Literalists in Islam believe that God sent Muhammad to guide the world and Muhammad gave us Quran which is the final word of God. Muslim literalists believe that Quran has been written in a simple language and is a gateway to heaven for everyone who follows the teachings of Quran and Muhammad. Muslims also believe that everyone will eventually go to heaven after getting the punishment for his sins for as long as he proclaims his faith in one God and Muhammad as the final messenger of God. Literalists believe that an answer to every question can be find in Quran, Muhammad’s teachings, and/or stories of Muhammad’s life. The literalists believe worldly life is not without a purpose because God wants to test his subjects for the strength of their faith this is why he passes them through both good and bad times.

Gnostics in Islam such as the Sufis believe that one cannot understand the purpose of life and gain wisdom without fully dedicating his life to the cause. Sufis are known to live together in groups and master-student relationships are normal. Some students often serve their masters for decades before carving out their own path. Gnostics in Islam such as Sufis believe that the meaning behind the words in Quran cannot be readily understood because they have both explicit and implied meanings. Sufis believe that worldly life is illusionary which may explain their lack of material possessions. Sufis believe God is the only reality and being on the earth, man has forgotten about his true home (Moorish Science Academy).