Oor Deen: Islamic Awareness Initiative

Common Knowledge

Interesting things you might not know about Islam — from its connection to other faiths to the contributions of Muslim civilisation.

Things You Might Not Know

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Islam is an Abrahamic Faith

Islam, Christianity, and Judaism all trace their roots back to the Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim). Muslims believe in the same God, honour many of the same prophets, and share core moral values with their Abrahamic cousins.

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The Quran Has Never Been Changed

The Quran is the only major religious scripture that has been preserved in its original language, letter by letter, for over 1,400 years. Millions of Muslims worldwide have memorised it in its entirety — a unique tradition called 'Hifz'.

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1.9 Billion Muslims Worldwide

Islam is the world's second-largest religion and the fastest-growing. Muslims make up about a quarter of the world's population, spanning every continent, ethnicity, and culture.

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The Islamic Golden Age

From the 8th to the 14th century, Muslim scholars made groundbreaking contributions to mathematics (algebra, algorithms), medicine (surgical instruments, hospital systems), astronomy, chemistry, and optics — shaping the modern world.

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Jesus in Islam

Jesus (Isa) is one of the most revered prophets in Islam. Muslims believe in his miraculous birth to the Virgin Mary, his miracles, and his return before the Day of Judgement. An entire chapter of the Quran is named 'Maryam' (Mary).

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Charity is a Core Duty

Giving to those in need isn't optional in Islam — it's a pillar of the faith. Beyond the obligatory 2.5% annual charity (Zakat), Muslims are encouraged to give voluntarily (Sadaqah) as much as they can, in any form — even a smile is considered charity.

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Islam Means 'Peace'

The word 'Islam' comes from the Arabic root 'S-L-M', which carries meanings of peace, submission, and safety. A Muslim is someone who submits to the will of God and seeks to live in peace with all of creation.

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Seeking Knowledge is an Obligation

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim." Islam places immense value on education, literacy, and intellectual inquiry — the first word revealed in the Quran was 'Read'.

“We have not sent you, O Muhammad, except as a mercy to the worlds.”

— Quran 21:107

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