Wondering what the difference is between Islam and Muslim? What are the origins of these two words? And when do you use one or the other?
Christians should know these terms, as well as the other basic parts of Islam, so when they have the opportunity to share the gospel with a Muslim, they are well-prepared.
Here’s your new key to remembering the difference: Islam is the religion that Muslims believe in.
Islam is an Arabic noun that is derived from “Sallama” and “Aslama” which means submission. So Islam is the religion of submission to Allah.
“Muslim” is used to name the members of Islam; in Arabic, the word Muslim simply means “one who submits.”
The basics of Islam
Islam is a religion based on this core belief (also known as the shahadah or confession of faith):
“I testify there is no god but Allah, and I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.”
There are five main practices that all Muslims are required to do:
You can learn more about Islamic beliefs in our articles, as well as practical tips for evangelism to Muslims, the followers of Islam. Christians should be ready to share the love of Christ when the door opens!
Common questions about Islam and Muslims
What is the difference between Arabic, Islamic, and Muslim?
Arabic is the primary language in 24 countries in North Africa, the Arabian Peninsula, and much of the Middle East. It is also an adjective for the culture in this region.
Arabic is also the language used in Islam for all important religious rituals and practices. We’ve explained in another post how Muslims are required to pray and recite the Quran in Arabic in order for them to “count”: How Islam uses Arabic to hide the truth
There are over 465 million Arab Muslims in the world. Arab is their ethnicity, and Muslim signifies their religious affiliation with Islam. Not all Muslims are Arab, but the religion of Islam is very closely associated with Arab culture because it began in the Arabian Peninsula (current Saudi Arabia).
Is Muslim a religion?
No, Muslim is a name for someone who follows the religion of Islam.
What is the difference between Islamist and Muslim?
Most often, Islamist is used as a word for Muslims who are representing or advocating for Islamic fundamentals in a political setting. You would not call every Muslim an Islamist, so the two words are not interchangeable.
Is there a difference between Islamic and Muslim? When do I use one over the other?
Yes! Muslim is the word used for people or things associated with the followers of Islam.
Islamic is used to describe things specifically connected to the religion (not its followers), for example, an Islamic worldview or Islamic attire.
What else do I need to know?
It is extremely helpful for Christians to have a secure understanding of Islam for a number of reasons. Knowing the truth is our defense against misinformation, and it prepares us for conversations with people under a religion that can be intimidating.
To continue to grow in your knowledge, sign up today to receive these resources to your inbox. Here are more fundamental topics we recommend starting with:
Prayer for evangelism
Dear Lord, thank you for the opportunity to prepare myself for the mission field of daily life. Please open doors for me to be a light to Muslims in my city and neighborhood, and grant me the courage to share the gospel with them boldly. Amen.
