Islam is considered to have started in 610 AD, with the first revelation to the Prophet Muhammad. This event, marking the beginning of his prophethood, is a pivotal moment in Islamic history.
Muhammad, at the age of 40, received his first revelation from God (Allah) through the Angel Gabriel. This occurred while he was in seclusion in a cave on Mount Hira, near Mecca. These revelations continued over the next 23 years, forming the basis of the Quran, the holy book of Islam.
Following the initial revelations, Muhammad began to preach his message in Mecca, gradually gaining followers. This marked the start of the spread of Islam, facing initial resistance before eventually gaining widespread acceptance throughout the Arabian Peninsula and beyond.
In summary, while the spread and establishment of Islam as a dominant force took time, the foundational event marking its inception is the year 610 AD, with the first revelation to Prophet Muhammad.