Definition of Islam

Understanding the concept of Islam is very important. The reason is that it is clearly mentioned in the syllabus of CSS Islamiat. Therefore, understanding the concept of Islam is cruciaa for a CSS Aspirant. In the concept of Islam we are going to define Islam.

There are two definitions of Islam. One is from the Western definition, and the other is an Islamic definition. The Western definition can also be called the secular definition of Islam. Likewise, the Islamic definition can also be called the Muslim’s definition of Islam. These definitions are described below.

Western Definition of Islam

The Merriam Webster Dictionary Defines Islam as

“The religious faith of Muslims including belief in Allah as the sole deity and in Muhammad as his prophet.”

This definition gives an idea about how the West defines Islam or how a non-Muslim defines Islam. It shows that the West thinks Islam is just a set of beliefs.

Muslim’s Definition of Islam

The way of life (Deen) that Allah Almighty has revealed for humanity so they may attain peace and success in this world and the hereinafter.

The Islamic definition reveals that Islam is not only a set of beliefs but a complete way of life. This way of life provides a set of rules to follow in public life, private life, for good governance, for administration, and so on. Hence, from this definition, it can be learned that Islam is a complete code of life.

Root Word of Islam

The word Islam is an Arabic word. It means, submission, peace, obedience, and surrender. Islam means submission and obedience to Allah. Islam leads to peace. Until a person is in revolt, he cannot be at peace, so he needs to submit to the will of Allah Almighty to attain peace and success in this world and in Hereinafter. Whatever Allah commands a Muslim obeys. It means that Allah demands a Muslim’s complete submission and obedience. Allah says in the Holy Quran,

“Those who believe and act righteously, joy is for them.” (13:28-29)

Kufr of Rejection of God

Kuft is the opposite of Islam. It gives the meaning of rejection to the power of God or to reject the submission of God.