Islam

Islam has a history in Nepal going back several centuries. It is usually traced to Kashmiri traders who settled in the Kathmandu Valley from the late 1400s. Over time, other Muslim communities joined them, including groups who settled across the Terai plains near India. Today, Nepal's Muslim community includes several different groups. These include Terai Muslims, and hill and Newar Muslim communities. Each has its own regional and historical roots. This page will grow with more detail on these communities and their history, once we have checked facts to add.

Muslims believe in one God — this belief is called tawhid. Muslims believe in a line of prophets sent by God, with Muhammad as the final prophet. Muslims also believe in holy books, angels, a Day of Judgment, and God's will. Most Muslims in Nepal follow the Sunni tradition. Smaller Shia and Ahmadi communities also live in Nepal. As in any global religion, beliefs and practices can differ between communities.

Islamic teaching comes from the Quran and the hadith (recorded sayings of the Prophet Muhammad). It is often organized around Five Pillars: saying the declaration of faith, praying five times a day, giving to charity, fasting during Ramadan, and making a pilgrimage to Mecca if able. Teaching is passed down through mosques, religious schools, and family life. This page does not treat one school of thought as speaking for all Muslims in Nepal. We will introduce specific communities and institutions once we have checked facts to add.

• Quran — used in place of "sacredText"
• Masjid — used in place of "sacredPlace"