This website aims to provide information on Islam and Muslims to non-specialist audiences in a way that is clear, simple and accessible.

The purpose is not to preach the message of Islam, but to show the essence of Islam and the practice of Muslim culture as they are, because the debates around Islam have now become an important barrier to social cohesion. We thus hope to enhance understanding in a way that is objective and self-critical.

To make the contents of this site simple, but not simplistic, and jargon free, we have kept Arabic words to a minimum and where necessary for usage have explained them in a Glossary. Further to a series of short 'bite-size' entries there are a series of detailed articles that cover issues 'in-depth'. We have also removed standard invocations of blessings upon the Prophets, as it is expected that Muslims who read this site will be familiar with this tradition anyway. And we have deliberately left out complex references and citations, for example of hadith, which can easily be located nowadays on the net.

Do give us constructive feedback on how to improve this site. This will help us to make it user-led and keep it relevant to your needs. You can also ask questions about Islam. You can contact us here.

Islamic Society of Britain:

The Islamic Society of Britain (ISB) was established in 1990 by prominent British Muslims to support new generations of Muslims growing up in the UK. It was one of the first organisations that sought to evolve a uniquely British flavour of Islam. In order for this to happen the ISB felt that Muslims would have to think seriously about understanding their faith in a British context.

It views Islam is a religion of peace and a continuation of age-old teachings from God to humanity. It is not a new religion, but as a way of life has a strong focus - in spiritual terms - on the worship of one God, and in social terms - on justice between people. Muslims are ordinary human beings, like any other citizens, they want to be treated as equals and wish to live in peace with their neighbours, with whom they share key values and aspirations. Islam is in harmony with modern life and sits well with our notions of equality, human rights and democracy.

The Islamic Society of Britain aims:

• To promote greater understanding and awareness of Islam.
• To organise, educate and enhance the development of British Muslim communities.
• To encourage positive contribution to British society and the promotion of social justice.

Along with our youth wing, the Young Muslims UK (YM), we bring together the youth, men and women from all social and ethnic backgrounds, and different schools of thought, for the benefit of society.