(Mohammad Masood Ahmed (2025), Would You Like To Know Something About Islam, Second Edition, Crescent Books Inc., New York, USA. Pg. 149-164)

After learning about the broader meaning of worship in Islam, which is that Muslims must fulfill their duties to Allah and to people, we must identify the obligations within these two categories. Although an in-depth discussion is not necessary at this point, the following summary will help deepen our understanding of Islam and Muslims.

When someone embraces Islam, they verbally proclaim and sincerely believe, “There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.” This declaration signifies their covenant with the Lord. They acknowledge Allah as their Lord, grasp the full meaning of tawhid (the Oneness of Allah), recognize Muhammad as the Prophet of Allah and the Final Prophet (indicating that no other prophet will follow him), and accept the Holy Quran as the final and ultimate Word of Allah. By entering into this covenant, Muslims wholly submit their will to Allah, commit to obeying Him without incorporating personal ideas into religious matters, and pledge to adhere to His commandments.

If Muslims do not wholly surrender, then, they have not truly embraced Islam. If that is true, how should they be regarded? What terms are appropriate: partially engaged, pretending to enter, deceiving themselves, misleading others, or hypocritically practicing Islam? In this context, Allah commands in the Holy Quran:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا ادْخُلُوا فِي السِّلْمِ كَافَّةً وَلَا تَتَّبِعُوا خُطُوَاتِ الشَّيْطَانِ ۚ إِنَّهُ لَكُمْ عَدُوٌّ مُّبِينٌ 208¹

O faithful believers! Enter into Islam with complete submission and do not follow in the footsteps of Shaytan; undoubtedly, he is for you a manifest enemy.

Simply writing one’s initials is not enough; a full signature is required on a contract for it to be considered valid and enforceable. When a contract is signed voluntarily, it is generally expected to be upheld, with any breach dealt with seriously, as highlighted in the contract. Minor errors may be over-looked, but significant violations must be rectified through proper channels. However, if a party completely disregards a contract, it becomes null and void, and that party cannot claim any benefits under it.

Recently, I have encountered terms such as “practicing” and “non-practicing” used to describe an individual's level of religious observance. Even some Muslims have been heard saying, “We are non-practicing Muslims.” Additionally, it has become common for Muslims to ask one another, “Are you a practicing Muslim?” or “Are you a non-practicing Muslim?” or “Are you a not-so-practicing Muslim?” Remarks like “I am not that kind of a Muslim!” or “Oh, you are that kind of a Muslim!” have become frequent. Regardless of the response, it is delivered boldly, often without remorse, and sometimes with pride.

It's important to clarify that from an Islamic perspective, terms like “non-practicing Muslim” or "not-so-practicing Muslim" do not exist. A person is either a Muslim or they are not; there is no middle ground. However, Islam does have specific terms for willful violators, including fajir (sinner), fasiq (transgressor), munafiq (hypocrite), and murtadd (apostate). Allah classified people in the Quran and stated:

وَمِنَ النَّاسِ مَن يَقُولُ آمَنَّا بِاللَّهِ وَبِالْيَوْمِ الْآخِرِ وَمَا هُم بِمُؤْمِنِينَ ‎8‏ يُخَادِعُونَ اللَّهَ وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَمَا يَخْدَعُونَ إِلَّا أَنفُسَهُمْ وَمَا يَشْعُرُونَ ‎9‏ فِي قُلُوبِهِم مَّرَضٌ فَزَادَهُمُ اللَّهُ مَرَضًا   ۖ وَلَهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ بِمَا كَانُوا يَكْذِبُونَ10 ‎ ²

And some from the general populace say, “We people have come to believe in Allah and the Last Day,” whereas they are not from the believers. They intend to deceive Allah and Muslims, but they do not deceive but themselves and are unaware of it. In their hearts is a disease, so Allah lets them progress in the disease, and for them is a painful torment, for they used to lie.

A person becomes a Muslim by consciously and willingly declaring the following Cardinal Article of Faith:

I have faith in Allah; His angels , His holy books , His prophets , the Day of Judgment , (the fact that both) good and bad come from Allah , and in the resurrection (after death).

A detailed article regarding Allah Almighty can be read for more details on it.

Angels are creations of Allah, formed from nur (light), and lack a nafs (base self). They always obey Allah and fulfill their divine purpose without deviation. Their role within Allah's kingdom is constant, and they faithfully carry out their duties. The remembrance of Allah serves as their sustenance. Angels do not reproduce. It is crucial for Muslims to believe in their existence. The most prominent and revered archangels are Jibril (Gabriel) , Mika’il (Michael) , ‘Azra’il (Azrael) , and ’Israfil (Raphael) .

Muslims must have faith in the Holy Books , believing that the Tawrah (Torah), Zabur (Psalms), Injil (gospel), and the Holy Quran were divinely revealed by Allah to His Prophets , rather than being authored by humans. In Islam, the Tawrah, Zabur, and Injil are considered no longer valid (for practicing) and do not exist in their original form. Thus, only the Holy Quran continues to serve as the eternal guidance from Allah.

Having faith in Allah’s Prophets involves acknowledging them as chosen individuals tasked with guiding humanity. In Islam, Muslims are required to believe in each one of them without exception. This entails respect for all Prophets , from ‘Adam to ‘Isa , and notably Muhammad , the Final Prophet and Seal of Prophethood. Muslims should express proper salutations when uttering or writing their names to show utmost respect, and they must harbor love for them in their hearts.

Belief in the Day of Judgment is a central tenet of Islam. The concepts of accountability, the fear of punishment, and the expectation of reward all serve as motivations to follow the commandments of Allah in this life. Trusting in the Day of Judgment and everything that will transpire brings meaningful and significant changes to a person’s behavior.

Believing that both good and bad come from Allah affirms His All-Powerful, Almighty, and All-Knowing nature; only He can grant us goodness, and only He can inflict misfortune. The good we experience reflects His kindness, blessing, and pleasure. Although originating from Him, misfortune and suffering often result from our faults, misdeeds, and sins that necessitate accountability. In a way, experiencing pain and punishment for sins in this life is preferable, as these worldly punishments are temporary, unlike the eternal torment and suffering that awaits in the Hereafter.

The belief that all good and bad comes from Allah does not imply that Allah has arbitrarily chosen to inflict pain on some while granting pleasure to others. Instead, this situation serves as a test for us. It means that both good and bad originate from Allah, Who is just and never commits injustice against anyone.

Belief in the resurrection represents faith in life after death. Judgment Day and the notion of accountability for punishment or reward cannot exist without the possibility of returning to life. Hence, it is essential for Muslims to hold a simultaneous belief in life after death.

Every now and then, we encounter dead bodies, whether they belong to our loved ones, friends, colleagues, or others. In one way or another, when these bodies are laid to rest, it can be incredibly difficult to comprehend how a dead body, after being buried for so long and transformed into dust, ashes, or blended into the earth, could ever be revived. It’s easy to accept that death is a permanent reality, but the truth is that this death is temporary, just like our lives here on Earth.

Allah clarifies in the Holy Quran:

كُلُّ نَفْسٍ ذَائِقَةُ الْمَوْتِ ۗ وَإِنَّمَا تُوَفَّوْنَ أُجُورَكُمْ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ  ۖ فَمَن زُحْزِحَ عَنِ النَّارِ وَأُدْخِلَ الْجَنَّةَ فَقَدْ فَازَ ۗ وَمَا الْحَيَاةُ الدُّنْيَا إِلَّا مَتَاعُ الْغُرُورِ 185³

Everyone will be tasting death and will be fully given their due only on the Day of Judgment. Whosoever is saved from Hell and is admitted into Heaven certainly becomes successful. And this earthly life is nothing but a deceptive earning.

This sacred verse references only the “tasting” of death, indicating that such a “taste" does not imply permanence. For Allah, reviving life is not difficult, just as He created it initially. He has the ability and will to grant life for a second time. This is fundamentally a matter of belief. However, if this concept were easily grasped, faith in it would also be simple, resulting in no reward for holding onto it.

The Shahada, also known as the Kalimah or Declaration of Faith, initiates an individual's journey into Islam. Following this, the process of worship commences, activating the entire framework of rights, duties, and the covenant between humanity and Allah. Among the responsibilities owed to Allah, the foremost duty of an adult Muslim is to perform daily Salah (the five daily prayers). Next is Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), followed by Zakat (mandatory charity), and finally, the performance of Hajj. These are known as the five pillars of Islam, with the Declaration of Faith being the primary one.

Salah must be performed five times daily at specific times; it is required of all adult Muslims as long as they are mentally competent. The age of adulthood varies for boys and girls: boys should commence their salah at age twelve, while girls should begin at around nine years old. Intentionally neglecting salah is not permissible, but if it is missed inadvertently, the qada’ (make-up salah) should be conducted as soon as possible. It is crucial to perform each salah at its designated time. Fajr Salah is offered before dawn, Dhuhr at midday after the sun passes its zenith, Asr in the late afternoon—roughly one and a half to two hours before sunset—Maghrib just after sunset, and the final obligatory prayer, Isha, is offered at night, approximately two hours after sunset.

On the Day of Judgment, Muslims will first be questioned about their establishment of salah. Prophet Muhammad stated, “Salah distinguishes a believer from a non-believer; it is the shield (that saves Muslims from sin), the key to Heaven, and the pinnacle point at which a slave meets his Master, Allah” ⁴. Regardless of circumstances, Muslims are required to perform their salah.

Salah involves both physical activity and spiritual nourishment. Practicing it satisfies a Muslim’s duty to Allah while also bringing inner joy and numerous blessings from Him. During salah, prostration signifies the closest proximity to Allah and reflects profound humility, a central purpose of salah. Additionally, closeness to Allah brings peace of heart and mind, uplifts the soul, strengthens faith, guards against sin, and purifies the body, heart, and mind—just a few of the many physical and spiritual benefits of establishing Salah.

Every day, hundreds of millions of Muslims perform salah seamlessly, without any difficulty or interference with their daily routines. Those who deliberately neglect salah cannot be recognized as true Muslims, regardless of how educated, devout, esteemed, or spiritual they might seem. In accordance with Islamic Shar’iah (law), these individuals are classified as fasiq (violators) ⁵. They do not possess the right to instruct or advocate for Islam and should not be viewed as reputable sources on the topic. How can individuals who fail to learn or practice Islam appropriately claim the authority to teach or preach to others?

Observing Sawm entails fasting during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. This sacred month holds great significance and features a special night known as Laylat al-Qadr (Night of Power). It is believed to fall on one of the last ten odd-numbered nights of Ramadan, with many scholars and Muslims traditionally considering the 27th night as the most likely. Laylat al-Qadr marked the moment when Allah initiated the revelation of the Holy Quran to Prophet Muhammad . The rewards for prayers offered throughout this night are considered equivalent to those of a thousand months.

While fasting, Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, inhaling anything other than air, or consuming any substances from dawn until dusk. They break their fast at sunset. The sick and travelers are excused from fasting, but they must make up the missed days whenever their condition permits. Those who are weak and unable to fast (according to shariah), should provide food for at least one hungry person for every day of fasting that they miss, offering two full meals for each day. Intentionally disregarding or violating the rules of Sawm displeases Allah.

A Hadith Al-Qudsi states, “I Myself am the reward for Sawm," emphasizing the significant blessing of Allah being the reward itself. This signifies His immense pleasure in the observer's commitment to fasting, where they abstain from food and drink for His sake and endure the discomfort of hunger all day to seek His pleasure and adhere to His commandments. Nearly every adult Muslim around the world observes Sawm during the holy month of Ramadan. Allah reveals:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ 183⁶

O faithful believers! Obligatory upon you is fasting, as it was made obligatory upon those before you, that you may now become pious.

This verse reveals that fasting has been mandatory in some form for previous nations. It emphasizes that the primary aim of fasting is to cultivate piety, not merely to abstain from food temporarily, only to follow it with excessive eating. While fasting, it’s crucial to avoid sinful behaviors and engage in worship and good deeds as much as possible to obtain plentiful blessings. Essentially, this month serves as a period of training for Muslims to develop piety and learn how to maintain it throughout the year. If Muslims fail to embody piety and only adjust their eating schedules during Ramadan, they miss the purpose of this practice. The essence of Ramadan’s training is forfeited if Muslims do not fulfill their responsibilities throughout the year.

Unfortunately, some Muslims are commemorating the end of Ramadan in a manner that is un-Islamic, clearly indicating they did not learn anything during the Holy Month and did not attain any level of piety. Islam does not permit celebrations that violate its fundamental teachings and clearly undermine its intended purpose. The blessings and goodness of Ramadan will remain with those who strive to perform their best during it. As for those who disregard Allah’s commandments or indiscriminately violate them, one can only pray for their guidance before their time is up.

During fasting, in addition to acknowledging the pain of hunger, Muslims gain a deeper appreciation for food. They can physically empathize with those in poverty who often struggle to find enough to eat. We must never take our food abundance for granted and should consistently consider those who are less fortunate. As we become more aware of the suffering of others by experiencing it ourselves, our compassion grows. Increased compassion leads to a greater willingness to share Allah’s blessings with others. The more we share, the stronger love becomes within human society, ultimately fostering genuine peace and happiness. The paths to achieving real peace and harmony are available; we only need to pursue them.

During the month of Ramadan, Allah exhibits increased forgiveness and compassion. He readily pardons anyone who sincerely repents and generously blesses those who seek His favors. The rewards for good deeds performed in Ramadan are amplified, often by seventy times, and in some instances, even by seven hundred times. Across the globe, Muslims strive to maximize their rewards during Ramadan by engaging in abundant prayers, reciting the holy Quran, helping the needy, feeding the hungry, and fully embracing the essence of Ramadan in a true Islamic spirit. Many Muslims find themselves in tears as this sacred month concludes, fearing they might not have the chance to experience it again the following year. These devoted believers earn blessings, cultivate piety, undergo personal growth, and maintain their faith throughout the year. Ultimately, they will also receive the “Reward of Allah Himself” on Judgment Day.

One of the responsibilities of Muslims is to give the Zakat (the mandatory charity in Islam) based on their wealth. The requirement dictates that anyone who possesses a specific amount of wealth (savings) for an entire year must contribute 2.5% of their total value as Zakat. In the Holy Quran, Allah explicitly specifies the eight eligible recipients of Zakat:

إِنَّمَا الصَّدَقَاتُ لِلْفُقَرَاءِ وَالْمَسَاكِينِ وَالْعَامِلِينَ عَلَيْهَا وَالْمُؤَلَّفَةِ قُلُوبُهُمْ وَفِي الرِّقَابِ وَالْغَارِمِينَ وَفِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ وَابْنِ السَّبِيلِ ۖ فَرِيضَةً مِّنَ اللَّهِ وَاللَّهُ عَلِيمٌ حَكِيمٌ 60⁷

Charity is (for) the poor and the needy, and those employed to collect it, and those whose hearts are to be consoled and to emancipate a slave, and those in debt, and in the way of Allah, and the needy wayfarers. These allocations are from Allah, and Allah is All-Knowledgeable and All-Wise.

This monetary form of duty is incumbent on all financially able Muslims so that those in need can receive assistance. Since this obligation falls primarily on the relatively wealthy, the rights of those in need are easily and automatically met. With the proper distribution of Zakat, an entire society can progress and prosper. Giving Zakat purifies one’s wealth.

When Muslims willingly give Zakat, their hearts are purified of attachment to the material world, as their intention is to please Allah. This demonstrates their genuine belief in Allah and their responsibility on Judgment Day. In addition to assisting fellow Muslims, giving Zakat serves as an act of worship. The Prophet stated:

Those Muslims who properly give Zakat never lose their honestly earned wealth; in fact, it is secured and can never be destroyed because Allah protects it. ⁸

The practice of Zakat provides various inner and spiritual benefits. A significant advantage is its role in creating a robust economic system. Zakat supports all members of society and encourages greater economic equality. It can be given directly to eligible Muslims (from the specified categories) or entrusted to an Islamic government or designated trustee for appropriate distribution. Indeed, individual Muslims who give Zakat in a fair and equitable manner experience greater rewards and fulfillment. ⁹

So far, we have learned about the Islamic acts of worship, including daily Salah and fasting, which are physical in nature, and Zakat, which has a monetary aspect. Now we arrive at the obligation that encompasses both physical and monetary elements—the Hajj.

Hajj is a sacred pilgrimage to Makkah, which is required of all Muslims at least once in their lifetime, provided they have the necessary physical and financial means, assuming their travel route is safe. Additionally, pilgrims must ensure their families have sufficient funds and provisions during their absence, as they are legally responsible for them. If someone is financially capable but unable to undertake the journey physically, they may appoint another Muslim to perform this obligation on their behalf, at their own expense. A Muslim woman must be accompanied by her husband or a mahram— a male relative with whom she cannot legally marry (such as a father, son, or brother)— when travelling for Hajj. ¹⁰

Hajj occurs during Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. Currently, around three million Muslims undertake the Hajj, with this figure rising annually. The Hajj experience is profoundly unique, filled with blessings, spirituality, and a deep sense of fulfillment that is beyond description. Pilgrims often find it difficult to leave these sacred sites, yet they depart with a powerful longing to return. A Muslim who completes Hajj is cleansed, like a newborn, free of sin.

Only Muslims are allowed to enter the precincts of the Holy Cities of Makkah and Madinah. Through media broadcasts of the Hajj pilgrimage, even non-Muslims can witness its uniqueness, reflecting the simplicity of Islamic principles as well as the equality and unity of Muslims.

In addition to the fara’id (obligatory acts) that all Muslims must practice, jihad, acquiring knowledge of fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence), participating in Muslim funeral processions, and practicing I‘tikaf (worship in seclusion during the last ten days of Ramadan, for men in a masjid and for women at home) are obligatory acts as well. When only a few individuals perform these acts, they relieve the rest of the Muslim community of the obligation. If everyone neglects these obligations, the whole community becomes sinful. These responsibilities are referred to as Fard al-Kifayah. Those who step up to fulfill them and assist their community receive significant rewards. Beyond the fara’id, numerous other actions are categorized in this way:

• Wajib – mandatory, somewhat different from fard, which carries greater obligation
• Sunnah – the tradition of the Prophet
• Mustahab – recommended
• Nafil (pl. Nawafil) – supererogatory (more than what is required) Mubah – neither prohibited nor obligatory (do as you will)
• Makruh – unbecoming/disgusting (not unlawful, but disapproved of)
• Haram – prohibited (abstaining is obligatory)

Once Muslims fulfill their obligatory acts, engaging in nawafil acts helps them draw closer to Allah, leading to abundant blessings. This practice grants them wisdom and spirituality. The Holy Quran and ahadith instruct Muslims to also undertake various other good deeds, a few of which are outlined below.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا ادْخُلُوا فِي السِّلْمِ كَافَّةً     ۝ ¹¹

O faithful believers! Enter into Islam completely…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا أَنفِقُوا مِمَّا رَزَقْنَاكُم     ۝ ¹²

O faithful believers! Spend in the way of Allah out of what He has provided for you…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تُبْطِلُوا صَدَقَاتِكُم بِالْمَنِّ وَالْأَذَىٰ كَالَّذِي يُنفِقُ مَالَهُ رِئَاءَ النَّاسِ     ۝ ¹³

O faithful believers! Do not waste your charities by boasting (about) favors and by inflicting pain, like those who spend their wealth to show off to others…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا أَنفِقُوا مِن طَيِّبَاتِ مَا كَسَبْتُمْ وَمِمَّا أَخْرَجْنَا لَكُم مِّنَ الْأَرْضِ ۖ وَلَا تَيَمَّمُوا الْخَبِيثَ مِنْهُ تُنفِقُونَ وَلَسْتُم بِآخِذِيهِ     ۝  ¹⁴

O faithful believers! Give from the pure wealth you have earned and that which We took out for you from the Earth, and do not intend to give from what is worthless, which if given to you, you would not accept…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ حَقَّ تُقَاتِهِ وَلَا تَمُوتُنَّ إِلَّا وَأَنتُم مُّسْلِمُونَ 102‏ وَاعْتَصِمُوا بِحَبْلِ اللَّهِ جَمِيعًا وَلَا تَفَرَّقُوا     ۝ ¹⁵

O faithful believers! Fear Allah as He ought to be feared, and do not die except in a state that you people are Muslim. And strongly grasp the rope of Allah all together, and be not divided…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَأْكُلُوا أَمْوَالَكُم بَيْنَكُم بِالْبَاطِلِ...     ۝ ¹⁶

those who brought faith! Do not consume one another’s wealth unlawfully…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُونُوا قَوَّامِينَ بِالْقِسْطِ شُهَدَاءَ لِلَّهِ وَلَوْ عَلَىٰ أَنفُسِكُمْ أَوِ الْوَالِدَيْنِ وَالْأَقْرَبِينَ...    ۝ ¹⁷

those who brought faith! Stand firmly for justice while testifying, for the sake of Allah, even if it be against yourselves or your parents and immediate relatives…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا أَوْفُوا بِالْعُقُودِ ...    ۝ ¹⁸

those who brought faith! Fulfill your covenants…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُونُوا قَوَّامِينَ لِلَّهِ شُهَدَاءَ بِالْقِسْطِ  ۖ وَلَا يَجْرِمَنَّكُمْ شَنَآنُ قَوْمٍ عَلَىٰ أَلَّا تَعْدِلُوا  ۚ اعْدِلُوا...     ۝ ¹⁹

Those who brought faith! Stand firmly as witnesses of justice for the sake of Allah. And let not the enmity of a nation excite you to forego justice, so do justice…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مَن يَرْتَدَّ مِنكُمْ عَن دِينِهِ فَسَوْفَ يَأْتِي اللَّهُ بِقَوْمٍ يُحِبُّهُمْ وَيُحِبُّونَهُ...     ۝ ²⁰

those who brought faith! Whoever among you becomes an apostate in the din(religion), so Allah shall soon bring forth a people making them His beloved, and they too shall love Allah…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَتَّخِذُوا الَّذِينَ اتَّخَذُوا دِينَكُمْ هُزُوًا ...     ۝ ²¹

faithful believers! Do not take (as friends) those who have made your religion a mockery…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا إِنَّمَا الْخَمْرُ وَالْمَيْسِرُ وَالْأَنصَابُ وَالْأَزْلَامُ رِجْسٌ مِّنْ عَمَلِ الشَّيْطَانِ فَاجْتَنِبُوهُ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ 90²²

those who brought faith! Alcohol and gambling and idols and divining are in fact impure works of Satan, so protect (yourself) from them, to acquire success.

الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَلَمْ يَلْبِسُوا إِيمَانَهُم بِظُلْمٍ أُولَٰئِكَ لَهُمُ الْأَمْنُ ...    ۝ ²³

Those who brought faith and did not mix their faith with evil, for them is peace, and they are the rightly guided…

قُلْ إِنَّمَا حَرَّمَ رَبِّيَ الْفَوَاحِشَ مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا وَمَا بَطَنَ وَالْإِثْمَ وَالْبَغْيَ...    ۝ ²⁴

(O Prophet) say that shameless acts have been forbidden by our Lord, those that are visible and hidden, and sins and unjust oppression…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَكُونُوا مَعَ الصَّادِقِينَ 119²⁵

O those who brought faith! Fear Allah, and be with the truthful ones.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَتَّبِعُوا خُطُوَاتِ الشَّيْطَانِ ۚ وَمَن يَتَّبِعْ خُطُوَاتِ الشَّيْطَانِ فَإِنَّهُ يَأْمُرُ بِالْفَحْشَاءِ وَالْمُنكَرِ ...    ۝ ²⁶

O faithful believers! Do not attach (yourselves) to the feet of Satan, and he who attaches to the feet of Satan, so undoubtedly he (Satan) commands (them to do) shamelessness and evildoings…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَدْخُلُوا بُيُوتًا غَيْرَ بُيُوتِكُمْ حَتَّىٰ تَسْتَأْنِسُوا وَتُسَلِّمُوا عَلَىٰ أَهْلِهَا ۚ ذَٰلِكُمْ خَيْرٌ لَّكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَذَكَّرُونَ 27²⁷

O Muslims! Do not go into houses other than your own houses, unless you have asked for permission and greeted the residents with salam (greeting of “peace”). This is better for you, if you think.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اذْكُرُوا اللَّهَ ذِكْرًا كَثِيرًا 41‏ وَسَبِّحُوهُ بُكْرَةً وَأَصِيلًا 42²⁸

O faithful believers! Remember Allah with much remembrance. And glorify Him, morning and evening.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَقُولُوا قَوْلًا سَدِيدًا 70²⁹

O faithful believers! Fear Allah and speak the most righteous speech.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا إِن جَاءَكُمْ فَاسِقٌ بِنَبَإٍ فَتَبَيَّنُوا أَن تُصِيبُوا قَوْمًا بِجَهَالَةٍ فَتُصْبِحُوا عَلَىٰ مَا فَعَلْتُمْ نَادِمِينَ 6³⁰

O faithful believers! If some transgressor brings to you any news, verify it thoroughly, so that you inflict hardship upon any people unknowingly and are left regretful for what you have done.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا يَسْخَرْ قَوْمٌ مِّن قَوْمٍ عَسَىٰ أَن يَكُونُوا خَيْرًا مِّنْهُمْ وَلَا نِسَاءٌ مِّن نِّسَاءٍ عَسَىٰ أَن يَكُنَّ خَيْرًا مِّنْهُنَّ...     ۝ ³¹

O faithful believers! Men may not make fun of other men; it is highly possible that they are better than those who make fun. And women may not make fun of women; it is highly possible that they are better than those who make fun…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اجْتَنِبُوا كَثِيرًا مِّنَ الظَّنِّ إِنَّ بَعْضَ الظَّنِّ إِثْمٌ  ۖ وَلَا تَجَسَّسُوا وَلَا يَغْتَب بَّعْضُكُم بَعْضًا ۚ أَيُحِبُّ أَحَدُكُمْ أَن يَأْكُلَ لَحْمَ أَخِيهِ مَيْتًا...     ۝ ³²

O faithful believers! Do not be too suspicious, certainly some suspici-ons are sinful, and do not seek fault, and do not backbite one another. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of your dead brother? …

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَلْتَنظُرْ نَفْسٌ مَّا قَدَّمَتْ لِغَدٍ...    ۝ ³³

O faithful believers! Keep fearing Allah, and everyone should look at what they sent forth for tomorrow…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لِمَ تَقُولُونَ مَا لَا تَفْعَلُونَ ‎2‏ كَبُرَ مَقْتًا عِندَ اللَّهِ أَن تَقُولُوا مَا لَا تَفْعَلُونَ 3³⁴

O faithful believers! Why do you say that which you do not do yourself? It is extremely unpleasant to Allāh that you say what you do not do yourself.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تُلْهِكُمْ أَمْوَالُكُمْ وَلَا أَوْلَادُكُمْ عَن ذِكْرِ اللَّهِ ۚ وَمَن يَفْعَلْ ذَٰلِكَ فَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْخَاسِرُونَ 9³⁵

O faithful believers! Let not your wealth and your children keep you from the remembrance of Allah. And those who do so, they are the losers.

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا قُوا أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَارًا وَقُودُهَا النَّاسُ وَالْحِجَارَةُ...   ۝ ³⁶

O faithful believers! Save yourselves and your families from that fire, the fuel of which are men and stones…

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا تُوبُوا إِلَى اللَّهِ تَوْبَةً نَّصُوحًا عَسَىٰ رَبُّكُمْ أَن يُكَفِّرَ عَنكُمْ سَيِّئَاتِكُمْ وَيُدْخِلَكُمْ جَنَّاتٍ...   ۝ ³⁷

O faithful believers! Repent while facing Allah, a solid repentance. It may be that your Lord will eliminate your sins and admit you into the Gardens…

Last, but not least:

وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ لَا نُكَلِّفُ نَفْسًا إِلَّا وُسْعَهَا أُولَٰئِكَ أَصْحَابُ الْجَنَّةِ   ۖ هُمْ فِيهَا خَالِدُونَ 42³⁸

And those who brought faith and did good deeds—We do not even give a command except for what is bearable—these are people of Paradise wherein they shall eternally live.

What Does Islam Want Muslims to Become?

Allah crowned humans as the “Best of all Creatures.” He directs us to earn this status. He has given us the essential tools and knowledge through a manual known as the Holy Quran and its flawless embodiment, the Prophet , enabling us to reach our goal. Allah fulfilled His role, and now, if we decide to enter into the “contract” and align our will with Allah’s, we must fulfill our responsibilities.

Allah desires that a believer shape the essence of a mu’min (believer) from the human form, akin to sculpting. When humans mold themselves into genuine believers, they fulfill life's true purpose and earn the title of the Best of all Creatures. This ultimately allows them to reflect Allah’s image, which they were designed to embody. Allah has given the essential tools and knowledge, much like a sculptor requires specific instruments and skills to create a stunning sculpture from stone or wood. Moreover, the believer does not need to start from scratch; they have a complete model in the life of Prophet Muhammad , simplifying their task.

By embracing the Oneness of Allah, a Muslim protects himself from conflicting thoughts and concentrates on the ultimate reality. His focus becomes centered on the singular, unchanging truth. Through daily Salah, he nurtures humility, meekness, and modesty. By fasting, he finds contentment in his life, develops gratitude for Allah’s blessings, remains mindful of the less fortunate, and shows care and generosity toward all. He learns to manage his desires, strengthen his body, and enrich his soul. He leads a monastic life without ever leaving the state of society. This allows him to build resilience and endurance, enabling him to flourish amid challenges.

By giving Zakat, he cleanses his heart of materialistic desires, guarding against greed and stinginess. This act liberates him from the ties of this world and reinforces his belief that real wealth is found in the rewards of the Hereafter. Participating in Hajj makes him aware of his equality with others, recognizing that both his wealth and himself are for the sake of Allah. His goal is to seek Allah’s closeness and pleasure, sincerely striving for the ultimate success by dedicating himself to Allah and His Prophet .

Through executing the different types of jihad, he saves himself and protects others from the evils of men and Satan, thereby establishing peace and justice for all. He constantly refines his inner self through introspection. He values the success of others more than his own time, energy, wealth, or even his worldly life, especially in the court of Allah. As a result, he emerges as a genuine friend of humanity and a beacon of success for all.

By embracing forgiveness and humility, he sheds arrogance and pride. With patience, he builds resilience. He achieves moral integrity by nurturing belief, trust, and confidence in Allah. Gratitude helps him recognize the blessings of Allah and the kindness of others toward him. By managing his anger, controlling unwanted desires, and regulating sexual urges, he safeguards himself from degrading into brutish behavior. Embracing simplicity enables him to escape competition with others and avoid societal constraints, allowing him to uncover the true purpose of life. By honoring promises, upholding contracts, and preserving trust, he cultivates respect and reliability, thereby gaining dignity.

By fulfilling the rights of others, acting justly, addressing injustices, aligning with the truthful, and condemning cruelty, oppression, tyranny, and those who perpetrate these acts, he earns a higher status in society and becomes its savior. Through sympathy, kindness, helpfulness, mercy, affection, and respect, he earns the love of people and becomes dear to them. Ultimately, by excelling in and committing good deeds, he grows dearer and closer to Allah.

When people observe this mu’min (believer) and the intricately carved sculpture that symbolizes his exceptional traits, they set him apart from ordinary beings. They are drawn to him, start to emulate his behavior, pledge their loyalty, and aspire to follow his path. He emerges as their leader, governing their hearts rather than their physical presence.

A man's true purpose in life is to become a mu’min, for which he was created. A mu’min serves as Allah's vicegerent on earth, as mentioned in the Holy Quran. By achieving Allah’s pleasure, he is ultimately placed in an esteemed position in the Hereafter. This is the transformation Allah desires for us through Islam.

You might wonder if Muslims truly engage in all of this. After reading, you will be able to form your own opinion. From my personal experience, I can attest that hundreds of millions of Muslims practice Islam to the best of their understanding, belief, and capability. Allah will assess them based on their intentions and abilities. Naturally, there are “black sheep” in every community. Among Muslims, there are individuals who blatantly disregard Islamic principles and contradict the teachings of the Holy Quran; these hypocrites tarnish Islam and distort its true essence for personal or political gain, often speaking in terms of moderation, revivalism, fundamentalism, or various other isms.

The presence and behavior of these black sheep, hypocrites, fasiqs (transgressors), and fajirs (sinners) at every level of society should not be a justification for others not to practice Islam or to reject it. To some extent, I can understand “Muslimophobia” because of some bad elements among self-proclaimed Muslims, but I am confident that there is no justification for “Islamophobia”. Only when a genuine understanding of Islam and its principles is achieved can related matters be assessed appropriately.

A distinctive feature of Islam is that every individual will be accountable and interrogated on Judgment Day regarding their actions and any harm they might have inflicted. No one can take responsibility for another, nor can individuals evade accountability for their own decisions and choices. May Allah bless us all.

• ¹  Holy Quran, Al-Baqarah 2: 208
• ²  Holy Quran, Al-Baqarah 2: 8-10
• ³  Holy Quran, Aal-e-Imran 3: 185
• ⁴  Al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim
• ⁵  Al-Bukhari and Muslim
• ⁶  Holy Quran, Al-Baqarah, 2: 183
• ⁷  Holy Quran, Al-Taubah, 9: 60
• ⁸  Abu Dawud
• ⁹  Sahih Muslim
• ¹⁰  Al-Bukhari
• ¹¹  Holy Quran, Al-Baqarah, 2: 208
• ¹²  Holy Quran, Al-Baqarah, 2: 254
• ¹³  Holy Quran, Al-Baqarah, 2: 264
• ¹⁴  Holy Quran, Al-Baqarah, 2: 267
• ¹⁵  Holy Quran, Aal-e-Imran, 3: 102-103
• ¹⁶  Holy Quran, An-Nisa, 4: 29
• ¹⁷  Holy Quran, An-Nisa, 4: 135
• ¹⁸  Holy Quran, Al-Ma'ida, 5: 1
• ¹⁹  Holy Quran, Al-Ma'ida, 5: 8
• ²⁰  Holy Quran, Al-Ma'ida, 5: 54
• ²¹  Holy Quran, Al-Ma'ida, 5: 57
• ²²  Holy Quran, Al-Ma'ida, 5: 90
• ²³  Holy Quran, Al-Ana'am, 6: 82
• ²⁴  Holy Quran, Al-Araf, 7: 33
• ²⁵  Holy Quran, Al-Taubah, 9: 119
• ²⁶  Holy Quran, Al-Noor, 24: 21
• ²⁷  Holy Quran, An-Noor, 24: 27
• ²⁸  Holy Quran, Al-Ahzab, 33: 41-42
• ²⁹  Holy Quran, Al-Ahzab, 33: 70
• ³⁰  Holy Quran, Al-Hujraat, 49: 6
• ³¹  Holy Quran, Al-Hujraat, 49: 11
• ³²  Holy Quran, Al-Hujraat, 49: 12
• ³³  Holy Quran, Al-Hashr, 59: 18
• ³⁴  Holy Quran, As-Saff, 61: 2-3
• ³⁵  Holy Quran, Al-Munafiqoon, 63: 9
• ³⁶  Holy Quran, At-Tahrim, 66: 6
• ³⁷  Holy Quran, At-Tahrim, 66: 8
• ³⁸  Holy Quran, Al-Araf, 7: 42