Not a Different God
Arabic-speaking Christians and Jews also use the word Allah for God. Muslims believe Allah is one, unlike creation, all-knowing, all-merciful, and close to those who turn to Him.
Mercy Comes First
Every chapter of the Qur'an, except one, begins by mentioning God as the Most Compassionate and Most Merciful. Islam teaches hope, repentance, and returning to God again and again.
Knowing God Through His Names
Muslims learn about Allah through His beautiful names, such as The Merciful, The Wise, The Provider, The Forgiving, and The Just.
God Is Beyond Creation
Islam teaches that Allah is not part of the universe and is not limited by human form, time, place, race, or language. He is the Creator of all people and all worlds. Because God is beyond creation, Muslims do not picture Him in images or statues.
A Direct Relationship With God
In Islam, a person can turn to Allah directly at any moment. There is no need for an intermediary to confess, repent, ask for help, or seek mercy. Muslims are encouraged to speak to God privately, especially in moments of need, gratitude, fear, or hope.
Justice and Mercy Together
Muslims believe Allah is perfectly just and perfectly merciful. Justice means that human choices matter and wrongdoing is not meaningless. Mercy means that people are never asked to despair of God, and sincere repentance is always honored by the One who knows every heart.