The theme of this book is Al-Fatiha. The first chapter of the Qur'an, known as "Al-Fatiha" is essential to the proper understanding of Islam, the religion for around two billion people. This chapter or sura is only seven short verses; yet, it includes the basics of Islam and introduces the Muslims' conception of God. The sura starts with praise of Allah for being so kind and merciful. Muslims thank Allah for being the Lord of all human beings, without any discrimination or favoritism. As the sura indicates, Muslims do not believe that they are؟ chosen people or؟ favored nation. They think of Allah as the Lord of beings. They believe that Allah is؟ God of Justice as well as of love. Hence Islam is presented in this sura as؟ religion of balance that can function forever.