The word Islam is derived from the Arabic root “salema” which means, among other things, peace, purity, submission and obedience. In the religious sense, the word “Islam” means submission to the Will of Allah and obedience to His law. Everything – other man – and every phenomenon in the universe, all are administered totally by Allah – made laws i.e. the are obedient to Allah and submissive to His laws. So, they are in a state of Islam.

Man possesses the inherent qualities of intelligence and choice. Thus he in invited to submit to the good will of Allah and obey His law like to become a muslim. So the connection between the original and religious sense of word Islam is obvious, Only through submission to the will of Allah and by obedience to His law – become a muslim, can one achieve true peace and enjoy everlasting purity and harmoni in the Hereafter.

The true name of the religion then, is Islam, and those who follow it are Muslims. How ever, islam or submission to the Will of Allah, together with obedience to His law, does not mean loss of individual freedom or surrender to fatalism. Anyone who think or believes so has  certainly failed to understand the true meaning of Islam. In Islam Allah is the Most Merciful and Gracious, the Most Loving and the Most Boundtiful, concerned with the well being of man, with Allah Wisdom and Care for His creatures. he will for Benevolence and Charity, and whatever law He prescribes is for the good of mankind.

In this sense Islam is the eternal message cenveyed to Adam, and to all Allah’s Prophets and Messengers, Including Abraham, Moses, Jesus and Muhammad (PBUH).

In its final form revealed to Allah las Messenger Muhammad (PBUH), the message has been restored, completed and finalized.

* From –  English Course – Al-Azhar University