Islam

Muslims are generally discouraged from depicting images of living beings, particularly humans and animals, in art. This stems from the belief that such representations could lead to idolatry or distract from the worship of Allah. Instead, Islamic art often features intricate geometric patterns, calligraphy, and floral designs, which reflect spirituality without representing the divine. However, interpretations and practices can vary among different cultures and sects within Islam.

The daily prayers, or Salah, in Islam consist of five obligatory prayers, each with a specific number of Rakats. Fajr has 2 Rakats, Dhuhr has 4 Rakats, Asr has 4 Rakats, Maghrib has 3 Rakats, and Isha has 4 Rakats. Additionally, Sunnah and Nafl prayers can be performed before or after these obligatory prayers for extra merit.

Islam traces its roots to the Abrahamic lineage through the figure of Ishmael, the son of Abraham and Hagar. According to Islamic tradition, Ishmael is considered a prophet and an ancestor of the Arab people. Muslims believe that the Prophet Muhammad is a descendant of Ishmael, establishing a spiritual connection to Abraham, who is revered as a key patriarch in Islam, Judaism, and Christianity. This lineage highlights the shared heritage among these Abrahamic faiths.

When the Nation of Islam's membership began to decline in the late 1970s, its leader, Louis Farrakhan, actively sought to revitalize and expand the organization. He focused on outreach to disenfranchised African Americans, emphasizing themes of empowerment, self-discipline, and social justice. Farrakhan also worked to strengthen community ties and promote the Nation's teachings, which helped to rejuvenate interest and attract new followers. His efforts contributed to a resurgence in the organization's visibility and influence in the African American community.

Before Muhammad, the Kaaba served as a central religious site for the various tribes of pre-Islamic Arabia, where they would gather for pilgrimage and worship. It housed numerous idols representing different deities, making it a focal point for polytheistic worship. The Kaaba also facilitated trade and social interaction among the tribes, enhancing its significance in Mecca as a cultural and economic hub. Thus, it was a place of spiritual significance and communal identity long before the advent of Islam.

The Sabeans were an ancient people primarily located in the region of modern-day Yemen, known for their involvement in trade and agriculture, particularly in the production of incense and spices. They are often associated with the Kingdom of Saba, which flourished from around the 10th century BCE to the 5th century CE. The Sabeans practiced a polytheistic religion and were known for their impressive architectural achievements, including the construction of dams and temples. They are mentioned in various historical texts, including the Bible, where they are often linked with wealth and trade.

The Trappist or Cistercian nuns are known for their commitment to a life of prayer, often spending their days and nights in contemplative prayer and worship. They follow a strict schedule that includes communal prayer services, individual prayer, and meditation. The convents where they live are typically cloistered, emphasizing solitude and silence to deepen their spiritual connection. This lifestyle reflects their dedication to a life of contemplation and devotion to God.

Islam is a religion, not a country, so it cannot be classified as secular or non-secular. However, various countries with predominantly Muslim populations exhibit different degrees of secularism. Some, like Turkey, have a secular government structure despite their Islamic heritage, while others, such as Saudi Arabia, incorporate Islamic law into their legal system. Therefore, the relationship between Islam and secularism varies widely across different nations.

Muslims show great respect for Muhammad by referring to him with titles such as "Prophet" and "Messenger of Allah," often adding phrases like "Peace be upon him" after his name. They also honor him by studying his teachings and practices, known as the Sunnah, which guide their daily lives. Additionally, many Muslims express their reverence through prayers and gatherings, particularly during religious events like Mawlid, which celebrates his birth.

Throughout history, there have been various military campaigns and expansions led by Muslim empires, such as the Rashidun, Umayyad, and Ottoman caliphates, which sought to spread Islam and expand their territories. However, these efforts were often motivated by political, economic, and territorial ambitions rather than a singular goal of world conquest. It's important to recognize that Islamic expansion was a complex phenomenon influenced by a variety of factors, and not all Muslims or Islamic groups aimed to conquer the world. Thus, framing these historical events as attempts to "conquer the world" oversimplifies a rich and diverse history.

To recite Attahiyat in Salah (prayer), you begin after the second rak'ah while sitting in the tashahhud position. You say "At-tahiyyatu lillahi wa-salawatu wa-tayyibat," followed by sending blessings upon the Prophet Muhammad with "As-salamu 'alayka ayyuha an-nabiyyu wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh." Then, you greet yourself and all the righteous servants of Allah with "As-salamu 'alayna wa 'ala ibadillah as-salihin." Finally, you conclude with the testimony of faith: "Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah wa ashhadu anna Muhammadur Rasulullah."

The spread of ideas through trade routes is often referred to as "cultural diffusion." This phenomenon occurs when traders, travelers, and explorers share not only goods but also cultural practices, beliefs, and knowledge across different regions. Notable trade routes, such as the Silk Road, facilitated the exchange of religions, technologies, and artistic influences, significantly shaping the cultures of the societies involved.

Ahle tashi ka khulfa-e-rashidin ko bura bhala kehna unka ek ahem aqeeda hai, jo unki history aur siyasi differences se jura hua hai. Ye log khulfa-e-rashidin, khas taur par Hazrat Abu Bakr, Hazrat Umar, Hazrat Uthman, aur Hazrat Ali ki khilafat aur unke faislon par tanqeed karte hain. Iska asal sabab unka aisa samajhna hai ke in khulfa ne Hazrat Ali ki haqeeqi khilafat ko nazarandaz kiya. Yeh ikhtilaf unke mazhabi aur siyasi nazariyat ka nateeja hai.

Mecca is located to the east of Phoenix, Arizona. Specifically, it is situated approximately 8,000 miles away, across the Atlantic Ocean and parts of Europe and Asia. When considering a direct line on a map, Mecca would generally be in the northeast direction from Phoenix.

The conflict over Kashmir primarily involves territorial disputes between India and Pakistan, with both countries claiming the region, which has a majority Muslim population. This dispute has historical roots dating back to the partition of British India in 1947, leading to multiple wars and ongoing tensions. While Buddhism is not a primary factor in the Kashmir conflict, the region does have a Buddhist community, particularly in Ladakh, which adds to the complex demographic landscape. Overall, the conflict is more about national identity, territorial claims, and religious identity between Hindus and Muslims rather than a direct clash between Islam and Buddhism.

Neelima Azim is known to be a Sunni Muslim. She is the mother of Indian actor Shahid Kapoor and has often spoken about her cultural and religious background. However, specific details about her personal beliefs and practices are generally private.

Akon, the Senegalese-American singer, songwriter, and producer, is known for his passion for music, particularly in the genres of R&B and hip-hop. Beyond his music career, he is also involved in various philanthropic efforts, particularly in Africa, focusing on renewable energy projects and economic development. Additionally, Akon enjoys engaging with his fans and exploring innovative business ventures, including his plans for "Akon City" in Senegal. Overall, his interests span creativity, social impact, and entrepreneurship.

In the opening line of "The Night," two qualities of Allah that are highlighted are His omnipotence and His mercy. The line emphasizes Allah's ability to create and control the night, showcasing His power, while also reflecting His compassion for His creation by providing a time of rest and reflection. Together, these qualities illustrate the dual nature of Allah as both a powerful creator and a caring sustainer.

A prayer for yourself is often referred to as a "personal prayer" or "self-prayer." It is a form of communication with the divine in which individuals seek guidance, support, or strength for their own needs and challenges. This type of prayer can be an expression of gratitude, a plea for help, or a request for clarity in one's life.

The oldest Islamic country is generally considered to be Saudi Arabia, as it is home to the birthplace of Islam, with the Prophet Muhammad's life and the subsequent establishment of the first Islamic state in Medina in the 7th century. The region has historical significance due to the presence of the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, which are central to the Islamic faith. Additionally, the unification of the various tribes and regions in the early 20th century led to the formation of the modern Saudi state.

Makka, or Mecca, is a holy city in Saudi Arabia and the birthplace of the Prophet Muhammad. It is the site of the Kaaba, the most sacred structure in Islam, located within the Masjid al-Haram, where millions of Muslims perform the Hajj pilgrimage annually. During Hajj and throughout the year, Muslims engage in rituals such as Tawaf (circumambulating the Kaaba) and Sa'i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah). The city holds immense spiritual significance and is a focal point for Islamic worship and community.

Islamic offerings, known as "Sadaqah" and "Zakat," are charitable acts intended to support those in need. Sadaqah is voluntary and can be given at any time, while Zakat is a mandatory almsgiving that requires Muslims to donate a specific portion of their wealth, typically 2.5% of savings, to the less fortunate. Additionally, during the annual pilgrimage of Hajj, Muslims perform "Qurbani," which involves sacrificing an animal and distributing its meat to the needy, symbolizing generosity and compassion. These offerings are integral to fostering community welfare and fulfilling religious obligations.

Islam was founded by the Prophet Muhammad, not Adam, who is a significant figure in many religions, including Islam. Muhammad received his first revelation from the angel Gabriel in 610 CE, marking the beginning of Islam. The religion developed over the following years, culminating in the establishment of the Muslim community in Medina in 622 CE, which is considered the start of the Islamic calendar.

The Islamic scientist and philosopher known as Avicenna is Ibn Sina, who lived from 980 to 1037 CE. He is best known for his influential work, the "Canon of Medicine" (Al-Qanun fi al-Tibb), which systematically organized and compiled medical knowledge of his time. This text became a standard reference in both the Islamic world and Europe for several centuries, significantly impacting the development of medicine.

"Puasa" is the Indonesian and Malay term for fasting, typically observed in the context of Ramadan in Islam. It involves abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset as an act of spiritual discipline and devotion. Puasa is intended to foster self-control, empathy for the less fortunate, and a closer connection to God. It is a time for reflection, prayer, and community.