WHY ISLAM?
Table of Contents
The Pursuit of Truth
The search for truth and purpose is a profound endeavor that every human being should pursue sincerely. Fundamental questions such as Why do we exist? How did we get here? Where are we going? naturally arise from our intrinsic desire to understand the world around us. These questions resonate universally, entering the minds of every individual at least once in their lifetime. Some actively seek answers, while others may remain passive, preoccupied with the distractions of worldly affairs.
The Importance of Knowing One’s Purpose
Understanding one’s purpose provides crucial direction in life. According to a study published in the journal Psychological Science, individuals with a strong sense of purpose tend to live longer and experience better mental and physical health. Purpose acts as a guiding framework, influencing decisions, actions, and priorities, and aligning them with core values and aspirations. This alignment fosters motivation and resilience, empowering individuals to pursue passions, overcome challenges, and strive for excellence.
In a world where satisfaction is often temporary and hardships are inevitable, true contentment comes from fulfilling one’s ultimate purpose. Psychologist Viktor Frankl, in his seminal work Man’s Search for Meaning, emphasizes that meaning and purpose are central to human fulfillment. Without a clear purpose, individuals may drift aimlessly, vulnerable to the highs and lows of life. Conversely, those who live with purpose report higher levels of life satisfaction and well-being.
What better purpose to serve than the one instructed to you by your creator?
Islam: Providing Clear Answers and Encouraging Reflection
Islam offers comprehensive answers to these fundamental questions about existence and purpose. The Qur’an not only provides guidance but actively encourages reflection and the pursuit of truth. Allah (God) addresses humanity with thought-provoking questions, prompting introspection and self-examination. For example in the following verse, believers are urged to reflect on creation:
“They reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth, saying, ‘Our Lord, You did not create all this without purpose.’”
Islam’s core message is both simple and profound: to worship One God (Allah) and live according to His guidance. This message provides a clear, consistent framework for finding purpose and meaning. Unlike materialistic worldviews, which often fail to address the deeper questions of existence, Islam offers a holistic understanding of life’s purpose and our place within the universe.
A Timeless and Universal Truth
The teachings of Islam have stood the test of time, resonating with over 2 billion Muslims worldwide. The Qur’an’s emphasis on knowledge, reflection, and purpose has been a source of guidance for over 1,400 years, influencing scholars, scientists, and philosophers. Today, as modern science and psychology increasingly affirm the importance of purpose, the timeless wisdom of Islam becomes even more relevant.
Why Islam? Because It’s the Truth
Ultimately, Islam provides not only answers but a clear path to live a meaningful and purposeful life. It aligns with our innate desire for truth, offering a framework that is logical, consistent, and deeply fulfilling. In a world searching for meaning, Islam stands as a beacon of truth, guiding humanity toward its true purpose and eternal contentment.
Revelation
Everything around us—from the complexity of life to the order and laws of nature, contains undeniable signs of an intelligent designer beyond human comprehension. The mere existence of life could not have come into being without a cause. The intricate systems and fine-tuned constants of the universe suggest purposeful design rather than random chance.
Throughout history, nearly every civilisation has recorded claims of a divine creator. These claims often include the presence of messengers who conveyed revelations to guide humanity. Evidence of these messages has been found inscribed on materials such as clay tablets, parchment, and animal skins, ensuring their preservation and dissemination.
The Fine-Tuning of the Universe
Modern scientific discoveries support the concept of a finely-tuned universe. According to physicists, the universe operates under fundamental constants—such as gravity, electromagnetism, and the strong nuclear force, that are precisely calibrated to allow for life. The slightest deviation in these constants would make life impossible. For example, if the gravitational constant were just slightly stronger or weaker, stars, including our Sun, could not exist. This concept, known as the “Anthropic Principle,” is widely recognised by scientists, including prominent cosmologists like Paul Davies, who remarked that the universe “appears to have been designed with us in mind.”
Moreover, Nobel Prize-winning physicist Roger Penrose calculated that the probability of a universe conducive to life emerging by chance is extraordinarily low, approximately 1 in 10^10^123. Such precision points to the involvement of an all-intelligent designer beyond naturalistic explanations.
See the many miracles—Signs of God here
The Challenge of Preservation
Preserving divine revelations over centuries has been a challenge, as messages can be subjected to alterations, omissions, or distortions. Various factors, including political interests, cultural changes, and human desires, have led to the corruption of some scriptures. This historical reality is acknowledged in both religious and academic studies. Apart from the Holy Qur’an, every claimed revelation has undergone numerous translations and revisions, leading to variations in interpretations and content which in most cases, is attested by their very own scholars.
In contrast, the Qur’an stands out as the only religious text that has remained unchanged since its revelation. Numerous manuscripts, such as the Birmingham Qur’an Manuscript, dated to the 7th century, confirm its textual integrity, matching word-to-word with the Qur’an we have today. The Qur’an itself asserts the protection of corruption in the following verse:
“Indeed, it is We who sent down the Qur’an, and indeed, We will be its guardian.”
The Universality of the Message
While the languages and cultural contexts of various revelations may differ, the core message of the Abrahamic faiths remains consistent: the worship of one true God (monotheism) and the rejection of any partners or intermediaries. This message transcends time and place, providing moral and spiritual guidance universally applicable to all of humanity.
The Qur’an: The Final Revelation
The Holy Qur’an, revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ over 23 years (610-632 AD) in Arabia, is regarded as the final and complete revelation from God. The term “Muslim” means “one who submits to God,” reflecting the essence of the faith. This term can be applied to anyone from any time or place.
One of the most common misconceptions about Islam is that it began with Prophet Muhammad ﷺ (peace be upon him) in the 7th century. In reality, Islam, as a faith and a concept, has existed since the beginning of humanity, and Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is considered the final messenger in a long line of prophets who all preached the same core message. Each era of prophets represents a revision befitting to the people of its time all up until the final revision before the end of times—Islam.
The word “Islam” comes from the Arabic root S-L-M, meaning “peace” and “submission.” Islam, in its essence, means submitting one’s will to the One True God (Allah) and living in accordance with His guidance. This universal message of monotheism (Tawheed) and submission to God is the foundation of Islam, and it has been conveyed by all prophets throughout history.
The Qur’an states, Allah sent prophets to every nation to guide people towards the truth. Some of the well-known prophets in Islam include Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus (peace be upon them all). Each of these prophets taught the same fundamental principles:
- Worship the One True God: Rejecting idolatry and polytheism.
- Follow the guidance revealed by God: Living a life of righteousness, justice, and compassion.
- Accountability in the Hereafter: Belief in life after death and being accountable for one’s actions.
The Qur’an emphasises the continuity of the message of Islam across all prophets:
قُولُوٓا۟ ءَامَنَّا بِٱللَّهِ وَمَآ أُنزِلَ إِلَيْنَا وَمَآ أُنزِلَ إِلَىٰٓ إِبْرَٰهِـۧمَ وَإِسْمَـٰعِيلَ وَإِسْحَـٰقَ وَيَعْقُوبَ وَٱلْأَسْبَاطِ وَمَآ أُوتِىَ مُوسَىٰ وَعِيسَىٰ وَمَآ أُوتِىَ ٱلنَّبِيُّونَ مِن رَّبِّهِمْ لَا نُفَرِّقُ بَيْنَ أَحَدٍۢ مِّنْهُمْ وَنَحْنُ لَهُۥ مُسْلِمُونَ
وَمَآ أَرْسَلْنَا مِن قَبْلِكَ مِن رَّسُولٍ إِلَّا نُوحِىٓ إِلَيْهِ أَنَّهُۥ لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّآ أَنَا۠ فَٱعْبُدُونِ
Additionally, the Qur’an’s authenticity is supported by its unparalleled preservation and its impact on the lives of over 2 billion Muslims worldwide. It continues to guide individuals and societies, offering timeless principles that align with modern understandings of justice, ethics, and spirituality.
The intricate design of the universe, the historical continuity of divine messages, and the preservation of the Qur’an all point to an intelligent designer and a timeless message. The Qur’an stands as the final testament, offering clear guidance for those seeking truth and purpose, and serving as a beacon of light in an ever-changing world.
Islam as the Religion of All Prophets
Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) is often referred to as the “father of monotheism” and is a central figure in Islam, Christianity, and Judaism. The Qur’an describes Ibrahim as a “Muslim” (one who submits to God):
Similarly, other prophets, including Noah, Moses, and Jesus, are considered Muslims because they submitted to the will of Allah and conveyed His message. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ did not bring a new religion but was sent to affirm and complete the message of all previous prophets.
Differences in Name, Consistency in Message
The term “Islam” may not have been used explicitly before Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, but the concept of submitting to the One True God is universal. Different revelations were sent to different peoples in different languages, but the core message remained the same. For example:
- The followers of Moses were given the Torah.
- The followers of Jesus were given the Injeel (Gospel).
- Prophet Muhammad ﷺ received the final revelation, the Qur’an.
The Role of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ is regarded as the “Seal of the Prophets”, meaning he was the final messenger sent to humanity. His mission was to convey the final, complete, and preserved message of Islam, which serves as a continuation and culmination of all previous revelations. Islam is not a new religion but the final form of the same divine guidance that was revealed to all prophets since the time of Adam. Therefore, Islam has always existed, as it represents the eternal truth of submitting to the One True God and following His guidance.
“Did you think that We had created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us?”
Possiblities
Why should the Qur’an be the revelation to follow among all others?
To answer this profound question, we can examine alternative revelations and subject them to critical analysis, comparing their content and consistency to the Qur’an. A rational and systematic approach would begin with identifying the purpose of creation as described by each revelation and analysing the fundamental message it conveys.
Interestingly, most religious texts share certain commonalities with the Qur’an, such as emphasising the worship of One God and adherence to guidance provided through divinely sent messengers. However, the Qur’an stands out for its unparalleled clarity, consistency, and depth, which can be rigorously tested in various ways.
1. Internal Consistency and Freedom from Contradictions
The Qur’an claims to be the word of God, and one criterion for its divine authenticity is its internal consistency. In the Qur’an, Allah (God) challenges skeptics:
“Do they not reflect upon the Qur’an? If it had been from anyone other than Allah, they would have found much contradiction in it.”
Unlike other texts, the Qur’an does not contain contradictions or discrepancies despite being revealed over a space time of just 23 years, addressing different contexts and challenges. It maintains coherence in its teachings, history, and guidance.
2. Historical Accuracy
The Qur’an provides detailed accounts of historical events and figures, such as the stories of the Prophets, which align with established historical and archaeological findings. For example, its description of the Pharaoh of Egypt during Moses’ time aligns with modern archaeological evidence regarding the practices of ancient Egyptian rulers.
Additionally, the Qur’an accurately references historical knowledge unavailable at the time of its revelation. An example is its mention of Haman, a close aide to Pharaoh, whose name was discovered in Egyptian inscriptions centuries later.
More on the Qur’an’s historical accuracies can be found here.
3. Scientific Insights in the Qur’an
The Qur’an contains numerous verses referencing natural phenomena and scientific principles that have only been understood through modern advancements. For instance:
- Embryology: In Surah Al-Mu’minun (23:12-14), the Qur’an describes the development of the human embryo in stages, a fact confirmed by modern embryology. Dr. Keith Moore, a prominent embryologist, remarked that the Qur’anic descriptions are remarkably accurate and align with current scientific knowledge.
- Astronomy: The Qur’an describes the expansion of the universe in Surah Adh-Dhariyat (51:47): “And the heaven We constructed with strength, and indeed, We are [its] expander.” This concept of an expanding universe was discovered by Edwin Hubble in the 20th century.
Moreover, none of the Qur’anic statements about science contradicts modern findings, a feat unparalleled by other religious texts.
More on the Qur’an’s Scientific insights can be found here.
4. Timelessness and Universality
The Qur’an has withstood the test of time, remaining relevant and applicable to every era and culture. Its teachings address the human condition universally, providing guidance on morality, spirituality, and societal well-being that resonates with people across centuries.
Despite advancements in technology and discoveries in science, no statement in the Qur’an has been disproven. On the contrary, many of its assertions have been verified, demonstrating its timelessness and divine origin.
When revelations are analysed critically for consistency, historical accuracy, and alignment with scientific knowledge, the Qur’an emerges as unique and unmatched. It’s divine authorship is supported by its flawless content, profound insights, and unchanging relevance.
Why follow the Qur’an? Because it provides clear, consistent, and comprehensive guidance, proving time and again to be a revelation that transcends human knowledge and understanding.
Afterlife
The concept of an afterlife is a fundamental belief shared by many religions, including Islam, and it addresses one of the most profound questions about human existence: What happens after death? While the afterlife cannot be observed directly, its plausibility can be approached through rational, moral, and spiritual lenses. Islam not only offers you enlightenment and guidance for your life but it also offers a clear framework that outlines the benefits of belief and righteous conduct to achieve eternal paradise (Jannah) in the afterlife.
1. Rational Evidence for the Afterlife
a. The Purpose of Life Implies Continuation:
Life on Earth is filled with injustice, suffering, and inequality. If death were the end, it would render life meaningless and the injustices unresolved. The belief in an afterlife provides a logical extension where ultimate justice is served, and every individual is held accountable for their actions.
(Qur’an 23:115)
b. Human Consciousness and Morality:
Our sense of morality, justice, and the innate longing for eternal existence suggest that life is more than just a physical journey. Even atheistic philosophers like Immanuel Kant argued that the existence of moral law within us implies a higher moral order and ultimate justice—concepts fulfilled only in an afterlife.
2. Scriptural Evidence and Historical Consistency
All Abrahamic religions—Judaism, Christianity, and Islam—affirm the existence of an afterlife. The Qur’an repeatedly emphasizes life after death, describing both Jannah (paradise) and Jahannam (hell) as destinations based on one’s earthly actions.
3. Benefits of Following Islam to Achieve Paradise
a. Clear Path to Salvation:
Islam provides a structured roadmap to paradise, emphasizing belief in Allah, righteous deeds, and moral integrity. Unlike subjective or vague moral frameworks, Islam offers clear guidelines for what is required to attain eternal success.
Key Requirements for Paradise in Islam:
- Faith (Iman):Belief in the oneness of Allah, His prophets, angels, divine books, and the Day of Judgment.
- Good Deeds (Amal Salih):Acts such as prayer (Salah), charity (Zakat), fasting (Sawm), and pilgrimage (Hajj) strengthen faith and benefit society.
- Repentance (Tawbah):Islam emphasizes that Allah’s mercy is vast, and sincere repentance can wipe away sins.
b. Inner Peace and Moral Growth:
Following Islamic principles brings a sense of inner peace and moral clarity, reducing stress and anxiety. A life lived with the awareness of accountability in the afterlife encourages ethical behavior and self-improvement.
Psychological Benefit:
Studies indicate that belief in an afterlife reduces fear of death and provides a sense of purpose. Muslims who regularly engage in acts of worship report higher levels of life satisfaction and mental well-being.
Example:
A study published in the Journal of Religion and Health found that regular prayer and spiritual practices in Islam significantly reduce depression and anxiety.
c. Social Justice and Compassion:
Islam’s emphasis on compassion, justice, and charity is not just for personal salvation but also for creating a just society. Acts like Zakat (obligatory charity) and Sadaqah (voluntary charity) help reduce poverty and promote social equity.
Example:
Every year, Zakat contributions globally are estimated at over $300 billion, supporting millions of people in need. This not only benefits the giver spiritually but also uplifts entire communities.
d. Eternal Reward Beyond Imagination:
The concept of Jannah in Islam is described in vivid detail as a place of eternal peace, joy, and fulfillment, far beyond human imagination. Unlike temporary worldly pleasures, paradise offers eternal satisfaction, free from pain and suffering.
4. Accountability and Justice in the Afterlife
The afterlife ensures that justice is served. Those who commit injustices but evade punishment in this life will face divine accountability. This belief in accountability motivates Muslims to live ethically and strive for fairness.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The feet of a servant will not move on the Day of Judgment until he is asked about four things: his life and how he spent it, his youth and how he used it, his wealth and how he earned and spent it, and his knowledge and how he acted upon it.” (Hadith Tirmidhi 2417)
The Path to Paradise
The afterlife is not just a theological concept; it provides a framework for living a meaningful and ethical life. Islam offers a clear, comprehensive path to achieve eternal paradise by emphasising faith, righteous actions, and personal growth. The promise of Jannah serves as a motivator to lead a life of compassion, justice, and devotion, ensuring both individual fulfillment and societal well-being.
In a world full of uncertainty, Islam’s vision of the afterlife provides hope, purpose, and a clear direction—offering not just spiritual rewards in the hereafter but a better life in the present.