The Symbols of Islam

Islam is a religious tradition that developed in the Middle East in the 7th century C.E. It was founded on the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad as an expression of current to the will of Allah.

The absence of representations of human or divine figures in mosques, monuments, and other public buildings is in striking contrast to the decorative arts of other religious traditions, such as Christianity and Hinduism. The absence of human or other figures reflects the Islamic belief that an attempt to create a human figure is an attempt to rival God, who is the creator and sustainer of all life.

Islam also discourages the use of “holy symbols” in the same manner Christians use cross to symbolize their faith. While many associate the star and crescent moon with Islam, the symbol actually originated from the Ottoman Turks who used this symbol on their flags. Watch the video below to learn more about other colors and symbols commonly associated with Islam.