Islam denotes a state of knowledge: Knowledge of God
Islam denotes a state of knowledge. For knowledge, according to Islam, is being aware of the truth that there is one God ( in opposition to Christian doctrine of the trinity which is denied in Islam as kufr: rejection of truth or blasphemy).
Any other state is described by Islam as ignorance. Man thus is in a state of ignorance until he becomes aware of the existence of one God and chooses to believe in God where he enters a state of knowledge.
Man who is in an extra state of knowledge (‘ilm) remains in a state of ignorance (jahl) until he becomes a Muslim. A Muslim is considered in a state of knowledge because he or she is aware of the purpose of his own existence:
‘It is those who have knowledge that truly fear God amongst His servants.' 35: 28
‘Say: Are those equal those who know and those who do not know? It is those who understand that keep constant remembrance.' 39: 9
The purpose of man's existence is to acknowledge one God and apply His law in accordance with any divine scripture.
Man depends totally on God
The Muslim-God relationship is a relationship of dependence: Man depends totally on God.
From this acknowledgement and total dependence stems the authority of God. The Qur'an informs us:‘God, there is no god be He, the Lord of the Throne supreme.' 27: 26
‘Lord of the heavens and earth and all that is between them, so worship Him and be constant and patient in His worship: do you know of any who is worthy of the same name as He?' 19: 65
‘There is no god but He, He gives life and gives death, your Lord and the Lord of your earliest ancestors.' 44: 8
God as the creator of the universe and all signs of life is alone worthy of worship. Man by acknowledging God and submitting himself unto Him worships God as proof of acknowledgement.
Man seeks God's favor and invokes the divine for mercy and help. Man loves God expressing his obedience to His law and submitting himself to His will.
By this man attains the favor of God in this world and in the Hereafter.
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