# Is Muslim a Religion? Islam and Muslim Explained > Islam is the religion; a Muslim is a follower of Islam. Learn the difference, Islam's belief in one God, and the role of the Quran. - Canonical: https://muroujacademy.com/read-about-is-muslim-a-religion/ - Published: 2023-01-15 - Updated: 2026-10-23 - Author: Murouj Academy - Publisher: Murouj Academy (https://muroujacademy.com/) --- [Islam](https://muroujacademy.com/category/islam/) January 15, 2023 Updated October 23, 2026 Murouj Academy 4 min read ![Abstract Islamic geometric pattern in rose, plum and gold: a hexagonal star tessellation with one gold tile at the centre.](https://muroujacademy.com/uploads/blog/read-about-is-muslim-a-religion.webp) **Islam is the religion; a Muslim is a person who follows Islam.** Islam teaches belief in one God, Allah, and connects worship with moral conduct and guidance for daily life. Understanding the difference between the name of the faith and its followers makes these terms easier to use correctly. ## What is the difference between Islam and Muslim? Islam names the faith, while Muslim describes a follower of that faith. The distinction is between the religion and the person who follows it. | Term | What it refers to | | --- | --- | | Islam | The religion, including its beliefs, worship and moral guidance | | Muslim | A person who follows Islam | ## What does Islam teach? Islam gives guidance on belief, worship, moral conduct and dealings with others. Its teachings address a person's relationship with Allah, other people and the wider world. Muslims understand this guidance as what Allah revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. For the historical background, read about [the origin of Islam](https://muroujacademy.com/origin-of-islam-religion/). ## Is Islam monotheistic? Yes. Islam teaches that Allah is one, the Creator, and the only One worthy of worship. Monotheism means belief in one God and is central to Islamic belief and practice. The Quran connects this belief with Allah's mercy: > “Your God is one God, there is no god but He, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.” The wording “Your God is one God, there is no god but He, the Compassionate, the Most Merciful” expresses the same connection. Allah's uniqueness is also expressed in the quotation: > “God is one, God the Eternal, He begets not, nor is He begotten, and there is no one equal to Him.” These passages emphasise Allah's oneness, mercy and perfection. Worship, prayer and supplication are directed to Allah alone. ## What practices and values are part of Islam? Prayer, zakat, fasting and pilgrimage are among the practices of Islam. These sit alongside moral guidance for everyday relationships and dealings with others. Compassion, tolerance, goodness and respect for human dignity are part of that guidance. The reminder “because you are more knowledgeable about the affairs of your world” highlights the place of practical judgement in worldly matters. For an introduction to worship and daily conduct, see [the rules of Islam](https://muroujacademy.com/rules-of-islam/). ## Is the Quran the holy book of Islam? Yes. Muslims believe the Quran is the holy book of Islam, revealed to the Prophet Muhammad, may Allah bless him and grant him peace. It contains prayers, moral guidance, historical narratives and promises of heaven. The Quran has 114 chapters and begins with Fatiha, a short prayer. Its chapters, except one, begin with the phrase “in the name of Allah the Merciful.” Muslims also use this phrase at the start of everyday activities. ## How can you continue learning about Islam and the Quran? Choose a subject that matches what you want to understand or practise. Children can explore beliefs, worship and conduct through [Islamic studies for kids](https://muroujacademy.com/courses/islamic-studies-for-kids/), while [Qaida classes for beginners](https://muroujacademy.com/courses/qaida-classes-for-beginners/) focus on starting Quran reading. Other learning goals include [Quran memorization](https://muroujacademy.com/courses/quran-memorization-course/), recitation through [Tajweed classes](https://muroujacademy.com/courses/tajweed-classes/), and language study through the [Standard Arabic course](https://muroujacademy.com/courses/standard-arabic-course/). [Murouj Academy](https://muroujacademy.com/) offers one-to-one lessons. You can compare the [available courses](https://muroujacademy.com/courses/) or [book a free trial class](https://muroujacademy.com/register-free-trial/) with a teacher. ## Frequently asked questions ### How do you use Islam and Muslim in a sentence? Use Islam when naming the religion, as in “Islam teaches belief in one God.” Use Muslim when referring to a follower, as in “A Muslim follows Islam.” ### Does every Muslim's behaviour represent Islamic teaching? An individual's behaviour does not provide a complete account of Islam. Distinguish the religion's teachings from the actions of individual Muslims when learning about the faith. ### Where should a beginner start learning about Islam? Start with its belief in one God, the role of the Quran, and the connection between worship and moral conduct. Our guide to [learning about Islam for beginners](https://muroujacademy.com/learning-about-islam-for-beginners/) offers a starting point for further reading. Learn this with a teacher ## Islamic studies Murouj Academy teaches this in live one-to-one online lessons with native Arab teachers, including ijazah holders. You choose your teacher (women and girls learn with female teachers) and can start with a free trial class. [Explore our Islamic studies course](https://muroujacademy.com/courses/islamic-studies-for-kids/) ## Keep reading [Can a Woman Learn Quran From a Male Teacher?](https://muroujacademy.com/can-women-learn-quran-from-a-male-teacher/) [Quran for New Muslims: First Steps to Start Reading](https://muroujacademy.com/quran-for-new-muslims/) [What Does Al-Azhar Certified Mean for a Quran Teacher?](https://muroujacademy.com/what-does-al-azhar-certified-mean/) --- Book a free trial: https://muroujacademy.com/register-free-trial/