This Is Islam

A Brief Guide to the Foundations, Pillars and Obligations of Islam, its Morals and Ethics, its Position Towards Extremism and Terrorism, and the Status of Women in Islam

Abu ‘Iyaad Amjad Rafiq

Due to geopolitical events—both past and contemporary—there are many orientations that seek to portray Islam and Muslims in a negative light. These voices come from a wide range of ideological backgrounds and compete for your ears, heart and mind in order to shape opinions and fulfil agendas. It would be unfair to accept such ideologically motivated narratives without question and without giving Muslims a chance to: explain the reality of what they believe in and practise, free themselves from criminal acts perpetrated in their name, and explain the role which Islam plays in their lives.

The book in your hands offers a brief presentation of Isläm for non-Muslims. It explains the most important foundations and pillars of Islam. It discusses the major obligations and prohibitions and the wisdoms behind them.

Likewise, it covers morals and ethics in Islam and its position towards racism. It also discusses religious zeal, extremism and the activities of terrorists such as al-Qaeda, ISIS and similar groups. Finally, the book provides a brief treatment of women in Islam and addresses some common misconceptions related to this subject. We hope it is both interesting and enlightening and serves as a stepping stone for a further objective and detailed study of Islam.