Islam

The word “Islam” literally stems from the Arabic word for peace, indicating making peace with God, with oneself and with His creations through submission to God. Over recent years politicians and the media have linked Islam with international terrorism, however most Muslims believe that the religion totally forbids the terrorist acts that are carried out by some people in the name of Islam.

Relationships
Intimacy between opposite sexes is forbidden in Islam and although men and women can mix socially, there are restrictions placed on this. For instance Islam discourages a man and woman, who are not married and not related by close family ties such as brother and sister, to be alone in a private room together. The reason for this is to protect against forming sexual relationships outside of marriage.

Marriage is an important part of being a Muslim. Although in many Muslim countries there is a tradition of arranged marriage, where parents help to introduce or even choose their child’s future husband or wife, no one can marry without their consent according to Islam. An arranged marriage is very different from a forced marriage which is not accepted in Islam.  Not all Muslims have arranged marriages, although parental involvement is encouraged as marriage is seen as a union between the two families not just the two individuals.

Women do retain their independent rights within marriage. They can own property and inherit independently, and have the right to be treated with love, fairness and compassion.

Islam recognises that marriages may break down and so, although divorce is discouraged, it is permitted. Both the husband and the wife may request a divorce.

Dress code
Both men and women are expected to dress modestly and cover-up most of the body, although styles of dress vary depending upon local customs and cultures within countries or regions. All clothing should be loose, not transparent, and represent the gender of the person wearing it.
 
Women are not meant to show any part of their body in public, except their hands and face. Many Muslims interpret this to include the head as well, which is why a headscarf is worn, although others will show their hair. Meanwhile some will actually cover the whole body including the hands and face.

Women’s Rights
We will all probably remember scenes in countries such as Afghanistan where women were oppressed, denied education and the right to work. This is not representative of the beliefs of the majority of Muslims as Islam places emphasis on both men and women seeking knowledge..
Islam clearly teaches that women have the right to seek an education, own property, operate a business and receive equal pay for equal work.

All Muslims have the right to work, regardless to gender. However, men are given the responsibility for providing for their families. Any profession suitable for men is seen as suitable for women.

Islam and other religions
Many people are surprised to find out that according to Muslim believes, Jesus, is part of Islam and is seen as one of the messengers of God.  The Qur'an states that Muslims should not insult other faiths and Christians and Jews are given an honourable title in the Qur'an, 'the people of the Book.' Harming non-Muslims is forbidden under Islam.