What is Islam?

In an age torn by hatred, war and strife among the races, many of us look back to religion for guidance to peace and brotherhood and are disappointed when we find in most of them intolerance and narrowness of spirituality.

However, man has changed this original teaching of Oneness and developed out of numerous mutually antagonistic sects. As Allah says in the Holy Qur'an, the revelation of Allah to Prophet Muhammad, praise and peace be upon him: "Surely this your brotherhood is a single brotherhood, and I am your Lord, so keep your duty unto Me. But they (mankind) split themselves up in sects, each party rejoicing in its own tenets." Chapter 23:52-53.

Islam still preserves this teaching of the Oneness of God and the brotherhood of all mankind. Islam seeks to implement this spirit among all races, and yet, at the same time, remains tolerant and respectful of all other heavenly religions and their followers who share the belief in the One and only God. The Holy Qur'an teaches: "There is no compulsion in religion. The right direction stands out clearly from error. Whoever rejects false dei- ties and believes in Allah has grasped a firm handhold that never breaks, and Allah hears and knows all things." Chapter 2:256