Introducing Islam and Its Merits

All praise is due to Allah and may peace and blessings be upon His final Messenger,
Muḥammad, his family, and his Companions.
This short but profound treatise— “An Introduction to Islam and Its Merits”— was
authored by one of the most respected and influential scholars of our time: Shaykh’ Abd al-
‘Azīz ibn’ Abd Allāh ibn Bāz (1330–1420 AH / 1912–1999 CE), may Allah have mercy on
him. He served as the Grand Mufti of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and was the President of
both the Permanent Committee for Islamic Research and Fatāwā and the Council of Senior
Scholars. Known for his deep knowledge, humility, and dedication to teaching, Shaykh Ibn
Bāz left behind a legacy of sound scholarship, balanced judgment, and sincere da’wah efforts.
The subject matter of this treatise could not be more important—it presents the foundational
pillars of Islam in clear and accessible terms, grounded in the Qur’an and authentic Sunnah. It
explains what Islam truly is: submission to Allah through Tawḥīd, following His commands,
and distancing oneself from Shirk. It outlines the five pillars of Islam and emphasizes their
spiritual, social, and moral significance, including the role of prayer in the life of the believer,
the wisdom of Zakāh, the transforming power of fasting, and the unity exemplified in Ḥajj.
In addition to the core pillars, the author addresses other critical aspects of the religion,
such as enjoining good and forbidding evil and the role of Jihād in defending the faith and
promot