Islam

Estimates suggest that around 55% of the world's population engages in daily prayer, which varies significantly across different cultures and religions. For example, in predominantly religious countries, such as those in the Middle East and parts of Asia, daily prayer rates can be much higher. In contrast, more secular regions tend to report lower daily prayer practices. Overall, the practice of daily prayer remains a significant aspect of life for millions globally.

The sahabi who saw Hazrat Jibraeel (Gabriel) and later became blind is Hazrat Ibn Mas'ud (RA). He was known for his deep knowledge of the Quran and close companionship with the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). His blindness is often attributed to his intense devotion and the sacrifices he made in the path of Islam. Despite his blindness, he continued to serve the Muslim community and share his knowledge.

Surat Abasa, or "The Chapter of He Frowned," is the 80th chapter of the Quran. It addresses the Prophet Muhammad's encounter with a blind man, Abdallah ibn Umm Maktum, who sought guidance. The chapter emphasizes the importance of prioritizing those who are sincere in their faith over worldly appearances and highlights themes of compassion, humility, and the consequences of neglecting one's responsibilities. It serves as a reminder to focus on the spiritual needs of all individuals, regardless of their social status.

The holy word revealed to Muhammad is called the Qur'an. It is considered the literal word of God (Allah) in Islam, conveyed to Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel over a period of approximately 23 years. The Qur'an serves as the primary religious text for Muslims, guiding their beliefs, practices, and laws.

In Islamic culture, the highest form of art is often considered to be calligraphy, particularly Arabic calligraphy. This is due to its deep spiritual significance, as it is used to transcribe the Quran and express religious devotion. Calligraphy transcends mere aesthetic appeal, embodying the beauty of language and the divine message within Islam. Other art forms, such as geometric patterns and arabesques, also hold important places but are typically seen as complementary to the art of calligraphy.

Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddiq, a close companion of Prophet Muhammad and the first caliph of Islam, was from the Quraysh tribe. The Quraysh were a prominent and respected tribe in Mecca, known for their influence and leadership in the region. Abu Bakr belonged specifically to the Banu Taym clan within the Quraysh tribe. His lineage and status contributed to his significant role in early Islamic history.

Muslims continued the legacy of Muhammad by spreading his teachings through the Quran and Hadith, which serve as foundational texts for Islamic beliefs and practices. Following his death, the early Muslim community expanded rapidly through conquests and trade, promoting Islam across Asia, Africa, and Europe. Additionally, the establishment of institutions like mosques and madrasas helped preserve and disseminate Islamic knowledge. This legacy also fostered a rich cultural and intellectual tradition that influenced various fields, including science, philosophy, and the arts.

Sunni Ali, the first ruler of the Songhai Empire, had a contentious relationship with Muslim religious leaders due to his pragmatic approach to governance and religion. He was known for his military prowess and focus on expanding his empire, often prioritizing political stability over strict adherence to Islamic practices. This sometimes led to tensions with clerics who sought to enforce a more orthodox interpretation of Islam, as Sunni Ali was criticized for his perceived lack of devotion and his promotion of traditional African religious practices alongside Islam. His actions sparked conflicts that highlighted the struggle between political authority and religious leadership in the region.

Fatihul Qudus, also known as "Conqueror of the Holy City," refers to the historical figure of Saladin (Salah ad-Din), the first Sultan of Egypt and Syria, who is renowned for his leadership during the Crusades in the 12th century. He is celebrated for his pivotal role in the recapture of Jerusalem from the Crusaders in 1187 and for his chivalrous conduct towards his enemies. Saladin is also noted for his efforts to unify Muslim territories against the Crusader states and is a significant figure in Islamic history.

An imam typically gets married in a manner similar to other Muslims, following Islamic traditions and guidelines. The process often involves the imam or his family initiating a match, and both families may be involved in the arrangement. The marriage is formalized through a Nikah ceremony, which includes the recitation of specific prayers and the signing of a marriage contract. Additionally, the imam may seek guidance from religious leaders or community elders during the process.

The Janissaries were the elite infantry of the Ottoman Empire who converted to Islam and became fierce warriors. Originally formed from Christian boys taken through the devshirme system, they were raised as Muslims and trained for military service. The Janissaries played a crucial role in the expansion and success of the Ottoman army, known for their discipline and advanced military tactics. Their loyalty to the Sultan and the empire made them a formidable force in the Ottoman military hierarchy.

Islam is a religion practiced by people of diverse ethnicities around the world. Major populations include Arabs, Turks, Persians, and South Asians, but Muslims can be found in nearly every country and among various ethnic groups, such as Africans, Southeast Asians, and even Europeans. The faith transcends ethnic boundaries and is united by shared beliefs and practices, regardless of cultural background.

To make niyyat (intention) for Rakats, one should first focus their heart and mind on the specific prayer they are about to perform, whether it’s obligatory (Fard) or voluntary (Nafl). Silently state your intention in your heart, as verbalizing it is not mandatory. For example, you might think, “I intend to perform two Rakats of Sunnah prayer.” This intention helps to align your focus and devotion during the prayer.

Fasting becomes invalid if certain conditions are met, such as eating or drinking intentionally during the fasting period. Additionally, engaging in behaviors that break the fast, such as smoking or taking certain medications (without valid reasons), can also invalidate the fast. Menstruation or postpartum bleeding for women can render their fast invalid in some religious contexts, like in Islam. It's important to understand the specific guidelines of the fasting practice being observed.

In the Quran, it is mentioned that Noah (Nuh) had three sons. However, it is also noted that one of his sons did not believe and ultimately perished in the flood. The Quran emphasizes the importance of faith and obedience to God's commands, highlighting the tragic fate of the disbelieving son.

Radnor Park in Clydebank was colloquially known as "Holy City" due to the significant number of churches and religious institutions located in the area surrounding the park. This nickname reflects the strong religious presence and community identity that characterized the neighborhood. The term "Holy City" also evokes a sense of spiritual importance and a gathering place for faith-based activities.

Muslims treat the Qur'an with great reverence because they believe it to be the literal word of God (Allah) as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad. The Qur'an is considered a guide for all aspects of life, encompassing spiritual, ethical, and legal principles. Its sacred status is reflected in the way it is handled, often requiring cleanliness and respect, such as being placed on a high surface and recited with care. This deep respect also stems from the belief that the Qur'an is timeless and unaltered, making it a central component of Islamic faith and practice.

Avicenna, also known as Ibn Sina, was a Persian polymath who made significant contributions to various fields, including philosophy, medicine, and the natural sciences during the Islamic Golden Age. He is best known for his influential medical text, "The Canon of Medicine," which served as a standard reference in Europe and the Islamic world for centuries. Additionally, Avicenna's philosophical works synthesized Aristotelian and Neoplatonic thought, particularly in his exploration of metaphysics and the nature of existence. His ideas laid the groundwork for later developments in both philosophy and science.

Islam is a monotheistic religion founded on the belief in one God (Allah) and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, as conveyed in the Quran. It emphasizes principles such as compassion, justice, and community, guiding followers in their spiritual and daily lives through practices like prayer, fasting, and charity. The diversity within Islam reflects a wide range of cultural interpretations and practices, highlighting its global significance and adaptability. Overall, Islam promotes a sense of unity among its followers while encouraging respect for others.

Ali Ibn Abi Talib was the cousin and son-in-law of the Prophet Muhammad (SAAW), having married the Prophet's daughter, Fatimah. He was one of the first converts to Islam and played a crucial role in the early Muslim community, serving as a close companion and supporter of the Prophet. Ali is also revered in Islamic tradition as the fourth caliph and is a central figure in both Sunni and Shia Islam, reflecting his deep connection to the Prophet's legacy.

Hazrat Osman ibn Affan was the third caliph of the Rashidun Caliphate, serving from 644 to 656 CE. He is known for his significant contributions to the compilation of the Quran and for expanding the Islamic empire during his reign. Osman was a member of the Umayyad clan and was closely associated with the Prophet Muhammad, having married two of Muhammad's daughters at different times. His rule faced internal dissent, leading to his assassination, which marked a pivotal moment in Islamic history.

Muslims are expected to give a portion of their surplus wealth to charity through a practice known as Zakat. This mandatory form of almsgiving requires individuals to donate 2.5% of their accumulated wealth, including savings, gold, and investments, annually. Additionally, many Muslims also engage in voluntary charity, known as Sadaqah, which has no fixed amount and can be given at any time.

Around 1500 years ago, the Arabian Peninsula was characterized by a harsh desert climate, primarily dominated by the Rub' al Khali, or Empty Quarter, one of the largest sand deserts in the world. The region featured a mix of nomadic Bedouin tribes and settled communities, particularly around oases that provided water and agricultural opportunities. Key trade routes crossed the peninsula, facilitating commerce between the Mediterranean and the Indian Ocean, while cities like Mecca and Medina emerged as important religious and commercial centers. The social structure was tribal, with strong loyalties and a culture rich in oral tradition and poetry.

The Arabian Peninsula covers an area of approximately 1.25 million square miles (3.2 million square kilometers). Its coastline stretches roughly 3,600 miles (about 5,800 kilometers) along the Red Sea, Arabian Sea, and the Persian Gulf. The peninsula includes countries like Saudi Arabia, Yemen, Oman, the UAE, Qatar, Bahrain, and Kuwait.

The small island country located off the eastern coast of the Arabian Peninsula is Bahrain. It is an archipelago consisting of 33 islands, with Bahrain Island being the largest. The country is known for its rich history, cultural heritage, and significant oil reserves. Bahrain serves as a financial hub in the region and has a diverse economy beyond oil.