History of Islam in Britain

History of Islam in Britain

"History of Islam in Britain"

Islam is the fastest growing religion in the world. It is also the second biggest religion. However, in the past four years there were numerous attacks in the major cities of the world including Madrid, London, Washington and New York. The 11th September 2001 attack on America; and the two terrorist attacks on 7th and 21st July 2005 on London have and continue to shape the image and perception of Islam and Muslims. These attacks have raised questions about Islam and more people particularly in western countries have become more curious about what and how Muslims practise Islam. Despite these attacks Islam is the fastest growing religion. It is growing by 2.9 percent per year.

As a Muslim woman from a Muslim country coming to Britain to study, I am fascinated by the experience Muslims have had in Britain, in the past; since 2001; and will have in the future. History after all, shapes our thinking and action now and into the future.

It is important to understand what Islam is, before understanding the history of Islam and the experience of Muslims in Britain.

According to Martin Palmer "The core of Islamic belief is the "Oneness" of divine perfection of existence" . Islam means submission to the will of God (Allah) . It is the only religion has the "God" as the main principle. Islam has roots in the world since Hazrat Mohammed (PBUH) introduced Islam in the world of Arabia. The believers of the Islam are called Muslims, who believe there is not god "but Allah" and He is the creator of the whole universe including living BEINGS and non-living things. An Arabic book for the guidance of Muslims was revealed called Holy Koran or Quran.

Islam appeared as symbol of unity and brother in Arab world. It then spread worldwide from east to west. It has the message of being one for the whole mankind. The first sentence of the Holy Koran – the Islamic Book – revealed to Prophet Mohammed (PBUH) has invited humans to read...

Similar Essays