Islam the Religion for Mankind

'The Way of the Prophets and Righteous People'

by:

Articles of Discussion I.) Understanding Islam II.) The Way of the Prophets and Righteous People III.) Prophet Muhammad (salalahu alayhi wasalaam) 'Seal of the Prophets' & Following the Final Revelation (i.e. Noble Qur'an) IV.) Conclusion

*Bismillahi Ar-Rahman Ar-Raheem (In the name of Allah(swt) Most Gracious, Most Merciful) All Praise and Thanks are due to Almighty Allah(swt) the Creator and Sustainer of all things seen and unseen. We testify that none has the right/authority/privelage of being worshipped except for Almighty Allah(swt), and we testify that Abu al-Qasim Muhammad Ibn Abd Allah Ibn Abd al-Muttalib Ibn Hashim (salalahu alayhi wasalaam ) is the slave and the last and final Prophet and Messenger chosen by Almighty Allah(swt). The best speech is the speech of Almighty Allah(swt), and the best guidance is the guidance of Prophet Muhammad(salalahu alayhi wasalaam *.)

*UNDERSTANDING ISLAM*
The word 'Islam' comes from two root Arabic words, the first being 'salaam (salm)' which means 'peace' and the second being 'slm' which means 'submission'. The understanding of these two terms is that 'peace is acquired through submission'. Some may be inquiring as to, what type of submission brings peace?

Understanding Islam is not layed out simply through defining root Arabic words, rather it is understood through the description and entitlement expressed by Almighty Allah(swt) revealed to our beloved Prophet Muhammad (salalahu alayhi wasalaam .) The beloved Prophet (salalahu alayhi wasalaam ) was questioned by the noble Angel Jibra'eel(Gabriel) [alayhi salaam) concerning Islam, and the narration states... [ Belief ] Bukhari :: Book 1 :: Volume 2 :: Hadith 47 Narrated Abu Huraira: One day while the Prophet was sitting in the company of some people, (The angel) Gabriel came and asked, "What is faith?" Allah's Apostle replied, 'Faith is to believe in Allah, His angels, (the) meeting with Him, His Apostles, and to believe in Resurrection." Then he further asked, "What is Islam?" Allah's Apostle replied, "To worship Allah Alone and none else, to offer prayers perfectly to pay the compulsory charity (Zakat) and to observe fasts during the month of Ramadan." ... (partial) FULL NARRATION (here) The Book of Faith (Kitab Al-Iman) Muslim :: Book 1 : Hadith 1 The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: Al-Islam implies that you testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah, and you establish prayer, pay Zakat, observe the fast of Ramadan, and perform pilgrimage to the (House) if you are solvent enough (to bear the expense of) the journey... (partial) FULL NARRATION (here) Similar Hadith (below) Bukhari :: Book 6 :: Volume 60 :: Hadith 300 Muslim :: Book 1 : Hadith 4 -Prophet Muhammad(salalahu alayhi wasalaam ) has described the Religion/Way of Islam, to not merely be 'peace acquired through submission' but 'peace acquired through submission to Almighty Allah(swt)'. Submission is found through various acts of I'bbadah (worship), the most important ones being the 5 pillars of Islam, which are; 1.) Worshipping Almighty Allah(swt) alone and nothing else, (Iman/belief)

2.) Offering Prayers perfectly (Salat - 5 Daily Obligatory Prayers) 3.) Pay the Compulsory Charity (Zakat - 2.5% of ones Annual Earnings) 4.) Observe fasts during the month of Ramadan (Saum - Fast 30 Days during Ramadan) 5.) Perform Pilgrimage to the House (Hajj - Pilgrimage to Makkah) From the above narrations, we learn that Islam is constituted from 5 essential pillars (along with other commandments from Almighty Allah(swt) and His Messenger (salalahu alayhi wasalaam .) Almighty Allah(swt) informs us in the noble Qur'an that it is Islam which was chosen for mankind, Translation(s) of the meaning of the Noble Qur'an Inna alddeena AAinda Allahi al-islamu wama ikhtalafa allatheena ootoo alkitaba illa min baAAdi ma jaahumu alAAilmu baghyan baynahum waman yakfur bi-ayati Allahi fa-inna Allaha sareeAAu alhisabi 19. The Religion before Allah is Islam (submission to His Will): Nor did the People of the Book dissent therefrom except through envy of each other, after knowledge had come to them. But if any deny the Signs of Allah, Allah is swift in calling to account. (Surah Al-Imran 3:19 /Yusuf Ali Translation) *Almighty Allah(swt) questions the creation concerning the other beliefs which they seek to adhere to and reminds us through instructive reasoning, that Islam is the way in which all creatures are submissive to the Will of Him alone, Afaghayra deeni Allahi yabghoona walahu aslama man fee alssamawati waal-ardi tawAAan wakarhan wa-ilayhi yurjaAAoona 83. Do they seek for other than the Religion of Allah.-while all creatures in the heavens and on earth have, willing or unwilling, bowed to His Will (Accepted Islam), and to Him shall they all be brought back. (Surah Al-Imran 3:83 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

*Since the creation of Almighty Allah(swt) [Angels, Jinn, Mankind, Animals etc] are in complete submission to His Will, He informs us that no other way is acceptable in his sight except the way of Islam,

 Waman yabtaghi ghayra al-islami deenan falan yuqbala minhu wahuwa fee alakhirati mina alkhasireena 85. If anyone desires a religion other than Islam (submission to Allah., never will it be accepted of him; and in the Hereafter, he will be in the ranks of those who have lost (All spiritual good). (Surah Al-Imran 3:85 /Yusuf Ali Translation) *The importance that Almighty Allah(swt) puts on following the way of Islam, is unparalleled. The importance of submitting your will to the Will of Almighty Allah(swt) is of such significance, He commands that we die not, except in complete submission to His Will as Muslims, Ya ayyuha allatheena amanoo ittaqoo Allaha haqqa tuqatihi wala tamootunna illa waantum muslimoona 102. O ye who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared, and die not except in a state of Islam. (Surah Al-Imran 3:102 /Yusuf Ali Translation) *The importance of Islam is such, that this was the same message which was left by Abraham(alayhi salaam) to his sons, and the same message left by Jacob(alayhi salaam), Wawassa biha ibraheemu baneehi wayaAAqoobu ya baniyya inna Allaha istafa lakumu alddeena fala tamootunna illa waantum muslimoona 132. And this was the legacy that Abraham left to his sons, and so did Jacob; "Oh my sons! Allah hath chosen the Faith for you; then die not except in the Faith of Islam." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:132 /Yusuf Ali Translation) It is for these reasons that Islam is the only way of life which is a direct communication to the commands of Almighty Allah(swt) and is a direct connection to His Will.

*THE WAY OF the PROPHETS and RIGHTEOUS PEOPLE*

Islam (submission to Almighty Allah(swt) is the way which was instructed by Almighty Allah(swt) to the whole of humanity, and also to the Jinn. For this very purpose did Almighty Allah(swt) create Mankind and Jinn, Translation(s) of the meaning of the Noble Qur'an Wama khalaqtu aljinna waal-insa illa liyaAAbudooni 56. I have only created Jinns and men, that they may serve Me. (Surah Ad-Zhariyaat 51:56 /Yusuf Ali Translation) No prophet or messenger from the time of Adam (alayhi salaam) to the time of Prophet Muhammad(salalahu alayhi wasalaam ) was commanded, except that he submit his will to Almighty Allah(swt) and that they follow what is revealed to them. Wama arsalna min rasoolin illa liyutaAAa bi-ithni Allahi walaw annahum ith thalamoo anfusahum jaooka faistaghfaroo Allaha waistaghfara lahumu alrrasoolu lawajadoo Allaha tawwaban raheeman 64. We sent not an apostle, but to be obeyed, in accordance with the will of Allah. If they had only, when they were unjust to themselves, come unto thee and asked Allah's forgiveness, and the Messenger had asked forgiveness for them, they would have found Allah indeed Oft-returning, Most Merciful. (Surah An-Nisa 4:64 /Yusuf Ali Translation) In fact, not only were the prophets commanded to be in complete submission to Almighty Allah(swt), but they along with their followers were righteous and willingly submitted to Almighty Allah(swt) and were devoutly consistent in their obedience to Him, we will just mention a few of them, as found in the following passages... NUH (Noah- alayhi salaam) Thurriyyata man hamalna maAAa noohin innahu kana AAabdan shakooran 3. O ye that are sprung from those whom We carried (in the Ark) with Noah! Verily he was a devotee most grateful. (Surah Al-Isra 17:3 /Yusuf Ali

Translation) Waotlu AAalayhim nabaa noohin ith qala liqawmihi ya qawmi in kana kabura AAalaykum maqamee watathkeeree bi-ayati Allahi faAAala Allahi tawakkaltu faajmiAAoo amrakum washurakaakum thumma la yakun amrukum AAalaykum ghummatan thumma iqdoo ilayya wala tunthirooni Fa-in tawallaytum fama saaltukum min ajrin in ajriya illa AAala Allahi waomirtu an akoona mina almuslimeena 71. Relate to them the story of Noah. Behold! he said to his people: "O my people, if it be hard on your (mind) that I should stay (with you) and commemorate the signs of Allah,yet I put my trust in Allah. Get ye then an agreement about your plan and among your partners, so your plan be on to you dark and dubious. Then pass your sentence on me, and give me no respite. 72. "But if ye turn back, (consider): no reward have I asked of you: my reward is only due from Allah, and I have been commanded to be of those who submit to Allah's will (in Islam)." (Surah Yunus 10:71-72 /Yusuf Ali Translation) IBRAHIM (Abraham- alayhi salaam) Ma kana ibraheemu yahoodiyyan wala nasraniyyan walakin kana haneefan musliman wama kana mina almushrikeena 67. Abraham was not a Jew nor yet a Christian; but he was true in Faith, and bowed his will to Allah's (Which is Islam), and he joined not gods with Allah. (Surah Al-Imran 3:67 / Yusuf Ali Translation) Waman ahsanu deenan mimman aslama wajhahu lillahi wahuwa muhsinun waittabaAAa millata ibraheema haneefan waittakhatha Allahu ibraheema khaleelan 125. Who can be better in religion than one who submits his whole self to Allah, does good, and follows the way of Abraham the true in Faith? For Allah did take Abraham for a friend. (Surah An-Nisa 4:125 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

 Qul innanee hadanee rabbee ila siratin mustaqeemin deenan qiyaman millata ibraheema haneefan wama kana mina almushrikeena 161. Say: "Verily, my Lord hath guided me to a way that is straight,- a religion of right,the path (trod) by Abraham the true in Faith, and he (certainly) joined not gods with Allah." (Surah Al-An'am 6:161 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Inna ibraheema kana ommatan qanitan lillahi haneefan walam yaku mina almushrikeena 120. Abraham was indeed a model, devoutly obedient to Allah, (and) true in Faith, and he joined not gods with Allah. (Surah An-Nahl 16:120 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Thumma awhayna ilayka ani ittabiAA millata ibraheema haneefan wama kana mina almushrikeena 123. So We have taught thee the inspired (Message), "Follow the ways of Abraham the True in Faith, and he joined not gods with Allah." (Surah An-Nahl 16:123 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Waothkur fee alkitabi ibraheema innahu kana siddeeqan nabiyyan 41. (Also mention in the Book (the story of) Abraham: He was a man of Truth, a prophet. (Surah Maryam 19:41 /Yusuf Ali Translation) ISMA'IL (Ishmael- alayhi salaam) Waothkur fee alkitabi ismaAAeela innahu kana sadiqa alwaAAdi wakana rasoolan nabiyyan 54. Also mention in the Book (the story of) Isma'il: He was (strictly) true to what he promised, and he was an apostle (and) a prophet.

(Surah Maryam 19:54 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Wa-ismaAAeela wa-idreesa watha alkifli kullun mina alssabireena 85. And (remember) Isma'il, Idris, and Zul-kifl, all (men) of constancy and patience; (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:85 /Yusuf Ali Translation) ISHAQ (Isaac -alayhi salaam) Wabashsharnahu bi-ishaqa nabiyyan mina alssaliheena 112. And We gave him the good news of Isaac - a prophet,- one of the Righteous. (Surah As-Saffat 37:112 /Yusuf Ali Translation) AYYUB (Job -alayhi salaam) Waothkur AAabdana ayyooba ith nada rabbahu annee massaniya alshshaytanu binusbin waAAathabin 41. Commemorate Our Servant Job. Behold he cried to his Lord: "The Evil One has afflicted me with distress and suffering!" (Surah Sad 38:41 /Yusuf Ali Translation) ZUL-KIFL (Ezekiel -alayhi salaam) Wa-ismaAAeela wa-idreesa watha alkifli kullun mina alssabireena Waadkhalnahum fee rahmatina innahum mina alssaliheena 85. And (remember) Isma'il, Idris, and Zul-kifl, all (men) of constancy and patience;We admitted them to Our mercy: for they were of the righteous ones. (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:85-86 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Waothkur ismaAAeela wa-ilyasaAAa watha alkifli wakullun mina al-akhyari 48. And commemorate Isma'il, Elisha, and Zul-Kifl: Each of them was of the Company of the Good. (Surah Sad 38:48 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

MUSA (Moses -alayhi salaam) Walamma jaa moosa limeeqatina wakallamahu rabbuhu qala rabbi arinee anthur ilayka qala lan taranee walakini onthur ila aljabali fa-ini istaqarra makanahu fasawfa taranee falamma tajalla rabbuhu liljabali jaAAalahu dakkan wakharra moosa saAAiqan falamma afaqa qala subhanaka tubtu ilayka waana awwalu almu/mineena 143. When Moses came to the place appointed by Us, and his Lord addressed him, He said: "O my Lord! show (Thyself) to me, that I may look upon thee." Allah said: "By no means canst thou see Me (direct); But look upon the mount; if it abide in its place, then shalt thou see Me." When his Lord manifested His glory on the Mount, He made it as dust. And Moses fell down in a swoon. When he recovered his senses he said: "Glory be to Thee! to Thee I turn in repentance, and I am the first to believe." (Surah Al-A'raf 7:143 /Yusuf Ali Translation) DAWUD (David -alayhi salaam) Isbir AAala ma yaqooloona waothkur AAabdana dawooda tha al-aydi innahu awwabun 17. Have patience at what they say, and remember our servant David, the man of strength: for he ever turned (to Allah.. (Surah Sad 38:17 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Qala laqad thalamaka bisu-ali naAAjatika ila niAAajihi wa-inna katheeran mina alkhulata-i layabghee baAAduhum AAala baAAdin illa allatheena amanoo waAAamiloo alssalihati waqaleelun ma hum wathanna dawoodu annama fatannahu faistaghfara rabbahu wakharra rakiAAan waanaba 24. (David) said: "He has undoubtedly wronged thee in demanding thy (single) ewe to be added to his (flock of) ewes: truly many are the partners (in business) who wrong each other: Not so do those who believe and work deeds of righteousness, and how few are they?"...and David gathered that We had tried him: he asked forgiveness of his Lord, fell down, bowing (in prostration), and turned (to Allah in repentance). (Surah Sad 38:24 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

SULAYMAN (Solomon -alayhi salaam) Qeela laha odkhulee alssarha falamma raat-hu hasibat-hu lujjatan wakashafat AAan saqayha qala innahu sarhun mumarradun min qawareera qalat rabbi innee thalamtu nafsee waaslamtu maAAa sulaymana lillahi rabbi alAAalameena 44. She was asked to enter the lofty Palace: but when she saw it, she thought it was a lake of water, and she (tucked up her skirts), uncovering her legs. He said: "This is but a palace paved smooth with slabs of glass." She said: "O my Lord! I have indeed wronged my soul: I do (now) submit (in Islam), with Solomon, to the Lord of the Worlds." (Surah An-Naml 27:44 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Wawahabna lidawooda sulaymana niAAma alAAabdu innahu awwabun 30. To David We gave Solomon (for a son),- How excellent in Our service! Ever did he turn (to Us)! (Surah Sad 38:30 /Yusuf Ali Translation) ILLIAS (Elias -alayhi salaam) Wazakariyya wayahya waAAeesa wailyasa kullun mina alssaliheena 85. And Zakariya and John, and Jesus and Elias: all in the ranks of the righteous: (Surah Al-An'am 6:85 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Wa-inna ilyasa lamina almursaleena 123. So also was Elias among those sent (by Us). (Surah As-Saffat 37:123 /Yusuf Ali Translation) ALYASA (Elisha -alayhi salaam) Wa-ismaAAeela wailyasaAAa wayoonusa walootan wakullan faddalna AAala alAAalameena 86. And Isma'il and Elisha, and Jonas, and Lot: and to all We gave favour above the nations: (Surah Al-An'am 6:86 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

Waothkur ismaAAeela wa-ilyasaAAa watha alkifli wakullun mina al-akhyari 48. And commemorate Isma'il, Elisha, and Zul-Kifl: Each of them was of the Company of the Good. (Surah Sad 38:48 /Yusuf Ali Translation) ZAKARIYA (Zachariah -alayhi salaam) Wazakariyya wayahya waAAeesa wailyasa kullun mina alssaliheena 85. And Zakariya and John, and Jesus and Elias: all in the ranks of the righteous: (Surah Al-An'am 6:85 /Yusuf Ali Translation) YAHYA (John -alayhi salaam) Wazakariyya wayahya waAAeesa wailyasa kullun mina alssaliheena 85. And Zakariya and John, and Jesus and Elias: all in the ranks of the righteous: (Surah Al-An'am 6:85 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Fanadat-hu almala-ikatu wahuwa qa-imun yusallee fee almihrabi anna Allaha yubashshiruka biyahya musaddiqan bikalimatin mina Allahi wasayyidan wahasooran wanabiyyan mina alssaliheena 39. While he was standing in prayer in the chamber, the angels called unto him: "(Allah) doth give thee glad tidings of Yahya, witnessing the truth of a Word from Allah, and (be besides) noble, chaste, and a prophet,- of the (goodly) company of the righteous." (Surah Al-Imran 3:39 /Yusuf Ali Translation) ISA (Jesus -alayhi salaam) Ith qalati almala-ikatu ya maryamu inna Allaha yubashshiruki bikalimatin minhu ismuhu almaseehu AAeesa ibnu maryama wajeehan fee alddunya waal-akhirati wamina almuqarrabeena 45. Behold! the angels said: "O Mary! Allah giveth thee glad tidings of a Word from Him: his name will be Christ Jesus, the son of Mary, held in honour in this world and the

Hereafter and of (the company of) those nearest to Allah. (Surah Al-Imran 3:45 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Falamma ahassa AAeesa minhumu alkufra qala man ansaree ila Allahi qala alhawariyyoona nahnu ansaru Allahi amanna biAllahi waishhad bi-anna muslimoona 52. When Jesus found Unbelief on their part He said: "Who will be My helpers to (the work of) Allah." Said the disciples: "We are Allah's helpers: We believe in Allah, and do thou bear witness that we are Muslims. (Surah Al-Imran 3:52 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Wa-ith qala AAeesa ibnu maryama ya banee isra-eela innee rasoolu Allahi ilaykum musaddiqan lima bayna yadayya mina alttawrati wamubashshiran birasoolin ya/tee min baAAdee ismuhu ahmadu falamma jaahum bialbayyinati qaloo hatha sihrun mubeenun 6. And remember, Jesus, the son of Mary, said: "O Children of Israel! I am the apostle of Allah (sent) to you, confirming the Law (which came) before me, and giving Glad Tidings of an Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad." But when he came to them with Clear Signs, they said, "this is evident sorcery!" (Surah As-Saff 61:6 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Ya ayyuha allatheena amanoo koonoo ansara Allahi kama qala AAeesa ibnu maryama lilhawariyyeena man ansaree ila Allahi qala alhawariyyoona nahnu ansaru Allahi faamanat ta-ifatun min banee isra-eela wakafarat ta-ifatun faayyadna allatheena amanoo AAala AAaduwwihim faasbahoo thahireena 14. O ye who believe! Be ye helpers of Allah. As said Jesus the son of Mary to the Disciples, "Who will be my helpers to (the work of) Allah." Said the disciples, "We are Allah's helpers!" then a portion of the Children of Israel believed, and a portion disbelieved: But We gave power to those who believed, against their enemies, and they became the ones that prevailed. (Surah As-Saff 61:14 /Yusuf Ali Translation) MUHAMMAD (salalahu alayhi wasalaam)

 Qul aghayra Allahi attakhithu waliyyan fatiri alssamawati waal-ardi wahuwa yutAAimu wala yutAAamu qul innee omirtu an akoona awwala man aslama wala takoonanna mina almushrikeena 14. Say: "Shall I take for my protector any other than Allah, the Maker of the heavens and the earth? And He it is that feedeth but is not fed." Say: "Nay! but I am commanded to be the first of those who bow to Allah (in Islam), and be not thou of the company of those who join gods with Allah." (Surah Al-An'am 6:14 /Yusuf Ali Translation) La shareeka lahu wabithalika omirtu waana awwalu almuslimeena 163. No partner hath He: this am I commanded, and I am the first of those who bow to His will. (Surah Al-An'am 6:163 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Qul ya ayyuha alnnasu in kuntum fee shakkin min deenee fala aAAbudu allatheena taAAbudoona min dooni Allahi walakin aAAbudu Allaha allathee yatawaffakum waomirtu an akoona mina almu/mineena 104. Say: "O ye men! If ye are in doubt as to my religion, (behold!) I worship not what ye worship, other than Allah. But I worship Allah - Who will take your souls (at death): I am commanded to be (in the ranks) of the Believers, (Surah Yunus 10:104 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Waallatheena ataynahumu alkitaba yafrahoona bima onzila ilayka wamina al-ahzabi man yunkiru baAAdahu qul innama omirtu an aAAbuda Allaha wala oshrika bihi ilayhi adAAoo wa-ilayhi maabi 36. Those to whom We have given the Book rejoice at what hath been revealed unto thee: but there are among the clans those who reject a part thereof. Say: "I am commanded to worship Allah, and not to join partners with Him. Unto Him do I call, and unto Him is my return." (Surah Ar-Rad 13:36 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

 Innama omirtu an aAAbuda rabba hathihi albaldati allathee harramaha walahu kullu shay-in waomirtu an akoona mina almuslimeena 91. For me, I have been commanded to serve the Lord of this city, Him Who has sanctified it and to Whom (belong) all things: and I am commanded to be of those who bow in Islam to Allah's Will,(Surah An-Naml 27:91 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Qul innee omirtu an aAAbuda Allaha mukhlisan lahu alddeena Waomirtu li-an akoona awwala almuslimeena Qul innee akhafu in AAasaytu rabbee AAathaba yawmin AAatheemin Quli Allaha aAAbudu mukhlisan lahu deenee 11. Say: "Verily, I am commanded to serve Allah with sincere devotion; 12. "And I am commanded to be the first of those who bow to Allah in Islam." 13. Say: "I would, if I disobeyed my Lord, indeed have fear of the Penalty of a Mighty Day." 14. Say: "It is Allah I serve, with my sincere (and exclusive) devotion: (Surah Az-Zumar 39:11-14 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Qul innee nuheetu an aAAbuda allatheena tadAAoona min dooni Allahi lamma jaaniya albayyinatu min rabbee waomirtu an oslima lirabbi alAAalameena 66. Say: "I have been forbidden to invoke those whom ye invoke besides Allah,- seeing that the Clear Sings have come to me from my Lord; and I have been commanded to bow (in Islam) to the Lord of the Worlds." (Surah Ghafir 40:66 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

Falithalika faodAAu waistaqim kama omirta wala tattabiAA ahwaahum waqul amantu bima anzala Allahu min kitabin waomirtu li-aAAdila baynakum Allahu rabbuna warabbukum lana aAAmaluna walakum aAAmalukum la hujjata baynana wabaynakumu Allahu yajmaAAu baynana wa-ilayhi almaseeru

15. Now then, for that (reason), call (them to the Faith), and stand steadfast as thou art commanded, nor follow thou their vain desires; but say: "I believe in the Book which Allah has sent down; and I am commanded to judge justly between you. Allah is our Lord and your Lord: for us (is the responsibility for) our deeds, and for you for your deeds. There is no contention between us and you. Allah will bring us together, and to Him is (our) Final Goal. (Surah Ash-Shura 42:15 /Yusuf Ali Translation) -All of the above narrations from the Noble Qur'an present that the prophets and messengers along with their followers and some people amongst them, were completely submissive to Almighty Allah(swt) Will. Although some prophets and messengers have not been quoted such as; Adam, Idris(Enoch), Hud(Heber), Salih(Methusaleh), Lut(Lot), Yaqub(Jacob), Yusuf(Joseph), Shu'aib(Jethro), Harun(Aaron), and Yunus(Jonah) Peace and Blessings be Upon them All, these prophets and messengers also submitted to the Will of Almighty Allah(swt) and we know this from the Quranic passage posted earlier, Wama arsalna min rasoolin illa liyutaAAa bi-ithni Allahi 64. "We sent not an apostle, but to be obeyed, in accordance with the will of Allah...." (Surah An-Nisa 4:64 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

*In fact the obedience of Almighty Allah(swt) [Almighty God -Glorified be He] is also found in the Biblical Scriptures. [ as found below ]*

*** Old Testament ***

You must obey my laws and be careful to follow my decrees. I am the LORD your God. (Leviticus 18:4 /New International Version) Then you will remember to obey all my commands and will be consecrated to your God. (Numbers 15:40 /New International Version) When you are in distress and all these things have happened to you, then in later days you will return to the LORD your God and obey him. (Deuteronomy 4:30 /New International Version) Similar Old Testament Narrations;

Deuteronomy 5:27, Deuteronomy 6:3, Deuteronomy 6:24, Deuteronomy 6:25 Deuteronomy 8:20, Deuteronomy 9:23, Deuteronomy 11:1, Deuteronomy 11:13 Deuteronomy 11:27, Deuteronomy 12:28, Deuteronomy 13:4, Deuteronomy 13:18 Deuteronomy 15:5, Deuteronomy 26:14, Deuteronomy 27:10, Deuteronomy 28:1 Deuteronomy 28:2, Deuteronomy 28:15, Deuteronomy 28:45, Deuteronomy 28:62 Deuteronomy 30:2, Deuteronomy 30:10, Joshua 1:17, Joshua 24:24, 1 Samuel 12:14 1 Kings 8:61, 2 Kings 18:12, 1 Chronicles 28:21, 2 Chronicles 14:4, Ezra 7:26 Nehemiah 10:29, Ecclesiastes 8:2. Isaiah 50:10, Jeremiah 3:13, Jeremiah 3:25, Jeremiah 7:23 Jeremiah 7:28, Jeremiah 11:3, Jeremiah 11:4, Jeremiah 26:13, Jeremiah 35:13, Jeremiah 35:18 Jeremiah 42:6, Jeremiah 42:21, Daniel 9:10, Daniel 9:11, Daniel 9:14, Hosea 9:17 Zephaniah 3:2, Haggai 1:12, Zechariah 6:15 All of these righteous Biblical prophets and men (i.e. Moses[alayhi salaam], Joshua, Samuel, Ezra, Nehemiah, Isaiah, Jerimiah, Daniel, Hosea, Zephaniah, Haggai and Zechariah[alayhi salaam]) have spoke of obedience to the laws and commandments of Almighty Allah(swt), following through consistently with the teachings of Islam (submission to the Will of Almighty Allah-swt).

*** New Testament ***

He replied, Blessed rather are those who hear the word of God and obey it. (Luke 11:28 /New International Version) Peter and the other apostles replied: We must obey God rather than human beings! (Acts 5:29 /New International Version) We are witnesses of these things, and so is the Holy Spirit, whom God has given to those who obey him. (Acts 5:32 /New International Version) Similar New Testament Narrations; Romans 2:13, Romans 6:17, Romans 15:18, Ephesians 6:6, 2 Thessalonians 1:8, 1 Peter 4:17 1 John 2:5 Even within the Christian doctrines, we see that a righteous prophet and messenger (i.e. Jesus[alayhi salaam]) is said to have spoke of obedience to the laws and commandments of Almighty Allah(swt), following through consistently with the teachings of Islam

(submission to the Will of Almighty Allah-swt). 36 Teacher, which is the greatest commandment in the Law? 37 Jesus replied: Love the Lord your God with all your heart and with all your soul and with all your mind.[a] 38 This is the first and greatest commandment. 39 And the second is like it: Love your neighbor as yourself.[b] 40 All the Law and the Prophets hang on these two commandments. (Matthew 22:36-40 /New International Version)

16 Just then a man came up to Jesus and asked, Teacher, what good thing must I do to get eternal life? 17 Why do you ask me about what is good? Jesus replied. There is only One who is good. If you want to enter life, keep the commandments. (Matthew 19:17 /New International Version) According to the Biblical scripture, even Jesus Christ(alayhi salaam) himself, is recorded as saying; "ALL the Law and THE PROPHETS hang on these two commandments (1) Love Almighty Allah(swt) with all of your heart, soul and mind. (2) Love your neighbor as yourself. He then instructed a man, that wished to obtain eternal life, he needs to KEEP THE COMMANDMENTS. By loving Almighty Allah(swt) one would do all good deeds which He(swt) loves and avoid all things which He(swt) hates, and invetiably, this is keeping the commandments and submitting to Almighty Allah(swt's) Will, in Islam.

*PROPHET MUHAMMAD (salalahu alayhi wasalaam) 'Seal of the Prophets' & FOLLOWING THE FINAL REVELATION (i.e. Noble Qur'an)*
-The prophets and messengers and righteous people since the beginning of time have submitted their wills to the Will of Almighty Allah(swt). In order for one to be correctly and completely submisive to the Will of the Creator (Almighty Allah-swt) one must know what it is that He(swt) wishes for the creation (i.e. laws, regulations, punishments etc). The prophets and messengers were sent to their nation or tribe of people calling them to have taqwa (fear, consciousness of Allah) and obediance of Almighty Allah(swt), some examples below. [as found in the following passages], ISA (Jesus -alayhi salaam)

 Wamusaddiqan lima bayna yadayya mina alttawrati wali-ohilla lakum baAAda allathee hurrima AAalaykum waji/tukum bi-ayatin min rabbikum faittaqoo Allaha waateeAAooni 50. "'(I have come to you), to attest the Law which was before me. And to make lawful to you part of what was (Before) forbidden to you; I have come to you with a Sign from your Lord. So fear Allah, and obey me. (Surah Al-Imran 3:50 /Yusuf Ali Translation) (see also Surah Az-Zukhruf 43:63 ) NUH (Noah -alayhi salaam) Kaththabat qawmu noohin almursaleena Ith qala lahum akhoohum noohun ala tattaqoona Innee lakum rasoolun ameenun 105. The people of Noah rejected the apostles. 106. Behold, their brother Noah said to them: "Will ye not fear (Allah)? 107. "I am to you an apostle worthy of all trust: 108. "So fear Allah, and obey me. (Surah Ash-Shu'ara 26:105-108 /Yusuf Ali Translation) (see also verse 110 of [26] ) (see also Surah Nuh 71:1-3) HUD (Heber -alayhi salaam) Kaththabat AAadun almursaleena Ith qala lahum akhoohum hoodun ala tattaqoona Innee lakum rasoolun ameenun Faittaqoo Allaha waateeAAooni 123. The 'Ad (people) rejected the apostles. 124. Behold, their brother Hud said to them: "Will ye not fear (Allah)?

125. "I am to you an apostle worthy of all trust: 126. "So fear Allah and obey me. Other prophets and messengers who brought the same message; SALIH (Methusaleh) [Surah Ash-Shu'ara 26:141-144] LUT (Lot) [Surah Ash-Shu'ara 26:161-163] SHU'AIB (Jethro) [Surah Ash-Shu'ara 26:176-179]

**Seal of the Prophets*** -Each nation of people have had their prophet and messenger sent to them to explain Islam (submission to Almighty Allah-swt's Will). They brought legislation and practice, and taught that man should be in fear of Almighty Allah(swt) and obey the message of the prophet(s) and messenger(s). Prophet Muhammad (salalahu alayhi wasalaam) is the last and final messenger who was the one sent to complete the message of Islam for the whole of humanity. Ma kana muhammadun aba ahadin min rijalikum walakin rasoola Allahi wakhatama alnnabiyyeena wakana Allahu bikulli shay-in AAaleeman 40. Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but (he is) the Messenger of Allah, and the Seal of the Prophets: and Allah has full knowledge of all things. (Surah Al-Azhab 33:40 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Prophet Muhammad(salalahu alayhi wasalaam) is not simply the 'Seal of the Prophets', but he is what we call as 'The Magnificent Brick'. He(salalahu alayhi wasalaam) is the one whom Islam was perfected through and by. It was through the completion of the revelead Holy Books [i.e. the Tawrat(Torah), the Zabouur(Psalms), the Injeel(Gospel) ] the Noble Qur'an being the last of the revealed books from Almighty Allah(swt), that Islam was completed. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (salalahu alayhi wasalaam) describes his role as the last and final messenger and how he is the completion of Islam, [ found in the following Hadith narrations ] Virtues and Merits of the Prophet (pbuh) and his Companions Bukhari :: Book 4 :: Volume 56 :: Hadith 735 Narrated Abu Huraira:

Allah's Apostle said, "My similitude in comparison with the other prophets before me, is that of a man who has built a house nicely and beautifully, except for a place of one brick in a corner. The people go about it and wonder at its beauty, but say: 'Would that this brick be put in its place!' So I am that brick, and I am the last of the Prophets." The Book Pertaining to the Excellent Qualities of the Holy Prophet (may Peace be upon them) and His Companions (Kitab Al-Fada'il) Muslim :: Book 30 : Hadith 5674 Abu Huraira reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: The similitude of mine and that of the Apostles before me is that of a person who built a house quite imposing and beautiful and he made it complete but for one brick in one of its corners. People began to walk round it, and the building pleased them and they would say: But for this brick your building would have been perfect. Muhammad (may peace be upon him) said: And I am that final brick. Similar Hadith Narrations; Muslim :: Book 30 : Hadith 5675 Muslim :: Book 30 : Hadith 5677 Muslim :: Book 30 : Hadith 5673 Muslim :: Book 31 : Hadith 6173 Bukhari :: Book 4 :: Volume 56 :: Hadith 734

-Prophet Muhammad(salalahu alayhi wasalaam) also brought the same message and was commanded to instruct the people of having 'Fear' of Almighty Allah(swt) and to 'Obey' the Prophet and Messenger (salalahu alayhi wasalaam) [ as found below]

Yas-aloonaka AAani al-ahillati qul hiya mawaqeetu lilnnasi waalhajji walaysa albirru bi-an ta/too albuyoota min thuhooriha walakinna albirra mani ittaqa wa/too albuyoota min abwabiha waittaqoo Allaha laAAallakum tuflihoona 189. They ask thee concerning the New Moons. Say: They are but signs to mark fixed periods of time in (the affairs of) men, and for Pilgrimage. It is no virtue if ye enter your houses from the back: It is virtue if ye fear Allah. Enter houses through the proper doors: And fear Allah. That ye may prosper. (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:189 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

 Alshshahru alharamu bialshshahri alharami waalhurumatu qisasun famani iAAtada AAalaykum faiAAtadoo AAalayhi bimithli ma iAAtada AAalaykum waittaqoo Allaha waiAAlamoo anna Allaha maAAa almuttaqeena 194. The prohibited month for the prohibited month,- and so for all things prohibited,there is the law of equality. If then any one transgresses the prohibition against you, Transgress ye likewise against him. But fear Allah, and know that Allah is with those who restrain themselves. (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:194 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Waatimmoo alhajja waalAAumrata lillahi fa-in ohsirtum fama istaysara mina alhadyi wala tahliqoo ruoosakum hatta yablugha alhadyu mahillahu faman kana minkum mareedan aw bihi athan min ra/sihi fafidyatun min siyamin aw sadaqatin aw nusukin faitha amintum faman tamattaAAa bialAAumrati ila alhajji fama istaysara mina alhadyi faman lam yajid fasiyamu thalathati ayyamin fee alhajji wasabAAatin itha rajaAAtum tilka AAasharatun kamilatun thalika liman lam yakun ahluhu hadiree almasjidi alharami waittaqoo Allaha waiAAlamoo anna Allaha shadeedu alAAiqabi 196. And complete the Hajj or 'umra in the service of Allah. But if ye are prevented (From completing it), send an offering for sacrifice, such as ye may find, and do not shave your heads until the offering reaches the place of sacrifice. And if any of you is ill, or has an ailment in his scalp, (Necessitating shaving), (He should) in compensation either fast, or feed the poor, or offer sacrifice; and when ye are in peaceful conditions (again), if any one wishes to continue the 'umra on to the hajj, He must make an offering, such as he can afford, but if he cannot afford it, He should fast three days during the hajj and seven days on his return, Making ten days in all. This is for those whose household is not in (the precincts of) the Sacred Mosque. And fear Allah, and know that Allah Is strict in punishment. (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:196 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

Qul ateeAAoo Allaha waalrrasoola fa-in tawallaw fa-inna Allaha la yuhibbu alkafireena 32. Say: "Obey Allah and His Messenger.: But if they turn back, Allah loveth not those

who reject Faith. Translation)

(Surah Al-Imran 3:32 /Yusuf Ali

WaateeAAoo Allaha waalrrasoola laAAallakum turhamoona 132. And obey Allah and the Messenger. that ye may obtain mercy. (Surah Al-Imran 3:132 /Yusuf Ali Translation) Ya ayyuha allatheena amanoo ateeAAoo Allaha waateeAAoo alrrasoola waolee alamri minkum fa-in tanazaAAtum fee shay-in faruddoohu ila Allahi waalrrasooli in kuntum tu/minoona biAllahi waalyawmi al-akhiri thalika khayrun waahsanu ta/weelan 59. O ye who believe! Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger, and those charged with authority among you. If ye differ in anything among yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger, if ye do believe in Allah and the Last Day: That is best, and most suitable for final determination. (Surah An-Nisa 4:59 /Yusuf Ali Translation)

*As mentioned earlier, prior to the coming of Prophet Muhammad(salalahu alayhi wasalaam), there were different Laws according to that specifice time period and people, and based on the prophet and messenger chosen for that specific era [ i.e. Tawrat(Torah) => Musa(Moses), Zabbour(Psalms) => Dawud(David), Injeel(Gospel) => Isa(Jesus) ] Now the legislation for Mankind from the present day, until Yaum al Qiyama (the Day of Judgment) will be the Glorious Qur'an.

CONCLUSION
Islam is the way which was chosen by Almighty Allah(swt) for the whole of creation. Mankind is bound by the legislation of the last and final guidance of Islam (i.e. the Noble Qur'an). Irrespective of someones religious background (i.e. Jew, Christian, Hindu, Atheist, Agnostic, Taoist, Buddhist etc) they are all bound by the instructions of the Noble Qur'an and way of Muhammad(salalahu alayhi wasalaam) because he is the perfected piece 'the Magnificent Brick' until the Day of Judgment. This means that whether they believe Islam is the Way of Life for all of Mankind, if they put forth bad deeds (deeds which are prohibited according to the Qur'an and Sunnah) then they will be requited and punished for it, and if they put forth good deeds (deeds which are acceptable according to the Qur'an and Sunnah) then they will get their reward in this life, and if

they accept Islam, then they will receive there reward on the Day of Judgment.