In the last article we discussed how Islam is more than the acts of worship towards God, which Muslims undertake to profess their faith. Islam includes many fundamental values that help humans live a balanced and happy life, in harmony with the world around them. We discussed the Islamic values of honoring one’s parents, honoring women, recognizing the equality of all humans and renouncing violence. In This article will expand further on fundamental Islamic values.

Many people think Islam is merely about professing one’s faith in Allah and acknowledging Mohammed as his prophet (Shahada), praying five times daily (Salah), being charitable (Zakat), fasting during Ramadan (Sawm) and participating in Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). While these are the five pillars upon which Islam is founded, there is much more to the religion. Islam is a dynamic, realistic and reasonable religion that helps humans balance their spiritual needs (worship to God) and material needs (socializing with others, earning a living, etc).

For those who know little about Islam and want to better understand its true values and teachings, some of its core values are presented below, along with guiding words from the holy Quran

One of the most valued attributes of Islam is its ability to stimulate thought and unleash potential.  It enables individuals to develop a broad understanding of the world that encompasses cognitive, emotional, religious, social and humane aspects.

A few weeks ago, a European friend asked me to counsel her best friend who was experiencing severe psychological stress and was suicidal. When I met with the young lady, I learned she was of Moroccan descent although born, raised and educated in Europe. She had few recollections of Morocco and considered herself Dutch. The few sessions I spent with her demonstrated that the psychological issues she had been experiencing were derived from her European upbringing and had no connection to her racial or religious origins.