Introduction

The Arabic word ‘Islam’ means ‘submission’, and is derived from the word meaning ‘peace’. In a religious context, Islam means complete submission to the will of Allah.

As such, Islam is not just a religion, but a “deen”, meaning “the way of life”. It addresses all aspects of a person’s life – from cradle to grave – with a complete guidance that touches upon both material as well as spiritual needs. The completeness of

Islam is emphasised in the following Qur’anic verse, meaning: “… This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed My blessing on you and approved Islam as the way of life for you”. (Surah Al-Maidah, 5: 3)