Islamic Religion
Islam is more than a system of belief. Islam is derived from an Arabic word with the basic meaning "to surrender and obey" and it has the literal meaning to submit to the God (Allah).

Islam's basic tenet is "There is no God but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of God". Muslims follow the Islamic religion. Islam is an unflinchingly monotheistic faith. Muslims believe that Allah revealed his plan to Muhammad and earlier prophets. A person surrenders to the will of Allah by living and thinking in the way Allah has instructed.

The word Allah does not have a plural or gender. Allah does not have any associate or partner, and He does not beget nor was He begotten. Islam began in its present form 1400 years ago in Arabia, but swiftly become a world faith, and now has around 1,200 million adherents. Islam is open to all, regardless of race, age, gender, or previous beliefs. As all wealth is a gift from Allah, one has the duty to help the needy when able to do so.

Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Like Jews and Christians, Muslims believe that the present life is only a trial preparation for the next realm of existence.

The arabesque, derived from the classical vine scroll, evolved into Islamic art's most distinctive motif. Calligraphy is the most important and pervasive element in Islamic art. Arabic calligraphy was the vehicle that spread the message of Islam and thus became the central, most venerated art form. Islamic art not only invites a closer look but also beckons the viewer to learn more.