Islamic Blog for New Muslims: Support for New Muslim Converts

The last pillar of the Islamic faith in which every Muslim must believe is the concept of Al-Qadr, which closely translates to pre-ordainment (or predestination/ Divine Decree, destiny, fate). When one believes in the tenet of Al-Qadr, which we'll translate as 'Divine Decree,' he or she affirms that everything good or bad that happens in his or her life comes from God the Almighty; something He Willed to happen. Al-Qadr in Arabic linguistically means to measure, to determine, to assess, to decide, to judge. In the context of Religion, the term translates to ‘Divine determined measurements and sustenance for everyone and everything, in accordance with His Wisdom and Power.’ God states in his Book:

Indeed, all things We created with predestination (Quran 54:49)

God the Almighty, being All-Knowing and All-Wise, knows of what we have done in the past, what we are doing now, and what we will do—even before the time of our birth. After all, can God truly be God if He didn't know everything, including the future? Whereas mankind has the free will to make their own choices in life, everything that occurs in life occurs only with the Will and Power of God.

Al-Qadar comprises four components. The first component is the belief that God is All-Knowledgeable of and instigates all things and events—whether major or minor—at all times and places and regardless of their occurrence. The Almighty's foreknowledge is infallible and complete.

"And with Him are the keys of the unseen; none knows them except Him. And He knows what is on the land and in the sea. Not a leaf falls but that He knows it. And no grain is there within the darknesses of the Earth and no moist or dry [thing] but that it is [written] in a clear record" (Quran 6:59)

The second component of Divine Decree is the belief that Allah has recorded everything from the beginning of time to the Day of Judgment, in a Tablet He has kept known as the 'Lawh Al-Mahfooth' (The Preserved Tablet). Each's lifespan, amount of substance, deeds, happiness, sorrow, and more is written and recorded in this Tablet. In fact, according to a narration of Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him, Allah, the Glorious, had recorded the measurements of all matters pertaining to His creation fifty thousand years before He created the heavens and earth.

"Do you not know that Allah knows what is in the Heaven and Earth? Indeed, that is in a Record. Indeed that, for Allah, is easy" (Quran 22:70)

The third component of Divine Decree is the belief that nothing can occur without the Will and Power of Allah, whether the event stems from the action of the Almighty or actions of humanity. Nothing Occurs Haphazardly; the Almighty has planned everything.

"And your Lord creates what He Wills and Chooses..." (Quran 28:68)

A Muslim acknowledges that whatever has touched or afflicted him, was meant to afflict him, and could not have been avoided or prevented. And whatever has not reached or afflicted him, was not meant to touch or afflict him, and he can avoid nothing unless God has willed it. Our Prophet peace be upon him narrated, 'Know if all of humanity gathered to harm you, they could not harm you unless Allah had decreed. The Pen has been lifted, and the pages have dried.'

The fourth and last component of Divine Decree is the belief that Allah is the Creator and Originator of all things.

"...and has created each thing and determined it with [precise] determination " (Quran 25:2)

Whereas Allah, the Merciful, has bestowed on every human being the free will to make his or her own decisions, that does not provide an excuse for one to sin or abandon the tasks and responsibilities they are obligated to do. The fact that God has predestined everything does not change the fact that human beings have the free will to choose their course of actions. Just because each's choices are known to God beforehand, doesn't mean that they will not be held accountable on the Day of Judgment for the decisions they make and actions they take. God forces nothing upon anyone. It's also important to note that God will hold no one accountable for things out of their control, or for things they cannot do.

Allah is All-Just, All-Wise, and He tests humanity according to their strength and what their soul can bear. A Muslim acknowledges the fact that whatever difficulty they are facing will be made easy for them and that they will have a way to resolve it.

"God does not burden any human being with more than he is well able to bear" (Quran 2:286)

A Muslim acknowledges that whatever befalls him or her, is in accordance with God's Will and Plan, whether or not they understand and accept this fact. A Muslim place his trust and reliance in God, as God brims with Wisdom in all matters. A Muslim affirms that God is All-Loving and loves His servants over one's parents do; and a Muslim affirms that whatever God does must have a good motive, so a believer always assumes good and does not lose faith.

The topic of Divine Decree will never fully be understood and comprehended by humans, as this concept deals with the essence of God's Power and Will—which is beyond what our finite minds can comprehend.

A Muslim benefits from the act of learning, believing, and understanding in Divine Decree in several ways. Amongst the benefits is the peace of mind and contentment in the heart that a Muslim attains as he or she acknowledges that nothing happens without a purpose. A Muslim is confident that whatever afflicted him could not have escaped him, and whatever missed him could not have reached him, as God is in full control of all happenings and events, and he predestines everything. This recognition would help a believer endure difficulties and hardships. A believer would not grieve about what could have happened if things had taken a different course, and a believer would not worry about the future because he knows that the events of tomorrow are written and predetermined already.

The act of learning and believing in Divine Decree increases one's belief in, the trust of, and reliance on God, and increases one's likelihood of performing good deeds. Faith in Divine Decree decreases one's pride and arrogance, as he acknowledges that his intelligence and actions did not emanate from him and that God is the source of all that comes his way. Belief in Divine Decree makes a person refrain from fearing anyone else; inspiring his bravery as he acknowledges that no one can afflict harm on him without the Permission and Will of God. Without a strong belief in God, the human learns, life would not be worth living.

Life is a test, and the test ends upon death. Every little atom of good and evil one performs in his or her lifetime is recorded in their book of deeds which will be presented to them on the Day of Judgement and every soul will be held accountable for their actions. When one dies, he or she will remain in the grave waiting to be resurrected. While in the grave, the deceased souls that deserve to go to Hell will experience some suffering in the grave whereas the deceased souls that are bound for Paradise will experience peace while they wait for the Day of resurrection.

When the hour comes, God will raise every dead person including the Jinn (supernatural creatures) to judge them according to their deeds. God is The Judge, The Arbitrator who will Judge, recompense, reward and punish his creation. Whereas God is Most-Forgiving, he is also Just. If one's good deeds outweigh his bad deeds, he will enter Paradise and be amongst the successful. As for the one that his bad deeds outweigh his good deeds, he will enter the Hellfire. One of the most fundamental aspects of Islam is the purpose of life is to save oneself from the punishment of the Hell Fire and to enter Paradise eternally.

"Every soul will taste death, and you will only be given your [full] compensation on the Day of Resurrection. So he who is drawn away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise has attained [his desire]. And what is the life of this world except for the enjoyment of delusion" (Quran 3:185)

Believing and accepting the reality of the Last Day, Judgement Day, Paradise and the Hellfire is a component of the six pillars of Iman (Faith) in which every Muslim must believe and accept to become a Muslim. There are many references to the Hell Fire throughout the Holy Quran.

The ones in the Hell Fire will suffer tremendously both physically and spiritually. The pain, the horrors, the anguish, the hardship, the humiliation, the restlessness, and all forms of punishments of the Hellfire cannot be imagined nor perceived, nor grasped by the human finite mind. Not everyone in the hell Fire will suffer the same. The gravity of one's sin will distinguish the severity of one's suffering.

Allah the exalted prepares the Hell Fire for those who do not believe in Him, believe in Gods other than Allah, rebel against God's Religion and Laws, and reject God's Message and Messengers. The Hellfire is also prepared for sinners, criminals, murders, tyrants, hypocrites, the proud and arrogant, the stubborn, and the unjust, and all forms of evil people.

"Do they not know that whoever opposes Allah and His Messenger - that for him is the Fire of Hell, wherein he will abide eternally? That is the great disgrace" (Quran 9:63)

Islam states one's salvation is based one's faith in Allah, His Messenger, good deeds, and God's Mercy. As part of the Justice of God the Almighty, He punishes no one or any group of people until He has sent them a Messenger relaying his Message and warning the people. It is the nature of God that he treats no one unjustly or unfairly.

"…And never would We punish until We sent a messenger" (Quran 17:15)

Of the biggest suffering the unbelievers and the evildoers will face is when they come into the realization on the Day of Judgment that they did not follow God's Message nor His Guidance and have failed, thus earning God's Wrath. Many of the dwellers of the Hellfire will instantly regret the choices they made in their lives and will beg for another chance. The Quran states:

And those who followed would say: ‘If only We had one more chance, we would clear ourselves of them, as they have cleared themselves of us’ Thus, will Allah show them (The fruits of) their deeds as (nothing but) regrets. Nor will there be a way for them out of the Fire” (Quran 2:167)

The Quran shares a dialogue that will take place between the dwellers of the Hellfire and the Angel Gate Keeper of the Hell.

“It almost explodes in rage. Whenever a group is thrown into it, its keepers will ask them, ‘Did there not come to you a warner?' They will reply: 'Yes indeed; a Warner did come to us, but we rejected him and said, 'Allah never sent down any (Message): You are but lost in a great delusion!' 'And they will add: 'Had we but listened [to those warnings], or [at least] used our own reason, we would not [now] be among those who are destined for the blazing flame!' They will then confess their sins: but far will be (Forgiveness) from the Companions of the Blazing Fire!” (Quran 67:8-10)

However, no matter how much the sinners beg for forgiveness, it would be too late. The intensity of the Fire will be so terrifying that people will disown their closest and most beloved people in their lives on the Day of Judgement and flee from them on this great Day.

"But when there comes the Deafening Blast. On the Day a man will flee from his brother. And his mother and his father. And his wife and his children. For every man, that Day, will be a matter adequate for him" (Quran 33-37)

Man will give up everything he holds dearest to him to save himself from the Hellfire.

They will be shown each other. The criminal will wish that he could be ransomed from the punishment of that Day by his children. And his wife and his brother. And his nearest kindred who shelter him. And whoever is on Earth entirely [so] then it could save him" (Quran 70:14)

A quick dip in the Hellfire will have a person forgetting about all the pleasures he or she had in their lifetime. Our Prophet narrated: 'One of the people of Hell who found the most pleasure in the life of this world will be brought forth on the Day of Resurrection and will be dipped into the Fire of Hell. Then he will be asked, 'O son of Adam, have you ever seen anything good?' Have you ever enjoyed any pleasure?' He will say, 'No, by God, O Lord.’

Whereas there are a minority of scholars that state the Hell Fire is not eternal, most Islamic scholars' state that the polytheist and unbelievers will reside in the Hell Fire forever and that the Hell Fire is eternal for most people that enter it.

"Indeed, Allah has cursed the disbelievers and prepared for them a Blaze. Abiding therein forever, they will not find a protector or a helper" (Quran 33:64-65)

God, the Almighty created the Hell Fire and Paradise before mankind. Hell is so deep that if one were to drop a stone into it, it would take seventy years for that stone to hit its bottom. The Hellfire is black and dark as night.

The Hell Fire has various levels of severity and punishment according to the extent of disbelief and sins of those being punished in it. The lower the level of the Fire, the greater the intensity and punishment one suffers. Our Prophet narrated the lightest punishment of the Hellfire will be a man under the arch of whose feet will be placed a smoldering ember, and his brains will boil because of it. As for the most severe punishment in the Hellfire, it will go to the hypocrites, as God states in His Book:

"Indeed, the hypocrites will be in the lowest depths of the Fire - and never will you find for them a helper"       (Quran 4:145)

The Hell Fire has Seven Gates in which its inhabitants will enter. Each gate deals with a specific group or category of sinners and each gate contain different torture and punishments. The distance between each gate is equal to the length of seventy years. Before the inhabitants of Hell enter, they will stand before the gate feeling the heat in terror. They will be shoved and piled thru the first gate until it fills, then the rest will be stacked and shoved into the second gate until it fills, and so on.

The Hell Fire has nineteen Angels who are led by the Chief Keeper of the Hellfire named Angel Malik who has never smiled since he was created. Angel Malik and the Angels of the Hellfire are very severe, harsh, and stern who would never disobey God's commandments.

After the inhabitants of the Hellfire enter, its gates will be shut and there will be no hope of escape for the dwellers of the Hellfire. The dwellers of the Hellfire will beg and plea to Angel Malik to let them out and he will respond 'Be quiet, surely, you shall abide forever!' The Angels of the Hellfire will have wipes made of iron which will whip the inhabitants in it. The dwellers of Hellfire will bear animosity and hate amongst other inhabitants of the Hellfire.

"Indeed, the criminals will be in the punishment of Hell, abiding eternally.  (The torment) will not be lightened for them, and they will be plunged into destruction with deep regrets, sorrows and in despair therein. And We did not wrong them, but it was they who were the wrongdoers. And they will call, ‘O Malik, let your Lord put an end to us!’ He will say, ‘Indeed, you will remain. We had certainly brought you the truth, but most of you, to the truth, were averse.’ (Quran 43:-74-78)

As for the Believers who practiced Tawheed (monotheism) and believed in the Prophet that was sent to them from God but lived a sinful life, they will be his punished in the Hell Fire for a length that commensurate the level of their sins. Then they would be brought out of it and eventually sent to Paradise. Some of them will be taken out of the Hell Fire with the intercession of their Prophets, some by the intercession of righteous individuals, and some will be taken out solely by the Mercy of God, the Most Merciful.

The Hell Fire has different names with different descriptions that are mentioned in the Islamic tradition. Amongst the names of the Hell Fire are:

Jaheem because of its blazing Fire

Jahannam because of the depth of its pit

Laẓā because of its blazing flames

Sa'eer because it is kindled and ignited

Saqar because of the intensity of its heat

Hatamah because it breaks and crushes anything into debris that is thrown into it

Haawiyah because whoever is thrown into it, is thrown from the top to the deep bottom of its chasm or abyss.

The dwellers of the Hellfire will be made huge, so every part of their body can feel the punishment. A person's molar tooth will be as big as Mount Uhud (a Mountain in the city of Medina). The distance between the shoulders of the dwellers of Hell will be equivalent to three days of walking.

The Fire that exists and burns in this world we live in is 1/70th of the severity and intensity of the Hellfire in the Hereafter. The Fire kindled by the Almighty will burn the skin of its inhabitants and every time their skin gets roasted; their skin will melt to their feet and God the Almighty will replace their burnt skin with a new one to be burnt again and the process will keep on repeating so they may taste the punishment. Other forms of punishment include super-heated scalding burring oil which will be poured on their heads in which will melt away and liquefy their internal organs. The inhabitants of the Hellfire will be in chains and shackles which will be tied around their necks and feet.

"Indeed, We have prepared for the disbelievers chains and shackles and a blaze"        (Quran 76:4)

The clothing in the Hellfire will be garments of Fire tailored for them with copper so they will boil inside.

And you will see the criminals that Day bound together in shackles, their garments of liquid pitch and their faces covered by the Fire" (Quran 14:49-50)

The Quran references three types of food in the Hellfire which in fact worsen a sinner's torment when consumed. The food and drink of the Hellfire do not provide nourishment, nor does it relieve hunger nor thirst. The dwellers of the Hellfire will experience intense thirst only to have hot boiling water mixed with puss given to them. Water so hot and intense, if a drop of it touches a mountain of this world today, it would turn it to dust.

Amongst the food of the dwellers of the Hellfire is the tree of Zaqqum in the lowest level of Hell. Its branches are described like heads of devils. Its vicious fruits severely burn the insides of a sinner's stomach. If a drop of its juice lands on Earth, it will poison the whole Earth and everything it contains.

God the Almighty, the Most Merciful, the Most Compassionate, did not create the Hellfire to just throw people in it nor does he want to. In fact, God asks a rhetorical question in the Holy Koran stating:

"What can Allah gain by your punishment, if you are grateful and believe? And ever is Allah Appreciative and Knowing" (Quran 4:147)

God will get nothing from punishing anyone and he wants reasons not do it. In fact, God states in Holy Quran that He created mankind and Jinn to worship Him, glorify Him, and exalt Him, as He is the Only One worthy of worship, and he states in another verse, from his end, He created mankind so He can show them His Mercy:

"Except whom your Lord has given mercy, and for that He created them...." (Quran 11:119)

One needs to realize that he is a slave, and that God is his Master and one cannot question Him nor His authority nor do they have any right to. A Master can be just and kind or can be unjust and unkind. Allah, the Exalted, is an All-Merciful Master. If one accepts that he is Allah's slave and submits to Him fully, he or she will find that God is The Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. Only when one submits to His Master, does one find his life become easier and better.

Why would God want to punish an individual when He created him or her with love and mercy in the first place? God wants to warn his servants about Hell now, so one can fix themselves and avoid it to their best of ability. It is best to be informed about the Hellfire now and to recognize its severity, harshness, and how gruesome its punishment is in detail then it is to come across it in the Hereafter unprepared and not knowing. That is a Mercy as God the Almighty could have chosen not to warn one beforehand of the consequences of one’s actions.

While God is All-Merciful, He is Also All-Just. He states in the Quran:

"Indeed, Allah does not do injustice, [even] as much as an atom's weight..." (Quran 4:40)

If one commits murder or oppresses an individual, God may punish that person to serve justice to the person killed or oppressed or to serve justice to the family members. God states every soul shall receive their full compensation for the good and evil deeds they commit on the Day of Judgement.

If God allows the oppressors to oppress without punishing them, it would encourage people to oppress and to commit evil which would spread corruption even further. The fear of punishment prevents some people from committing evil. God has also stated he will surely forgive any soul that repents from their sin as He is Extremely Forgiving and Extremely Loving.

There are certain individuals that want to blame God for Hell because they do not want to fix their act, face reality, or be held accountable for their actions. It's important to realize, whether you believe and accept in God and the Hellfire or not, it will not change the reality that God and the Hellfire do exist, and you will soon find out.

"O, you who have believed, protect yourselves and your families from a Fire whose fuel is people and stones…" (Quran 66:6)

The word Shirk comes from an Arabic word generally meaning, 'to share.' In the context of Religion, it means giving Rights of Allah to someone other than Allah (God). Shirk is the act of ascribing a partner or rival to Allah in Lordship (Ruboobiyyah).

Only God has the right to be worshipped or venerated. One who believes that anyone other than Allah created him or believes there is an entity worthy of worship besides Allah (God), is committing the grave sin of Shirk. Shirk is often translated to mean the practice of polytheism. The act of Shirk includes failing to worship God, denying His Existence, and sharing or associating a partner with Him; whether the partner is a prophet, an idol, the sun, the moon, or any other being or thing.

Shirk is considered the most severe sin in Islam. Shirk is regarded as the cardinal sin in Islam. Shirk nullifies all of one's good deeds and denies one the rewards of the hereafter.

"And it was already revealed to you and those before you that if you should associate [anything] with Allah, your work would surely become worthless, and you would surely be among the losers" (Quran 39:65)

Shirk is the only sin that God will not forgive of an individual, if not sincerely repented for before his or her death.

"Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allah has certainly fabricated a tremendous sin" (Quran 4:48)

If one repents and ceases from engaging in Shirk, then he or she would be forgiven; as repentance wipes out every sin, without exception, as long as one repents before death.

The very reason for our creation was to worship the One God solely, and not anyone or anything else. Shirk denies the purpose of man's creation. Shirk deviates from the natural state of man, which is the belief in the One God and the worship of Him Alone. It was not until much later that Shirk started to spread in humanity—after the existence of Tawheed (monotheism- the worship of the One God).

Worshipping and praising deities other than Allah, who have no power to benefit or harm, is an act of injustice to Allah—who created this whole Universe and gave life to you and me. Shirk is also an act of ingratitude. Shirk is the root of evil and causes the greatest downfall of human dignity and status.

Islam strictly states that all types of prayers should only be directed to God the Almighty, and no one or nothing else. God is in total control of every man's destiny and is the only One that can benefit a person, grant one's needs and desires, and that can remove one's harm and distress.

In the Holy Qur'an, one that engages in Shirk is referred to as a 'mushrik' or 'mushrikeen' (in its plural form) --- one that takes part in Shirk and plots against Islam. The Holy Quran refers to them as the enemies of Islam.

The mainstream Christian belief of the Trinity is considered a type of Shirk, although not the worst kind of Shirk, such as worshipping, bowing down, or sacrificing for an idol or an image. Any shared divinity is considered Shirk.

"They have certainly disbelieved who say, ‘Allah is the third of three,’ And there is no god except one God. And if they do not desist from what they are saying, there will surely afflict the disbelievers among them a painful punishment" (Quran 5:73)

The opposite of Shirk is Tawheed (Monotheism), which is the maintaining and observing of the worship of the One and True Creator while acknowledging his Uniqueness and Attributes. The Christian belief that Jesus is the son of God, or God himself, is the direct opposite of Tawheed.

"They have certainly disbelieved who say that Allah is Christ, the son of Mary..." (Quran 5:17)

Trinity—father, son, holy spirit—and the concept that Jesus died for our sins is firmly rejected in Islam.

"O People of the Scripture, do not commit excess in your Religion or say about Allah except the Truth. The Messiah, Jesus, the son of Mary, was but a messenger of Allah and His word which He directed to Mary and a soul [created at a command] from Him. So, believe in Allah and His messengers. And do not say, ‘Three’; desist - it is better for you. Indeed, Allah is but one God. Exalted is He above having a son. To Him belongs whatever is in the Heavens and whatever is on the Earth. And sufficient is Allah as Disposer of affairs" (Quran 4:171)

God makes it clear in the Koran that the act of ascribing a son to Him, angers him. Ascribing a son to God is beneath the Almighty. God states:

"And they say: ‘The Most Beneficent (Allah) has begotten a son (or offspring or children) Indeed you have brought forth (said) a terrible evil thing. Whereby the Heavens are almost torn, and the Earth is split asunder, and the mountains fall in ruins. That they ascribe a son (or offspring or children) to the Most Beneficent (Allah). But it is not suitable for (the Majesty of) the Most Beneficent that He should beget a son" (Quran 88-92)

Having multiple gods is illogical. According to the Holy Quran, there can only be One God; if there were various gods, they would have been competing to establish superior strength. The aggressive presence of two gods would have also destroyed the Heavens and the Earth.

"If there were in the Heavens and the Earth other gods besides Allah, there would be confusions in both (Heaven and Earth), but glory be to Allah, the Lord of, the throne; high is He above what they attribute to Him" (Quran 21:22)

Shirk is a very serious matter in Religion, as it makes something scared that God has not made sacred—an act of obscuring the truth. The Holy Koran and Sunnah (sayings of Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him) indicate that the act of Shirk sometimes expels a person from the Religion of Islam, and sometimes it does not. Therefore, Islamic scholars divided Shirk into the categories of Major Shirk (Shirk Al-Akbar) and Minor Shirk (shirk Al-Asghar).

Major Shirk (Shirk Al-Akbar) is very serious and takes one out of the folds of Islam. Major Shirk is ascribing to someone other than Allah something that belongs Only to Allah, the Glorious, such as Lordship (ruboobiyyah), Divinity (uloohiyyah), and the Divine Names and Attributes of God (Al-Asma' Wa-sifaat). These 'gods' can be in the form of priests, kings, objects, animals, spirits, or anyone or anything other than Allah, the Almighty.

Major Shirk can come in the form of beliefs, words, or actions. Major Shirk can be seen outwardly, such as when one worships idols or graves; and can be hidden, such as when one who relies upon gods other than Allah.

Major Shirk occurs when one prays or supplicates to one other than Allah. Major Shirk includes believing someone or something other than Allah who creates and gives life and death and is in full control of everything. Major Shirk also comprises the belief that someone other than Allah must be obeyed. Major Shirk also includes the idea that others apart from Allah know the unseen. Major Shirk also comprises the act of loving something that is a created being, equally or more than Allah. For example, this occurs when one is so emotionally attached to wealth, they make its attainment their goal in life. Wealth becomes everything to them. Those individuals took money as their God.

Major Shirk also includes loving to obey one's desires more than Allah. One would follow their desires even if it leads to disobeying Allah. Such one takes their desires as their god as they act according to their whims. God states:

"Have you seen he who has taken as his god his [own] desire, and Allah has sent him astray due to knowledge and has set a seal upon his hearing and his heart and put over his vision a veil? So, who will guide him after Allah? Then will you not be reminded?" (Quran 45:23)

Minor Shirk (Shirk Al-Asghar) does not make the doer a disbeliever or remove one from the folds of Islam. However, minor Shirk is still a major sin. Minor Shirk includes everything that may lead to major Shirk. Minor Shirk consists of any action which is done to gain praise, fame or any other worldly purpose. This is considered Shirk because the individual is doing an action for other people, instead of for the sake of God. Examples of this can take the form of praying to God in front of others, intending to gain praise from people, or the case of donating to a charity to show off, to gain fame, or for any worldly purpose. When one commits such action, the good action gets nullified, and the doer receives no reward for it. Our Prophet stated: 'The thing I fear most for you is minor Shirk.' They (the Companions) said, 'O Messenger of Allah, what is Minor Shirk?' He (peace be upon him) said, 'Riya.' Indeed, Allah (Blessed and Exalted be He) shall say on the Day of Resurrection to the people who used to do good deeds for show: Go to those for whom you were showing off with your acts in worldly life and see if you can find with them recompense.'

Minor Shirk also includes swearing oaths made by those other than Allah; for example, saying, 'I swear by such as such…’ It can be major Shirk depending on particular situations. Minor Shirk also includes the belief in evil omens or superstitions.

When the act of minor Shirk becomes a habit in all of one's deeds, it becomes Major Shirk.

One should be cautious of Shirk, as this evil can be inconspicuous and not as noticeable. Our Prophet stated: ‘Ash-Shirk-al-Khafi (The inconspicuous Shirk) in the Muslim nation is more inconspicuous than the creeping of a black ant on a black rock in the pitch-darkness of the night.’ Therefore, one should take extra precaution to avoid the commission of this sin.

According to the Holy Qur’an, one who commits Shirk and believes in a deity other than Allah— will live a life of constant fear and anxiety.

"We will cast terror into the hearts of those who disbelieve for what they have associated with Allah of which He had not sent down [any] authority. And their refuge will be the Fire, and wretched is the residence of the wrongdoers" (Quran 3:151)

Islam is generally misunderstood, especially in the western world, and no Islamic term is more widely misunderstood and evokes such strong reactions as the word Jihad. Jihad is often mistranslated to mean 'Holy War,' and some non-Muslims misunderstand the term to mean waging war against disbelievers to either convert them to Islam or to kill them. Often the word Jihad is thought to be synonymous with terrorism. In reality, this couldn't be further from the truth.

Jihad comes from an Arabic word meaning to 'make an effort' or 'to strive towards a goal.' The term Jihad means to 'to exert oneself' or 'to struggle.' In the Islamic context, it means to struggle against one's evil inclination. So, any effort of self-improvement, whether in the form of improving One's spirituality, education, or financial situation, is an act of Jihad. The Holy Quran makes it clear that Jihad has been used to mean 'striving' or 'exerting.'

"We shall certainly guide those who strive for Our cause to Our path. God is certainly with the righteous ones" (Quran 29:69)

This Verse applies to ones that spiritually struggle to attain closeness to and seek the pleasure of God.

Jihad comes in different forms. The most essential type of Jihad, which can be labeled as Major Jihad, is Jihad An-Nafs (The Jihad of the soul). This is the spiritual struggle between the two powers within human beings; the soul and the body. The soul is prone to becoming corrupted, with the corruption arising from within oneself, from external influences, or both.

"Verily, the soul is inclined to evil" (Quran 12:53)

Islam expresses the importance of one to purify, to cleanse, and to restrain themselves from submitting to their sinful desires. They are expected to avoid acts of disobedience and are expected to perform acts of obedience which are pleasing to God. Islam expects its followers to give preference to their soul and their conscience over their body and desires, by striving to resist their urges and inner temptations.

"And whoever strives only strives for [the benefit of] himself. Indeed, Allah is free from need of the worlds"    (Quran 29:6)

Islam places a great deal of emphasis on self-improvement, self-development, self-restraint, and self-control, shaping one's life in the best manner for one's benefit and the benefit of society at large. This Jihad is intended to purify the soul and involves struggling against the greed for worldly purposes, arrogance, pride, envy, jealousy, hatred, hypocrisy, insincerity, vanity, narcissism, and other evil traits which Satan uses to lead humanity astray into destruction. It is imperative for every Muslim to struggle and strive daily to overcome these evils to the best of their ability. The Jihad of the soul also includes the struggle to perform good deeds for the sake of God, to please Him and become closer to him. Allah states in His Book:

"He has succeeded who purifies it" (Quran 91:9)

Scholars state that the successors this Verse is referring to are those individuals that engage in purifying their souls by obeying God and restraining from sins and evil doing.

The other major type of Jihad is Jihad Al-Shaytan (Jihad against Satan). Satan's main aim is to destroy the Religion of mankind by attacking them with continuous whispers regarding their belief in God and when in worship to tempt, corrupt and mislead people away from God's guidance.

"O, you who have believed, enter into submission completely [and perfectly] and do not follow the footsteps of Satan. Indeed, he is to you a clear enemy" (Quran 2:208)

The whispers of Satan can come to pious and righteous people and to wicked and evil individuals. These whispers can be detrimental to one's spiritual, emotional, physical, and psychological well-being, so it's essential for one to strive to fight against Satan; to ward off doubts that Satan stirs up that undermines one's faith in God and to ward off corrupt desires which he provokes.

These two types of Jihad are the foundation for all other varieties of Jihad and are obligatory upon everyone accountable. If one does not engage in these types of Jihad, he or she cannot venture into the other realm of Jihad, which involves battles against external enemies.

This introduces us to the other variety of Jihad: the armed struggle against those who plot against Muslims, which can be classified as Minor Jihad. When Muslims or their faith or territory is threatened under attack, Muslims are permitted to defend themselves. This Jihad is the act of striving in the battlefield, to fight in self-defense to protect one's own life, family, faith, wealth, and property. It also includes fighting against evil, operation, and tyranny to defend what is right and to combat oppression. This Jihad is the effort and struggles to improve society.

As stated earlier, Jihad does not mean Holy War. The Arabic word for Holy War is 'Harbun Muqaddasah.' The word Jihad does not imply Holy War, and the words ‘Holy War' do not exist at all in the Holy Qur'an or any authentic Hadith (Sayings of Prophet Muhammad). The killing of innocent people—whether Muslim or non-Muslim—is condemned in Islam and is considered a major sin. Islam does not permit Muslims to fight against non-Muslims, solely based on their faith.

Islam is a religion of peace, mercy, and forgiveness. No one can be compelled to accept Islam.

"There shall be no compulsion in [acceptance of] the Religion. The right course has become clear from the wrong. So, whoever disbelieves in false deities and believes in Allah has grasped the most trustworthy handhold with no break in it. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing" (Quran 2:256)

Muslims must convey and establish the proofs and evidence of Islam to people so that they can be differentiated from falsehood. Islam is clear in terms of its Message and Mission, both of which no one is compelled to accept. Whoever is not stubborn or arrogant in their acceptance will enter and accept Islam, and whoever rejects the Truth may do so.  No one can threaten or harm anyone because they choose not to accept Islam. If one is compelled to accept this faith, then he/she is not a true Muslim at heart.

Islam does not allow for the fighting of noncombatants. Military conflicts are to be directed against only fighting soldiers, and not against innocent civilians. The acts such as those committed on 9/11 in the United States, for example, are classified as a major sin in Islam and carry the death penalty.

"…Whoever kills a soul unless for a soul or corruption [done] in the land – it is as if he had slain mankind entirely. And whoever saves one – it is as if he had saved mankind entirely…" (Quran 5:32)

It is also forbidden for one to harm or kill oneself by any means. Suicide is a severe sin in Islam, a state of disbelief, and a loss of faith that is condemned by the Quran.

"… do not throw [yourselves] with your [own] hands into destruction. And do good; indeed, Allah loves the doers of good" (Quran 2:195)

Unfortunately, there is a category of brainwashed Muslim youth who get drafted into misguided terrorist groups, who believe that upon exploding themselves that they would die as martyrs and get sent directly to Paradise. Islam condemns quite the contrary, suicide in any form.

If attacked, one is permitted to fight back in self-defense. Muslims should be keen to defend themselves and preserve their own lives.

"Permission [to fight] has been given to those who are being fought because they were wronged. And indeed, Allah is competent to give them victory" (22:39)

However, if the other party refrains from aggression and offers peace, then Muslims are expected to extend their hand for peace in return.

"And if they incline to peace, then incline to it [also] and rely upon Allah. Indeed, it is He who is the Hearing, the Knowing" (Quran 8:61)

The first battle fought by our Prophet and his followers, called the Battle of Badr, was an act of defense against a group who plotted and waged war against the Muslims. When fighting in defense, the Holy Koran warns Muslims not to exceed their military actions beyond the proper limits.

"Fight in the way of Allah those who fight you but do not transgress. Indeed. Allah does not like transgressors" (Quran 2:190)

This type of fighting is permitted, as it is a lesser evil designed to rid the world of a bigger evil. It is committed with the purpose of enjoining the right and forbidding the wrong. It constitutes the act of fighting to defend Islam, rather than to spread it.

Islam has provided guidelines for fighting against the enemy in self-defense. Islam prohibits the killing of children, women, the elderly, the sick, monks in monasteries, rabbis, those who are sitting in places of worship, and the murder of any other noncombatant--even in a state of war and fighting. Islam does not allow torture of prisoners of war, mutilation, treason, rape, cutting down fruitful trees, or the destroying of cultivated fields or gardens, or the destruction of property. Islam also does not allow the slaughter of cows, sheep, and camels, except for food. Muslims are also forbidden from attacking wounded soldiers unless the wounded soldier is still fighting you. Islam only allows fighting with minimum necessary force.

Some enemies of Islam take the text of the Holy Quran and Hadith out of context, claiming Islam promotes violence and terrorism; even though Jihad has nothing to do with harming oneself or society. Jihad remains a noble matter; a noble strike for the sake of God. 

The fifth pillar of Islam is Hajj, which translates to mean 'the pilgrimage to the Holy city of Makkah' The Arabic word Hajj, linguistically, means 'heading to a place for the sake of visiting'; in Islamic terminology, it describes the act of heading to Makkah to observe specific acts and rituals. Hajj, or the pilgrimage, is a 5-6-day journey to this sacred place between the 8th and 13th day of the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Dhul-Hijjah. The Hajj journey is obligatory for every Muslim, male or female, to complete at least once in a lifetime; providing that they are mentally, physically and financially capable of making the trip. God states:

"...And [due] to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House - for whoever is able to find thereto a way...” (Quran 3:97)

The Hajj includes detailed reenactments of certain symbolic rituals performed by great Prophets and righteous individuals in the past. The Hajj Pilgrimage and its symbolic rituals commemorate the legacy of Prophet Abraham peace be upon him, so one needs to learn about Prophet Abraham to understand the reasoning behind individual acts performed as a part of Hajj.

Integral to Hajj is the Kaaba, a Holy Shrine, a black silk-clad cube stone structure at the heart of the Grand Mosque in the modern-day city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The Kaaba is at the center of the Earth, built by Prophet Abraham and his son Ismael peace be upon them. Upon completion, God the Almighty Commanded Prophet Abraham to relay the Message amongst the people that they would be required to make a pilgrimage to this House. Prophet Abraham peace be upon him replied, 'O Allah, with no one here, how will they hear my Message?' God then answered, 'Upon you is the proclamation, and upon me, is to see who responds.' Prophet Abraham peace be upon him went on top of the Kaaba and also climbed Mount Safa and called out, ‘O People, Allah has built a house for himself on this Earth, and he has legislated upon you to perform pilgrimage, so come and perform pilgrim to this house!'

"And proclaim to the people the Hajj [pilgrimage]; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass" (Quran 22:27)

By performing Hajj, Muslims are answering the command of Allah. Over 4000 years later, to this day, millions upon millions of Muslims continue to answer the call of Prophet Ibrahim peace be upon him from every corner of the globe. You find Muslims from Africa, Asia, Europe, Australia, and all over the world making this pilgrimage every year. It is the largest annual convention of faith on Earth, where Muslims gather to commemorate the rituals observed by Prophet Abraham and his son, Ishmael peace be upon them. Muslims celebrate the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim and the many sacrifices he has made for the sake of God.

When Muslims enter the scared Makkan territory during Hajj, they bathe themselves and enter a ritually purified state called Ahram. In this state, pilgrims are forbidden to perform typical actions that are otherwise permissible, such as covering one's head for males, clipping their fingernails, cutting their hair, hunting animals, picking plants, engaging in sexual activity, and wearing traditional clothing for men.

Male Pilgrims wear two white seamless lyon sheets with no stitching by hand, that are wrapped around the body. No belts, no rings, no perfumes, no jewelry, or any accessories or garish clothing, may be worn. The simple garb worn represents complete impoverishment and humility and signifies the equality of humanity—as everyone comes before God the same. No one is better than the other among the pilgrims of Hajj. Muslims are all united in their devotion to God. Every human being is displayed equally, as we are all equal in the eyes of Allah regardless of our color or race. The black man stands next to the white man, and they call on Allah with one voice. The King stands beside a peasant; the businessman stands beside the politician, the doctor beside the engineer, and they declare their submission to the will of Allah using the same words. Several Millions of people are dressed the same way and look the same; no one can tell the rich from the poor; all fulfill the same rituals with the utmost humility. This is to remind pilgrims of the coming Day of Judgment when all people will be stripped of their clothes and displayed before their God. The pilgrims show a sense of poverty with their appearance, as the pilgrims acknowledge that they are the ones in need, and God is the one that owns and has everything they require.

Pilgrims start to perform their tawaf from the black stone corner. Tawaf is the act of circulating the Kaaba counterclockwise. Pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba seven times while they recite prayers during each circuit. Pilgrims perform the tawaf (circumambulation) to follow the suit of the Prophet (peace be upon him) as has been ordained in the Qur'an. As Pilgrims circulate the Kaaba, they disconnect themselves from worldly attachments and focus upon the presence of the Divine. As Pilgrims circumambulate the Kabah, they chant: 'Here I am, O Allah, Here I am, you have no partner; indeed, all praise, favor, and dominion belong to you, you have no partner.'

Since Prophet Abraham and his wife Sara could not bear any children, Sara asked her husband to marry their servant so they could beget a child before they were too old to raise offspring. Later, Prophet Abraham was commanded by God to take both his second wife Hagar and their son Ismael and leave them in a barren desert valley in modern-day Mecca. As soon as Prophet Abraham peace be upon him started to leave, Hagar cried out, 'Where are you going? Why are you leaving us?' Abraham did not respond. After a few more attempts to find answers, Hagar then asked if this action was a commandment from God. He responded, 'Yes.' Then she replied, ‘if God commanded you to leave us, then leave us, because God never will leave us to perish.” She was sure that God would not abandon her and her child, despite their presence at the center of a Desert Valley. He left them with little water and some dates.

Later, Hagar ran out of food and water and started to worry for her child. She then fell into a state of anxiety and climbed a hillock called Mount Safa, crying out, ‘is anyone there?’  Then she ran to another hillock—Mount Marwa—again crying out, ‘Is anyone there?’ Then she paced back and forth to each mountain, seven times.

On the seventh round, Hajar saw Angel Gabriel descend from the sky and strike the ground with his wing, causing water to gush upward from the Earth. Angel Gabriel declared, ‘Zam, Zam,’ meaning ‘Stop, Stop,’ commanding the water to stop. This water is now referred to as Zam Zam Water. This well to this today nourishes pilgrims of Mecca every day.

Passersby rescued Hagar and her child. Years later, when Ismael was growing to become a man, his father Prophet Abraham returned and built with him the house in Mecca, called the Kabah.

In commemoration of this great sacrifice from Hagar, Muslim pilgrims in Hajj progress in a quicker pace going back and forth between the two hillocks (which are 300-400 yards apart) seven times, reenacting Hagar's movements when attempting to find aid. This action is symbolic of Hagar's search for water and the miracle of the well of Zam Zam.

Then the pilgrims depart Mecca toward the valley of Minna, which is about 3-4 miles outside of Makkah. During Hajj season, Minna is full of over 100,000 air-conditioned tents that cover every open space as far as the eye can see, row after row, where pilgrims stay overnight. The tents accommodate roughly 2-3 million people performing Hajj. Pilgrims spend their time in prayer, worship, and meditation, asking for forgiveness on the night known as Layali Al-Tashreeq.

After spending the night at the village of Mina, pilgrims take the next step and proceed to a large plain about 7-8 miles from Mecca called Arafat, a large plain surrounded by bare mountains. Forming the center is a hill known as Mount Mercy (Gabal Al-Rahma), where Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him delivered his memorable Farewell Sermon. This is the central rite of the entire Hajj. Pilgrims stand from noon to sunset praying quietly before God, begging for mercy and forgiveness and asking their wishes. Many pilgrims shed tears as they ask the Al-Mighty to forgive them their sins in this very emotional day of standing. Standing, reflecting, considering their actions, and begging and pleading to God is often thought of as a preview and representation of the great assembly of the upcoming Day of Judgment. It is to remind people of the fateful day where everyone will stand before their Lord begging for mercy.

Then pilgrims spend the night at Muzdalifah, an open plain about halfway between Arafat and Mina where pilgrims pray, then go back to Mina.

At 95, Prophet Abraham peace be upon him saw himself slaughtering his son in a dream; interpreting the vision to mean that he needed to slaughter his son for the sake of God. He was to lay his son on to the sand and raise a knife to sacrifice him. Islam doesn't allow this act; the dream was only a way for God to test Prophet Abraham. But Prophet Abraham didn't know that this was only a test to see who he loved and was devoted to the most; his Lord or his son. Ismael was his only progeny at the time. His son looked at his father and said, ‘if God commanded you to do this, do as you were commanded as I too am submissive to God.’

As Prophet Abraham peace be upon him raised his sword, Satan appeared in front of him and stated, 'that's your only son, what are you doing? How can you kill him?' Prophet Abraham, recognizing Satan the cursed, started to pelt him with seven stones until he went away. After that, Prophet Abraham moved to another place, where Satan once again returned and was pelted again by Prophet Abraham; then again, the action was repeated in another place. Satan always tries to separate people from their Lord. Eventually, when Prophet Abraham was poised to kill his son, his son was replaced with a Ram sent down by God. Prophet Abraham immediately realized that this was only a test from the Almighty.

At Minna, pilgrims take part in a ritual known as the ramy, which is the throwing of seven stones at three monuments called Al-Jamarāt. Until today, millions of Muslims pass by three monuments and throw pebbles as a ritual, which symbolizes the reenactment of the actions of Prophet Ibrahim when he faced the trial of sacrificing his son. The three monuments or pillars in Mina represent the three places that the Devil tempted Prophet Abraham to forego the sacrifice. The throwing of the pebbles is purely symbolic. To this day, at the end of Hajj, Muslims annually sacrifice sheep, cows, camels, and goats in the millions; commemorating the spirit of Prophet Abraham peace be upon him, his intention, his sincerity, and his passion. The meat from the sacrifice is then given to the needy.

During Hajj, Muslims also kiss a black stone, symbolizing their apperception of being invited to the house of the King of all Kings— our Lord, our Creator. Muslims also kiss the black stone in tradition of Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him. If they cannot kiss it, they can touch it or point in its direction. This stone was sent down from Heaven for Prophet Abraham peace be upon him, to be used for the construction of the sacred house. Buildings in ancient times often had cornerstones, and Prophet Abraham wanted a cornerstone for this house. Narrations describe the stone as being whiter than milk darkening slowly from the sins of humans until it morphed into a black stone. The black stone is the starting-point for tawaf — the circling of the Kabah.

Hajj is completed by the act of men either shaving their heads or clipping their hair, and women cutting off a fingertip's length of their hair, to mark their partial deconsecration; a symbol of humility.

Apart from Hajj, a minor pilgrimage known as Umrah is performed in the year's remainder.  The completion of Umrah does not fulfill the obligation of Hajj. Umrah is much shorter, lasting a few hours which entail the seven circumambulations of the Kabah and the light jogging between Mount Safa and Mount Mara.

This spiritual journey known as Hajj boasts many benefits, including a powerful positive transformation that makes pilgrims more spiritual, righteous, softer, and better human beings overall. Pilgrims who embark on the journey of Hajj faithfully and sincerely are cleansed of all their previous sins, leaving them with a fresh start.

Upon completion of Hajj, Muslims celebrate one of two Muslim Holidays called Eid Al-Adha. Muslims celebrate by praying to God and visiting family and friends to thank and praise God for all the blessings He has bestowed upon them.

The Holy Month of Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar and can last 29 or 30 days. The Islamic calendar is based on a lunar year of 12 full lunar cycles, taking 354 or 355 days. The moon circles the Earth twelve times in a full lunar year. The observance of a new moon marks the beginning of each month. When a new moon is sighted, Ramadan begins and then fasting would commence in the next dawn. If a new moon is not sighted, then Muslims would start their fast the following day.

Islam is built upon five pillars and fasting during the Month of Ramadan is the 4th pillar of Islam. Muslims fast by abstaining from eating, drinking, chewing gum, smoking, and involving in any sexual activity from dawn to sunset. Fasting in Islam does not solely comprise refraining from food and drinks; instead one is to abstain from every kind of evil, selfish desire, and wrongdoing. The purpose of fasting is not merely for the body; instead, it's for the spirit as well. Fasting in Ramadan is for the soul, mind, and body. Muslims are commanded to refrain against gossiping, backbiting, slandering, lying, cheating, looking at what's prohibited, nursing a grudge, using sinful speech, and any wrongdoing. Muslims must adhere to the morals of Islam strictly during their fast as failure to do so can violate one's fast.

Fasting in Ramadan is obligatory for every sane, healthy Muslim, who is not ill or traveling long distance whether male or female unless a female is on her menstruation cycle or having post-childbirth bleeding. Most religions practice some fasting that generally requires one to go without food or drinks for a specified period. According to the Bible, Jesus fasted for 40 days.

… But why do Muslims Fast? The primary reason Muslims fast is because God the Almighty has commanded them to do so in His Last and Final Revelation, the Holy Quran. The Holy Quran was sent down to the last and final nation, our nation, whereas the Bible, Torah, and all previous scriptures were sent to former nations. God states in the Quran:

"O, you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may become righteous and (hopefully learn) self-restraint" (Quran 2:183)

Fasting is an act of worship beloved by God. The Holy Month of Ramadan & the prescribed fasting is a gift and mercy to Muslims from the Almighty. God prescribes none rulings to his slaves unless there are great wisdom and benefit behind it.

… But How is Ramadan & Fasting a gift & mercy to the ones that fast sincerely? Sin is defined as an act of disobedience in which a person goes against the commandments of God. God deliberately placed human beings on Earth knowing they will sin. By nature of human beings, mankind is fallible and bound to sin due to outside evil influences whether it's from friends, family, the media, or from Satan's attack and whispers that can stray one from the straight path leading them to destruction. God is willing to accept anyone's repentance. It is, in fact, Allah that loves people who repent repeatedly. Since Muslims are erred to sin because of ignorance, forgetfulness, or from the handiwork of Satan. Mankind needs to be reminded and trained from abstaining from harmful behaviors that go against the commandments of God.

God, the Almighty states fasting and abstaining from which is prohibited will increase one's Taqwa.
God the Almighty states fasting and abstaining from which is prohibited will increase one's Taqwa. Taqwa is translated to God-fearing piety, righteousness, mindfulness, and consciousness of God where one is aware God is watching at all times. The concept of Taqwa is expressed in the Holy Koran over 200 times. The word Taqwa comes from the root word 'to guard' When one has Taqwa or God consciousness, one loves to do good and avoid evil for the sake of God.

….But how does one attain Taqwa by fasting? Fasting is a shield for mankind. Fasting protects a person from sin and lustful desires. The purpose of fasting is not merely physical training to withstand hunger, thirst, and exhaustion; instead, it is disciplining the soul & the ego to give up what's loved in this world from material goods, wealth, etc. for the sake of God. Fasting Muslims seek to overpower and suppress sinful desires in themselves, putting aside all evils and bad behaviors to express their dedication and love to God and use it to draw closer to Him so that God becomes a reality in their lives resulting in a higher spiritual state. Fasting in Ramadan offers one to develop spiritually and gain strength and control over one's soul and one's ego which would dominate one's life when left unchecked and unmonitored.

Sincere and proper fasting for the full month of Ramadan every year is very beneficial for individuals and society as it develops piety and self-restraint. Once one is conscious that God is watching, one's sins and disobedience will dramatically decrease. Fasting in Ramadan recharges one's spiritual and physical state. Fasting is meant to instill virtuous qualities in humans from being generous, patient, while cleansing the spiritual heart. Fasting cleansing the soul, mind, and body as temporally giving up food, water, and many disobedient acts is a natural way of removing toxins from the soul, mind, and body. When Fasting, one controls the urge to eat and drink empowering one to exercise self-control and help to develop patience, inner strength and will-power in a person.

Fasting develops good qualities of endurance and self-restraint, helping one control his or her anger, tongue, and actions. Fasting help resists unlawful desires and wicked habits which would help guard one against evil. Fasting in Ramadan suppresses worldly desires and strengthens one's spirituality. 

The Holy Month of Ramadan is special and blessed because the Holy Quran, which is God’s final Book, was revealed to Prophet Mohammad Peace Be Up Him, in this special month. Therefore, Muslims recite the Holy Qur’an frequently in this blessed month. Ramadan is the month when Muslims try to establish or re-establish a relationship with their Creator and the Holy Qur’an so that one may be guided. Ramadan is a month for deep inner reflection. 

Muslim believe they earn extra spiritual rewards in this month for good deeds which can lead them to paradise in the hereafter and avoid the punishment of the hellfire. During Ramadan, Muslims engage in consistent spiritual reflection and prayer with the aims of drawing closer to God and becoming a better person.

During this blessed month, extra voluntary prayers are offered in every Mosque well into the night, with many places of worship crammed with worshippers. Hearts are directed away from worldly material goods and get directed to Almighty, His Religion, and His Final Revelation, the Holy Quran. Due to the blessings and rewards associated with this Holy Month, Muslims are encouraged to give and help others to the best of their ability. While the primary reason for fasting is to draw closer to Allah by purifying oneself by abstaining from sins and increasing acts of good, fasting comes with many additional benefits. Amongst the benefits of fasting is that it teaches man the principle of sincere Love to God as he struggles to fast solely for the pleasure of God.

Fasting in Ramadan is supposed to help discontinue any bad habits one may have developed throughout the year. Fasting is supposed to free a person from the slavery of sinful desires as they give it up for a whole month. Fasting develops new good habits as Muslims increase acts of good in this month.

Fasting in Ramadan is a way of experiencing hunger, thirst, exhaustion, and developing sympathy for the less fortunate which should cause an increase in helping the less fortunate. Many take blessings like food and water for granted. When one is fasting, he or she realizes what the less fortunate feel every day. This should increase helping and giving others, especially the less fortunate as fasting helps one to sympathize with the poor so one may know and experience their hardships. 

Fasting in Ramadan leads one to be more thankful and appreciate all of God's gifts and provisions. Fasting is a way to humble one before God and His creation, as hunger and thirst help one come in a realization they desperately need God and his provisions decreasing one's false pride and arrogance. Fasting in Ramadan teaches patience as one feels the pains of deprivation, but he endures them patiently. Fasting teaches moderation and increases one will-power as one feels hunger but disciplines him or herself not to eat so they can benefit from the increased will-power and discipline after the month is over. This month is supposed to be a training period for the rest of the year so that one can be better equipped to resist temptations.

Amongst the many spiritual benefits, lie many physicality benefits. Fasting in Ramadan speeds up one's metabolism, lowers cholesterol levels, helps with weight loss, indorses longevity, improves one's brain function, clears one's skin from acne and dry skin, improves the immune system, and purifies the body by allowing the body to rest from the continuous task of digesting food.

Whereas fasting in the Month of Ramadan may appear very exhausting and challenging, it is, in fact, an enjoyable time for Muslims. It becomes a month of family and friends getting together to worship the One God and to eat together after sunset. Ramadan has a different atmosphere from other months of the year. Often, local families and individuals sponsor breaking-fast and dinners at local mosques open to the community. Mosques are often packed with worshippers at night and they usually hold special evening prayers in mosques during Ramadan.

After the month, Muslims celebrate one of the two Islamic festivals; Eid-ul-Fitr which translates to the 'festival of the breaking of the Fast' It is a festival of celebration. It is a time of joy, a social gathering of family and friends, gift giving, wearing new clothes, and time which Muslims express thanks and gratitude to their Creator for the self-control, will, strength and the endurance and benefits they practiced and achieved during this Holy Month.

Worthy Reads:

Ramadan By islam101

Why Do Muslims Fast?

Article & Video By: TheSincereSeeker.com

Zakat is the third pillar of Islam. Zakat in Arabic translates to 'the act of giving of alms to the poor and needy.' Offering Zakat is a religious obligation for Muslims. In Islam, it is considered the duty of individuals with wealth to assist the poor and needy. The term Zakat in Arabic linguistically has several meanings, including 'to purify, to increase, cleanliness, blessings, and goodness.'

Zakat means to purify; because, according to the Islamic faith, one's wealth and property are not pure unless the owner shares a divinely appointed proportion with people in need. The principle of Zakat also purifies one's heart of greed and selfishness. Whereas the humanistic love of wealth is natural, Zakat is intended to free Muslims from the excessive and all-consuming love of money and selfish desire; teaching self-discipline.

"Take, [O, Muhammad], from their wealth a charity by which you purify them and cause them increase and invoke [Allah's blessings] upon them. Indeed, your invocations are reassurance for them. And Allah is Hearing and Knowing" (Quran 9:103)

Zakat also means growth and blessings; because if one were to give and help others in times of ease and difficulties, God will be pleased and return with increase and bless his wealth. Allah, the Glorious, has promised that the one who spends his wealth in Zakat will see his prosperity increased manifold.

"The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed [of grain] which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills. And Allah is all-Encompassing and Knowing" (Quran 2:261)

Our Prophet has stated that the act of Charity does not decrease wealth; instead, it blesses, purifies and ultimately increases one's fortune.

There are three primary types of giving in Islam. Two of these giving methods are mandatory, while one is highly recommended but not obligatory. The first obligatory act of giving is called Zakat Al-Mal, which is the Zakat given from one's saved wealth and liquid assets. The second obligatory Zakat is called Zakat Al-Fitr, which is a special Zakat due at the end of the Month of Ramadan—to be paid by the head of the household. The third type of giving in Islam is called Sadaqah, which is voluntary and can be given at any time on any amount.

Sadaqah comes from an Arabic word meaning sincerity, as giving Sadaqah or charity is a sign of sincere faith in God by the person who gives it. Sadaqah is described in the Holy Quran as a beautiful loan; which includes any act of charitable giving made as a gesture of love and generosity; whether the act stands in the form of giving money or time, helping others, praying for someone, spreading knowledge, giving advice, forgiving someone, visiting the sick, or even smiling at someone.

Zakat plays a significant role and holds a commendable high standard in Islam, to the extent that about three dozen Verses in the Holy Quran link the obligatory prayer to charity. God describes the true believers as the ones that both pray their obligatory prayers and give Zakat. This proves the concept that Zakat is the believer's most important obligation, after the obligatory prayer.

"Indeed, those who believe and do righteous deeds and establish Prayer and give Zakah will have their reward with their Lord, and there will be no fear concerning them, nor will they grieve" (Quran 2:277)

All things belong to God, and God has given wealth to specific individuals so they can distribute resources to those not as fortunate. People are given wealth as a trust from God, to distribute to and benefit the ones in need. The true Owner of all things is not man, but God, and we human beings are merely His trustees. God, the Glorious, who provided wealth to the intended recipient, reserved a portion of the resources for the poor, so the underprivileged have a right to claim a portion of one's wealth. The concept of Zakat reminds Muslims that everything they possess belongs to the Almighty.

People are given their wealth as a test from God. Wealth should be acquired, distributed, and spent in a way which is pleasing to God.

"And it is He who has made you successors upon the Earth and has raised some of you above others in degrees [of rank] that He may try you through what He has given you" (Quran 6:165)

The acquisition and hoarding of wealth for one's own sake to increase a man's worth, is condemned. Mere acquisition of wealth counts for nothing in the sight of the Almighty, as it does not give man any merit—in this life or the hereafter. Islam teaches that one should acquire wealth to spend it on his/her self, family, and people in need. The act of giving and helping others shows one's love of God, more than the amount or quantity of one's own wealth; as when they give to others, they donate funds they otherwise would have spent on themselves--doing so to please God the Almighty. Zakat is a sign of true belief and love in God.

"The ones who establish prayer, and from what We have provided them, they spend. Those are the believers, truly. For them are degrees [of high position] with their Lord and forgiveness and noble provision" (Quran 8:3-4)

Zakat offers both humanitarian and socio-political benefits. It is designed by our Creator to reallocate and redistribute wealth in a society. Zakat establishes social justice and—if practiced collectively by a population—can lead a community to prosperity and security. Zakat helps to circulate wealth in a balanced way, stabilizing and equalizing the flow of money in a society; eliminating as it does the eternal cycle of poverty. Zakat is an interest-free financial strategy that could help prevent society from undergoing an economic recession.

Every Muslim who has wealth exceeding a specific minimum—a level known as Nisab—and who maintains that wealth for over one lunar year, must give Zakat. Zakat is given annually based on the Islamic lunar calendar and is not based on the western calendar—which is 11 days longer than its counterpart.

The Nisab is the specific minimum amount of wealth that a Muslim must possess before being required to pay Zakat. One must pay Zakat if what they own is equal to or more than the equivalent to 3 ounces of gold, or its value in cash or trade goods. Zakat must be paid for gold and silver currency, cash, agricultural produce such as date farms, livestock, rent income, and business commodities such as inventory stock in a shop warehouse.

Islam requires Muslims to pay an annual contribution of 2.5 percent of the wealth and liquid assets they have accrued and held for over the course of one lunar year. Zakat is calculated on the person's earned net balance; that amount which remains after paying all other necessary expenses. Zakat is not an income tax, rather the amount due is based on what a Muslim has saved and held for an entire year, and not on their income level. Zakat is not paid from the pool of funds used for debt repayment, or necessary living expenses such as food, water, shelter, clothing, and transportation.

The recipients of Zakat are the poor, the needy individuals who live in turmoil, those who have accumulated much debt, captives, the Zakat administrators, and more recipients. Scholars state that the poor and the impoverished are the most important categories of people eligible to receive Zakat.

"Zakah expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy and for those employed to collect [Zakah] and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded] traveler - an obligation [imposed] by Allah. And Allah is Knowing and Wise"           (Quran 9:60)

The purpose of Zakat is to help those who cannot help themselves. Zakat can be given to an individual's extended family; however, one may not give this specified amount to his parents or his children, as one is already obligated to support them. When one offers Zakat in this world, he or she is really helping themselves; as they are transferring needed goodwill from their worldly life to their afterlife, which is the best investment one can make.

When one gives to someone in need, he shouldn't think of the gesture as a favor; instead, he is giving to God. The one giving is more in need of the beggar, than the beggar needs him. Whereas the beggar is in need only of money, the giver needs the Almighty's forgiveness.

"Do they not know that it is Allah who accepts repentance from His servants and receives charities and that it is Allah who is the Accepting of repentance, the Merciful?" (Quran 9:104) 

The benefits of giving in charity are many and varied. Amongst the benefits is the pleasure that God expresses to the one who gives. Zakat is known to extinguish the Wrath that the Almighty may hold for one who doesn’t give. Giving Zakat also protects one from the punishment of hellfire. The act of giving to the needy awakens the soul and initiates genuine concern and sympathy for the well-being of the underprivileged and others.

It is recommended to give charity in secrecy to ensure that one is offering for the right, pure reason, of pleasing God, and not to receive praise or to boast before others—both acts which would nullify good deeds. However, under certain circumstances--for instance, if one has the intention to encourage others to donate similarly one may give Zakat in public.

It's important to note that Zakat money needs to be given from an untainted pool of 100% pure and halal funds—not taken from thefts or bribes, nor profits from interest-based loans or from sales of alcohol, pork, drugs, or anything that is prohibited in Islam. God, the Almighty is Good and Pure and only accepts that which is good and pure. 

The second Pillar of Islam is the mandatory round of ritual prayers that every Muslim must perform five times every day. The Islamic method of Prayer is a ritualized form of worship, which involves the recitation of Verses from the Holy Quran and supplications to God; all while standing, bowing and prostrating. This mandatory act of worship is called Salah in Arabic and differs from the act of merely praying or supplicating to God in an impulsive act, just speaking one's mind. Instead, the Salah prayers demand a formalized structure in which one prays a certain way at specific times, as demonstrated to us by Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him; drawing direct inspiration from Angel Gabriel, who learned from God Himself.

The Arabic word ‘Salah’, which is generally translated as Prayer in English, is linguistically derived from the Arabic word meaning 'connection'; in that this mode of Prayer connects the servant with his Creator. Salah is a Muslim's way of establishing direct contact with God the Almighty. Salah represents a Muslim's affirmation of servanthood and submission to his Creator's Will. In Salah, a Muslim acknowledges his weakness and neediness by seeking and begging for God's guidance, mercy, grace, and forgiveness.

Salah, or this Islamic ritualized Prayer, is one form of worship amongst many in this beautiful faith. However, Salah holds an extraordinary status in Islam because Prayer builds a relationship between a servant and his Creator. Salah is considered the center pole of the Religion of Islam; whoever demolishes or denies this practice in their life, demolishes his or her Religion. According to Islamic Scholars, this is the only form of worship which—if neglected—would exclude the disobedient from the folds of Islam.

When prayer time arrives, one is expected to discontinue their present activity and pray to connect with God, the All-Merciful; refreshing his/her faith for his or her benefit. The act of Prayer helps to remind one why they are here in this world and for what purpose. Prayers help direct a person's thoughts and actions away from sin; from that which is not beneficial. Prayers redirect a believer's thoughts to the remembrance of God.

The Salah prayer is specifically a human form of worship. All other creatures of God, including animals and plants, submit without question to the Almighty in their unique way. Everything in the Sky and Earth declares Allah's perfection and worships Him in their way; a way in which we humans may not understand. All other creations of God are in continuous glorification, praise, and remembrance of God, and worship in their own way. Just like the other members of creation-worship Allah, man is expected to worship God.

"Do not you see that Allah - glorify Him whoever (is) in the Heavens and the Earth and the birds (with) wings outspread? Each one certainly knows its Prayer and its glorification. And Allah (is) All-Knower of what they do" (Quran 24:41)

Humanity was created for Prayer and Divine worship. God states in the Quran:

"And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me" (Quran 51:56)

God commands humanity to establish and perfect their Prayer, by praying properly with concentration and the utmost humility. Every Muslim must work and practice to improve their prayer technique, which is a lifetime commitment. Muslims must engage in a lifelong effort to master this art of communication with their Creator. The ones that fall into a habitual routine, reciting their words without concentration and humility, would miss the point of Prayer; not benefitting from their Prayer nearly as much as those who pray earnestly and with full concentration and mindfulness.

Neglecting mandatory Prayer is a grave sin in the Islamic faith. Allah, the Glorious shares a dialogue in the Holy Koran in which the residents of Paradise ask the people of the hellfire as to the reason for their condemnation and that condemned respond:

"They will say, 'We were not of those who prayed, nor did we used to feed the poor, and we used to indulge in vain talk with the vain talkers, and we used to deny the Day of Recompense, Until there came to us the certainty'"(Quran 74:43-47)

The state of one's Prayer will be the first thing that will be asked of each on the Great Day of Judgement. If one’s Prayers was in order, then everything else will fall into place. If one’s Prayer was not in order, then he will be doomed. The Messenger of Allah stated: ‘The first of man's deeds for which he will be called to account on the Day of Resurrection will be Salat. If it is found to be perfect, he will be safe and successful; but if it is incomplete, he will be unfortunate and a loser…" (At-Tirmidhi).

Prayer should be directed only to God the Almighty, as he is the Only One in full control of everything—including man's destiny. He is All-Powerful, All-Wise, All-Knowing, All-Hearing, and can fill anyone's needs and remove all of man's pain and miseries.

The Islamic ritual of Prayer expresses submission to God, showing humility to, devotion toward, and love of God. Praying to the Creator daily is the best way to build a personal connection with Him while seeking His guidance, Blessings, and Forgiveness. Muslims pray to God to gain spiritual strength and peace of mind and to strengthen the foundation of their faith. A Muslim temporarily steps out of his/her daily activities five times a day to connect to God; to stay mindful of Him in this world of stress, struggle, and distractions. Prayers remind Muslims that Allah is in control of all things so they can put their worldly concerns into perspective.

The Islamic prayer method and mode act as a spiritual diet. Such as the body requires food and water throughout the day, our spirit needs to partake in the remembrance and worship of God to stay spiritually healthy; is not the soul more valuable than the body?

When someone does another person a favor or helps them, it's human nature to want to thank that individual for their aid. Since God has blessed humanity with a countless number of favors, including one's wealth, health, family, and gifts of all kinds, a Muslim prays numerous times to thank Him throughout their day and night. The best way to demonstrate gratitude is through these five daily prayers.

The Islamic ritual prayers come with many benefits—in this world and the next—for the ones that engage in them sincerely and mindfully, with concentration and humility. Amongst the benefits of praying is that the act guards and protects a believer from sins and evil doings.

"Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish the Prayer. Indeed, the Prayer prevents from the immorality and evil deeds, and surely (the) remembrance (of) Allah (is) greatest. And Allah knows what you do" (Quran 29:45)

When one becomes lackadaisical in their worship or neglects Prayer altogether, he or she will experience the consequence of feeling distant from God; which may cause increased instances of sinning and evil doing. As they distance themselves from Prayer and the remembrance of God, they become easier targets for Satan to reach out to and tempt them. The one that guards and faithfully practices his prayers would be mindful of everything else that matters. The one that neglects his prayers would be neglectful of what matters in this life.

Amongst the many benefits of Prayer is the transformative power that Prayer has on a person. Prayer transforms a person's attitude, behavior, mentality, thoughts, and priorities; redirecting these elements to what really matters in life. Prayer softens one's heart towards Allah and his Creation. Muslims that are steadfast in their Prayer is continually looking to help others and have a genuine concern for them—not just themselves.

If one does not see the benefits and positive effects of their prayers, one should question their sincerity, humility, and concentration in praying. God references the fate of past generations who did not take advantage of their prayers—wasting them.

"But there came after them successors who neglected prayer and pursued desires; so, they are going to face Destruction" (Quran 19:59)

Salah (Prayer) is also connected to the state of our Ummah (Muslim community). If our Prayer is strong, then everything else in the state of our community will be healthy. Prayer solves those many problems our nation is facing.

Much like the pillars of a building, where one cannot move them and need to walk around them physically, a Muslim's life revolves around their five daily prayers; instead of casually trying to fit their prayers into their life. A Muslim's prayers are always their top priority in life; everything else comes secondary.

The five obligatory daily prayers for Muslims are:

• Fajr Prayer: From dawn to right before sunrise
• Zuhr Prayer: Just after noon (mid-day, when the sun passes the median point in the sky)
• Asr Prayer: Late part of the afternoon (halfway between noon and sunset)
• Maghrib Prayer: Directly after sunset
• Isha Prayer: Late evening, dark night (approximately an hour and a half after sunset)

The five daily Prayers set the rhythm of a Muslim's day. Prayers must be performed at their appointed due times unless a reasonable excuse exists to delay them. Prayers are prohibited to be postponed to where they overlap into the next Prayer's timeframe. 

Before the Prayer is begun, a Muslim is required to perform ablution (wudu in Arabic), which is the act of cleaning and purifying oneself from any physical bodily fluids such as blood, urine, or any impurity with water. The ritual of ablution comprises washing one's hands, face, arms, head, and feet. It's essential that a Muslim must be clean and free of impurities in his body, clothing, and the area in which the Prayer will be performed. One drop of waste matter present anywhere would void one's Prayer.

Prayers can either be performed individually or in a congregation with others at a Mosque (a Muslim place of worship) which is highly recommended for males.

In Muslim countries, Prayer is publicly announced to the community—not by bells—but by an Islamic chant or call of Prayer known as Adhan in Arabic. Prayer is commenced by standing up facing the direction of Mecca, in present-day Saudi Arabia, where the Holy House of God—known as the Kaaba—is situated. Muslims from all over the globe face the direction in which the first house was built for the worship of the One God. It's important to note that Muslims do not worship the Kaaba; instead, Muslims only use the Holy House as a direction to face while worshipping the One God, as instructed by God Himself.

During Prayer, Muslims are directed to disconnect themselves and clear their minds of any worldly matter as they are conversing with God. They pray to a God who is near, who is All-Loving, All-Hearing, All-Caring, All-Powerful. A Muslim is to concentrate on their words and humble themselves only to the Almighty. A Muslim affirms that God is the Master and that he or she is the servant and slave of God who needs the Almighty's direction, help, and guidance to the straight path. The Islamic Prayer is so sacred that it is prohibited for one to eat, drink, or hold a conversation as they pray.

Muslims are commanded to pray in how was taught by Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him. The Islamic prayer movements comprise standing, bowing, and prostrating. According to our Prophet, man is closest to God when he is in prostration. The Prayer comprises recitations from the Holy Quran, praises of the Almighty, and supplications seeking guidance, forgiveness, and more.

"And establish Prayer and give Zakah and bow with those who bow [in worship and obedience]" (Quran 2:43)

While not mandated, it is highly encouraged for one to awaken in the middle of the night to pray to God, as this is a common practice of righteous people.

The Islamic Prayer is a ritual which has been unchanged for more than 1400 years and is repeated five times a day by hundreds of millions of people all around the globe. Earlier Prophets and Messengers also performed Salah prayer, in which the act of prostration was involved. According to the Gospel of Mathew, Prophet Jesus fell with his face to the ground and prayed: ‘Going a little farther, he fell with his face to the ground and prayed: 'My Father, if it is possible, may this cup be taken from me. Not as I will, but as you will'"(Mathew 26:39) 

It's important to note that God is transcendent, free of all needs, and independent. He is in no need of human worship or reverence, as He gains nothing from it. Muslims do not pray or worship God for God's sake; instead, they praise and worship God for their own sake. God made worship and the remembrance of Him beneficial to mankind, both in this world and the next.

"And whoever strives only strives for [the benefit of] himself. Indeed, Allah is free from need of the worlds" (Quran 29:6)

The benefits of praying to the Almighty are vast, and the blessings of Prayer are beyond our imagination. Prayer motivates one to do good and strive for the best, so one can live a good life in this world--and in the next world, eternally.

"Indeed, I am Allah. There is no deity except Me, so worship Me and establish Prayer for My remembrance" (Quran 20:14)

The first of the Five Pillars of Islam is the Declaration or Testimony of Faith (called Shahada in Arabic), to which every Muslim must adhere. The word Shahada in Arabic linguistically translates to 'testifying, bearing witness.' The Shahada is the Islamic creed. The Shahada contains two parts, both of which a Muslim must testify to and believe.

The first part requires the believer to testify that no deity is worthy of worship, veneration, or complete devotion, other than Allah. A Muslim acknowledges that Allah has the exclusive right to be worshipped, venerated, loved, inwardly and outwardly, by one's heart, tongue, and limbs. A Muslim accepts Allah as the only God, Master, Lord, and Ruler. Allah is not a foreign God, as Allah is the Arabic name for God. Islam states that God has none partners or associates in worship. No other deity, being, or idol is worthy of worship. The act of worshipping any other besides Allah is the biggest sin in Islam; standing as the only sin that is not forgiven if a person dies in that state without repenting.

Regretfully, many have regarded certain historical figures as their gods and deities, who are wrongfully worshipped and venerated; whether they are idols, superstitions, saints, ideologies, ways of life, or any authority figures who claim to be divine or semi-divine--even though they themselves are creations and have no power to bring any benefit or harm to anyone.

"But they have taken besides Him gods which create nothing, while they are created, and possess not for themselves any harm or benefit and possess not [power to cause] death or life or resurrection" (Quran 25:3)

The belief in worshipping the One God is considered the central Message of all of God's Prophets and Messengers, who were sent to humanity to deliver His Message. This was the Message of Prophet Adam, Prophet Noah, Prophet Abraham, Prophet Moses, Prophet Jesus, and Prophet Muhamad; peace be upon them all.

"And We certainly sent into every nation a messenger, [saying], ‘Worship Allah and avoid false deities..." (Quran 16:36)

Through verbally stating these words, believing in them, acting and living upon them, one enters the fold of Islam. Merely saying these words verbally without action does not complete a Muslim.

The second part of the testimony requires the believer to testify that Prophet Muhammad is the Messenger of God. In accepting Prophet Muhammad as the 'seal of the Prophets,' one affirms the belief that his Prophecy confirms and fulfills all the previously revealed Messages beginning with Prophet Adam. Peace be upon him. Whereas Muslims believe in all the previous Messengers and Prophets of God, Islam states Prophet Muhamad is both a Messenger and Prophet of God; one who carries a higher role than all previous Messengers and Prophets before him. Prophet Muhammad was a mere mortal with no share in Divinity, who was chosen by God the Almighty, as the last and final Prophet to the last nation, our nation.

"Muhammad is not the father of [any] one of your men, but [he is] the Messenger of Allah and last of the prophets. And ever is Allah, of all things, Knowing" (Quran 33:40)

A Muslim is required to fully carry out in practice the instruction given by Prophet Muhammad, as commanded by God the Almighty. Prophet Muhammad also serves as the best role model for mankind that ever-stepped foot on Earth, by his exemplary life. Muslims are encouraged to attempt to follow and emulate Prophet Muhammad's examples, manners, generosity, good habits, politeness, respect, gentleness, noble feelings, and way of life to the best of their ability, reflecting an emphasis on Islam and the Holy Quran.

"There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day and [who] remembers Allah often" (Quran 33:21)

These two phrases are the most frequently repeated words in the world, as hundreds of millions of practicing Muslims repeat these words dozens of times throughout their day and through their prayers. It is recommended for a believer to say it when they first rise in the morning and before going to bed. These words reflect and encompass every dimension of a Muslim's life.

The Shahada (testimony of faith) is by far the essential aspect of Islam, as it affirms the belief in the Oneness and Uniqueness of Allah, upon which the whole Religion of Islam is built upon, and all other beliefs hinge. It is the central belief that a Muslim adheres to his entire life. Verbally stating these words and living by them is unquestionably the most significant and most important duty of a Muslim. Unless one acknowledges this testimony, he or she cannot be a Muslim.

Muslims strain to utter these words as their last spoken before departing this world since whoever does so has been promised the destiny of God-given Paradise. However, only the ones that lived and acted upon these words will be granted the ability to utter these blessed sentiments in the form of their final words.

The Religion of Islam is based upon Five Primary Foundations or Pillars. Just as a building would lack stability without the presence of strong pillars, a believer's relationship with God would lack a focus and a secure connection without the observance of and adherence to these five fundamental Pillars.

These Five Pillars or religious duties are mandatory; every Muslim is expected to follow and enact them with utmost devotion. Failure to comply and enact any of these dictates can lead to the commission of grave sin, some resulting even in the expulsion of a believer from the fold and faith of Islam.

These Five Pillars are mentioned individually throughout the Holy Quran and through narrations of Prophet Muhammad peace be upon him which are known as Hadith. The Five Pillars of Islam are:

Testimony of faith in the Oneness of God (Allah) and the last and final Prophet, Muhammad

Establishment of the Five Mandatory Prayers

Concern and almsgiving to the needy (Zakat in Arabic)

Fasting during the month of Ramadan (for Self-purification)

The Pilgrimage to Makkah (at least a once in a lifetime journey for those who can make and can afford it)

The first pillar, the declaration, and testimony of faith rank as the first of these vital, integral Pillars. The remaining principles relate to putting faith into action, as Muslims are required to apply their faith in behavior and practice. The other four Pillars are religious acts are to be performed either daily, once a year, or at least once in a lifetime toward the attainment and accomplishment of faith.

Similar to the Ten Commandments, these Pillars provide a spiritual foundation and a framework to facilitate a Muslim's life. Fulfillment of these Five Pillars provides blessings and rewards for the one following them, in both this life and the next. These Pillars help one establish a closer relationship with their Creator and build a spiritual connection with Him. A faithful Muslim prioritizes these Pillars over all worldly matters, principles or regulations in his or her life, as they form the foundation and starting point for all other good deeds and acts of worship to their Creator.