GLOBALIZATION OF RELIGION

Since the age of the enlightenment, religious influence in public life has been expected
to wane or retreat to the private practice of individuals. However, Religions were able to
cope up with the changes in lifestyle brought by modernization and industrialization of
societies around the world. Religion is considered as one of the oldest institutions in
human history. Religious are dynamic institutions responding to the different context
where they are operating.
According to Haynes, 2013. Religious influences will decrease in public life will occur as
societies experience urbanization and technological advancement.

RELIGION OF MUSLIMS
The religion of Muslims is Islam. Islam is a monotheistic religion, meaning that Muslims
believe in one God, who they call Allah. The word "Islam" itself means "submission" in
Arabic, and Muslims believe in submitting to the will of Allah.
Islam was founded in the 7th century CE in Mecca, Arabia, by the Prophet Muhammad.
Muslims believe that Muhammad received revelations from Allah, which were compiled
into the Quran, the holy book of Islam.
Muslims believe in one all-powerful and all-knowing God, Allah. There are no partners
or equals to Allah. Quran is their bible and considered the literal word of God revealed
to Prophet Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel. It serves as the foundation of Islamic
faith and practice.

WHAT IS RELIGION?
Religion is a set of beliefs and practices often involving a supernatural being or higher
power, that provides meaning, guidance, and community. Some religions believe in
deity while some do not. Some requires a community and rigid procedure of ritual while
others are individualistic in practices.
Religion offers a framework for understanding the world, our place in it, and the purpose
of life. It tackles big questions about existence, morality, and what happens after death.
Through its stories, doctrines, and rituals, religion provides a sense of order and
answers to life's mysteries.
Religion can be also the Source of Comfort and Hope. Religion can offer solace and
support during difficult times. Belief in a higher power or a community of faith can
provide comfort in the face of loss, illness, or uncertainty. Rituals and practices can
create a sense of peace and hope.

THE MANIFESTATION AND INFLUENCE OF RELIGION IN THE WORLD AND

SOCIETIES
Religion's influence can be positive or negative. It can promote peace, charity, and
social justice, but it can also be used to justify violence, discrimination, or oppression.
The impact of religion varies greatly depending on the specific faith, its interpretation,
and the historical and cultural context.
Religion's influence on the world is vast and multifaceted, shaping societies, cultures,
and individual lives in numerous ways like:
Moral Codes: Religions often provide a moral compass, influencing societal
values and legal systems. Laws against crimes like theft or murder might have roots in
religious teachings.
Art and Architecture: Religious beliefs inspire a wide range of artistic
expressions, from music and literature to grand architecture like mosques, churches,
and temples. Religious stories and figures are depicted in paintings, sculptures, and
other art forms.
Symbols and Dress Codes: Religious symbols like crosses, stars of David, or
hijabs become cultural markers and hold significance beyond just faith.
Meaning and Purpose: Religions provide answers to existential questions,
offering meaning and purpose in life.
Ethics and Morality: Religious teachings guide individuals on how to live a good
and ethical life.

And The Manifestation Of Religion Is

Places of Worship: The construction of mosques, churches, synagogues, temples, and
other religious structures are physical manifestations of faith.
Religious Dress Codes: Certain religions have specific dress codes that followers
adhere to.
WHAT IS ISLAM
Islam is the world's second-largest religion, with over 1.8 billion followers worldwide.
There are various denominations within Islam, with Sunni and Shia being the two main
branches. Islam has a rich history and culture that has profoundly influenced art,
architecture and philosophy.
Islam is a monotheistic religion centered around the belief in one God, Allah, and the
teachings of the Prophet Muhammad.
Holy Book: The Quran is considered the literal word of God revealed to Prophet
Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel. It serves as the foundation of Islamic faith and
practice.
Practices: Muslims strive to follow the Five Pillars of Islam, which are core practices:
Shahadah: Declaring faith in one God (Allah) and Prophet Muhammad as his
messenger.
Salat: Performing prayers five times a day facing the Kaaba in Mecca.
Zakat: Giving charity to the poor and needy.
Sawm: Observing fasting during the holy month of Ramadan.
Hajj: Performing a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in a lifetime, if able.
Importance of Community: Mosques serve as places of worship, but also as centers
for community, learning, and social events.
Sharia and Sunnah: Sharia is Islamic law derived from the Quran and the teachings of
Prophet Muhammad, guiding Muslims in all aspects of life. The Sunnah refers to the
sayings and practices of Prophet Muhammad, which supplement the Quran.

ISLAM IN THE PHILIPPINES

Islam has a long and rich history in the Philippines, making it the second-largest religion
in the country. Islam is considered the first recorded monotheistic religion in the
Philippines, arriving around the 14th century through traders and missionaries from
Indonesia and Malaysia. It first took root in the southern islands like Mindanao, Sulu,
and Palawan, establishing sultanates with strong Islamic influence. Estimates vary, but
according to the 2020 census, around 6.4% (over 6.9 million) Filipinos identify as
Muslim. The Bangsamoro region, encompassing parts of Mindanao, Palawan, and the
Sulu Archipelago, has the highest concentration of Muslims in the Philippines.
The vast majority of Filipino Muslims follow Sunni Islam with the Shafi'i and Ash'ari
schools of jurisprudence and theology. Mosques are central to religious life and
community gatherings. Islamic holidays like Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr are widely
celebrated.
There have been historical tensions and conflicts in the southern regions, partly due to
issues of self-determination and representation for the Moro people (a term used for
some Muslim Filipino groups). The Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in Muslim
Mindanao (BARMM) was established to address these concerns and promote greater
autonomy for the region.
Preservation of islam in the Philippines
the preservation of Islam in the Philippines requires a multifaceted approach. By
addressing challenges, promoting education and cultural preservation, and fostering
interfaith dialogue, the Muslim community can ensure their faith continues to thrive.
The preservation of Islam in the Philippines is a complex issue with various efforts
underway.
Minority Religion: The Philippines is a predominantly Catholic country. Muslims, while
a significant minority, might face challenges in securing resources and representation.
Government Initiatives: The creation of the Bangsamoro Autonomous Region in
Muslim Mindanao (BARMM) aims to address concerns of Muslim Filipinos and promote
a more inclusive government structure.
Cultural Practices: Preserving Islamic customs, art, and traditional ways of life
strengthens the Muslim identity within Filipino society.
Strong Leadership: Effective leadership within the Muslim community can play a vital
role in advocating for their rights and needs.

THE INFLUENCE OF ISLAM IN THE GLOBALIZATION OF RELIGION

Islam's influence on the globalization of religion is complex and multifaceted. It's a story
of historical influence, modern migration patterns, technological connection, and the
ongoing process of Muslims navigating their faith in a globalized world.
Primordialism - were Islamic beliefs and practices are deeply rooted in historical and
cultural traditions that have evolved over time, forming an essential and enduring aspect
of Muslim identity. This perspective emphasizes the continuity and authenticity of
Islamic teachings and rituals, viewing them as inherent elements of Muslim heritage
passed down through generations. Primordialism underscores the significance of
historical continuity and collective memory in shaping religious identities, highlighting
the enduring relevance of traditional Islamic values and customs in contemporary
Muslim communities.
instrumentalism - views religious beliefs and practices as tools or instruments that can
be strategically utilized to achieve specific social, political, or personal objectives within
dynamic and changing contexts. This perspective emphasizes the adaptive nature of
religious identity, suggesting that individuals or groups may leverage Islamic symbols,
rituals, or doctrines for instrumental purposes, such as mobilizing support, asserting
identity, or negotiating power dynamics.
Constructivism - social interactions and collective processes in shaping Islamic beliefs
and practices. This perspective views religious identity as a social construct that
emerges through shared meaning and interactions within specific cultural and historical
contexts. It emphasizes the active role of individuals and communities in constructing
and interpreting religious symbols and rituals highlighting the dynamic and evolving
nature of religious identity. Within this framework, Islamic beliefs and practices are
understood as products of social processes and cultural exchanges rather than fixed or
predetermined elements. It is a agency of individuals and groups in shaping their
religious identities and narratives, emphasizing the fluidity and diversity of religious
expressions within Muslim communities.

"Islamization" has two main meanings:

1. Spread of Islam: This is the historical sense, referring to the growth of Islam
throughout history. It can include:
Early conquests: The rapid expansion of Islam following the death of Prophet
Muhammad in the 7th century.
Trade and migration: The spread of Islam through trade routes and the
movement of Muslim populations.
Modern conversions: People choosing to convert to Islam in the present day.
2. Increasing Islamic Influence: This is a more modern term, often used in a political
context. It refers to efforts to:
Shape government: Enacting laws and policies based on Islamic principles.
Strengthen Islamic identity: Promoting Islamic values and practices in society.
It's important to note that "Islamization" can have a neutral or negative connotation
depending on the context.
Peaceful vs. Forceful: Islam historically spread through both peaceful conversions and
military conquests.
Cultural Integration: Islamic societies often blended Islamic practices with existing
cultures.

BELIEFS
Muslims believe that Allah is the all-powerful and all-knowing creator and sustainer of
the universe. They also believe in a series of prophets throughout history, including
Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and finally Muhammad, who is seen as the last and most
perfect prophet.
The belief in one God, Allah, shapes Muslim practices like prayer and guides their daily
life. The importance of prophets like Muhammad inspires ethical behavior and
community values. The Five Pillars of Islam, including charity and fasting, promote
social responsibility and self-discipline within Muslim cultures.
It's important to remember that Muslim cultures are diverse. The way Islamic beliefs
manifest can vary depending on region, ethnicity, and local traditions. However, the core
tenets of Islam provide a foundation that shapes cultural practices, values, and
community life for Muslims around the world.

MARRIAGE
Practices and interpretations of Islamic marriage can vary depending on cultural context
and legal systems of different countries. Modern Muslim couples may adapt traditional
practices to fit their needs and circumstances. There are ongoing discussions about
gender roles and expectations within Islamic marriage.
Marriage as a Sacred Contract: In Islam, marriage is seen as a sacred contract
between a man and a woman, witnessed by the community and approved by God
(Allah).
Goals of Marriage: Marriage is viewed as a way to:
Fulfill one's religious obligations. (Hadith of Prophet Muhammad says marriage is
half of faith).
Create a loving and compassionate family environment.
Satisfy natural desires in a halal (permissible) way.
Build a strong social unit.
Roles and Responsibilities: While Islam emphasizes partnership and mutual respect,
there are also defined roles and responsibilities:

Husband: The husband is generally seen as the protector and provider,

financially responsible for the family's well-being.
Wife: The wife is the heart of the home, responsible for childcare and maintaining
the household.
Importance of Consent and Choice: Marriage should be based on mutual consent
and compatibility. In some cultures, parental approval may be important, but forced
marriages are forbidden in Islam.
Mahr (Dowry): The Mahr is a mandatory gift from the groom to the bride as a
sign of goodwill and to provide her with financial security.
Love and Compassion: Despite sometimes defined roles, Islamic marriage
emphasizes love, kindness, and compassion between spouses. The Quran speaks of
spouses being "companions" and "garments" for one another.
Communication and Respect: Open communication, mutual respect, and
fulfilling each other's rights are essential for a successful Islamic marriage.
Divorce: While discouraged, divorce is permitted in Islam under certain
circumstances.

BURIAL PRACTICE
Islamic burial practices are a way for Muslims to honor their deceased loved ones and
fulfill their religious obligations. They reflect core Islamic beliefs about death, the
afterlife, and the importance of respecting the human body. Traditionally, only men
attend the burial itself, but practices may vary depending on culture. Mourning customs
involve prayers, expressions of condolences, and avoiding extravagance.
Islamic burial practices are guided by Islamic beliefs about death, the afterlife, and the
importance of treating the body with respect. Here's how Islamic faith shapes Muslim
burials:
Respect for the Body: Muslims believe the body is a temporary vessel for the soul.
There's an emphasis on treating the body with care and dignity before and during burial.
Speedy Burial: The body should be buried as soon as possible, ideally within 24 hours
after death, unless there are extenuating circumstances.
Preparing the Body (Ghusl & Kafan): The body undergoes a ceremonial washing
(Ghusl) by same-sex family members and is then wrapped in a simple white shroud
(Kafan).
Funeral Prayer (Salat al-Janazah): A funeral prayer (Salat al-Janazah) is held at a
mosque or designated area. This prayer seeks forgiveness for the deceased and serves
as a gathering for mourners.
Simplicity: Islamic tradition discourages elaborate coffins, decorations, or grave
markers. The focus is on a respectful and simple burial.
Cremation is Prohibited: Since Muslims believe in the physical resurrection of the
body on Judgement Day, cremation is forbidden.

JINNS
The Quran mentions the creation of Jinn from fire, separate from humans who were
created from clay (Quran 15:26-27). Jinn, like humans, have free will and are
accountable for their choices. They can be believers (Muslims) or disbelievers. Jinn are
believed to exist in an unseen world parallel to the human world. They can be invisible
to humans but can supposedly interact with the physical world. There's no single
description of Jinn in the Quran. They are described as having free will and the ability to
take on different shapes (Quran 72:1-14). Jinn are not to be worshipped or prayed to.
The Quran condemns pre-Islamic practices of worshipping Jinn (Quran 72:1-14).
Some Jinn are believed to be peaceful and have no interest in humans. Others may be
malevolent and may try to mislead or tempt humans. Some Muslims believe Jinn can
possess humans, causing mental illness or strange behavior. Ruqyah (reciting Quran
verses) is a traditional method believed to help expel Jinn possession.

FOODS
Islamic dietary laws categorize food into two main categories:
Halal: This means "permissible" in Arabic. Halal foods are those considered lawful for
consumption according to Islamic guidelines.
Haram: This means "forbidden" in Arabic. Haram foods are those prohibited for Muslims
to consume.
What's Considered Halal:
Most fruits, vegetables, grains, and legumes are inherently halal.
Meat from animals slaughtered according to specific Islamic guidelines is halal. This
involves slaughtering in the name of God (Allah) with a swift cut minimizing suffering.
Fish and most seafood are considered halal.

What's Considered Haram:

Pork and pork products are strictly forbidden.

Meat from animals not slaughtered according to Islamic rites is considered haram.
Animals that died of natural causes, were strangled, beaten, or killed by falling are
not halal.
Blood and blood byproducts are forbidden.
Intoxicants and alcohol are strictly prohibited.
Any food or drink containing haram ingredients is also considered haram.