Islam is the only way of life chosen by Almighty Allah. It is not just a conventional religion like others; it is a comprehensive philosophy that guides every aspect of life. Islam provides a clear path to success in both this world and the Hereafter. From personal matters to global issues, Islam offers principled solutions to all facets of life.

Allah says in the Holy Qur’an:

“We have sent down to you the Book as an explanation for everything, a guidance, a mercy, and glad tidings for those who submit.” (Surah An-Nahl, 16:89)

In the explanation of this verse, esteemed scholars of Qur’anic exegesis (Mufassirun) state:

“The Holy Qur’an leaves nothing out. It encompasses all knowledge and covers every matter. It contains rulings on what is lawful and unlawful, beneficial knowledge, guidance, accounts of past events, predictions of future occurrences, matters concerning the Hereafter, and provisions for this worldly life. Additionally, it offers every essential command and condition. The Qur’an serves as a source of guidance for the hearts, providing mercy and glad tidings.”
(Tafsir Ibn Kathir, 4/584, Darul Hadees.)

Let’s explore the various aspects of Islam and understand why it is considered a complete and comprehensive way of life.

1. Islam: The Only Religion Revealed as Divine Law by Almighty Allah”

Islam is not a man-made religion; it is a complete way of life revealed by Allah. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah states:

“Today I have perfected for you your religion, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.” (Surah Al-Ma’idah – 5:3)

This verse clearly demonstrates that Islam is a complete way of life, perfected under Allah’s guidance. It is not merely a set of religious laws; it provides guidance for every aspect of human existence.

2. Islam: A Complete Guiding Light for Individuals and Society

Islam is not limited to personal worship; it provides comprehensive guidance for both individuals and society. In Islam, personal development and social progress are interconnected. For example, the Holy Quran states:

وَلۡتَكُنۡ مِّنۡكُمۡ اُمَّةٌ يَّدۡعُوۡنَ اِلَى الۡخَيۡرِ وَيَاۡمُرُوۡنَ بِالۡمَعۡرُوۡفِ وَيَنۡهَوۡنَ عَنِ الۡمُنۡكَرِؕ وَاُولٰٓـئِكَ هُمُ الۡمُفۡلِحُوۡنَ‏.

And from among you there must be a party who invite people to all that is good and enjoin the doing of all that is right and forbid the doing of all that is wrong. It is they who will attain true success.
Surah 3 Ali ‘Imran, Ayat 104-104

This verse illustrates how Islam works towards building a cohesive society and encourages individuals to play a supportive role in the community’s progress.

3. The Quran: The Ultimate Guidance for Mankind

The Quran was revealed as a complete guide for humanity, addressing every aspect of human life. Allah Subhanahu wa Ta’ala says:

“We have revealed to you the Book as an explanation of all things, a guide, a mercy, and good news for those who ˹fully˺ submit.”
(Surah An-Nahl – 16:89)

From this verse, we understand that the Quran is a comprehensive guide, providing direction not only on spiritual matters but also on various aspects of worldly life.

4. Islam and Human Rights: A Universal Perspective

Islam places great emphasis on the protection of human rights. The Holy Quran states:

“whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or for corruption [done] in the land – it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one – it is as if he had saved mankind entirely.”
(Surah Al-Ma’idah – 5:32)

This verse demonstrates that Islam is a humane and universal religion that values all human beings equally.

5. Peace and Tolerance in Islam: The Noble Aspect of Islam Towards Humanity

One of the fundamental teachings of Islam is peace and tolerance. The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) stated:

This quote emphasizes that Islam promotes good treatment and compassion towards others, positioning it as a religion of peace and harmony.

6. Rights of Women and Men in Islam: The Foundation of a Balanced Society

Islam establishes equality and justice between men and women. The Quran states,

“So their Lord responded to them: “I will never deny any of you—male or female—the reward of your deeds. Both are equal in reward” (Surah Aal-e-Imran – 3:195).

Thus, Islam clearly defines the rights and responsibilities of both genders, contributing to the creation of a balanced society.

7. The Economic System of Islam: Based on Justice and Welfare

Islam prohibits usury (Riba), which plays a crucial role in establishing a just economic system.

Allah says:

“Those who consume interest cannot stand [on the Day of Resurrection] except as one stands who is being beaten by Satan into insanity. That is because they say, “Trade is [just] like interest.” But Allah has permitted trade and has forbidden interest. So whoever has received an admonition from his Lord and desists may have what is past, and his affair rests with Allah. But whoever returns to [dealing in interest or usury] – those are the companions of the Fire; they will abide eternally therein.” (Surah Al-Baqarah – 2:275).

This shows that Islam aims for an interest-free economy that seeks to eradicate poverty and establish social justice.

8. Islam and Family Ties: The Foundation of a Cohesive Society

In Islam, the family is considered the fundamental unit of social life. The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) stated:

 “The best of you is the best to his wives, and I am the best of you to my wives, and when your companion dies, leave him alone.” (Tirmidhi, Hadith No: 3895).

Thus, the importance of family ties in Islam is clear, playing a vital role in building a happy and cohesive society.

9. Ethics in Islam: Standing Firm on the Path of Truth and Justice

Islam places great emphasis on truthfulness, justice, and morality. The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said,

“Truthfulness brings blessings, and falsehood leads to destruction” (Sahih Muslim).

This highlights the necessity of honesty and fairness in human life and emphasizes the ethical teachings of Islam.

10. Faith in Allah: The Core of Islam

Islam establishes faith in Allah as its central focus. Allah (subhanahu wa tala) says:

“ I did not create jinn and humans except to worship Me.” (Surah Az-Zariyat – 51:56)

Islam teaches that reliance on Allah guides every aspect of life in the right direction.

11. Science and the Spread of Knowledge: Islam and Modernity

Islam considers the acquisition of knowledge to be of utmost importance. The Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) stated:

“Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim, male and female.”

Thus, Islam is not based on blind faith but stands on the foundation of knowledge, research, and the welfare of humanity.

12. Universality of Islam: A Message for All Nations

Islam is not limited to any nation or region; it carries a universal message. Allah (subhanahu wa tala) said:

“We have sent you ˹O Prophet˺ only as a mercy for the whole world.” (Surah Al-Anbiya – 21:107)

13. Islam is a Complete Way of Life:

From the discussions so far, it is clear that Islam is a complete system of life. Its teachings and principles are not only for spiritual guidance but also crucial for social, economic, political, and cultural matters.

Islam plays a crucial role in shaping the mindset, behaviour, and structure of society. Almighty Allah directs in the Holy Qur’an that a Muslim’s life must be governed by His guidance in all aspects. Islam provides clear direction on human relationships, morality, responsibility, and humane conduct.

From all these perspectives, it is evident that Islam is a comprehensive way of life. It illuminates every facet of human existence, guiding individuals along the right path and demonstrating that Islam is the only path to success, both in this world and the Hereafter.

Misconceptions About Islam

Unfortunately, some Muslims mistakenly view Islam as merely a religious matter. For them, Islam consists only of performing prayers, fasting, and reciting the Qur’an. Consequently, when national excitement swells around international sports victories—such as during the World Cup—these individuals often dismiss discussions of Islam and the traditions of the Muslim ummah, arguing, “Why bring religion into sports?” In their minds, Islam is merely a conventional religion, which indirectly undermines its comprehensive nature. It is truly regrettable that such individuals, despite being Muslim, fail to fully understand Islam. However, this group constitutes a small minority. May Allah guide them toward the truth.

Conclusion

Therefore, Islam is not just a religion; it is a complete system of life that profoundly influences every aspect of human existence. By following the teachings of Islam, we can create a harmonious society in which peace, tolerance, justice, and human dignity thrive. We should embrace the completeness of Islam and shape our lives according to its ideals.