Understanding Islam
“Submission”

Most people readily accept information given to them without investigating it for themselves. Unfortunately, this is how most so-called Muslims gain their information. They accept information from their “imams” (religious leaders) who usually use other sources besides the Quran, without questioning or investigating them. This is a sad fact especially when the Quran expresses the importance of reading, studying, reflecting and investigating so much. You shall not accept any information, unless you verify it for yourself. I have given you the hearing, the eyesight, and the brain, and you are responsible for using them. [17:36]

What is Islam?

Islam is often defined as a religion, but this does not give a clear meaning of the word. Literally and in practice, it is self-surrender, submission, absolute surrender to the will, service and the commands of the One True God. It is a type of submission that will enable one to have a sense of peace within and to be free from all fears, to feel completely safe and protected. A submission and surrender that is given wholeheartedly without any doubt, and will make one readily obedient to the commands of the One True God. Therefore, Islam is not just some religion based on a simple belief or faith in something, but a total submission that is given to God alone.

GOD has proclaimed: "Do not worship two gods; there is only one god. You shall reverence Me alone." [16:51] To Him belongs everything in the heavens and the earth and therefore, the religion shall be devoted absolutely to Him alone. Would you worship other than GOD? [16:52] Often submission is called “deen” or way of life. The Arabic worddeen is generally translated to mean religion, creed, faith and belief. From careful study, limiting the meaning to this alone takes away from the true essence of the word. We will look at different views of this word deen, and then examine the word from a perspective using the Quran.