Islam: beliefs and teachings.

 Islam is a monotheistic religion that was founded in the 7th century by the Prophet Muhammad in the Arabian Peninsula. It is based on the teachings of the holy book, the Quran, which Muslims believe to be the word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel.

Islam's central teachings revolve around the belief in one God, who is merciful and compassionate, and the submission to His will. The followers of Islam, called Muslims, believe in the Day of Judgment when all human beings will be held accountable for their actions in this world.

The Five Pillars of Islam are the basic tenets of the faith, and they include the declaration of faith (shahada), prayer (salah), giving to charity (zakat), fasting during the month of Ramadan (sawm), and making a pilgrimage to Mecca (hajj) at least once in a lifetime, if financially and physically able.

Islam has a rich history and culture that includes art, architecture, music, and literature. Muslims have contributed greatly to human civilization, particularly in the fields of science, mathematics, and philosophy.

Today, Islam is the second-largest religion in the world, with over 1.8 billion followers. Muslims can be found in almost every part of the world, and Islam is an important part of many cultures and societies.

Sure, here are some additional information about Islam:

Muslims believe in the oneness of God, and that He has no partners, associates, or intermediaries. They also believe in the existence of angels, prophets, and the Day of Judgment.

The Prophet Muhammad is considered the final prophet in Islam, and Muslims believe that he was sent to guide humanity towards the path of righteousness and to convey the message of Islam to all people.

Islam emphasizes the importance of good deeds, treating others with kindness and respect, and seeking knowledge throughout one's life.

Muslims are expected to pray five times a day facing towards the Kaaba in Mecca, which is considered the holiest site in Islam.

The month of Ramadan is a time of fasting and spiritual reflection, during which Muslims abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset.

Zakat is the obligation to give a portion of one's wealth to those in need, and it is one of the five pillars of Islam.

The Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca, is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for those who are physically and financially able to make the journey.

There are two major branches of Islam: Sunni and Shia. Sunni Muslims make up the majority of Muslims worldwide, while Shia Muslims are the majority in Iran, Iraq, and Bahrain.

Islam has a rich artistic and cultural tradition, including calligraphy, geometric patterns, music, and literature.

Muslims make up a significant minority in many countries around the world, including in Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Certainly, here are some more facts about Islam:

The word "Islam" means submission to the will of God. A person who submits to God's will is called a "Muslim," which means one who submits.

The Quran is the central religious text of Islam, and it is believed to be the word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad over a period of 23 years.

Islam teaches the concept of "jihad," which means striving or struggling in the way of God. This can include internal struggles against one's own base desires, as well as external struggles to defend one's faith and community.

Islam places great emphasis on the importance of family and community, and it provides guidance on how to establish and maintain strong and healthy relationships within these units.

Islam encourages the pursuit of knowledge and education, and many Islamic scholars throughout history have made significant contributions to various fields of study.

Islam has a rich history of scientific discovery and innovation, including advances in medicine, astronomy, mathematics, and architecture.

Islam has a code of ethics that emphasizes honesty, compassion, justice, and respect for human life and dignity.

Muslims believe in the concept of predestination, or the idea that God has already determined everything that will happen in the world, including each person's fate.

The Islamic calendar is based on the lunar cycle and is 11 days shorter than the Gregorian calendar used in the Western world. The first month of the Islamic calendar is Muharram, and the last month is Dhu al-Hijjah.

Islamic art and architecture feature intricate geometric patterns, calligraphy, and beautiful designs that are often inspired by nature. Mosques, in particular, are known for their unique and elaborate architecture.