Understanding Islam
As part of Apologia's mission to present a reasonable defense of the Christian faith, it's essential to understand other worldviews. This page offers an overview of the core beliefs within Islam, providing a foundation for respectful and informed dialogue. We believe that understanding different perspectives is key to effectively proclaiming the gospel and defending Christian truth.
Core beliefs of Islam
To foster informed discussions, it's important to grasp the foundational tenets of Islam. Below are the key beliefs that shape the worldview of Muslims, directly addressing common questions and providing clarity on what is most important for outsiders to understand.
What do muslims believe about god?
The Arabic term for God is Allah. Sometimes Muslims prefer to use the name Allah over God because Allah linguistically does not have a gender and cannot be made plural. The English name God could become goddess or gods. The main message of the Qurʾān is that God is one. He has no partner, child, or helper.
Which prophets and messengers do muslims believe in?
A Muslim is required to believe in Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, David, Joseph, Jesus, and Muhammad peace be upon all of them. They all came with the same message, to worship one God and not associate any partners with him.
What is the muslim belief about the afterlife?
There will be a day of judgment where God will hold people accountable for their actions in this world. Those who did good will enter paradise and those who did evil will either be forgiven or punished in hell. Everyone will be compensated for their actions in this world.
Do muslims believe in angels?
There are many angels and that all obey God. Unlike humans, angels do not have free will and must obey all the commands of God. Different angels have different tasks. For example, the angel Gabriel was responsible of communicating the message of God to human Prophets and Messengers. The Angel Michael (Mikaaeel) was responsible for rain. Angels also help and assist believers in times of difficulty.
What do muslims believe about holy scriptures?
Moses was given the Torah, Abraham was given the scrolls, David was given the Psalms, and Jesus was given the Injeel. With the exception of the Qurʾān, no previous scripture is completely preserved in its original form. With time, many of these scriptures were lost or corrupted. The Qurʾān was sent as a the “final testament” and it functions as God’s final message to mankind.
How do muslims view divine will and decree?
God has knowledge of all things that will happen. He does not force humans to make decisions, we choose what we want to do. However, there are certain things that God decreed and are outside of our control. These things include the time and place we were born, where and when we will die, and anything that happens that is outside our control. Muslims submit to these things as part of God’s decree and will.