Islam means complete submission to the will of God. This foundational concept forms the core of Islamic identity and practice, emphasizing harmony with divine order, liberation from ego, and alignment with universal truth.
Introduction of Islam: Meanings of Islam,we live in an age marked by anxiety and restlessness, as a subtle transformation sweeps across the globe. The old order is gradually disintegrating, and a new one is on the horizon. History shows that such periods of upheaval often give birth to fresh movements and cultures. Today, the world is saturated with tension, yet there is also an eager anticipation of a renaissance—a revival of humanity in the twentieth century.
A distinctive hallmark of our era is the widespread revival of Islam. After a long period of dormancy, the Islamic world is awakening from its slumber. A renewed consciousness is emerging, invigorating the global Muslim community in every corner of the world and carrying the potential to usher in a new age.
However, for this Islamic revival to herald a genuinely transformative era, it must be accompanied by an intellectual revolution—a comprehensive reassessment of Islam’s rich intellectual and cultural heritage, presented in language and ideas that resonate with contemporary thought.
The Meaning of Islam
Islam is an Arabic word that denotes submission, surrender, and obedience. As a religion, Islam stands for complete submission and obedience to Allah – that is why it is called Islam. The other literal meaning of the word “Islam” is “peace.” This signifies that one can achieve real peace of body and of mind only through submission and obedience to Allah. Such a life of obedience brings peace of the heart and establishes real peace in society at large.
Those who believe and whose hearts find rest in the remembrance of Allah-indeed it is in the remembrance of Allah alone that the heart of man finds rest-those who believe and act righteously, joy is for them, and a blissful home to return to. (13: 28-29)
Islam is not merely a collection of beliefs; it is a complete way of life that offers guidance for every aspect of human existence—spiritual, moral, social, and legal. This publication is designed to explore the foundational concepts of Islam in a structured and accessible manner, guiding readers step by step through its key principles.
The complete Series
The series is divided into seven sections, each inquiring into a critical aspect of Islam to provide a deep understanding of its fundamental teachings and practical applications. These sections include:
Section One: The Meaning of Islam – Explores the essence of submission to God and lays the foundation for further study. (You are here)
Section Two: Faith and Obedience – Examines the intrinsic link between belief and action.
Section Three: The Prophethood – Highlights the role and significance of the Prophets as divine messengers.
Section Four: The Articles of Faith– Details the core tenets of Islamic belief and the practices that express them.
Section Five: Prayer and Worship – Outlines the practices that express the core tenets of Islamic belief.
Section Six: Din and Shari’ah – Explores how faith and divine law interact to guide personal and societal conduct.
Section Seven: The Principles of Shari’ah – Outlines the legal, ethical, and social frameworks that define Islam’s moral code.
Each section will be published separately, with links provided to previous chapters and glimpse for upcoming topics to ensure smooth continuity. At the end of each section, you’ll find a brief summary of what has been covered so far, followed by an introduction to the next topic—allowing you to follow a logical progression in your journey to understand Islam.
This series invites you to explore Islam comprehensively, from its core meaning to its extensive legal and ethical framework. Whether you are new to the subject or seeking to deepen your understanding, each installment builds upon the last, guiding you closer to the timeless wisdom and practical relevance of Islam.
Introduction
Introduction of Islam: Meanings of Islam
Islam, derived from the Arabic root س ل م, means submission, surrender, and peace. It signifies a way of life that is built upon obedience to the will of Allah. Islam is not just a belief system but a comprehensive code of conduct that governs individual and communal affairs. In this section, we explore the foundational definition of Islam, its significance, and its role in shaping human life.
Islam
The Name
Most religions derive their names from their founders or the communities in which they originated. Christianity takes its name from Jesus Christ, Zoroastrianism from its prophet Zoroaster, and Judaism from the tribe of Judah in the land of Judea. The same pattern applies to various other faiths.
Islam, however, stands apart. This religion is uniquely distinguished by its absence of association with any singular individual or people. The word Islam does not denote affiliation with any specific person, community, or geographical region. It is not the creation of a human mind, nor is it confined to a particular nation—it is a universal way of life. Its essence lies in cultivating a distinct spiritual quality and attitude within humanity.
In truth, Islam is an attributive title rather than a designation tied to lineage or geography. Anyone who embodies its principles—regardless of race, ethnicity, or nationality—is considered a Muslim. According to the Qur’an, righteous individuals have existed throughout time and among all societies, and those who lived by this inherent attribute were, and continue to be, Muslims.
This naturally leads to an essential question: What does Islam mean? And who is a Muslim?
ISLAM – WHAT DOES IT MEAN?
The word Islam is derived from Arabic and signifies submission, surrender, and obedience. As a religion, Islam embodies complete submission and obedience to Allah, which is why it carries this name.
The universe we inhabit is a realm of order and precision. Every component operates within a grand cosmic design, functioning in a magnificent and harmonious manner. The sun, the moon, and the stars are woven into a vast celestial system, each following an unchanging course. The earth, rotating on its axis and orbiting the sun, adheres flawlessly to its predetermined path.
Similarly, every entity—from the tiniest electron to the immense galaxies—moves in accordance with established laws. Matter, energy, and life itself evolve and perish within these set regulations. Even within the human experience, nature’s laws remain evident. The process of birth, growth, and survival is governed by immutable biological principles. Human organs, from the heart to the smallest cells, function within the framework ordained for them.
In essence, ours is a universe governed by divine laws. This pervasive and powerful order—guiding every particle, every force, and every form of existence—is the law of God, the Creator and Ruler of all.
The Universe as a Manifestation of Islam
Since the entirety of creation follows God’s law, the universe itself reflects Islam—for Islam signifies obedience and submission to Allah. Every aspect of nature adheres to this divine order. The sun, the moon, the earth, and all celestial bodies are ‘Muslim’ in their compliance. Likewise, air, water, fire, trees, and animals—each element of existence—submits to God’s laws.
Even a person who denies God or worships other deities remains, in essence, a ‘Muslim’ in terms of their physical existence. From conception to death, every tissue and limb of their body functions under divine law. Their tongue, even if used to reject God, inherently obeys the biological mechanisms set by Him. Their heart, regardless of misguided reverence for others, beats in accordance with the instinctive rhythm prescribed by divine order.
This, in short, is the reality of man and the universe.
The Dual Aspects of Human Life
Human existence consists of two fundamental dimensions:
Involuntary Submission
Like all other creatures, humans are naturally bound by divine law. They cannot escape or alter these preordained biological, physical, and universal laws.
Free Will and Choice
Unlike other beings, humans possess intellect, reason, and the ability to choose. They can determine their faith, shape their worldview, and establish moral codes. They may follow any ideology or reject guidance altogether, exercising autonomy over their beliefs and actions.
While all humans are born as natural adherents to God’s law, their conscious decision regarding submission determines their spiritual standing. It is this choice that divides mankind into two groups:
Believers – Those who recognize their Creator, submit to His guidance, and follow His revealed laws with sincerity.
Non-Believers – Those who, despite living under God’s laws, consciously choose to deny His existence or ignore His commandments.
The Path to Complete Submission
A person who acknowledges God, accepts Him as his true Master, and adheres sincerely to His teachings achieves completeness in his faith. He embraces Islam not only instinctively—like the universe does—but consciously and willingly.
He submits to the One he has always unknowingly obeyed.
He voluntarily aligns his intellect, reason, and emotions with divine guidance.
His words truthfully affirm the existence of God, expressing the belief instilled within his very being.
Thus, the essence of Islam is a harmonious unity between the involuntary obedience reflected in nature and the conscious, chosen submission of human will. True fulfillment is found when both aspects converge—when intellect, faith, and existence align in submission to Allah.
Kufr
The Nature of Kufr
In contrast to a person who consciously embraces faith, there exists one who—while naturally inclined toward Islam—chooses to deny his Creator. Though his body and every fiber of his being function in obedience to divine laws, he fails to use his intellect, reason, and intuition to recognize his Lord. By misusing his free will, he distances himself from truth and falls into disbelief—referred to in Islamic terminology as kufr.
Understanding Kufr
The word kufr literally means “to cover” or “to conceal.” A kafir, or unbeliever, is one who conceals the truth embedded within his nature and disregards the instinctive knowledge that aligns him with Islam. Though all existence—animate and inanimate—functions in accordance with divine will, the unbeliever blinds himself to this reality. His intellect is clouded, his vision obscured, and he walks a path estranged from truth, fumbling in the darkness of ignorance.
Kufr is, at its core, a profound ignorance—the denial of the Creator and Master of the universe. A man may witness the intricate workings of nature, marvel at the precise order and harmony of creation, yet fail to recognize the One who brought it into existence. He may observe the wonders of his own body—an extraordinary, perfectly functioning organism—yet remain oblivious to the power behind its creation.
He sees a brilliant design but ignores the Designer.
He witnesses beauty and harmony but disregards the Creator.
He acknowledges scientific precision yet denies the Supreme Planner behind it all.
Such a person, despite being surrounded by unmistakable signs, fails to grasp the most fundamental truth. He starts his pursuit of knowledge from a misguided premise, making it impossible for him to reach true understanding. No matter how advanced he becomes in science or philosophy, he remains deprived of the real wisdom that illuminates’ existence. He stumbles through the darkness of ignorance, unable to perceive the reality before him.
Kufr as Tyranny and Injustice
Beyond being ignorance, kufr is also a form of tyranny—the gravest form of injustice. Tyranny is the unjust use of power or the imposition of a course that opposes nature. Since everything in creation is instinctively obedient to God, submission to Him is ingrained in its very existence.
Man has been given authority over various aspects of creation, but this power must be exercised within the framework of divine guidance. When he turns away from God and rejects His commandments, he forces himself and the world around him into unnatural defiance. He misuses his faculties—bowing before false deities, revering forces other than the Almighty, and exploiting his resources in ways contrary to divine will. This is the height of injustice:
Using intellect to reject truth.
Distorting the natural inclination toward submission.
Misusing abilities and resources granted by God against His commandments.
Such tyranny leads not only to personal downfall but also to widespread corruption. The one who embraces kufr creates imbalance and disorder, disrupting the peace and harmony intended for humanity.
Kufr as Rebellion and Ingratitude
Kufr is not merely tyranny—it is rebellion, treason, and ingratitude of the highest degree. Everything a person possesses—his intellect, heart, soul, and body—are gifts from God. The universe itself has been fashioned for his benefit, yet he denies the One who granted him these blessings.
If a servant betrays his master, he is deemed faithless. If an officer turns against his state, he is labeled a traitor. If a person deceives his benefactor, he is condemned as ungrateful. How much greater, then, is the betrayal of the one who denies his Creator—the ultimate benefactor of all existence?
The arrogance of kufr does not diminish God’s majesty in the least. Man, no matter how defiant, remains an insignificant speck in the vast universe—powerless before the infinite dominion of the Almighty. The celestial bodies move flawlessly under His command; the entirety of creation submits to His will. What harm can the rebellion of a single human being inflict upon the Lord of all?
Yet, in turning away from truth, the unbeliever condemns himself to ruin. He veers off the path of knowledge, loses clarity in thought, and corrupts his understanding of the world. His reasoning becomes distorted, his judgment flawed, and his choices misguided. He spreads disorder in society, sheds blood without remorse, and violates the rights of others. His selfish ambitions and warped perspectives poison his life and the lives of those around him, plunging the world into chaos.
The Consequences of Kufr
Kufr leads to personal and societal destruction. The one who embraces disbelief finds his life consumed by confusion, instability, and failure.
His morality becomes compromised.
His relationships suffer.
His sense of justice erodes.
His pursuit of knowledge loses direction.
Not only does he cause strife in this world, but in the life hereafter, he stands accountable for the misuse of his faculties and resources. His own body—his eyes, hands, and heart—will bear witness against him. The very existence that functioned in obedience to divine law will decry his injustice before God.
This is the inevitable fate of kufr: a path of darkness and ultimate failure—both in this life and the next.
The Blessings of Islam
The Devine Power
After examining the consequences of kufr (disbelief), let us now reflect on the profound blessings of Islam. The world around us, as well as the intricate workings of our own existence, reveal countless manifestations of God’s divine power. This vast universe, operating with flawless precision and unwavering order, stands as undeniable proof of an Omnipotent Creator—One whose wisdom is absolute, whose knowledge is boundless, and whose authority is supreme. Nothing in creation dares to defy His command.
It is in the very nature of all things—including humanity—to submit to Him. In reality, man unconsciously obeys divine laws every moment of his life, for any deviation from these laws leads to destruction. This is the fundamental principle governing existence.
The Trial of Free Will
Beyond granting man the ability to acquire knowledge, reason, and discern right from wrong, God has bestowed upon him the gift of free will. This freedom is the essence of his trial—his intellect, wisdom, and moral consciousness are constantly tested. Had man been compelled to follow a predetermined path, the purpose of this trial would be nullified.
Just as an examination is meaningful only when students are free to answer questions based on their understanding, so too is man’s test in life. If he chooses correctly, he succeeds and progresses; if he chooses wrongly, he fails and faces the consequences.
Thus, man stands at a crossroads:
One path leads to ignorance and rebellion—where he fails to recognize his Creator, misuses his freedom, and follows the way of disobedience. Such a person has failed the test of intellect and morality, and his destiny is one of loss.
The other path leads to enlightenment—where he acknowledges his Creator, embraces faith, and willingly submits to divine guidance. He distinguishes truth from falsehood and, despite having the freedom to choose otherwise, commits himself to righteousness.
The Path to Success
The one who succeeds in this trial is the one who uses his faculties wisely. He sees reality with clarity, listens to truth with sincerity, and aligns his thoughts and actions with divine wisdom. His heart and soul are devoted to the path he has chosen.
He embraces truth wholeheartedly.
He submits to his Lord with joy and conviction.
He walks in the light of knowledge, never straying into the darkness of doubt.
Such a person is destined for success—both in this world and in the hereafter. His understanding of God and His attributes grant him insight into the origin and ultimate purpose of existence. He never loses his way, for his journey is guided by divine wisdom.
Islam and the Pursuit of Knowledge
A believer approaches every field of knowledge with clarity and purpose:
In philosophy, he contemplates the mysteries of the universe without falling into skepticism.
In science, he uncovers the laws of nature and harnesses them for the betterment of humanity.
In history, he learns from past civilizations, recognizing the causes of their rise and fall.
In politics, he strives for justice, peace, and the welfare of all.
In law, he upholds fairness, ensuring that no oppression or injustice prevails.
Unlike an unbelieving scientist who may succumb to arrogance—viewing himself as the master of nature—a Muslim scientist remains humble. The deeper his understanding of the universe, the stronger his faith in God. He sees his knowledge as a divine gift and dedicates it to the service of humanity.
The Moral Excellence of a Muslim
A true Muslim embodies purity, righteousness, and selflessness. His life is guided by the belief that:
God is the ultimate Master of all things.
His abilities and resources are entrusted to him by God.
His freedom must be exercised responsibly.
He will one day return to his Creator and account for his deeds.
This sense of accountability shapes his character:
He lives with integrity, avoiding deceit and injustice.
He earns his livelihood through honest means, preferring hardship over unethical gain.
He stands firm for truth, undeterred by adversity.
He treats others with kindness, fairness, and respect.
Such a person is destined for honor and success. He fears none but God, seeks blessings from none but Him, and remains steadfast in righteousness. His wealth lies not in material possessions but in the peace and contentment of his heart.
The Ultimate Reward
A Muslim’s journey does not end in this world. After living a life of faith and virtue, he returns to his Creator, who bestows upon him eternal peace and bliss. He has fulfilled his purpose, passed his trial, and emerged victorious.
This is the essence of Islam—a universal way of life, unbound by time, place, or people. It is the natural path of humanity, embraced by all truth-seekers throughout history.
In This Section.
We studied the core definition of Islam, understanding that it is a way of submission to God that encompasses every aspect of life. We have explored how Islam provides both spiritual fulfillment and practical guidance, ensuring a balanced and purposeful existence.
In The Next Section.
Having established the fundamental meaning of Islam, we now turn to Faith and Obedience. The coming section will examine what it truly means to believe in God and how faith translates into a system of obedience, guiding individuals toward righteousness.
