Religion Case

Religion is defined as “a belief in and reverence for a supernatural power or powers regarded as creator and governor of the universe.” Islam is the belief in one God, Allah, for the gift of everlasting life in heaven. In 570 C.E. the Prophet Muhammad was born. Muslims believe he was the last messenger sent to help them reach judgment day. Muhammad is a role model to all Muslims, using their holy book called the Quran. The Quran teaches Muslims the difference from right and wrong and is the direct word from God. Islam has two major sects. In Iraq and Iran 16% of Muslims are Shiite. The largest majority of Muslims are Sunni. Muslims also read Hadith books, which come from the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad. Not all Hadith books are true. The Quran is the only book that is in original text. The Quran is the holy book of Islam. It is the direct word from God through the Prophet Muhammad. Muhammad wrote the 114 chapters or surahs over a period of 23 years. Throughout centuries Muslims have memorized the entire Quran. They are known as Huffaz.

There are six core ideas Muslims believe in. First, you must believe in one God. Failure to do this is unforgivable. Second, belief in the Prophet Muhammad and all other messangers sent by God. Third, belief in the holy books, Torah (Five books of Moses), Zabur (The Psalms), Injeel (Message of Jesus), and the Quran. Fourth, belief in angels. Fifth, belief in the after life, heaven and hell, and judgment day. Finally, belief in the Divine Decree.

Muslims believe in life after death. They believe that Allah will come back to earth and destroy everything. The dead will come back and everyone will stand before God waiting for their punishments or rewards. Muslims will be judged on their actions on earth, by good deeds and bad deeds. All the deeds a person commits in their life are kept record of. Muslims do not believe in last minute repentance. The Quran states in 34:3-5, "Those who disbelieve say: The Hour will never come unto us. Say: Nay, by my Lord, but it is coming unto you surely. (He is) the Knower of the Unseen. Not an atom's weight, or less than that or greater, escapes Him in the heavens or in the earth, but it is in a clear Record. That He may reward those who believe and do good words. For them is pardon and a rich provision. But those who strive against our revelations, challenging (Us), theirs will be a painful doom of wrath."

Not all Muslims understand the true meaning of worship. Worship is not only the outer actions but also internal actions. Basically everything one does, needs to be done in the name of Allah. Muslims will be rewarded on judgment day for all good deeds. Spending time with one’s family is considered a good deed. Kindness is another type of good deed.

As a part of worship Muslims must engage in the Five pillars of Islam. First, one must have faith in God and Muhammad. Second, reciting of