Why Is Islam Called Islam?
Introduction
The word Islam carries a profound meaning. It comes from the Arabic root “S-L-M” (س ل م), which is connected with meanings such as peace, safety, submission, and surrender. In Islamic terminology, Islam means submitting oneself sincerely to Allah, worshipping Him alone, and following His guidance.
Islam is not simply a name given to a religious community. It describes a way of life based upon submission to the One Creator and obedience to His commands.
What Does “Islam” Mean?
The Arabic word Islam is derived from the root aslama (أسلم), meaning to submit or surrender. Thus, a Muslim is one who submits himself or herself to Allah.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam.”
— Qur’an 3:19
This submission is not forced. Rather, it is a conscious submission based on faith, understanding, love, and obedience to Allah.
Islam Means Worshipping Allah Alone
At the heart of Islam is Tawheed—the belief that Allah alone deserves worship.
Muslims believe that Allah is the Creator, Sustainer, and Lord of everything. Therefore, worship should be directed exclusively to Him.
The Qur’an states:
“And I did not create jinn and mankind except to worship Me.”
— Qur’an 51:56
This belief distinguishes Islamic worship from directing acts of worship to any created being.
Islam Is the Religion of All Prophets
Islam teaches that the fundamental message brought by the prophets was the same: worship Allah alone and obey His guidance.
Prophets such as Adam, Nuh (Noah), Ibrahim (Abraham), Musa (Moses), and Isa (Jesus), peace be upon them, called their people to worship the One God.
Prophet Muhammad ﷺ was sent as the final Messenger, confirming the truth brought by the earlier prophets and conveying Allah's final revelation, the Qur’an.
Allah says:
“And We did not send any messenger before you except that We revealed to him that there is no deity except Me, so worship Me.”
— Qur’an 21:25
Islam and Peace
The meaning of Islam is closely connected with peace, but Islamic peace is not merely the absence of conflict. It includes finding security and spiritual tranquility through obedience to Allah.
When a person submits to Allah and follows His guidance, that submission shapes their relationship with their Creator, themselves, their family, and society.
The Qur’an says:
“Those who believe and whose hearts are assured by the remembrance of Allah. Unquestionably, in the remembrance of Allah hearts find rest.”
— Qur’an 13:28
What Does It Mean to Be a Muslim?
A Muslim is someone who submits to Allah and accepts the message brought by His Messenger Muhammad ﷺ.
This submission includes belief in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and divine decree. It also includes carrying out the acts of worship and responsibilities taught by Islam.
The five pillars of Islam provide the basic framework of Muslim practice:
- Shahadah — bearing witness that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad ﷺ is His Messenger.
- Salah — performing the five daily prayers.
- Zakah — giving the obligatory charity to those entitled to it.
- Sawm — fasting during Ramadan.
- Hajj — performing pilgrimage to the Sacred House for those who are able.
Islam Is a Complete Way of Life
Islam provides guidance not only for worship but also for personal character, family relationships, business dealings, justice, charity, and social responsibilities.
The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ taught Muslims to be truthful, trustworthy, merciful, just, and respectful toward others.
Therefore, Islam combines belief, worship, character, and conduct. A Muslim's relationship with Allah should be reflected in how they treat other people.
Conclusion
Islam is called Islam because its central meaning is submission to Allah. It calls humanity to recognize the One Creator, worship Him alone, follow His guidance, and live according to principles of faith and righteousness.
The name reflects the essential message of Islam: turn to Allah sincerely, submit to Him, and seek His guidance in every aspect of life.
May Allah grant us sincere faith, strengthen us upon the truth, and enable us to live according to the guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah. Ameen.
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