History

Islam is the second largest religion in the world, with over a thousand million adherents. There are between 1.5 and 3 million Muslims in the UK, which makes it the second most popular religion.

Islam as we now know it began in Arabia over a thousand years ago, and was revealed to humanity by the prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in the 7th Century although its followers believe that it always existed. His teachings were laid down in the Holy Qur'an, which is Islam's holy book.

There are two main sects of Islam, the Suni Muslims (who make up about 90% of the world's Muslims) and the Shia Muslims. The schism occured after the death of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) when both the faith and the Islamic State without a clearly stated successor. One group of the then 100,000 inhabitants elected Abu Bakr (a friend of the Prophet [pbuh]) as the next leader while another group elected Ali (the son-in-law of the Prophet [pbuh]) in the tradition of Divine Right. Followers of Abu Bakr became known as Sunnis and followers of Ali became known as Shias. These two sects have divided over doctrine as well as sucession in the passing centuries, but at all levels Muslims from different sects or countries all regard their faith as a bond between them, despite minor differences.

Muslims worship communally in a building called a Mosque, or Masjid. Individual worship is also permitted, but must be performed according to strict rules and at strict times. There are several holy days and festivals throughout the year.

Beliefs

Muslims believe in one single God, called Allah, and they believe that everything in life should be done in service to Him. They also believe in angels, a single day of judgement, and predestination.

All Muslims must satisfy the obligations of the Five Pillars in order to have a good and responsible life according to their faith.  These Pillars are Shahadah (faith), Salat (prayer), Zakat (charity), Sawn (fasting) and Hajj (pilgrimage). These Pillars form the framework of Muslim life, and the undertaking of them is left to the individual as their fulfillment of these obligations is between an individual Muslim and Allah.

They believe in a number of prophets - including many in common with Christianity, such as Abraham and Jesus.  The final prophet was Muhammad (peace be upon him) and he received God's final message to humanity through the angel Gabriel.  This message is now set down in the Holy Qur'an and is the message that all Muslims follow.

The text of the Holy Qur'an lays down rules for many other aspects of daily life and worship. Again, the degree to which these are fulfilled is between an individual Muslim and Allah.

Links

You can find out more about Islam and Muslims in the UK at http://www.masud.co.uk

Locally

There are several mosques in the Pendle area.  You can find one near you in our directory.