Islam

Wednesday, November 25, 2009, 9:46

'Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you.' the Prophet Muhammad (P.B.U.H) admonished believers.

Often the 'burkha' clad women are viewed with curiosity and doubts, the current affairs of the world have confused the non-Muslim population about the Islamic faith and practices. People often wonder what makes the Muslim population so intolerant about any offense to Islam and facts associated with it, example being the Danish cartoons based on a figure depicted to be the prophet (P.B.U.H) that caused a world wide uproar and conflicts.

Islam is a simple religion of peace and peaceful practices. The greeting 'Salaam alaykum', favored by Muslims, has the literal meaning 'Peace be with you'. The word Islam means 'submission' or total surrender in to the loving care of All-mighty. The religion is humble and simple to follow as it is strongly monotheistic, opposing of multiple divine existence or association of any kin to god. "God, the One and Only; God, the Eternal, Absolute; He begetteth not, nor is He begotten; And there is none like unto Him.' (Qur'an) .Prophet Muhammed (P.B.U.H) is the last messenger of Allah.

Muslims regard the Prophet Muhammed (P.B.U.H) not as a creator of a new religion but the restorer of the original monotheistic faith of Adam, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and may others. The holy verses of Qur'an were revealed to the prophet by the Angel Gabriel from Allah and has remained unchanged till date. The holy verses encompasses everything from practical matters like dietary laws and banking to warfare and welfare.

A Muslim is required to observe certain practices and traditions called the 'Five Pillars' of Islam which are five duties that unite the Muslim community. They are:

The 'Shahadah', which is the basic creed or tenet of Islam: 'I testify that there is none worthy of worship except God and I testify that Muhammad is the Messenger of God.' This testament is a foundation for all other beliefs and practices in Islam

'Salah', or ritual prayer, which must be performed five times a day.

'Zakat', or alms-giving. This is the practice of giving based on accumulated wealth, and is obligatory for all Muslims who can afford it.

'Sawm', or fasting during the month of Ramadan. Muslims must not eat or drink (among other things) from dawn to dusk during this month, and must be mindful of other sins.

The Hajj, which is the pilgrimage during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah in the city of Mecca. Every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it must make the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in his or her lifetime.

The above five pillars form the ultimate basis of the Islamic religion, and are observed world wide. The Islamic traditions and teaching strictly oppose discrimination, divisions or distinction. All the people are viewed as one in front of Allah, a common sight being the communal prayers at the mosques where all the Muslims irrespective of their background, status, color or nationality praise the lord side by side. It is perhaps its simplicity, its strength in its virtues and etiquettes and its preaching of peace and unity that has made Islam the second-largest religion in the world, with 1.8 billion Muslims all over.

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Article Published On: Wednesday, November 25, 2009, 9:46 [IST]

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