Interfaith Relations
Introduction


“Introduction,” Muslims and Latter-day Saints: Beliefs, Values, and Lifestyles (2021)

“Introduction,” Muslims and Latter-day Saints

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Islamic (Moorish) Art, from Alhambra, Granada

Detail of Islamic Art, Alhambra, Granada, Spain

Introduction

The intent of this pamphlet is to introduce Muslims (followers of Islam) and Latter-day Saints (members of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints) to each other.

At a time when societies and religious believers want and need mutual understanding, this pamphlet:

  • Signifies a conscientious effort to provide dignity and tolerance for Muslim and Latter-day Saint believers.

  • Represents hours of conversation and study by religious scholars and others, including Muslims from diverse backgrounds. It recognizes that no individual scholar or religious imam, or group of scholars or imams, can represent all of Islam.

  • Does not interpret the Qur’an. It does seek to understand some Islamic tenets and practices as explained by Muslim scholars and religious leaders and to portray these tenets in a positive and engaging manner.

  • Illustrates common themes found in Islamic and Latter-day Saint beliefs and practices but does not make judgments regarding these beliefs or practices.

  • Seeks to provide mutual understanding while requesting forbearance and patience if any of its words or efforts fall short of that intent.

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Arabic calligraphy of shahada text (Muslim’s declaration of belief in the oneness of God)

The shahada text declaring that there is no deity but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger

Origin of Islam

The religion of Islam (which means “peace and submission to God”) is based upon revelation from God to the Prophet Muhammad (prayers and peace be upon him, SAW). Muhammad lived in what is now Saudi Arabia from AD 570 to 632. All Muslims believe in the Oneness of God, and it is their duty as His humble servants to obey His will.

Islam has two major schools of thought: Sunni and Shi’a.

  • For Sunni Muslims, the five pillars of faith are profession of faith, prayer, almsgiving, fasting, and the pilgrimage to Mecca.

  • Shi’a Muslims agree that these five practices help Muslims remember God and create a shared sense of community. They emphasize the main beliefs of Islam—including the Oneness of God, angels, holy books, prophethood, a day of resurrection, and divine justice—which also serve as a basis for unity across these schools of thought.

This pamphlet will highlight some of the shared beliefs of Muslims.

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Sacred Grove

The “Sacred Grove” in New York state where Joseph Smith received revelation from God

Origin of The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints

Latter-day Saints, sometimes incorrectly referred to as Mormons, affirm themselves to be Christian. The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints does not descend through the historical line of traditional Christianity. Latter-day Saints believe that the Church of Jesus Christ, as established by Him when He walked the earth, was lost following His death and the death of His Apostles.

Jesus Christ restored His Church through revelation to the Prophet Joseph Smith, who lived in the United States from AD 1805 to 1844. The Church was formally organized in New York state in 1830. It now has its headquarters in Salt Lake City, Utah. Church members live in almost every nation.

This pamphlet will outline some of the Christian beliefs of Latter-day Saints.

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youth talking

Interfaith Cooperation

During the past 50 years, Muslims and Latter-day Saints have been engaged in interfaith initiatives throughout the world to provide relief for the poor, strengthen families, and build supportive communities.

This pamphlet briefly presents some of the beliefs, values, and lifestyles that facilitate these cooperative efforts.