Who is Hassan Shibly?Hassan Shibly is the Chief Executive Director of CAIR-Florida. He holds a law degree from the University at Buffalo School of Law, and lectures regularly on issues relating to Islam, American Muslims, and Civil Rights. He has taught courses on Islamic belief, law, history, spirituality and culture. Shibly actively works with various interfaith and social service organizations to assist those in need and promote cooperation and understanding between diverse faiths and cultures. He has appeared numerous times in both local and national media outlets including CNN, NPR, Voice of America, the New York Times, the Toronto Star and the Buffalo News for his work protecting civil liberties and promoting understanding of the Muslim faith.
What is Islam?One of the major religions of the world, Islam literally translates to "submission," as a follower of Islam (Muslims) devotes their life to that of their God. The religion began with the teachings of Muhammad in the 7th century. The theology of Islam is based on the Qur'an, which was given to Muhammad by God. Some of the major fundamental principles of Islam include the Five Pillars, which hope to unite all Muslims into a community. Two different factions of Muslims exist - the majority are known as Sunni, with a small percentage known as Shi'a - both predominantly reside throughout the Middle East.
Muhammad died in 632 AD and the religion of Islam formally started after his death. The Quran was formally compiled and finalised in 650 AD, prior to which it was 'memorised' and written across many parchments.