Islam is a monotheistic religion. It teaches that there is only one God who is the Origin and Creator of the universe. For Muslims, God has many names each describing His different attributes.
Allah is the most inclusive of the Names of the One God. It is an Arabic word indicating the One Who is adored in worship and Who creates all that exists.
Allah is the same God worshipped by Muslims, Christian and Jews, the One God Who created all of us, Who is not seen and Who has power over all things.
The Muslim population today is spread over a vast range of races, nationalities, and cultures. Islam does not discriminate against people and teaches us that all people are equal in the eyes of Allah. Muslims believe that Allah will only judge us according to our individual deeds.
Islam teaches that human beings are born pure and sinless. It teaches that this world is a test and that we will be judged on how well we did in this test on the Day of Judgement. We do not all have the same test, which is why we see some people having to face lots of problems whereas others seem to live in comfort. Some of us are being tested for patience when in trouble and others for acts of kindness to those less fortunate than themselves.
Islam teaches that on the Day of Judgement, Allah will judge us according to our deeds and will reward and punish accordingly. Muslims believe that if people follow the Commandments of Allah, they will be allowed to enter Heaven after being judged by Allah. Muslims believe that Allah is the only Judge of deeds and He is the only one who can reward and punish people on the Day of Judgement. Islam also teaches that Allah is the All-Merciful and All-Forgiving and so if we sincerely repent for our sins and endeavour not to repeat them, Allah will forgive us.
For more information, see Further Reading.
