By Adv. Ayub Ahmed Khan - Bangalore
Mobile : 98440-96475
1. Introduction
There are between 1.2 and 1.6 billion Muslims across the world.
The common belief that most Muslims are Arabs is a misconception. In fact, the majority of Muslims in the world are non-Arabs.
Most of the Muslims are concentrated in Muslim-majority countries, such as Azerbaijan and Albania in Europe, Mali and Tunisia in Africa, Saudi Arabia and Jordan in the Middle East, Pakistan and Bangladesh in southeast Asia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan in central Asia, and Indonesia and Malaysia in Asia Pacific.
At the same time, a growing Muslim diaspora has taken root in many areas as well, such as China, Australia, Europe, America and Canada, Latin America, and parts of western, central, and southern Africa. It is estimated that there are around 7 million Muslims in the United States.
India is one of the most religiously diverse countries in the world. Hindus, Muslims, Christians, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains and many other communities have lived together for centuries. In such a diverse society, mutual understanding of religious traditions is essential for harmony and peaceful coexistence.
Islam is the second-largest religion in India, with a history of more than 1300 years in the subcontinent. Muslims have contributed significantly to India's culture, architecture, literature, music, education, law and public life.
2. What is Islam
UNIVERSE is one, creator is also one, then Religion also shall be one and the supreme GOD also one, most of the religion also believe in one supreme power- GOD ALMIGHTY. Islam is strictly adhere to this belief in one God (and often referred to in Arabic called-Allah), who is the creator and sustainer of the universe and we are all accountable to HIM one day, the Judgement Day, of all our good deeds and Bad deeds and are suitably rewarded with Heaven or punished in Hell . Muslim also refer to GOD almighty with his 99 attributes [ like, Khaliq ( creator), Rahman ( compassionate), Razak ( Provider), and so on.
Muslims believe that GOD has sent many prophets throughout the history of Mankind, to guide humanity. These prophets include:
Adam
Noah
Abraham
David
Solomon
Moses
Jesus….and so on.,.
[ These names are similar to names mentioned in Bible ]
And his Last and final messenger is Muhammad
(peace be upon them all)
The message of all prophets is essentially the same:
Worship one God
Live a moral and ethical life
Be compassionate toward others
Work for justice in society
Islam therefore sees itself as a continuation of the same divine message given to earlier prophets.
3. Meaning of Islam
The word Islam comes from the Arabic root “S-L-M”, which is related to peace and submission.
Islam means:
“Peace through submission to the will of God.”
By nature, Every individual, wants to live life with free will, without restrictions, want to live life, the way he likes & thinks, Whereas, the basic traffic rules itself shows, a person when living in public/ society, he must adhere to certain rules of traffic for smooth flow. Hence, to live in civilized society comprising of millions of people, with harmony and peace and to avoid clash/ conflict in the society, GOD insist to surrender our individual WILL to WILL of GOD [ the creator and sustainer of the world].
A person who follows Islam is called a Muslim, meaning:
“One who submits to God.”
The greeting used by Muslims is:
“Assalamu Alaikum” which means “Peace be upon you.”
Peace, harmony and justice are therefore central themes in Islamic teachings.
4. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Prophet Muhammad was born in 570 CE in Mecca (present-day Saudi Arabia).
He was known for his honesty and integrity even before attaining prophethood and was called:
“Al-Ameen” (The Trustworthy).
At the age of 40, he began receiving divine revelations from God through the angel Gabriel.
Prophet Mohammed [PBUH], is not a founder of ISLAM. He continued the same messages as that of the previous messengers, matching to the evolution of MAN.
His teachings emphasized:
Social justice
[ No discrimination due to colour, region, wealth, position etc.]
Equality of all human beings
[ Freedom, dignity, education, safety, opportunities,]
Protection of the poor
[ kindness, special care, charity, protection etc.]
Women's rights
[ Right to Education, inheritance of wealth, own property, choose husband , Divorce, Right to Pilgrimage, etc.]
Compassion and mercy
[ Caring for Orphans, widows, animal lovers, forgiving enemies,]
Prophet Muhammad is regarded by Muslims as the final messenger of GOD.
5. The Qur'an
The Qur'an is the holy book of Islam.
It is the literal word of God, divine revelations from God through the angel Gabriel revealed to Prophet Muhammad over 23 years.
Quran contains, 114 chapters[ Surahs] about 6236 Verses, divided into 30 sections[ Juz]
The Qur'an contains guidance on:
Faith and worship
Moral conduct
Family life
Economic justice
Social responsibility
Spiritual growth
History of Prophets,
Mention of day of Judgement, Heaven, Hell
Reflection on Nature, Universe, and creation
Human embryonic ….. and so on.
It is written in classical Arabic and has been preserved in its original form since its revelation. Entire Qur’an is memorized by thousands of Moulvies-called Hafiz.
Muslims recite portions of the Qur'an daily during prayers.
6. Six Articles of Faith
Islamic belief is based on six fundamental articles of faith:
1. Belief in One God
God is unique, all-powerful and merciful.
2. Belief in Angels
Angels are spiritual beings created by God who carry out divine commands.
3. Belief in Divine Books
These include earlier scriptures such as:
Torah [ Old testament- revealed on Prophet Moses]
Psalms [Old testament- revealed on Prophet David]
Gospel [ New Testemant- Injeel( Bible on Jesus)
Qur'an [ revealed on Prophet Muhammed]
4. Belief in Prophets
God sent prophets to guide humanity.
5. Belief in Day of Judgment
People will be accountable for their actions.
6. Belief in Divine Decree
God has knowledge of all events.
7. Five Pillars of Islam
The Five Pillars form the foundation of Islamic practice.
1. Shahada (Faith)
Declaration that:
“There is no God but ALLAH and Muhammad is His messenger.”
2. Salat (Prayer)
Muslims pray five times daily.
3. Zakat (Charity)
A fixed portion of wealth (a Minimum of 2.5%); is given to help the poor.
4. Sawm (Fasting)
Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan.
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage)
Pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a lifetime if possible.
8. Five Daily Prayers
Muslims pray five times daily:
Prayer Time
Fajr : before sunrise
Dhuhr : Midday
Asr : Afternoon
Maghrib : Sunset
Isha : Night
Prayer provides:
spiritual discipline
connection with God
regular reflection on moral behavior
9. RAMAZAAN [ Ramadan]
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar.
During this month Muslims:
fast from dawn to sunset
increase charity
read the Qur'an
perform additional prayers
Fasting teaches:
self-control
empathy for the poor
spiritual purification
10. Ethical Teachings of Islam
Islam places great emphasis on moral values.
Important virtues include:
honesty
kindness
generosity
respect for parents
care for neighbors
fairness in trade
Charity and helping those in need are strongly encouraged.
11. Islam and Peace
examples from the Qur’an that show Islam promotes peace, protection of life, and justice, matching the points in your image.
1. Peace is a core value in Islam
Qur’an – Surah Al-Baqarah 2:208
“O you who believe! Enter into peace (Islam) completely and do not follow the footsteps of Satan.”
Meaning:
Allah commands believers to adopt peace and righteousness in all aspects of life.
2. The Qur’an encourages peaceful relations
Qur’an – Surah Al-Anfal 8:61
“And if they incline to peace, then incline to it also and rely upon Allah.”
Meaning: Muslims are instructed to accept peace whenever the other side seeks it.
3. Human life is sacred
Qur’an – Surah Al-Ma’idah 5:32
“Whoever kills a person (unjustly)… it is as if he has killed all mankind; and whoever saves a life, it is as if he has saved all mankind.”
Meaning:
Human life has immense value; protecting life is a major principle in Islam.
4. Helping others and protecting life
Qur’an – Surah Al-Ma’un 107:1-3
“Have you seen the one who denies the religion?
That is the one who repulses the orphan and does not encourage feeding the poor.”
Meaning:
True faith requires helping the needy and caring for vulnerable people.
5. Justice and fairness
Qur’an – Surah An-Nisa 4:135
“O you who believe! Stand firmly for justice, even against yourselves or parents or relatives.”
Meaning:
Islam commands justice without bias.
12. Religious Tolerance in Islam
Religious tolerance in Islam means respecting the freedom of belief and allowing people of different religions to practice their faith peacefully. The Qur’an and the teachings of Muhammad emphasize justice, coexistence, and protection of religious minorities.
1. Freedom of Religion in the Qur’an
Islam clearly states that faith cannot be forced.
Qur’an (2:256)
“There is no compulsion in religion. Truth stands clear from falsehood.”
This verse establishes the principle that people must choose their faith freely.
Another verse:
Qur’an (18:29)
“The truth is from your Lord; whoever wills—let him believe, and whoever wills—let him disbelieve.”
2. Respect for Other Faiths
Islam recognizes earlier divine scriptures and prophets such as:
Moses,David,Jesus
The Qur’an acknowledges their scriptures:
Torah, Psalms,Gospel
Qur’an (5:48) explains that different communities have their own laws and ways of life and should compete in good deeds.
3. Protection of Non-Muslims
Islamic teachings instruct Muslims to protect people of other faiths.
A famous saying of Muhammad states:
“Whoever harms a non-Muslim under Muslim protection harms me.”
Historically, Jews and Christians living under Muslim rule were called Ahl al-Kitab (People of the Book) and were allowed to practice their religion.
4. Historical Example – Charter of Medina
One of the earliest examples of religious coexistence is the Constitution of Medina.
Key points:
Muslims, Jews, and other tribes formed one political community.
Each group was free to follow its own religion.
Mutual protection and justice were guaranteed.
This document is considered one of the first written constitutions promoting religious pluralism.
5. Qur’anic Instruction for Peaceful Dialogue
The Qur’an encourages respectful discussion with followers of other religions.
Qur’an (29:46)
“Do not argue with the People of the Book except in the best manner.”
13. Do Not Abuse Other People’s Gods
One of the clearest teachings of the Qur'an on religious tolerance is the command not to insult the gods or beliefs of others.
Qur’an Verse
Surah Al-An‘am (6:108)
“Do not insult those they invoke besides Allah, lest they insult Allah in hostility without knowledge.”
This verse was revealed to teach Muslims respectful behavior toward people of other religions, even if Muslims disagree with their beliefs.
Key Lessons from this Verse
Respect for Others’ Beliefs
Islam instructs Muslims not to mock or abuse the deities worshipped by others.
Avoid Creating Hatred
If Muslims insult others’ beliefs, it may cause them to insult Allah, leading to unnecessary conflict.
Promote Peaceful Dialogue
Islam encourages discussion with wisdom and good manners.
Another supporting verse:
Qur’an (16:125)
“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in the best manner.”
Meaning in Simple Words
Islam teaches that even when Muslims disagree with other religions, they must maintain respect and dignity, and never abuse the religious symbols or gods of others.
14. War Principles in the Qur’an (Islamic Rules of Warfare)
The Qur'an lays down strict ethical rules for warfare. War in Islam is not for aggression or conquest, but mainly for self-defense, protection of the oppressed, and restoration of peace.
I. War Only in Self-Defense
The Qur’an permits fighting only when Muslims are attacked.
Qur’an (2:190)
“Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors.”
Principle:
War must be defensive, not aggressive.
II. Stop War if the Enemy Seeks Peace
Islam encourages peace whenever possible.
Qur’an (8:61)
“If they incline toward peace, then incline toward it also and trust in Allah.”
Principle:
Peace is always preferable to war.
III. Protection of Innocent People
Islamic teachings prohibit harming civilians.
Teachings of Muhammad forbade killing:
i. Women
ii. Children
iii. Elderly people
iv. Monks and priests
v. Farmers and non-combatants
IV. No Destruction of Crops or Environment
Early Islamic instructions prohibited:
a. Destroying crops
b. Burning trees
c. Killing animals unnecessarily
d. Destroying places of worship
This reflects ethical warfare and environmental protection.
V. Fighting Against Oppression
The Qur’an allows war to defend oppressed people.
Qur’an (22:39)
“Permission to fight is given to those who are fought because they have been wronged.”
VI. Justice Even During War
Islam commands fairness even toward enemies.
Qur’an (5:8)
“Do not let hatred of a people cause you to be unjust. Be just; that is nearer to righteousness.”
VII. Qur’an :About Escorting an Enemy to Safety
One of the important humanitarian instructions in the Qur'an is found in Surah At-Tawbah (9:6), which instructs Muslims to give protection and safe escort even to enemies.
Qur’an (9:6)
“And if any of the polytheists seeks your protection, then grant him protection so that he may hear the word of Allah. Then escort him to a place of safety. That is because they are a people who do not know.”
Key Principles from this Verse
a. Grant Asylum to an Enemy
Even during conflict, if an enemy asks for protection, Muslims must give it.
b. Ensure Safety
The verse instructs Muslims to escort the person to a safe place, showing mercy even in wartime.
c. Opportunity to Hear the Message
The person may listen to the message of Islam freely, without coercion.
Ethical Meaning
This verse establishes an early principle similar to modern humanitarian protection and safe passage during war.
It shows that the Qur’an promotes:
Protection of prisoners or seekers of asylum
Safe conduct for enemies
Mercy and justice even during conflict
15. Teachings of Prophet Muhammad (Hadith)
The sayings of Prophet Muhammad are called Hadith.
They emphasize:
good character
kindness
honesty
compassion toward others
The Prophet said: the best people are those who benefit humanity.
1. Good Character
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The best among you are those who have the best character.”
Meaning: A Muslim’s true excellence is judged by moral behavior and character.
2. Kindness
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Allah is kind and loves kindness in all matters.”
Meaning: Kindness should be shown in speech, behavior, and dealings with people.
3. Honesty
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise.”
Meaning: Honesty builds trust and leads a person toward good deeds and paradise.
4. Compassion Toward Others
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“Show mercy to those on earth and the One above the heavens will show mercy to you.”
Meaning: Compassion toward people brings Allah’s mercy in return.
The teachings of Muhammad strongly emphasize honesty in trade and measurement.
5.Hadith on Honest Trade
The Prophet ﷺ said:
“The truthful and honest merchant will be with the Prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs.”
Meaning: A trader who is honest in weights, measures, and dealings receives a very high status in the Hereafter.
Another Teaching
The Prophet ﷺ once passed by a pile of food in the market. When he placed his hand inside, he found wet grain hidden underneath.
He said:
“Whoever cheats us is not one of us.”
Meaning: Cheating in measurement, weights, or quality of goods is strictly prohibited in Islam.
16. Islam & Scientific Temperament
ISLAM is a religion of faith, Yet, it does not promote superstitious. It rather encourages, logic, reasoning, rationality and scientific temperament. The Qur'an frequently encourages reflection on nature and pursuit of knowledge.
Islamic civilization historically produced great scholars in:
Mathematics ,Medicine, Astronomy, Philosophy
Examples include:
Al-Khwarizmi [780-850] Father of Algebra, developed the concept of Algorithm ( the word comes from his name“ Al-khwwarizmi”. Modern computer algorithms and programming logic originates from his work.
Ibn Sina (Avicenna)[ 980-1037] wrote “ The canon of Medicine, a medical encyclopedia used in Europe for 600 years; described conttaious disesases and quarantine principles, contributed to clinical medicine.
Ibn al-Haytham [ 965-1040] father of modern Optics, He explained how vision works, invented camera Obscura-the foundation of Photography.
Al -Zahrawi [ 936-1013], father of modern surgery. Invented over 200 surgical instruments. Wrote famous medical encyclopedia “Al-Tasrif”
Al Jazari [ 1136-1206] ; invented Water clocks, automated machines, crankshaft mechanism.
Al-Biruni [973-1048] Astronomy; Physics, Geography; calculated earth’s radius with high accuracy.
17. Islam & Women’s Rights
Islam introduced several rights for women( as early as 1400 years ago) at a time when many societies denied them basic dignity.
These include:
right to education
right to own property
right to inherit
right to consent in marriage
Women historically served as scholars, educators and community leaders.
18. Timeline of Islam in India
Important milestones:
7th century : Arab traders arrive on the Malabar Coast.
711 CE : Muhammad bin Qasim enters Sindh.
1206 CE : Delhi Sultanate established.
1526 CE : Beginning of the Mughal Empire.
1857 : First War of Independence.
1947 : India gains independence.
19. Spread of Islam in India
Islam spread through:
trade
migration
Sufi saints
cultural interaction
Many Sufi saints emphasized spiritual devotion, equality and compassion, attracting followers from diverse communities.
20. Islam in India Today
India has one of the largest Muslim populations in the world.
Muslims participate actively in:
Politics
Education
Business
Arts
Public service
21. Muslims in the Indian Freedom Movement
Muslims played an important role in India's independence struggle.
Below are 20 prominent Muslim personalities from different parts of India who played significant roles in the struggle against British rule.
Major National Leaders
Maulana Abul Kalam Azad – Senior leader of the Indian National Congress and strong advocate of Hindu-Muslim unity.
Khan Abdul Ghaffar Khan – Founded the non-violent Khudai Khidmatgar movement in the North-West Frontier Province.
Maulana Mohammad Ali Jauhar – Leader of the Khilafat Movement and nationalist journalist.
Shaukat Ali – Worked with his brother Mohammad Ali in mobilizing Muslims against British rule.
Revolutionary Freedom Fighters
Ashfaqulla Khan – Member of the Hindustan Republican Association; along with Bhagat Singh, executed by the British in 1927.
Syed Shah Rahmatullah – Participated in armed resistance against the British.
Bakht Khan – Key commander during the Indian Rebellion of 1857 in Delhi.
Tipu Sultan – One of the earliest rulers to fight till death, against the British East India Company.
Women Leaders
Begum Hazrat Mahal – Led resistance in Lucknow against the British.
Bi Amma – Mother of the Ali brothers; mobilized women during the Khilafat and Non-Cooperation movements.
Scholars and Political Leaders
Mahmud Hasan Deobandi – Leader of the Silk Letter Movement against British rule.
Ubaidullah Sindhi – Worked internationally to organize anti-British resistance.
Mukhtar Ahmed Ansari – President of the Indian National Congress in 1927.
Hakim Ajmal Khan – Founder of Jamia Millia Islamia and nationalist activist.
Other Important Contributors
Rafi Ahmed Kidwai – Active Congress leader and freedom fighter.
Khan Abdul Samad Khan Achakzai – Advocate of democracy and freedom.
Saifuddin Kitchlew – One of the leaders protesting against the Jallianwala Bagh massacre.
Hasrat Mohani – First leader to demand Complete Independence (Poorna Swaraj).
Maulana Husain Ahmad Madani – Promoted composite nationalism and unity.
Abdul Qayyum Khan – Participated in the freedom struggle in the frontier region.
Their efforts worked alongside leaders such as Mahatma Gandhi, Jawaharlal Nehru, and Subhas Chandra Bose to achieve independence in 1947.
22. Hindu–Muslim Cultural Coexistence
Indian civilization reflects centuries of cultural interaction between Hindus and Muslims.
Examples include:
Urdu language ( originated in INDIA, Premchand, Gulzar, Krishna chander)
shared music traditions (Ghazal, Qawwali, Khayal, and sufi sama )
music Instruments (Sitar, Tabla, Sarod, Shehnai,Sarangi,Santoor)
architecture ( Taj Mahal, Lal Qila, Qutub Minar, Charminar, Gol Gumbaz)
cuisine ( Biryani, Kebabs,Nihari,Haleem,Sheer KHurma, Paya, Firni)
literature ( writings of Ghalib, Iqbal, amir khusru, Sahir, )
23. Common Misconceptions
Some misconceptions arise due to lack of knowledge.
Islam does not impose,
any specific language ( Arabic/Urdu),
not impose dress (Topi, Kurta)
not imposes Meat eating,
Nor Four Wives, nor more children,
nor child marriage,
Islam encourages love towards Mother-land(patriotism) peace with neighbours, justice in the society and compassion with downtrodden. But restricts, calling Mother, Motherland, or any loveable person, or thing as GOD. Love & Respect is different, Worship is different.
Understanding the religion directly helps remove misunderstandings.
24. Islam & Indian Constitution
Islamic teaching does not clash with the Constitution
A Muslim can be a perfect practicing Muslim, under INDIAN CONSTITUTION.
The Indian Constitution guarantees religious freedom.
Important provisions include:
Article 14 : Equality before law.
Article 15 : Prohibition of discrimination.
Article 25 : Freedom of religion.
Article 26 : Right to manage religious institutions.
These principles allow all communities to practice their faith freely.
25. Shared Values Across Religions
Almost all religions share common moral teachings:
Humanity, compassion, justice, charity, honesty, respect for parents, elders, women, affection to children, empathy to animals, environment and other creations.
These shared values create a strong foundation for interfaith cooperation.
26. Social Justice in Islam
Islam emphasizes fairness and economic justice.
Helping the poor and protecting the vulnerable are considered essential responsibilities.
27. Zakat (Charity)
Zakat is a compulsory charity given by Muslims.
It helps:
poor families
widows
orphans
people in need
It promotes economic balance and social welfare.
28. Hajj (Pilgrimage)
Hajj is the pilgrimage to Mecca.
Millions of Muslims from around the world gather annually.
It symbolizes:
equality
unity of humanity
devotion to God
29. Mosques and Community Life
Mosques are centers for:
prayer
education
charity
community service
They often organize social welfare activities.
30. Interfaith Dialogue
Interfaith dialogue promotes:
understanding
cooperation
peace
Respectful discussion helps reduce prejudice and build trust.
31. Shared Values for Peace
Peaceful societies depend on:
justice
compassion
mutual respect
cooperation
All religions encourage these values.
Conclusion:
Islam cannot be judged based on the actions of Muslims. ISLAM, the perfected religion of God, is entirely separate from the imperfect humans who call themselves Muslims.
Like any other religion followers, there are practicing and non-practicing Muslims, liberal and conservative Muslims, tolerant and extremist Muslims. However, their individual actions should not be used to scrutinize or label Islam.
In fact, it must be mentioned here that the Media stereotype of Muslims is far from reality. The vast majority of the Muslims in the world are indeed peace-loving human beings with many of them striving hard to live up to the great teachings of ISLAM.
Understanding religious traditions strengthens social harmony.
Islam teaches:
Belief in one God
Compassion toward humanity
Justice in society
Respect for diversity
These principles support peaceful coexistence in a multicultural country like India.
[ Read Quran- translation in your own language or in English
Contact for your free copy of QUR’AN :
Ayub Khan
Advocate
No.5, 2nd Main, I Block, RT Nagar,(behind Burger King),Bangalore-560032]
Phone: 080-41716192; 98440-96475
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