Moreover, we observe that the universe exists and functions in the most orderly manner, and that it has survived perhaps billions of years. Can we, then, say that all this is accidental and haphazard? Can we attribute the existence of man and the whole world to a mere chance? Man represents only a very small portion of the great universe, and if he can make plans and appreciate the merits of planning, then his own existence and the survival of the universe must also be based on a planned policy.

This means that there is a designing will behind our material existence, and that there is an extraordinary power to bring things into being and keep them moving in order. In the world there must be a great force in action to keep everything in order. In the beautiful nature there must be a Great Creator who makes these great pieces of art and produces everything for a special purpose in life.

The deeply enlightened people recognize this Creator and call Him Allah. He is not a man because no man can create or make another man. He is not an animal, nor is He a plant. He is neither an idol nor is He a statue of any kind, because none of these things can make itself or create anything else. He is different from all these things, because He is the Maker and Keeper of them all. The maker of anything must be different and greater than the things that he makes.

There are various ways to know Allah and there are many things to tell about Him. The great wonders and impressive marvels of the world are like open books in which we can read about Him. Besides, Allah comes to our aid through the many Messengers and Revelations He has sent down to humanity. These Messengers and Revelations tell us everything we need to know about our Creator.

The complete acceptance of the teachings and guidance of our Creator as revealed to all His messengers ('alaihimus salaam) is the religion of Islam. Islam enjoins faith in the oneness and sovereignty of Allah, which makes man aware of the meaningfulness of the universe and of his place in it. This belief frees the human being from all fears and superstitions as it makes him conscious of the presence of Allah Almighty, and of his obligation towards Him.

This faith must be expressed and tested in action, for faith alone is not enough. Belief in one God requires that we look upon all humanity as one family under the universal omnipotence of the Creator, and Nourisher of all. Islam rejects the idea of a chosen people while on the other hand, it approves that belief in the Creator, and doing righteous deeds is the only way to Heaven. Thus, a direct relationship is established with Allah and without any intercessor at that.

Islam is not a new religion. It is, in essence, the same message and guidance which Allah revealed to all His Prophets, like Adam, Enoch, Noah, Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, David, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad ('alaihimus salaam). But the message which was revealed to Prophet Muhammad (sallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam) is Islam in its comprehensive, complete and final form.

The Qur'aan is the revealed words of Allah and the basic source of Islamic teachings and Laws. It deals with the basis of creeds, morality, history of humanity, worship, knowledge, wisdom, man's relationship with God, and human relationships in all aspects. It contains comprehensive teachings of which, can be built sound systems and social justice, economics, politics, legislation, jurisprudence, law and international relations, all of which are important contents of the Qur'aan.

The hadeeth, which contains the teachings, sayings, approvals and actions of Prophet Muhammad (sallAllahu 'alaihi wa sallam) meticulously reported and collected by his devoted companions, explains and elaborates on the Qur'aanic verses.

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