Do Muslims Believe That Islam Is the Only True Religion?



Introduction

In a world of diverse beliefs and faiths, the question of religious exclusivity is an important one. Many people wonder: do Muslims believe that Islam is the only true religion? The short answer is yes—Islam teaches that it is the final and most complete guidance from Allah (God). However, this belief is not based on arrogance or intolerance but on the conviction that Allah’s message has been consistent throughout history, and Islam is the final and preserved version of that divine truth.

This article explores this belief through the Qur’an and the authentic Sunnah, shedding light on why Muslims believe Islam is the only true religion and how they are encouraged to interact with people of other faiths.

Islam as the Final and True Religion

Islam teaches that all prophets throughout history preached the same core message: Tawhid (the oneness of God). From Adam (PBUH) to Noah (PBUH), Abraham (PBUH), Moses (PBUH), Jesus (PBUH), and finally, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), they all called people to worship one God without partners.

The Qur’an confirms this by stating:

“Indeed, the religion in the sight of Allah is Islam...” (Qur’an 3:19)

This verse emphasizes that submission to Allah (Islam) has always been the true path, even before Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent. However, Islam, as revealed to Muhammad (PBUH), is the final and complete version of that divine guidance.

Allah also says:

“And whoever desires a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted from him, and in the Hereafter, he will be among the losers.” (Qur’an 3:85)

This verse further reinforces the belief that Islam is the ultimate and final truth, confirming and completing the messages of previous prophets.

Islam and Previous Religions

Islam acknowledges the existence of previous divinely-revealed religions, particularly Judaism and Christianity. The Qur’an speaks highly of previous prophets and scriptures, including the Torah given to Musa (Moses, PBUH) and the Gospel given to Isa (Jesus, PBUH). However, Islam teaches that these messages were altered or lost over time, and the final revelation—the Qur’an—was sent to restore the pure message of monotheism.

“And We have sent down to you [O Muhammad] the Book in truth, confirming the Scriptures that came before it and as a criterion over them...” (Qur’an 5:48)

This means that while earlier scriptures contained divine truth, they were either distorted or incomplete. The Qur’an, however, is protected by Allah from corruption and serves as the final guidance for humanity.

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also said:

“By Him in Whose Hand is the soul of Muhammad, there is no one from this nation, be he Jewish or Christian, who hears of me and then dies without believing in what I have been sent with, except that he will be among the people of Hellfire.” (Sahih Muslim, 153)

This hadith underscores the importance of accepting Islam after learning about it, as it is the final and universal guidance from Allah.

Respect for Other Faiths in Islam

Although Islam teaches that it is the only true religion, it does not encourage hatred or oppression toward people of other faiths. In fact, the Qur’an commands Muslims to treat others with kindness and justice:

“Allah does not forbid you from being kind and just to those who have not fought you because of your religion nor expelled you from your homes. Indeed, Allah loves those who act justly.” (Qur’an 60:8)

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was known for his exemplary treatment of non-Muslims. He made treaties with Jews and Christians, protected their places of worship, and ensured that they were treated fairly. He said:

“Whoever oppresses a non-Muslim under Muslim rule, or burdens him with more than he can bear, I will be his opponent on the Day of Judgment.” (Abu Dawood, 3052)

This shows that while Islam is the final truth, it does not promote injustice or discrimination against non-Muslims. Instead, it calls for peaceful coexistence.

The Universality of Islam

One of the reasons Islam is considered the final truth is that it is a universal message for all of humanity, unlike previous revelations that were specific to certain nations. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent as a messenger to the entire world, as Allah says:

“And We have not sent you [O Muhammad] except as a mercy to the worlds.” (Qur’an 21:107)

Islam does not belong to a specific ethnicity or region. Anyone, regardless of their background, can become a Muslim by sincerely believing in the oneness of Allah and following His guidance.

Why Do Muslims Believe Islam is the Only True Religion?

Muslims believe Islam is the only true religion for several reasons:

  1. It is the final and complete revelation – The Qur’an is the last divine book, and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the last messenger. No further revelation will come after Islam.
  2. It confirms and corrects previous scriptures – Islam acknowledges the earlier messages but clarifies their distortions.
  3. It teaches pure monotheism – Unlike other faiths that may involve intermediaries in worship, Islam emphasizes direct worship of Allah without partners.
  4. It is divinely preserved – Unlike past scriptures, the Qur’an has remained unchanged for over 1,400 years, fulfilling Allah’s promise:

    “Indeed, We have sent down the Qur’an, and surely We will guard it from corruption.” (Qur’an 15:9)

  5. Its message is universal – Islam is for all people, regardless of race, nationality, or background.

What Does This Mean for People of Other Faiths?

While Islam asserts that it is the true religion, it does not force anyone to convert. Allah gives every individual the freedom to choose their path:

“There is no compulsion in religion. The right path has become distinct from the wrong.” (Qur’an 2:256)

Islam encourages dialogue and invites people to seek the truth with an open heart. Muslims are encouraged to share their faith with wisdom and kindness:

“Invite to the way of your Lord with wisdom and good instruction, and argue with them in a way that is best.” (Qur’an 16:125)

This means that while Islam is the only true religion, people are free to accept or reject it. Muslims are simply tasked with conveying the message, and guidance ultimately comes from Allah.

Conclusion

Yes, Muslims believe that Islam is the only true religion because it is the final and complete message from Allah, confirming and correcting past revelations. However, this belief does not lead to intolerance. Islam commands respect, justice, and kindness toward people of other faiths, allowing them the freedom to choose their beliefs.

The essence of Islam is submission to Allah and living a righteous life. Whether someone is Muslim or not, the ultimate goal is to seek the truth and follow the path that leads to salvation.

May Allah guide us all to the straight path and grant us wisdom in understanding His divine message. Ameen.

Comments

Post a Comment

Popular posts from this blog

What Is the Difference Between Iman, Islam, and Ihsan?

Image
Introduction In Islam, the concepts of Iman (faith), Islam (submission), and Ihsan (excellence) are fundamental aspects of a Muslim’s spiritual journey. These three pillars define a believer's relationship with Allah and their practice of religion. Understanding their differences and connections is essential for every Muslim who wishes to grow in faith and righteousness. This article explores the differences between Iman, Islam, and Ihsan based on the Qur’an and authentic Hadith while highlighting their significance in a Muslim’s life. The Hadith of Jibril: The Foundation of Iman, Islam, and Ihsan The distinction between these three concepts is beautifully explained in the famous Hadith of Jibril . One day, Angel Jibril (Gabriel) came to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in the form of a man and asked: What is Islam? What is Iman? What is Ihsan? The Prophet ﷺ answered each question, providing a clear explanation of these three levels of faith. This hadith serves as th...
Read more

Dalil Al-Qur’an dan Hadis tentang Kematian dan Kehidupan Akhirat

Image
Kematian adalah kenyataan yang pasti bagi setiap makhluk hidup. Allah ﷻ berfirman dalam Al-Qur’an: "Tiap-tiap yang berjiwa akan merasakan mati. Kemudian hanya kepada Kami kamu dikembalikan." (QS. Al-Ankabut: 57) Ayat ini menegaskan bahwa tidak ada satu pun makhluk yang dapat lari dari kematian. Namun, kehidupan tidak berakhir dengan kematian, melainkan berlanjut ke alam akhirat. Oleh karena itu, seorang Muslim harus selalu mempersiapkan diri dengan amal shaleh sebagai bekal kehidupan setelah mati. Kematian sebagai Pintu Gerbang Akhirat Kematian bukan akhir dari segalanya, melainkan awal dari perjalanan menuju kehidupan yang kekal. Rasulullah ﷺ bersabda: “Kubur itu adalah tempat persinggahan pertama dari alam akhirat. Jika seseorang selamat darinya, maka setelahnya akan lebih mudah baginya. Namun, jika ia tidak selamat, maka setelahnya akan lebih sulit baginya.” (HR. Tirmidzi, no. 2308) Hadis ini menunjukkan bahwa kubur adalah tahapan pertama sebelum s...
Read more

What Is Ihsan in Islam? Insights from the Qur’an and Hadith

In Islam, faith is not just about belief—it is about perfecting one’s worship and actions with sincerity, excellence, and devotion. This is where Ihsan comes in, a concept that elevates a Muslim’s relationship with Allah and others. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ beautifully defined Ihsan in one of the most famous hadiths: "Ihsan is to worship Allah as if you see Him, and if you do not see Him, then know that He sees you." (Sahih Muslim, 8) This profound statement teaches us that Ihsan is the highest level of faith , where one worships and lives with the awareness that Allah is always watching. But what does this mean in daily life? How can we implement Ihsan in our actions? Let’s explore its meaning and significance according to the Qur’an and Hadith. The Meaning of Ihsan The Arabic word "Ihsan" (إحسان) comes from the root "ḥ-s-n" , meaning goodness, excellence, and perfection . In Islam, Ihsan refers to: Excellence in worship – Performing acts of ...
Read more