Allah: The Creator

Allah in is the personal name of God in Islam. He is One and is the source of all existence.

We believe that Allah is Al-Khaliq, the Creator. He is the one who fashioned the universe with wisdom and purpose, from the majestic mountains of Mauna Kea and Mauna Loa to the delicate coral reefs teeming with life. Every creature, from the graceful honu (sea turtle) to the vibrant ʻiʻiwi bird, is a testament to Allah’s creative power.

The Quran, the revealed book of Islam, speaks eloquently about Allah’s creative attributes:

“He is Allah, the Creator, the Inventor, the Fashioner; to Him belong the best names. Whatever is in the heavens and earth is exalting Him. And He is the Exalted in Might, the Wise.”  (Quran 59:24)

The Unity of Allah is a foundational belief in Islam that underlies our worship and service to humanity. Since all are created by one God, Muslims extend respect and love to all. Our purpose in life is to develop a personal relationship with Allah and serve humanity. To develop a relationship with Him, we look to the Prophets He has sent to the world for guidance since the beginning of civilization. Furthermore, we believe that Allah speaks to us today through revelation just as He spoke to the prophets of the past.

Prophets of Allah

Muslims believe in a long line of prophets sent by God to guide humanity.

Prophets are individuals chosen by God and bestowed with extraordinary spiritual capacities. They serve as beacons of light during times of moral darkness, guiding people back to their Creator. While every person has the potential for spiritual insight, prophets possess this ability to the highest degree, allowing them to receive divine revelation and communicate God’s will to humanity.

History is replete with examples of prophets sent to different nations and tribes. These prophets shared a common purpose: to teach people about the true nature of God, guide them towards righteous living, and establish moral societies. They were known for their impeccable character, unwavering integrity, and deep connection to the divine.

Some of the most well-known prophets include:

• Adam: The first prophet sent to the world.
• Noah: Warned his people about a great flood and built an ark to save the believers.
• Abraham: Known for his unwavering faith in God and compassion for others.
• Moses: Led the Israelites out of slavery in Egypt and received the Ten Commandments.
• Jesus: Preached a message of love, forgiveness, and compassion.
• Muhammad: The prophet in Islam, to whom Allah revealed the Quran, the book of Islam, as a guide for all humanity.

These prophets, and countless others, laid the foundation for the world’s major religions, shaping the moral and spiritual landscape of societies across the globe. Their teachings continue to inspire and guide billions of people today.

The Promised Messiah and Mahdi

In the late 19th century, a time of great spiritual and social upheaval, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community believes that God sent another prophet, Mirza Ghulam Ahmad, to revive the true teachings of Islam. He is believed to be the Promised Messiah and Mahdi, fulfilling prophecies found in various religious scriptures.

Mirza Ghulam Ahmad emphasized the importance of love, peace, and service to humanity. He called for a return to the true spirit of Islam, free from extremism and intolerance. His teachings emphasize that Muslims must strive for a better world, build a personal relationship with their Creator, and work towards peace and justice in the world.

Continuing the Mission: Khilafat (Successorship)

To ensure the continuation of the prophet’s mission after his death, the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community believes in the system of Khilafat (successorship). A Khalifa is a divinely guided leader who serves as the spiritual and administrative head of the community.

The current Khalifa of the Ahmadiyya Muslim Community is Hazrat Mirza Masroor Ahmad. He is a tireless advocate for peace, justice, and human rights. His guidance and leadership continue to inspire Ahmadi Muslims worldwide to serve humanity and spread the true message of Islam.

Worship in Islam

A Path to Personal Transformation

In Islam, worship is not merely a set of rituals but a profound personal journey towards connecting with Allah, the Creator. It is a means of establishing a deep and intimate relationship with the Divine, fostering inner peace, and achieving spiritual growth. The Islamic mode of worship, encompasses various acts of devotion that nourish the soul and strengthen the bond between the worshipper and the worshipped.

Prayer (Salat): A Conversation with God

The most fundamental act of Islamic worship is Salat, the five daily prayers. These prayers are not just a recitation of words but a heartfelt conversation with Allah. They provide a moment of stillness amidst the hustle and bustle of life, allowing individuals to reflect, seek guidance, and express gratitude. Through Salat, one can experience a sense of tranquility, find solace in times of difficulty, and draw closer to the Divine presence.

Fasting : Purifying the Soul

Another essential pillar of Islamic worship is fasting during the month of Ramadan. By abstaining from food and drink from dawn till dusk, Muslims cultivate self-discipline, empathy for the less fortunate, and spiritual awareness. Fasting is a deeply personal act of devotion that allows individuals to purify their hearts, strengthen their willpower, and focus on their relationship with God.

Charity

Islam also emphasizes the importance of giving a portion of one’s wealth to those in need. This act of charity purifies one’s possessions and fosters a sense of social responsibility. By sharing with others, Muslims demonstrate their gratitude to Allah for His blessings and contribute to the well-being of the community.

Pilgrimage

For those who are able, performing Hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation. This journey brings together Muslims from all walks of life, symbolizing unity and equality before God. Hajj is a deeply spiritual experience that allows individuals to retrace the steps of the prophets, reaffirm their faith, and seek forgiveness for their sins.

Reformation and Self-Improvement

The Islamic mode of worship is not just about fulfilling rituals but about transforming oneself from within. Through consistent prayer, fasting, charity, and other acts of devotion, individuals can cultivate virtuous qualities, overcome their weaknesses, and strive for spiritual excellence. The Quran emphasizes the importance of self-reformation:

“Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” (Quran 13:11)

This verse highlights the empowering message of Islam, which teaches that individuals have the ability to change their destiny through their own efforts and with the help of God’s grace. By engaging in sincere worship and striving for self-improvement, Muslims can break free from the shackles of sin, attain spiritual enlightenment, and achieve a state of nearness to Allah.