Reasons to Embrace Islam
Islam is the true religion of Allah (God). Islam has been growing in different times, different regions, different cultures, and different races. It is a universal religion that fits all differences and a way of life for humanity. Allah said:
"Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam." The Qur‟an 3: 19
Islam means full submission to Allah. All Prophets of Allah came to call people to Islam. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: "The prophets are brothers and their religion is one." Also all Prophets admitted that they are Muslims because they had full submission to Allah. The Qura‟n stressed the Prophet‟s submission to Allah in many verses such as:
-"And Abraham instructed his sons [to do the same] and [so did] Jacob, [saying], "O my sons, indeed Allah has chosen for you this religion, so do not die except while you are Muslims." [The Qura‟n 2:132]
-“But when Jesus felt (persistence) in disbelief from them, he said, “who are my supporters for (the cause of) Allah?” The disciples said we are supporters for Allah. We have believed in Allah and testify that we are Muslims.” [The Qur'an 3:52]
Therefore, Islam is not a new religion brought by Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, to Arabs only. In fact, Arabs comprise only 18% of total Muslim population. In another word, the majority of Muslims (82%) are non-Arabs. Therefore Islam is the true religion of Allah for all mankind from Adam until the end of this world re-expressed in its final form through the message of the Qur'an and the Prophethood of Muhammad, peace be upon him. Then whoever chooses another religion other than Islam he is the loser. Allah confirmed this in the Qur‟an: “And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the hereafter he will be one of the losers.” [The Qur‟an 3:85]
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Non-Muslims embrace Islam despite many misconceptions about Islam and Muslims. This is because they liberated their minds from the chains of misconceptions and search for the truth from inside Islam. They embrace Islam because they found the real spiritual nourishment in the teaching of Islam such as the following:
1) The Oneness of Allah, the unique message of Islam.
2) The Holly Qur'an, the authentic guidance from Allah.
3) The Prophet Muhammad, the true messenger of Allah to mankind.
4) Equality, Solidarity, and Good Conduct in Islam.
5) Woman Status in Islam.
6) The Qur'an and Modern Science.
I will explain these major reasons. Then I will describe how to embrace Islam, how to perform prayers and other types of worship after embracing Islam, and what benefits you get in this life and in the hereafter.
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THE FIRST REASON TO EMBRACE ISLAM
THE ONESS OF Allah
THE UNIQUE MESSAGE OF ISLAM
The Word 'Allah'
The word 'Allah' is the Arabic word for God as Aalah or Aaloh is the Aramaic word for God and Eloah or Elohim is the Hebrew word for God. So the origin of the word 'Allah' in Arabic, Aramaic, and Hebrew is the same because they are Semitic languages. The Old Testament in Hebrew used them in addressing God and they were translated into the word 'God' in the English version. Also Christians and Jews in Arab countries call God 'Allah' because the translation of the word 'God' from the English version into the Arabic version of the Bible is 'Allah'. Also some religious books of the Hindus such as book no 2 hymn no i verse ii, give God the attribute 'ila' which is similar to the name of God in Arabic 'Allah'.
Allah the Only True God
Allah is the only True God for the whole universe. He is the God of all humanity, including Muslims, Jews, and Christians. He is One with no son or partner. He neither begets nor is He begotten and there is none like unto Him. Allah said: " Say, "He is Allah, [who is] One, Allah, the Eternal Refuge. He neither begets nor is born, Nor is there to Him any equivalent." [The Qur'an 12:1-4]
Allah is One with no son or partner. He neither begets nor is He begotten and there is none like unto Him.
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The Oneness of Allah was the first message of all prophets. All prophets of Allah such as Moses and Jesus peace be upon all of them confirmed the Oneness of Allah. Deuteronomy 4:35 says: "You were shown these things so that you might know that the LORD is God; besides him there is no other". Deuteronomy 6:4 says: "Hear, O Israel: The LORD our God, the LORD is one." Mark 12:28-32 reported that one of the teachers of law asked Jesus: "Of all the commandments, which is the most important?" The most important one, answered Jesus, “is this: Hear, O Israel the Lord our God, the Lord is one…” Well said, teacher, the man replied. You are right in saying that God is one and there is no other but Him". John 17:3 says: "Now this is eternal life: that they may know You, the only true God, and (to know) Jesus Christ, whom you have sent."
Allah the Creator and the Sustainer
Allah is the Creator of the universe. Creation, sovereignty, and authority belong exclusively to Him. He is the Sustainer of the universe. All His creatures stand in need of Him and He stands in need of none. He accomplished all affairs with wisdom. He gives life and causes death, and He is over all things competent. He is the Most Gracious and the Most Merciful Whose mercy encompasses all things. He is the Powerful and the Exalted in Might and no one shares His domain and power. He is just in all His decrees and far removed from injustice and tyranny.
Allah the Ever-Living and the All-Knowing
Allah is Ever-Living. He is the First before Whom there is none, the Last after Whom there is none, the Most High above Whom
Allah never indwells in any of His creatures nor do they indwell in Him.
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there is none, and the Internal nearer than Whom there is none. He is above the seven heavens, above His throne in the manner that suits His majesty. Allah never indwells in any of His creatures nor do they indwell in Him. Allah is with us through His knowledge. He is the All-Knowing of everything, visible or invisible in the whole universe and His knowledge comprehends all things, and thus He is the All-Hearing All-Seeing.
The Oneness of Worship for Allah
The oneness of worship means total submission to Allah in all aspects of life with no objection. The Qura‟n states: "Say (O Muhammad the Prophet of Islam) my prayer, my sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, the Lord of mankind, jinn (beings with free will created from fire) and all that exists " [The Qur‟an 6: 162] Therefore, the truth is that Allah is the only One who has the right to be worshiped. Allah ordered all humans to believe that there is no god worthy of worship except Him. He called all mankind to worship Him and not to take any deity beside Him. Allah said: "O mankind, worship your Lord, who created you and those before you, that you may become righteous. [He] who made for you the earth a bed [spread out] and the sky a ceiling and sent down from the sky, rain and brought forth thereby fruits as provision for you. So do not attribute to Allah equals while you know [that there is nothing similar to Him]." [The Qur‟an 2:21-22]
Allah is the only One who has the right to be worshiped.
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The Concept of falls gods
The common concept of other religions with regards to Allah is that specific men are god(s), or Allah has partners. The Qur'an rejected this concept: " Allah has not taken any son, nor has there ever been with Him any deity. [If there had been], then each deity would have taken what it created, and some of them would have sought to overcome others. Exalted is Allah above what they describe [concerning Him]. [The Qur'an 23:91] Believing in false gods is against logic and those who believe in them have no reason to prove the truth. They follow after their parents or tribes blindly even when they see clear signs. But those who build beliefs according to logic and reason reject false gods once they see the signs. For example, while a young man was prostrating to an idol claimed to be his god, a dog walked into the temple and urinated on the idol. He was angry toward the dog at the beginning, but after that he realized that the idol could not be the lord of the universe.
Associating a partner with Allah in any form of worship such as praying, supplication, invocation, and sacrifice is called polytheism. Polytheism is the greatest sin and whoever dies upon it he/she shall enter Hell-fire in humiliation and Allah forbids paradise for him/her. Allah said: "Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allah has certainly fabricated a tremendous sin." [The Qur‟an 4:48]
The Call to the People of Scriptures
Allah called the people of scriptures [Jews and Christians] to worship none but Him. Allah said: "Say, "O People of the Scripture, come to a word that is equitable between us and you - that we will not worship except Allah and not associate anything with Him and not take one another as lords instead
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of Allah." But if they turn away, then say, "Bear witness that we are Muslims [submitting to Him] " . [The Qur‟an 3:64]
It is well stated in the Bible that Jesus peace be upon him worshiped God (Matthew 11:25 and John 17: 1-19). He often withdrew to pray (Luke 5:16 and Luke 22:41 and Luke 9:18). It was reported that Jesus prayed in many places such as solitary places, mountains, Jew temple, etc. For example Mark 1/35 stated: "Very early in the morning, while it was still dark, Jesus got up, left the house and went off to a solitary place, where he prayed." In another occasion Jesus went to a mountain where he prayed (Mark 6:46 and Matthew 14:23 and Luke 9:28). His prayers and praise were devoted to God (Luke 6:12 and Luke 10:21 and John 4:20-23). Mark 14/34-36 described the prayer of Jesus: "My soul is overwhelmed with sorrow to the point of death" he said to them. "Stay here and keep watch.'' Going a little farther, he fell to the ground and prayed that if possible the hour might pass from him…" The best picture of submission and obedience to God is in Hebrews 5:7-10 where Jesus offered prayers and petitions with loud cries and tears to God to save him from death and indeed God heard His servant's supplications because of his full submission and righteousness and made him high priest in the order of Melchizedek.
In fact, Jesus did not claim to be God and or to be worshiped besides God nor did he teach his disciples Trinity during his life. Trinity was ratified in the first general council at Nicea in 325 A.D. With the support of Bishop Alexander, Athnasius engineered Trinity and Emperor Constantine ratified it for political considerations despite the objection of the council‟s majority.
Jesus worshiped God and his prayers were devoted to God.
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The Qur'an rejected the only begotten son of God dogma and Trinity doctrine. Allah said: "They have certainly disbelieved who say, "Allah is the Messiah, the son of Mary" while the Messiah [Jesus] has said, "O Children of Israel, worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord." Indeed, he who associates others with Allah – Allah has forbidden him Paradise, and his refuge is the Fire. And there are not for the wrongdoers any helpers. They have certainly disbelieved who say, "Allah is the third of three." And there is no god except one God. And if they do not desist from what they are saying, there will surely afflict the disbelievers among them a painful punishment." [The Qur‟an 5:72-73]
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THE SECOND REASON TO EMBRACE ISLAM
THE HOLLY QUR'AN
THE AUTHENTIC GUIDANCE FROM ALLAH
The Eloquence of the Qur'an
The Qur'an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, in pure Arabic language. Its eloquence admired the infidels of Mecca. Its eloquence was a miracle for Arabs who were sophisticated in Arabic at that time. The infidels of Mecca who lived the revelation of the Qur'an raised many accusations against Islam and Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, but they did not dare to raise accusations against the eloquence and integrity of the Qur'an except to say it is a type of magic. Once Al-Waleed ibn Al-Mugheerah [a disbeliever] passed by Prophet Muhammad while he was reciting verses of the Qur'an. Al-Waleed was highly affected by the recitation. When the people of Makkah heard about this event, Abu Jahl [a disbeliever] rushed to Al-Waleed and asked him to say bad things about what he heard from Muhammad to stop people from converting to Islam. Then Al-Waleed said: “And what can I say? For I swear by Allah, there is none amongst you who knows poetry as well as I do, nor can any compete with me in composition or rhetoric-not even in the poetry of the jinns! And yet, I swear by Allah, Muhammad‟s speech (meaning the Qur‟an) does not bear any similarity to anything I know and I swear by Allah, the speech that he says is very sweet, and is adorned with beauty and charm. Its first part is fruitful and its last part is abundant (meaning that it is full of deep meaning) and it conquers (all other speech) and remains unconquered! It shatters and destroys all that has come before it
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(because of its eloquence). However, in response to the insistence of Abu Jahl, Alwaleed found nothing except to say that the Qur'an is a type of magic. [Ibn Hishaam, Biography of Prophet Muhammad, p. 225]
Allah said about Alwaleed ibn Al-Mugheerah: "Indeed, he thought and deliberated. So may he be destroyed [for] how he deliberated. Then may he be destroyed [for] how he deliberated. Then he considered [again]; Then he frowned and scowled; Then he turned back and was arrogant. And said, "This is not but magic imitated." [The Qur‟an 74:18-29]
The Challenge in the Qur'an
Allah challenged mankind and jinn to come with a book like the Qur'an, but they could not. Allah said: "Say, If mankind and the jinn gathered in order to produce the like of this Qur'an, they could not produce the like of it, even if they were to each other assistants". [The Qur‟an 17:88]
When they could not produce like the Qur'an, Allah challenged them to bring ten chapters like it, but they could not. Allah said: "Or do they say, "He invented it"? Say, "Then bring ten chapters like it that have been invented and call upon [for assistance] whomever you can besides Allah, if you should be truthful". [The Qur‟an 11:13]
When they could not produce like ten chapters of it, Allah challenged them to bring one chapter like it, but they could not. Allah said: "Or do they say [about the Prophet], "He invented it?" Say, "Then bring forth a chapter like it and call upon [for
Allah challenged mankind to bring one chapter like the Qur'an, but they could not.
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assistance] whomever you can besides Allah, if you should be truthful". [The Qur’an 10:38]
Allah made it clear to all mankind that it is impossible for anyone to produce like the Qur'an. Allah said: "And it was not [possible] for this Qur'an to be produced by other than Allah , but [it is] a confirmation of what was before it and a detailed explanation of the [former] Scripture, about which there is no doubt, from the Lord of the worlds". [The Qur‟an 10:37]
H.A.R. Gibb wrote in his book, Mohammedanism (1953) “well then, if the Koran (the Qura'n) were his own composition other men could rival it. Let them produce ten verses like it. If they could not (and it is obvious that they could not), then let them accept the Koran as an outstanding evidential miracle.”
The Qur'an the Authentic Scripture
The Qur'an is the pure word of Allah thus it is fully authentic. The Qur'an exists in its original Arabic text. It was written down at the time of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, and transmitted everywhere in the most reliable ways. There have been no disputes among Muslims about the authenticity and integrity of the Qur‟an. Hundreds of Muslims during the time of Prophet Muhmmad, peace be upon him, and thousands of Muslims during the Islamic history memorized the Qur‟an by hearts. Allah promised to protect and guard the Qur‟an so no change even in a single word or a single letter took place. Allah said: "Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur'an and indeed, We will be its guardian". [The Qur‟an 15:9]
Allah promised to protect and guard the Qur‟an so no change even in a single word or a single letter took place.
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Sir William Muir wrote in his book, The Life of Muhammad: "There is probably in the world no other book which has remained twelve centuries with so pure a text.” After another two centuries from Sir William Muir the Qur‟an remains a pure text. Therefore, had someone produced the Qur'an other than Allah or made changes into it, it would have contained contradictions. Allah said: "Then do they not reflect upon the Qur'an? If it had been from [any] other than Allah, they would have found within it much contradiction". [The Qur‟an 4:82]
The Qur'an a Way of Life
The Qur'an was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, during 23 years of his prophethood to bring a way of life for all human beings. It addresses the aspects of Islam such as Aqeedah (creed, faith, and belief), Islamic laws, acts of worship, history of previous prophets and nations, and manners. Allah said: "Indeed, this Qur'an guides to that which is most suitable and gives good tidings to the believers who do righteous deeds that they will have a great reward." [The Qur‟an 17:9]
Scientific Facts in the Qur'an
Verses in the Qur‟an mentioned scientific facts 14 centuries ago and modern science has come to be a witness for the truthfulness of them. The Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him who lived his prophethood in the 7th century was unlettered and he was not in a position to find out from his own mind scientific facts that were only discovered recently with sophisticated instruments and high technology. Then we should submit to the fact that it is a
The Qur'an is a way of life and guides to the best.
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revelation from Allah who created the universe and knows every single detail in it. Such scientific facts are signs for the people of thought to reach the truth about Allah, about the Qur'an and about the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him. Allah said: "We will show them Our signs in the horizons and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that it is the truth." [The Qur'an 41:53]
Some verses of the Qur'an that addressed some scientific facts will be explained later in this book under the title: "The Qur'an and Modern Science".
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THE THIRD REASON TO EMBRACE ISLAM
PROPHET MUHAMMAD
THE TRUE MASSENGER OF ALLAH TO MANKIND
Muhammad the Last Messenger to all Mankind
Allah the Almighty sent Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, with guidance and mercy not only to Arabs but also to all mankind. Allah said: "Say, [O Muhammad], "O mankind, indeed I am the Messenger of Allah to you all". [The Qur‟an 7:158] Also Allah said:
"And We have not sent you except comprehensively to mankind as a bringer of good tidings and a warner. But most of the people do not know". [The Qur‟an 34:28] Also Allah said: "And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds". [The Qur‟an 21:107]
Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, started in his invitation to Islam with his tribe (the people of Mecca) then he invited tribes of Arabs then he invited non-Arabs. Allah said: "
And this is a Book which We have sent down, blessed and confirming what was before it, that you may warn the Mother of Cities (Mecca) and those around it". [The Qur‟an 42:7] After All Arabia became under the rule of Islamic State and the leadership of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, he sent letters to emperors and kings of Rome, Persia, and Egypt to invite them to Islam. Then Islam spread to the whole world thus
Prophet Muhammad was sent as a mercy to all mankind.
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Muslims are found everywhere. Nowadays, Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world [Encyclopedia Britannica].
Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, was the last messenger who came with Islam confirming the divine messages before it and as a criterion over all religions. Allah said: "It is He who sent His Messenger with guidance and the religion of truth to manifest it over all religion. And sufficient is Allah as Witness". [The Qur‟an 48:28]
During his prophethood, Muhammad peace be upon him was the school of life to learn all means of righteousness and happiness in this world and he was the light in the way leading to Paradise in the hereafter. He was the head of state yet he could not find enough food and clothes. His home was made of mud and his mattress was made of leather stuffed with the fiber of dates palm trees. He used to help with the household work, mend his shoes, and milk goats. He used to run the state during the day and stand praying during the night. His door was open for all Muslims and non-Muslims too. When he died, he left nothing as inheritance for his family. In general, he used to hold the noblest character as Allah said in the Qur‟an: "You are of a great moral character." [The Qur‟an 68:4].
Muhammad, the Unlettered Prophet
Allah ordered the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, to announce that he is the messenger of Allah to all people, and He asked them to believe in Him and in the unlettered prophet [Muhammad] and to follow him. Allah said: Say, [O Muhammad], "O mankind, indeed I am the Messenger of Allah to you all, [from Him] to whom belongs the dominion of
Prophet Muhammad used to hold the noblest character.
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the heavens and the earth. There is no deity except Him; He gives life and causes death." So believe in Allah and His Messenger, the unlettered prophet, who believes in Allah and His words, and follow him that you may be guided. [The Qur'an 7:158]
The Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, was unlettered thus he did not receive written revelation. He received the Qur'an by inspiration, and Allah enabled him to memorize the Qur'an by heart without missing any single word except what Allah should will. Allah said: "We will make you recite, [O Muhammad], and you will not forget, Except what Allah should will. Indeed, He knows what is declared and what is hidden. [The Qur'an 87:6-7] It is impossible for an unlettered person to bring from his own mind the Qur'an which admire Arabs and non-Arabs with its eloquence, comprehension, integrity and authenticity. The Qur'an challenged any one to bring even one single chapter like of it; and 14 centuries have passed yet no one has met the challenge. This is because the Qur'an is not for sure the world of Muhammad but the word of Allah. Abdul Rahman Al-Sheha said in his book, Muhammad the Messenger of Allah: "Man cannot bring about laws similar to the laws of Islam which deal with every aspect of life, such as transactions, marriage, social conduct, politics, acts of worship and the like. So, how can an unlettered man bring something like this? Isn‟t this a clear proof and sign of his Prophethood?"
Prophecies about the Prophet Muhammad in the Bible
The Qur'an affirmed that the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, is mentioned in the previous scriptures. Allah said: "Those who follow the Messenger, the unlettered prophet, whom they find written [i.e., mentioned] in what they have of the Torah
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and the Gospel, who enjoins upon them what is right and forbids them what is wrong and makes lawful for them the good things and prohibits for them the evil and relieves them of their burden and the shackles which were upon them. So they who have believed in him, honored him, supported him and followed the light which was sent down with him – it is those who will be the successful." [The Qur'an 7:157]
Genesis 17:4 stated that Allah gave Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him, the covenant to be the father of many nations. Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him, had two sons [Ishmael from his wife Hagar and Isaac from his wife Sarah]. Allah ordered Prophet Abraham, peace be upon him, to send his son Ishmael with his mother Hagar to the desert of Paran (Mecca) and Allah said to Abraham in Genesis 21:13: "I will make the son of the maidservant[Hagar] a nation also, because he is your offspring." Also Allah gave this covenant to Hagar in Genesis 16:10: "The angel added, "I will so increase your descendants that they will be too numerous to count" And Deuteronomy 33:1-3 stated that Moses, peace be upon him, told the Israelites: "The Lord came from Sinai [related tom Moses] and dawned over them from Seir [related to Jesus] and shone forth from Mount Paran [related to Muhammad]." Habakkuk 3:3 affirmed Moses' statement about the holy one coming from the Mount Paran: "God came from Teman, the Holy one from Mount Paran. His glory covered the heavens and his praise filled the earth"
In the Qur'an Abraham asked his Lord to take care of Ishmael and Hager in the dessert of Paran: "Our Lord, I have settled some of my descendants in an uncultivated valley [the dessert of Paran] near Your sacred House, our Lord, that they may establish prayer. So make hearts among the people incline toward them and provide for them from the fruits that they might be grateful." [The Qur'an 14:37] Also Allah said: "And [mention] when Abraham was raising the foundations of the House [Alkabah in the Sacred House in Mecca] and [with
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him] Ishmael, [saying], "Our Lord, accept [this] from us. Indeed, You are the Hearing, the Knowing. Our Lord, and make us Muslims [in submission] to You and from our descendants a Muslim nation [in submission] to You. And show us our rites [of Hajj and Ôumrah] and accept our repentance. Indeed, You are the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful. Our Lord, and send among them a messenger from themselves who will recite to them Your verses and teach them the Book and wisdom and purify them. Indeed, You are the Exalted in Might, the Wise." [The Qur'an 2:127-129]
Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, is also the glad tidings of Jesus peace be upon him. Jesus said in John 16:12-13: "I have yet many things to say unto you, but you cannot bear them now. But when he, the spirit of truth, comes, he will guide you into all truth. He will not speak on his own; he will speak only what he hears, and he will tell you what is yet to come. John chapter 14, 15, and 16 described the coming prophet [the spirit of truth] as the "Paraclete" which means a person who is trustworthy and praised. He is not the Holy Ghost as Christians believe because Jesus was addressing a real person. He is for sure Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, who was called the trustworthy and praised.
The Qur'an confirmed the glade tidings of Jesus about the coming prophet. Allah said: "And [mention] when Jesus, the son of Mary, said, "O children of Israel, indeed I am the messenger of Allah to you confirming what came before me of the Torah and bringing good tidings of a messenger to come after me, whose name is Ahmad (Muhammad)." But when he came to them with clear evidences, they said, "This is obvious magic." [The Qur'an 61:6]
Prophet Muhammad was the glad tidings of Jesus.
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Therefore, Genesis 17:4, 21:13, 16:10, Deuteronomy 33:1-3, Habakkuk 3:3, and John 16:12-13 agreed with the Qur'an 2:127-129 and 61:6 that the coming prophet will come from Paran and his name is Ahmed [Muhammad]. Paran is another name for Mecca and no prophet came from Mecca except Muhammad, peace be upon him. The lineage of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, goes back to Ishmael the son of Abraham. Indeed, Allah fulfilled His covenant for Abraham and Hagar when He sent Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, from their progeny through Ishmael and made him with his followers a great nation. Nowadays Muslims population exceeded 1.5 billion and it is expected to be the biggest nation in the near future. For more information about Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, in the Bible we advise you to read a book titled "Muhammad in the Bible" by Professor Abdul-Ahad Dawud.
Non-Muslims Verdict on the Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him
Michael H. Hart
Michael H. Hart ranked Muhammad No.1 in his book "The 100 A Ranking of the Most Influential Persons in History". He justified this by saying: “He was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and secular levels… It is the unparalleled combination of secular and religious influence which I feel entitles Muhammad to be considered the most influential single figure in history.”
Prof. K.S. Ramakrishan Rao.
Allah fulfilled His covenant for Abraham and Hagar when He sent Prophet Muhammad.
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Prof. K.S. Ramakrishan Rao was a professor of philosophy, University of Mysore, India. He said: “After the fall of Mecca more than one million square miles of land lay at his feet. Lord of Arabia, he (Muhammad) mended his own shoes and coarse woolen garments, milked the goats, swept the hearth, kindled the fire and attended to other menial offices of the family. The entire town of Madina, where he lived, grew wealthy in the later days of his life. Everywhere there was gold and silver in plenty and yet in those days of prosperity many weeks would elapse without afire being kindled in the hearth of the king of Arabia, his food being dates and water. His family would go hungry many nights successively because they could not get anything to eat in the evening. He slept not on soft bed but on a palm mat after a long busy day, to spend most of his night in prayer, often bursting with tears before his creator to grant him strength to discharge his duties. As the reports go, his voice would get choked due to weeping and it would appear as if a cooking pot was on fire and boiling had commenced. On the day of his death his only assets were a few coins, a part of which went to satisfy a debt and the rest was given to a needy person who came to his house for charity. The clothes in which he breathed his last had many patches. The house from where light had spread to the world was in darkness because there was no oil in the lamp.”
Edward Gibbon
Edward Gibbon said in: History of the Saracen Empire, London 1870, p. 54. He said: “I believe in one God, and Mahomet, the Apostle of God, is the simple and invariable profession of Islam. The intellectual image of the Deity has never been degraded by any visible idol: the honors of the Prophet have never transgressed the measure of human virtue: and his living precepts have restrained the gratitude of his disciples within the bounds of reason and religion.”
Diwan Chand Sharma
Diwan Chand Sharma said in: The Prophet of the East, Calcutta
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1935, p. 122: “Muhammad was the soul of kindness, and his influence was felt and never forgotten by those around him.”
John William Draper
John William Draper said in: A History of the
Intellectual Development of Europe. London 1875, Vol. l pp.
329 – 330: “Four years after the death of Justinian, A. D 569, was born at Mecca in Arabia the man who, of all men, exercised the greatest influence upon the human race…Mohammed…”
H.A.R. Gibb
H.A.R. Gibb said in : Mohammedanism, London 1953, p. 33: “That his (Muhammed‟s) reforms enhanced the status of women in general is universally admitted.”
John Austin
John Austin said in: Muhammad the Prophet of Allah, in T.P.‟s and Cassel‟s Weekly for 24th September 1927: “In little more than a year he was actually the spiritual, nominal and temporal ruler of Medina, with his hands on the lever that was to shake the world.” Wolfgang Göethe The German Poet, Wolfgang Göethe said: „I looked into history for a human paradigm and found it to be in Muhammad. Annie Besant Annie Besant in The Life and Teachings of Mohammad, said: It is impossible for anyone who studies the life and character of the great Prophet of Arabia, who knew how he taught and how he lived, to feel anything but reverence for the mighty Prophet, one of the great messengers of the Supreme. And although in what I put to you I shall say many things which may be familiar to many, yet I myself feel, whenever I reread them, a new way of admiration, a new sense of reverence for that mighty Arabian teacher. Dr. Gustav Weil Dr. Gustav Weil in History of the Islamic Peoples said:
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Muhammad was a shining example to his people. His character was pure and stainless. His house, his dress, his food –they were characterized by a rare simplicity. So unpretentious was he that he would receive from his companions no special mark of reverence, nor would he accept any service from his slave which he could do for himself. He was accessible to all at all times. He visited the sick and was full of sympathy for all. Unlimited was his benevolence and generosity as also was his anxious care for the welfare of the community. Details about the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, can be found in a book titled:, Muhammad the Messenger of Allah, by Abdul Rahman Al-Sheha. It is available in the net for free.
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THE FOURTH REASON TO EMBRACE ISLAM
EQUALITY, SOLIDARITY, AND GOOD CONDUCT IN ISLAM
Equality
Human, moral, legal, and official rights in Islam are preserved as long as they do not violate its principles. All Muslims have equal rights in their societies. Islam gives non-Muslims their rights too.
Islam came to put an end to racism and to establish equality. Equality among people in Islam is highly respected. The rich and the poor, the leaders and the workers, the men and the women, the white and the black are treated equally in Islam. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said; “All of you are from Adam and Adam was created out of dust. There is no credit for Arabs over Non-Arabs or for Non-Arabs over Arabs except in Taqwa (piety, righteousness, and fear of Allah).” Islam holds no discrimination due to color, wealth, sex, origin, or language. It is only piety or righteousness that makes people different in the sight of Allah in this life and in the hereafter. Allah states in the Qur‟an: " Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you. Indeed Allah is Knowing and Acquainted." [The Qur’an 49:13]
All people are equal in humanity. Muslims (the rich, the poor, the white, the black, the leaders, the workers) gather in mosques
Islam holds no discrimination among people. It is only righteousness that makes people different in the sight of Allah.
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to perform prayers beside each other in lines five times a day. When any one of them comes to mosque first, he takes the first line regardless of his color or status. Also when Muslims from different nationalities with different colors and wealth gather during pilgrimage in Mecca wearing the same clothes, they reflect the superior equality in Islam.
Equality was manifested in the life of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. For example, during a halt on a journey, the Companions divided work among themselves for preparing food. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, took upon himself the task of collecting firewood. His companions pleaded that they would do it and that he needed not take the trouble, but he replied :
"It is true, but I do not like to attribute any distinction to myself. Allah does not like the man who considers himself superior to his companions." Such equality does not exist in other social systems in the world except in Islam.
Solidarity
Solidarity or joint liability in Islam reflects the unity of Muslims in all aspects of life. It shows mutual responsibility among Muslim brothers and sisters. Sharing brotherhood among Muslims in Al-Madina was the first social reform achieved by prophet Mohammad Peace be upon him after his arrival to Al-Madina. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, made brotherhood between AlMohajreen and Al-A'nsars (two tribes in Al-Madina). This brotherhood exceeded the imagination of any social reform in the world because every one used to ask his brother to share his wealth. In fact, Al-Mohajreen and Al-A'nsars in Al-Madina were enemies to each other but after they embraced Islam they became brethren. Allah Said: "And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Allah, and be not divided and remember Allah's favour on you. you were enemies but He joined your hearts together and by his Grace you became brethren and you were
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on the brink of a pit of Fire and He saved you from it" [The Qur'an,3:103].
Believers are helpers, supporters, friends and protectors. This mutual responsibility is well stressed in the Qura'n and Hadeeth (the prophet statements). Allah said: "The believers are one another and enjoin good deeds and forbid evil deeds" [The Qur'an,9:71] .And the prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: "every one of you is a protector and guardian of his immediate charge and is responsible for the actions of those people who are committed to his charge" Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim.
Muslims reach high level of faith when they wish for their brothers what they wish for themselves. Prophet Mohammad peace be upon him said: "None of you truly believes until he wishes for his brother what he wishes for himself" narrated by Bukhari and Muslim. Muslims will not enter Paradise until they believe and they will not believe until they love each other.
Solidarity in Islam starts at the family level. The Muslim should have good relations with his family and relatives by visiting them or helping them. Strong relations among the family members comes by the orders of Allah. Allah said: "And We have enjoined on man ( to be dutiful and good) to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness and hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years- give thanks to Me and to your parents. Unto Me is the final destination." [The Qur'an,31:14]
Since mother suffers more in pregnancy and in taking care of her kids, she has the greatest right. A man asked Prophet Mohammad peace be upon him: " Who has the greatest right over
Muslims reach high level of faith when they wish for their brothers what they wish for themselves.
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me? The Prophet replied" Your mother. And he asked" Who is next? He replied" your mother. Then he asked" Who is next? The Prophet replied "your mother. Then he asked "who is next? The Prophet replied" your father." Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim. Disobedience of parents is one of the major sins. The Prophet peace be upon him said: "Among the major sins are : Associating anybody with Allah, disobedience to parents, killing of a person, and taking a false oath" Narrated by Bukhari. Anyone who breaks relations with his/her family he/she will be in danger. Prophet Mohammad peace be upon him said: "He who breaks off the ties of blood will not enter paradise" Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim.
Solidarity in Islam extends from the family to the neighbors and to the whole society. Islam advises the Muslim to be good not only to his/her family but also to others and to provide any needed help. Allah said: "Give the kinsman his due, and the needy, and the poor and to the wayfarer." [The Qur'an,17:26] Islam stressed the right of the neighbors to a great point. Prophet peace be upon him said: "Gabriel advised me to do good to the neighbor to the point I almost thought he would eventually advise me to make my neighbor my heir" Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim. He who is bad to his neighbor his faith is incomplete and he is not a good Muslim.
Islam has many acts of worship that result in achieving solidarity in the Muslim society such as: prayer, zakat (obligatory charity), Fasting of Ramadan and pilgrimage(Hajj). Prayer is the second pillar of Islam. Muslims perform prayer in the mosques five times day and night. This daily gathering strengthens relations among Muslims in the neighborhood. Zakat( obligatory charity) is the third pillar of Islam. Obligatory and volunteer charity in Islam is a manifestation of social mutual responsibility among Muslims. So the wealthy sympathize with the poor and the poor love the wealthy. Fasting of Ramadan is the fourth pillar of Islam. Fasting of Ramadan makes Muslims share the suffering of
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their Muslims brothers and leads the rich to spend on the poor, thus builds a strong relations in the Muslim society . Pilgrimage is the fifth pillar of Islam. Pilgrimage represents an annual meeting where Muslims from all over the world gather in Mecca once a year to perform the rites of Hajj. This gathering is an example of Muslims solidarity. All distinctions (nationality, wealth, class, color) disappear among all Muslims in pilgrimage. All of them wear the same clothes and greet each other with the greeting of Islam.
Finally, solidarity in Islam is an act of worship dedicated to get Allah's pleasure. Therefore, Muslims share responsibility with their brothers and sisters to reach their Lords' Satisfaction in this life and to get His Paradise in the hereafter.
Good Conduct
Muslims spread Islam to many regions of the world by their good conduct. For example, Muslim traders spread Islam in India, China, Indonesia, and Malaysia by their good dealing. Nowadays, noble characters of Muslims attract many people around the world to Islam. We should bear in mind that Allah sent Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, to fulfill noble characters. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: "I was sent not except to fulfill noble characters." He was the example of noble characters as Allah described him in the Qur'an: And indeed, you are of a great moral character." [The Qur‟an 68:4]
Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, used to ask Allah to guide him to the best noble characters with this supplication: "O Allah guide me to the best noble characters. Indeed no one can
Allah sent Prophet Muhammad to fulfill noble characters.
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guide to the best of it except You." Muslims can reach through their good conduct the higher level of righteousness and thus the best reward in the hereafter as Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: "Indeed the believer reaches through his good character the level (in the hereafter) of fasting and standing( in prayer at night) man." Also He said: "The closest among you to me on the Day of Resurrection are the best in good conduct."
Any type of misconduct is prohibited in Islam because it is considered part of evil deeds that leads to the Hellfire. Since misconduct is directed towards human beings, Allah does not forgive it. Therefore, misconduct is really a major way to the punishment in the Hellfire for Muslim wrongdoers.
Misconduct committed by some Muslims gave some non-Muslims false impression about Islam and deterred them from thinking about it. In fact Muslims with misconduct must not be representatives of Islam. Wrongdoers exist in all societies of the world and should not be taken as examples to evaluate any people. However, opponents of Islam have propagated Muslim wrongdoers' misconduct such as terrorism to defame Islam and Muslims.
Terrorism is a misconception against Islam and Muslims which has been raised by the Western media recently. This misconception was spread in the world after the event of September 11 at the beginning of the current century more than before. Terrorism dogma is manmade mostly for political considerations in order to defame Islam and Muslims.
Muslims with misconduct must not be representatives of Islam.
Terrorism dogma is manmade mostly for defaming Islam and Muslims.
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Nonetheless, Islam means peace and it stands strongly against killing innocent people either Muslims or non-Muslims. Allah said: " …whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land - it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one - it is as if he had saved mankind entirely." [The Qur’an 5:32]
Non-Muslims in Muslim countries are protected by the Islamic law. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: "Whoever kills one (non-Muslim) under contract (of Muslim protection) will never smell the scent of Paradise." [Reported by Ibn Majah]
The West has initiated war against terrorism in the world, especially in Muslim countries. The results of this war are: Killing more than one million of civilians in Iraq, Afghanistan, and other countries; defaming Islam and Muslims; bringing enmity against 1.5 billion Muslims in the world; and throwing thousands of innocent people in jails for years and years. The standards of this war are mostly for political considerations.
Fortunately, the people of thought did not listen to the misconceptions about Islam and Muslims but instead they searched about Islam in its pure sources particularly the Qur'an and the Sunnah. Their sincerity in searching for the truth led many of them to accept Islam. Many priests and monks are examples of the people of thought. Allah described them in the Qur'an: "And when they hear what has been revealed to the Messenger (Muhammad), you see their eyes overflowing with tears because of what they have recognized of the truth. They say, "Our Lord, we have believed, so register us among the witnesses." [The Qur’an 5:83]
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THE FIFTH REASON TO EMBRACE ISLAM
WOMAN STATUS IN ISLAM
Men and Women in the Sight of Allah
Men and women are equal in the sight of Allah and the best of them is the most righteous as Allah said: “O Mankind, indeed We have created you from male and female and made you nations and tribes that you may know one another. Indeed, the most noble of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you.” (The Qur‟an 49:13).
Muslim men and women are one of another. Allah said: “The believing men and believing women are allies of one another. They enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and establish prayer and give zakah (charity) and obey Allah and His messenger.” (The Qur‟an 9:71). Allah calls both men and women in the Qur‟an believers who do good deeds and He gives glad tidings for both righteous men and women according to the best of their actions. Allah said: “...but whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer – those will enter the Paradise, being given provision therein without account.” (The Qur‟an 40:40).
Woman is Precious
Allah created Adam and from him created Eve, a mate, for him. Allah created women not only to preserve human race but also to dwell with their husbands in love, mercy, tranquility and spiritual
Muslim men and women are one of another.
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harmony. Islam gives the wife a special value in the family. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: “This life is enjoyment and the best enjoyment of the life is a righteous woman (wife).” Narrated by Muslim. He considers those who treat their wives well the best ones by saying: “The best of you is the best to his family and I am the best among you to my family.” Narrated by Al-Termethi. Also He said: “The most perfect believers are the best in conduct and the best of you are those who are the best to their wives.” Narrated by Ibn Hanbal.
Allah ordains believers to be kind to their parents. Allah said: “And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age (while) with you, say not to them (so much as) “uff” and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word. And lower to them the wing of humility out of mercy and say, “My Lord, have mercy upon them as they brought me up (when I was) small.” (The Qur‟an 17:23-24). To exclude any bad treatment toward parents Allah prohibited any word of contempt against them. In fact impiety or disobedience to parents is one of the major sins that lead to the Hellfire. Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: “Among the major sins are: giving a share (of worship) to anything with Allah, disobedience to parents, killing a person, and taking a false oath (perjury).” Narrated by Bukhari. Also he said, “Allah forbids all of you to disobey your mothers.” Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim.
Islam considers daughters as a gift from Allah. Islam gives fathers glad tidings if they treat their daughters well and do not favor their sons over their daughters. Prophet Mohammad, peace be upon him, said: “Whoever has a daughter and he does not
The best believers are the best to their families.
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bury her alive, does not insult her, and does not favor his son over her, Allah will enter him into the Paradise.” Narrated by Ibn Hanbal. Islam does not consider daughters a potential source of shame but a source of convert and happiness as Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: “Do not hate girls. They are comforting and very precious.” Narrated by Ahmad.
Rights of Muslim Woman
Muslim women got their legal rights since the advent of Islam fourteen centuries ago while women in the west had to wait until recent centuries to get their legal rights. Arabs before Islam used to deprive women from many legal rights. Pagan Arabs used not to give women inheritance shares. Islam came to stop this unfair treatment toward women. Women in Islam have legal rights like men but with some differences. The Qur‟an stresses the equality of rights of men and women. Allah said:: “And due to them (wives) is similar to what is expected of them, according to what is reasonable…” (The Qur‟an 2:228). The Qu‟ran confirms the right of both men and women to get inheritance shares. Allah said: “For men is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, and for women is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, be it little or much- an obligatory share.” (The Qur‟an 4:7). So mothers, daughters, and wives get inheritance shares. A male gets a portion equal to that of two women. This can be seen as unjust treatment toward women. But when we know the responsibility of a husband in a Muslim family, we will realize that this distribution is just. A husband must provide his family with all maintenance and protection. His wife has no obligation to provide the family with financial
Muslim women got their rights before Western women.
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support. So what she gets from the inheritance is her own but she willingly can help her husband and she gets rewarded from Allah. Now we understand that a man spends his share in supporting his family including his wife while a woman keeps her share for herself and she has full control over her property. She can sell, buy and make contracts with others without seeking permission from her father or her husband or any one.
Women‟s right of education in Islam is preserved too. Seeking knowledge by men and women is obligatory as Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said: “Acquiring knowledge is compulsory for every man and woman.”Narrated by Al-Tabarani. A woman can become a scholar and the best example for that is Aisha, the wife of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him. She was a scholar and she used to be a reference for Muslims in religious matters. She is one of the most common narrators of the statements of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him.
Muslim Woman’s Dress
Islam has many disciplines to purify the Muslim society from fornication and adultery. For example Allah said: "And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things) and to protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts) and not to show off their adornment except what must (ordinarily) appear thereof, that they should draw their veils all over their chests." (The Qur‟an 24:31).
The veil is a way toward purification in the Muslim society because it closes roads leading to fornication and adultery. Showing woman‟s beauty can arouse sexual desire in men and can lead to sexual harassment or rape. So Allah ordained Muslim women to wear veil for their
The veil is a way toward purification in the Muslim society.
Reasons to Embrace Islam
