What is Islam?
Islam is the world’s second-largest religion, with 1.8 billion followers across every country and culture. The word “Islam” means submission to God (Allah in Arabic), and a Muslim is one who submits to God’s will.
Islam rests on five pillars:
1. Shahada (Declaration of Faith): “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.”
2. Salah (Prayer): Five daily prayers facing Mecca.
3. Zakat (Charity): Giving 2.5% of yearly savings to those in need.
4. Sawm (Fasting): Fasting during the month of Ramadan.
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage): Making the pilgrimage to Mecca once in a lifetime if able.
The Quran
The Quran is the holy book of Islam, believed to be the direct word of God as revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) over 23 years. It contains 114 chapters (surahs) and 6,236 verses.
How to Become Muslim
Becoming Muslim is simple. You say the Shahada with sincere belief:
“Ash-hadu an la ilaha ill-Allah, wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan rasul-Allah”
“I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.”
This is all that is required. You do not need a witness, a mosque, or a ceremony — though these are welcome.
Start Your Journey
– Learn How to Pray →
– Read the Quran →
– Learn Arabic →
– Common Questions →