ABSTRACT
This chapter aims to provide an introduction to the vibrant faith that is Islam. In addition, it is important for this body of work that the ideological roots of the contemporary Islamic movement be reviewed. Tradition has it that with time, Prophet Muhammad became more reflective and suffered from bouts of internal doubts and questioning. The turning point in Islam history occurred around 620 AD when Muhammad made contact with a group of pilgrims from Yathrib, who accepted him as the Prophet of God. The Islamic belief in the battle against injustice and tyranny can be seen to have found echoes in Iran's pre-Islamic society. The march towards the new Arab/Islamic Empire that began with the taking of Mecca signified the dawn of what is known as the 'Golden Age' of Islam. The divide between Sunni and Shia stems from the belief of who had the right of succession following the death of the Muhammad.
