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The Five Pillars
Faith Prayer Welfare Pilgrimage Fasting
Declaration of Faith A typical declaration of faith could be as
follows:
"I declare that there is no god but God. And Muhammad is His
servant and Messenger"
The implication to this is: God is the One and Only and has no
partner. The Prophethood of Muhammad obliges believers to follow
his exemplary life in every respect.
The Daily Prayers The prayer strengthens the belief in God and
inspires Man to higher morality; it purifies the heart and
controls temptation. It is a moment when the consciousness in the
presence of Lord is at its utmost, in a peaceful contemplation. It
is a time for those who humble themselves to God, the sign of pure
believers.
"Verily, I am God: There is no god but I: So serve thou Me, And
establish prayer for celebrating My praise."
[Qur'an 20:14]
Welfare Contribution The welfare contribution helps to establish
economic balance and fair distribution of wealth among the members
of the community. On the other side, it purifies oneself from
greed and selfishness and enhances social bonds. Welfare dues and
other religious rituals are always brought unto juxtaposition:
And be steadfast in prayer and regular in charity: And whatever
good ye send forth for your souls before you, ye shall find it
with God: For God sees well all that ye do.
[Qur'an 2:110]
Pilgrimage to Makkah It is an annual and global assembly for all
believers to meet under the umbrella of brotherhood. Barriers of
language, race, colour and status fade away for the bond of faith
to replace all worldly ties. It is a time of spiritual
enlightenment, purifying from all sins and renewal of faith in
God. [Views from Pilgrimage to Makkah]
Pilgrimage thereto is a duty Men owe to God,--- Those who can
afford the journey.
[Qur'an 3:97]
Fasting during the month of Ramadhan This annual training
programme develops self-control and helps to overcome selfishness
and greed. The feeling of hunger for long hours during the day
develops a real image in mind of those who are poor and hungry.
Spiritual training is not related to the self only, but also about
feeling towards others.
O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was
prescribed to those before you, That ya may (learn)
Self-restraint.
[Qur'an 2:183]
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