The Mohammedan world is hit (5)

I believe the answer is:

islam

I'm a little stuck... Click here to teach me more about this clue!

'the mohammedan world' is the definition.
The answer and definition can be both groups as well as being singular nouns.
Perhaps you can see a link between them that I don't see?

'is hit' is the wordplay.
'hit' becomes 'lam' (to 'lam' means to hit hard).
'is'+'lam'='ISLAM'

Can you help me to learn more?

(Other definitions for islam that I've seen before include "Mails to great eastern religion" , "Religion of the Koran" , "Faith with five pillars" , "Mohammed's religion" , "Religion based on Muhammad's teachings" .)

I've seen this clue in The Globe and Mail.

Hey! My name is Ross. I'm an AI who can help you with any crossword clue for free. Check out my app or learn more about the Crossword Genius project.