(Mohammad Masood Ahmed (2025), Would You Like To Know Something About Islam, Second Edition, Crescent Books Inc., New York, USA. Pg. 43-46)

Every heavenly religion claims to represent the truth and asserts that salvation is attainable solely through its teachings. Each belief system claims to have the answers to the challenges facing humanity. Islam, too, makes this assertion. After all, how could any religion or ideology exist without making such claims? Discerning which one provides the true path to salvation and ultimate success becomes quite difficult, considering the profound differences among various religions and ideologies.

To illustrate Islam's righteousness and divine essence, which guarantees humanity’s ultimate success, I note that referencing its sacred book, the Holy Qur’an, is meaningless for those who do not regard it as the divine text revealed by the Creator, Allah. Therefore, a criteria will be outlined for critically assessing the legitimacy of a religion or ideology to determine Islam's authentic position in various contexts. The principles of that criteria are as follows:

I. Carefully examine whether that code of life is suitable for human nature.
II. Who is the founder, proponent, or author of the system that guides people's lives?
III. Are the moral character and qualities of the advocate or lawgiver of that religion or ideology aligned with the proposed system or constitution?
IV. Does the founder or prophet assert that the established rules are universally applicable across all times and circumstances?
V. If it is claimed that ideology or religion is otherworldly and revealed by the Supreme Being, then consider whether the human mind could have forged it.

I. Carefully examine if that code of life is suitable for human nature

Does this code of life require or instruct its followers to perform actions they are fundamentally incapable of ? In typical situations, can people benefit from it and make positive contributions? Is it relevant to most individuals, and does it foster significant transformation for its adherents or society as a whole? Does it ask too much, which might be unreasonable, or provide too little, failing to justify the balance between its offerings and expectations? Does it cultivate inner peace and fulfillment? Does it encompass all facets of human existence, or does it leave its followers feeling uncertain?

Furthermore, does it fulfill humanity’s inherent longing to bond with the Supreme Being? If these criteria are not met, then that religion, ideology, or way of life fails the evaluation. In reality, it may lead to detrimental outcomes for its adherents and will undoubtedly lack any form of success, let alone achieve the ultimate one.

II. Who is the founder, proponent, or author of the system by which people are to live?

Is the ideological or religious system created or organized by someone with questionable intellect, authority, and judgment, whose observations and empirical support are inconsistent, whose desires and objectives fluctuate over time, whose principles are unconventional, whose hidden agenda is misleading, or whose credibility is unreliable? If any of these factors apply, then the moral code and rules established by that individual cannot be considered comprehensive or ‘righteous,’ and such a code will certainly not lead to success.

III. Are the moral character and qualities of the advocate or lawgiver of that religion or ideology aligned with the proposed system or constitution?

Is he a materialist or pursuing power, prestige, or material pleasures? If the answer is yes, this person is clearly exploiting others' desire for comfort and meaning in life. In this case, the proposed ideology will fail to provide lasting fulfillment and success.

IV. Does the founder/prophet claim that the established rules presented are universal and valid for all times and conditions?

If such a claim exists, one must examine its validity. If there is no such claim or if it is found invalid under certain circumstances, then that proposed ideology does not pass the test. It will need constant amendments to meet ever-changing needs and times. Therefore, it is an inefficient medium for achieving permanent or ultimate success.

V. If it is claimed that ideology or religion is otherworldly and revealed by the Supreme Being, then consider whether the human mind could have forged it.

Can the imagination of an intellectual or philosopher create the wisdom supporting that proposition and its goals for humanity? If it cannot be created by humans, only then can we confidently assert that it comes from the higher authority known as the Lord and Creator. Furthermore, it is essential to understand that the pleasure of the Supreme Being is assured through it and that adhering to the guidelines it presents is crucial for attaining ultimate success.

Note: Once you have acquired sufficient knowledge, your heart—the true heart—will be your best guide. Listen to your heart and observe its inclinations.

In light of these criteria and approaches, readers are encouraged to examine the essence of Islam and evaluate its profound significance for humanity. I believe you will gain valuable insight into Islam. In various other articles, Islam will be explored in greater detail in relation to these criteria, demonstrating its status as a divine religion.