Until the 8th century, the term muslim was more inclusive, including anyone who was considered to be submitting to God (e.g. Christians and Jews), and the term mu'min was instead used to refer to believers in Islam as a distinct religion.

Muslims make up a majority of the population in 49 countries. Approximately 12% of the world's Muslims live in Indonesia, the most populous Muslim-majority country; 31% live in South Asia; 20% live in the Middle East–North Africa; and 15% live in sub-Saharan Africa. Muslim communities are also present in the Americas, China, and Europe.

4 days ago · The faith of Islam helped various Muslim peoples in their struggle to gain political freedom in the mid-20th century, and the unity of Islam contributed to later political solidarity.

Aug 30, 2021 · Day 2 of our Understanding Islam series. There are five pillars – or basic tenets – of Islamic faith. Each of these pillars is an important part of being Muslim.

Jan 5, 2018 · The two major Muslim holidays are: Eid al-Adha : celebrates the Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son for Allah. Eid al-Fitr : marks the end of Ramadan—the Islamic holy month of ...

Divisions occurred early in Islam, brought about by disputes over the succession to the leadership of the Muslim community (ummah). The Shiʿah argued that Muhammad had designated his son-in-law ʿAli ibn Abī Ṭālib as his successor.

Jan 4, 2025 · After the death of Muhammad in 632 CE, early Muslim leaders began interpreting religious texts to establish Sharia, which became foundational for Islamic governance and social order. Over time, this led to the formation of distinct schools of Islamic jurisprudence, each with its interpretations and legal methodologies.

The basic Islam beliefs of Oneness of Allah and Prophethood of Muhammad ﷺ are the same for Muslims around the world. However, there are other important beliefs as declared in the Holy Quran. So, to be a Muslim one has to hold a set of core beliefs. These include: · Belief in one God (Allah). · Belief in angels.

Mar 21, 2024 · Explore 'What is Islam?'—an overview of its history, core beliefs, practices, and the profound impact of Islam's founder on the global Muslim community, all presented from a scholarly perspective.

Most of the Muslims are concentrated in Muslim-majority countries, such as Azerbaijan and Albania in Europe, Mali and Tunisia in Africa, Saudi Arabia and Jordan in the Middle East, Pakistan and Bangladesh in southeast Asia, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan in central Asia, and Indonesia and Malaysia in Asia Pacific.