Islam is the second largest religion in the world and it is also the fastest growing religion in the world. According to the Last Prophet (peace be upon him), Islam is a complete way to live your life that is built upon five pillars:
1. To testify that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.
2. To perform the prayers five times a day.
3. To pay the Zakaat (two and a half percent of your excess wealth every year as charity).
4. To fast one month every year (in Ramadan).
5. To make the pilgrimage to the Kaaba in Mecca at least once in your lifetime if you have the means to do so.
No matter what your reasons to learn about Islam are, the following resources will help you learn about Islam better:
1. Buy a book that gives an overview of Islam covering the main foundations. Whenever you buy a book always make sure that the book is not overtly biased and if possible, buy a book written by a Muslim. Books by Gulam Sarwar or 'The Islam Guide' are good examples.
2. Meet Muslims and speak to them about Islam - You can meet Muslim people by visiting a nearby mosque in your area, visit a bookshop that specializes in Islamic materials or speak to a Muslim neighbor. If you have an extrovert personality you can just ask any Muslim you meet, even if it is in a Tran station or a shop etc; if you ask them about Islam, Muslims will only be too eager to answer your questions. You can always visit a mosque and speak to the Imam between the afternoon prayer and sunset; they are usually very nice and helpful.
3. Take a tour to an Islamic Center- If you are really keen to learn about Islam, you can phone the Islamic center before going and tell them that you want to learn about the religion. They will be happy to invite you to visit them. Before going to the center, write down some important questions that you have in your mind on a piece of paper. If you want to take a tape recorder with you to record anything for your further reference make sure that you inform the people at the center and ask them if this is ok.
4. Read a translation of the meaning of the Quran- This is the main source of knowledge about Islam. You can read it through once and then ask a Muslim person any questions that you have regarding the text; if you ask a Muslim who is more knowledgeable about Islam, you will receive a more fruitful answer.
5. Read the books of Hadeeth and their explanations to gain information about Islam. Sahih Bukhari and Sahih Muslim are the most popular and reliable books. You can also go through the books of famous Muslim theologians and mystics.
6. You can also make use of online question and answer services where you can ask your questions and you will get answers emailed to you soon after. It is better to double check the answers with other sources as you are receiving these replies from unknown people, online. Ask for evidences and references for the answers if possible.
7. You can enroll on an online course for learn Islamic topics. Short courses are offered by companies like Eaalim and others varying from 1 day to three months. You can also complete a degree in Islamic Studies through the Online Islamic University, but this will require a commitment lasting years.
