goodness.

If someone, for instance, hit another one until he made him lose his ability to move, then this person has acquired the attribute of oppression, and oppression is evil.

However, the existence of power in the one who grabs a stick to hit someone else is not evil.... More

The Creator has laid down nature's laws and rules that regulate it. On the outbreak of any corruption or ecological disorder, it protects itself by itself and maintains this balance with the aim of achieving reformation on earth and ensuring that life will proceed in a better way, and only what is beneficial to people and life will stay and survive. When catastrophes occur on earth and cause damages to mankind, like diseases, volcanoes, earthquakes, and floods, these are the times when the names and attributes of Allah become evident, for instance, the All-Powerful, the Healer, and the All-Preserver which are manifest in His healing the sick and preserving the survivors. Other names also become evident during such catastrophes like His name the Just, which is manifest in His punishing the oppressor and the sinner, the All-Wise, which is manifest in afflicting and testing the non-sinner to recompense him with goodness for his patience and with torment for his impatience. This way man gets to know the greatness of his Lord through such afflictions exactly as he gets to know His beauty through His favors. If man only recognizes the attributes of the divine beauty, then he does not truly know Allah Almighty.

The existence of disasters, evil, and pain was the reason behind the atheism of many of the contemporary materialist philosophers like "Antony Flew". Before his death, he acknowledged the existence of God and wrote a book called "There is a God", despite his being the head of atheism during the second half of the twentieth century. Acknowledging the existence of God, he said:

"The existence of evil and pain in people's life does not negate the existence of God; rather, it drives us to reconsider the divine attributes." Antony Flew believed that such catastrophes have multiple positive effects as they stimulate man's physical abilities to invent whatever would grant him safety. They also stimulate his best psychological qualities and drive him to help others. Because of evil and pain, the human civilizations were built throughout history. He said: "No matter how many theses are written to explain this aporia, the religious explanation will remain the most acceptable and the most compatible with the nature of life." [308] Quoted from "Khurāfat al-Ilhād" by Dr. ‘Amr Sharīf, edition 2014 AD.... More

The one who wonders why evil exists in this life, taking it as a pretext for negating the existence of God only reveals his shortsightedness and his fragile thinking in realizing the wisdom behind this, and reveals his lack of awareness about underlying issues. By posing such a question, the atheist implicitly admits that evil is an exception.

Therefore, before asking about the wisdom behind the existence of evil, it is worthier to ask a more realistic question, which is: How was goodness brought into existence in the first place?

Undoubtedly, the most important question to start with is: Who brought goodness into existence? We must first agree on the starting point or the original or prevailing principle, then, we can search for the causes behind the exceptions.... More

How would you feel about someone who dissociated himself from his parents, kicked them out of the house, and left them in the street?

If someone said that he would let this person in his house, treat him with generosity, feed him, and thank him for such an act, would people appreciate that for him? Would people accept that from him? Bearing in mind that Allah has the highest attributes, what destiny do we expect for someone who rejected his Creator and disbelieved in Him? Whoever is punished with fire is as if put in his due place, as he despised peace and goodness on earth, thus, became unworthy of the bliss of Paradise.

What destiny do we expect for someone who tortures children with chemical weapons? Do we expect him to enter Paradise without reckoning?!... More

As a matter of fact, Allah wants all His slaves to have faith.

{And He does not approve of disbelief for His slaves. If you are grateful, He approves that for you. No bearer of burden can bear the burden of another. Then to your Lord is your return, and He will inform you of what you used to do. He is All-Knowing of what is in the hearts.} [312] Surat az-Zumar: 7.

However, if Allah sends all people to Paradise without reckoning, this will be a flagrant violation of justice. It means that Allah will treat His Prophet Moses and the Pharaoh the same way and will admit every oppressor along with his victims to Paradise as if nothing happened at all. There is a need for a mechanism that ensures that those admitted to Paradise will be admitted based on eligibility.... More

Many crimes lead those who commit them to life sentence. Does anyone object saying that this life sentence is unjust because the criminal committed his crime only in a few minutes? Is a ten-year sentence considered unfair because the criminal embezzled from the money only within one year? Penalties do not depend on the duration of committing crimes; rather, they depend on the magnitude and gravity of the crime itself.

A mother exhausts her children with her numerous warnings whenever they travel or go to work to be careful to themselves in their each commute. Is she considered a cruel mother? This is a clear misjudgment to consider mercy cruelty. Allah alerts His slaves and warns them out of His mercy. He guides them to the way of salvation and promises to replace their misdeeds with good deeds when they repent to Him.

{Except those who repent and believe, and do righteous deeds; for them Allah will change their evil deeds into good deeds, for Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful.} [314] Surat al-Furqān: 70.

Why have we not wondered about the greatness of the reward and the bliss in the eternal gardens of Paradise in return for a few acts of obedience?... More

Allah Almighty guided all His slaves to the way of salvation and He does not approve of disbelief for them. However, He does not love the wrong attitude itself that man adopts by disbelief or causing corruption on earth.

{If you disbelieve, then Allah is in no need of you, but He does not approve of disbelief for His slaves. If you are grateful, He approves that for you. No bearer of burden can bear the burden of another. Then to your Lord is your return, and He will inform you of what you used to do. He is All-Knowing of what is in the hearts.} [316] Surat az-Zumar: 7.

What would we say about a father who keeps telling his children that he will be proud of them all if they steal, commit adultery, kill, and cause corruption on earth and tells them that he considers them like the righteous worshippers? Simply the best description of such a father is that he is like a devil encouraging his children to spread corruption on earth.... More

We must differentiate between faith and submission to the Lord of the worlds.

The right that the Lord of the worlds is entitled to and that none can neglect is submitting to His Oneness and worshiping Him alone without associating partners with Him, and submitting to the fact that He alone is the Creator to Whom sovereignty and all affairs belong, whether we accept this or not. This is the origin of belief, which should be fulfilled by words and deeds, and we have no other option. In the light of this, man will be reckoned and punished.

The opposite of submission is delinquency.... More

It is man's right to seek knowledge and explore the horizons of this universe, as Allah Almighty has granted us these minds to use them not to suspend them. Everyone who follows the religion of his forefathers without using his mind, thinking, or analyzing such a religion, certainly wrongs and despises himself, and disdains this great blessing that Allah Almighty has bestowed on him which is the mind.

Many Muslims grew up in a Muslim family but, then, deviated from the right path by associating partners with Allah. On the other hand, others grew up in a polytheistic or Christian family believing in Trinity, then, rejected this creed and testified that there is no god but Allah.

The following allegory clarifies this point. A woman cooked a fish for her husband but before cooking it, she cut its head and tail. When her husband asked her why she did that, she replied saying: My mother cooks it this way. He asked her mother why she would cut the head and tail when cooking fish, and she gave him the same reply as her daughter. After that, he asked the grandmother why she would cut the head and tail, and she said: I had a small cooking pot and I had to cut the head and tail so the fish would fit in the pot.... More

Allah will not wrong such people; rather, He will test them on the Day of Judgment.

People who did not have an opportunity to know Islam well have no excuse because, as we mentioned, they should not have been negligent in searching for the truth and thinking about it, although it is difficult to verify the act of informing people of Islam beyond ignorance and doubt since people vary. The destiny of those who are excused for their ignorance or for not being provided with irrefutable proof will be decided by Allah in the Hereafter, whereas the rulings related to this worldly life depend on what is apparent.

Allah's judgment to punish them is not injustice after all such irrefutable proofs that He provided them with through the mind, the natural disposition, the messages, and the signs in the universe and in their own selves. The least they were expected to do in return for all this was to know Allah Almighty and worship Him alone with adhering to the pillars of Islam at least. Had they done this, they would have been saved from eternity in Hellfire and would have attained happiness in this life and in the Hereafter. Do you think this is difficult?... More