Introduction to Islam and the Muslim Beliefs : Introduction to Islam and the Muslim Beliefs We will be discussing the 6 Fundamental Beliefs of Islam in an easy to understand manner.
We will be starting with an introduction to a few Arabic words to familiarize the student with the structure and beauty of Islam having been revealed in the Arabic.
The teacher will keep in mind that this class is designed for those individuals who have little to no understanding of Islam or any of its elements.
The Arabic word (Islam) : The Arabic word (Islam) All Arabic words are derived from rood words. Most Arabic words are derived from 3 root consonants. In this word, the root is SLM, which means submission and peace.
SLM – Root for Islam : SLM – Root for Islam Have you heard a Muslim say the word Salam? Notice the root is the same. Salam means peace. Muslims use the greeting Salamu 'alaykum (Peace Upon You)
Al = The : Al = The This is called a definite particle. We would say (The Peace be upon you) In Arabic there are some letters that double over. When you use Al with a word like (Salam), the S is a doubled over letter, so you say (As-Salam). The L is dropped and replaced with the first letter of the word, if it is one of those special letters. A
Al-llah = God : Al-llah = God The Arabic word for God is (Allah). (Al = The) and (llah) translates into (deity worthy of worship), so Allah is (The deity worthy of worship), but it is unique. In the Quran, God chose this name for Himself. He called Himself Allah. This word has no gender, no singular, and no plural. He is (God), or (The one and only deity worthy of worship)
Muslim : Muslim The word Muslim is a noun and identifies a person. Look at the root; does it look familiar? Yes, (SLM) meaning submission or peace. So, a Muslim is a person who submits. Submits to whom? He or she submits to Allah (God), and he or she does so through Islam (a way of life of submitting to Allah and that which He has asked us to do and believe.
Overview : Overview SLM: root that means submission or peace
Islam: A way of life of submitting to God through actions and belief.
Allah: The Arabic name for God chosen by God, and it has no gender, no singular, or no plural.
Muslim: One who choses to submit through Islam to Allah and that which He has asked of us.