Islam is a monotheistic religion that sees itself as very distant from the polytheism of heathenism. It is, however, a "heathen" religion in that it does not know Christ as the Savior. Islam rejects the Trinity and the deity of Christ.

Islam is a religion of the Law, very similar in many ways to Pharisaic Judaism. Its moral laws are very similar to those of Christianity and Judaism, and its ceremonial laws are a variant of those of Judaism (no pork, no alcohol, etc.).

Islam has five main pillars that followers are expected to believe and confess. They are:

1. There is only one true God and his name is Allah. Allah is the all-knowing, all powerful, sovereign judge of mankind. Allah is far removed from mankind and is difficult to know. Mohammad is Allah's prophet. Muslims claim that Mohammed received the Koran by inspiration of God through the angel Gabriel (Arabic--Gabril).

2. Muslims are required to pray five times a day (upon rising, at noon, in midafternoon, after sunset, and before going to bed). The worshiper is required to recite prescribed prayers from the Koran and in Arabic while kneeling and facing Mecca.

3. Muslims are required by law to give 1/40 of their income and other portions of their possessions for the needy and upkeep of the mosques.

4. Muslims fast from sunrise to sunset each day during the month of Ramadan. A Muslim cannot eat food, drink beverages, smoke, or have sexual relations during the daylight hours during this sacred month.

5. All Muslims are expected to take a trip to Mecca at least once in their lifetime and to participate in a set of ceremonies and rituals, such as visiting the Black Stone in the Ka'aba.

6. Some Muslims follow a sixth religious duty called "Exertion" (Jihad). This duty binds followers to exert themselves to spread or defend Islam against unbelievers who attack it. Those who die fighting in a Holy War are guaranteed an immediate place in Paradise.

According to Islamic teaching, a man who does these things will be rewarded with an eternal life of luxury in heaven. Women who do these things are able to become one of a man's many wives there.

Laws for Muslims are not so simple as the five pillars, though. Before praying, Muslims go through an elaborate washing ritual, which may require thousands of laws to describe adequately. Islamic leaders who are good at describing and carrying out those laws are called "ayatollahs."

People who live among Muslims often say they that they are very good people who make good neighbors. Sometimes it is suggested that all people should live like Muslims whether they believe in Allah or not. God has a different opinion.

Check out Anne Kim's articles on witnessing to Muslims beginning with Basic how to-s of sharing Jesus with Muslims

NOTE: For a Bible study on Islam, check out http://www.wels.net/sab/cyd/teen27.html. You'll need to ask for permission to copy that material but that's easily done.

• http://www.wels.net/sab/qa/rel-other-03.html
• http://www.wels.net/sab/cyd/teen27.html

Anne Kim is a programmer/analyst who enjoys spreading the good news of Christ and answering questions about Christianity and the Bible.