The word "Islam" simply meas submission to God, and a Muslim is on who follows the laws of Isalm. The revelation of Isalm was given to Muhammed, who is revered by Muslims as the greatest prophet. "Muhammed" is not just a name but a title which means "The Praised One."

The Life of Muhammed

Muhammed was born June 8, AD 570 in Mecca, a city of Arabia. Orphaned at the age of six, he was brought up by his uncle, Abu Talib, who was a merchant along the great camel trade routes.

As a youth he grew up during a time of economic unrest and discontent concerning the vast difference between the very rich and the poor. Pagan worship abounded in Arabia, as there were an estimated 360 gods and goddesses to appease, with over 124,000 prohets known at the time. Muslim historians record that even as a boy Muhammed detested idol worship and lived a morally pure life.

Muhammed was employed by Khadija, a wealthy widow, to manage her caravan trade. He became known as "Al-Amin," the trustworthy one, and was a prominent member of the trade guild of Mecca.

At the age of 25 he married Khadija and their marriage produced six children, although all of them died, except for his daughter -- Fatima. later, after Khadija died, Muhammed endorsed polygamy and married several wives.

At the age of 40, he became very concerned about the state of his fellow countrymen and spent much of his time in meditation on religious matters. During his life, Muhammed had met many Christians, Priests and Jews. He often sought counsel from a particular "Jacobite" monk, who taught Muhammed many aspects of Jewish religious customs.

During the month of Ramadan, Mushammed often retreated to a cave on the slopes of Mount Hira, three miles from Mecca. It was during one of these times that he began to recieve revelations and instructions that he believed were from the archangel Gabriel. These writings form the basis of the Qur'an (Koran). In addition to the Qur'an is the book of "Hadiths." The Hadith is the teachings of Muhammed and is equal in importance to the Qur'an in all areas of the life of a Muslim.

Muhammed proclaimed that the Qur'an was the final and superior revelation from the one Supreme God. He banned the worship of idols, and taught that a Muslim's life must be wholly committed to Allah with ritual washing before the five daily times of prayer facing Mecca. Friday became the appointed day for corporate worship at the mosque. Mohammed died in AD 632.

Taken from 30 Day Muslim Prayer Focus Jan/Mar 1995, PO Box 26479, Colorado Springs, CO 80936, USA.