The short answer
As a historical movement Islam began in Arabia in the early seventh century with the revelation to Muhammad. Muslims, however, do not regard their faith as new. The Qur’an presents Islam, submission to the one God, as the religion of Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus, and presents Muhammad as the final messenger in that line.
A little more context
This is why the Qur’an calls Abraham a Muslim and tells Muslims to say they believe in all the prophets without distinction. The community founded in 622 is new; the message it carries is understood as the oldest of all.
Sources & further reading
- Qur’an 3:67 Abraham described as a Muslim, one who submits.
- Qur’an 2:136 Belief in all the prophets without distinction.
- Qur’an 42:13 The same religion enjoined on Noah, Abraham, Moses, and Jesus.
Original introductory summary, not a direct scripture translation. Prepared 21 October 2026. Qualified human religious review is pending. About our editorial approach.