Islam
Islam is the second most popular faith in the world with over a thousand million followers.
- The literal meaning of Islam is peace.
- The message of Islam was revealed to the Holy Prophet Muhammad over 1300 years ago
- The Islamic scripture is the Holy Qur’an. It is the word of Allah as told to the Prophet Muhammad
The 5 pillars of Islam
Shahadah: declaration of faith
There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is his messenger.
Salat: ritual prayer 5 times a day
- Fajr – between dawn and sunrise
- Zuhr – at midday
- Asr – late afternoon
- Maghrib – in the evening around sunset
- Isha – before going to bed at night
Zakat
Contribution to the needy of 2½% of an individuals annual income.
Sawm
Keeping the fast of Ramadan
- For thirty days during Ramadan Muslims fast. They do not eat or drink during daylight hours.
- Ramadan occurs during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and starts when the new moon is seen at the start of the month and ends when the new moon is seen again at the end of the month.
Hajj
Pilgrimage to Mecca
There are several different groups of Muslims – the largest group consist of Sunni Muslims who make up 90% of the world’s Muslims. The other main group is the Shi’ite Muslims.
Islamic Festivals
There are two main Islamic festivals:
Eid-ul-Fitr
This marks the end of Ramadan, the month of fasting, and is a festival of great celebration.
Eid ul Adha
Marks the end of Hajj (holy pilgrimage to Mecca). Muslims are required to perform the Hajj at least once in their lifetime.
A short guide to Islam
This short guide to Islam is for individuals, public sector officers and community organisations who would like to increase their understanding of the Islamic faith and apply it in their work.
The guide covers information on the basic principles of Islam, including the five pillars, basic etiquette, diversity within the faith as well as a list of do's and don'ts when engaging with members of the diverse range of communities that practice the Muslim faith.
For further information please contact Donna Wiggins on 0207 926 2681 or email dwiggins@lambeth.gov.uk.