Questions about Islam
Clear, calm answers to the questions people ask most about Islam, each backed by evidence from the Quran and the authentic Sunnah. Pick a question or search for yours.
- Jesus, Mary and the prophetsWhat do Muslims believe about Jesus?Muslims honour Jesus (ʿĪsā) as one of God’s greatest messengers, born miraculously to the Virgin Mary without a father. They believe God supported him with miracles, and that he called people to worship God alone. Muslims do not believe he is God or the Son of God, or that he was crucified, and they believe he will return before the end of time.
- Sensitive questions & objectionsIs Islam a religion of peace?Yes. The word Islam comes from a root meaning peace and submission to God, and Muslims greet each other with “peace be upon you.” Islam forbids killing innocents and aggression, and permits self-defence under strict rules. Peace does not mean accepting injustice, and anyone who commits violence in religion’s name contradicts its own texts.
- Islam basicsHas the Quran been changed?No. Muslims believe the Quran is preserved exactly as it was revealed to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It was memorised and written during his lifetime, gathered into one volume under Abu Bakr, and copied into standard codices under Uthman. It is still recited worldwide through unbroken chains of transmission, with one agreed text.
No matching questions.
Quick answers
Who is Allah?
"Allah" is the Arabic name for the One God, the Creator — Arabic-speaking Christians use it too. Muslims believe He is the God of Abraham, Moses and Jesus: One, without partner, and nothing is like Him.
What do Muslims believe about Jesus?
Muslims believe in Jesus son of Mary as one of the greatest prophets and messengers, born miraculously to the virgin Mary without a father and supported by miracles. They do not believe he is God or the son of God. A person cannot be Muslim without believing in him.
What is the Quran?
The Quran is the word of Allah revealed to Muhammad ﷺ through the angel Jibril over 23 years, in Arabic. Muslims believe it is preserved exactly as revealed. It has 114 chapters (surahs).
Do Muslims worship the Kaaba or Muhammad ﷺ?
No. Muslims worship Allah alone. The Kaaba is the direction (qiblah) all Muslims face in prayer, uniting them. Muhammad ﷺ is a servant and messenger of Allah — loved and followed, never worshipped.
How does Islam view women?
In Islam, women and men are equal in humanity, dignity, and reward before Allah, each with rights and duties. Over 1,400 years ago Islam gave women the right to own property, inherit, learn and choose their husband.
Does Islam promote violence?
No. Islam forbids killing innocent people and treats it as one of the gravest crimes: "Whoever kills a soul — unless for a soul or for corruption in the land — it is as if he had slain all mankind" (Al-Ma'idah 5:32, meaning). The actions of some individuals do not represent the religion's teachings.
Why do Muslims pray five times a day?
Because Allah made it obligatory. It keeps a Muslim connected to their Lord throughout the day and reminds them of a purpose greater than daily concerns.
Why do Muslims fast in Ramadan?
Fasting is an act of worship Allah prescribed to build God-consciousness. It trains self-control, builds empathy for the poor, and is a month for the Quran and prayer.
Why do Muslim women wear the hijab?
She wears it in obedience to Allah's command of modesty, and as an expression of her faith and identity. Men are also commanded to dress modestly and lower their gaze.
What does "halal" mean?
Halal means permitted. For food, it means what Allah allows: pork and alcohol, for example, are forbidden, and meat must be slaughtered in the Islamic way with Allah's name mentioned.