Hey everyone, Am back. It’s been a while but I just moved back home and is ready to write more about whatever comes to mind about Islam or whatever I feel like discussing at the time. Some updates may be longer then others. Always feel free to post any questions, comments, or concerns.

Now, Islam. What is Islam?

Islam is the name of a way of life. The name Islam means, among other things, peace, purity, submission and obedience. In short, peace and surrender. The definition means that when you surrender your will to Allah you will find peace in your soul.

What is a Muslim?

A Muslim is a self-surrendered one who is attaining peace. Muslims are only the followers of the of Islam. Not “Mohammedans.”

Who is Allah?

Allah, a Being Who is beyond our puny comprehension. He is the creator of all things. He is the all knower, all see-er. In Arabic, the word God is Allah. Allah isn’t only used by just Muslims, also I know of Christian Arabs who uses the same term referring to their God. Allah is one and unique. He has neither partner nor equal. He is the sole creator and sustainer of the entire universe. He is the God without whom no affairs are accomplished, and to whom lordship ultimately pertains. All creatures stand in need of Him, but he stands in need of none. He is omnipotent, the omniscient. Whose knowledge comprehends in the most perfect manner all things, hidden or evident. But he is far greater than to be encompassed but the knowledge of his creatures. His unbounded mercy is far greater then any. Allah’s justice ensures order in the universe, which has no defect. There is no one to share his domain, nor does he take aid or support from His creatures. He is the God of all worlds. Yet, He is nearer to a man then mans’ jugular vein.

Islam is based on the following Five Pillars:

~ 1. (Shahaadah)
~ 2. (Salat)
~ 3. (Zakat)
~ 4. (Saum)
~ 5. (Hajj)


Shahadah

The testification of Faith. To testify: “Ashadu an la illa Allah wa ashadu anna Mohammadan Rasulullah”, “None has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Mohammed is the Messenger of Allah.” This statement is necessary for anyone to be a Muslim. Whether you are a born Muslim or a convert (revert) to Islam. By stating so, one should strive hard thereafter to act according to this decree.

Salat

Five daily prayers.
~ The first prayer is ‘Fajir’ and it contains two Rak’aats {units}. It may be performed between dawn and sunrise.
~ The second prayer is ‘Duhur’ and it contains four Rak’aats. Can be performed right at the afternoon.
~ The third prayer is ‘Asr’ and this one contains also four Rak’aats. It is performed later in the afternoon.
~ The fourth ‘Magrib.’ This particular prayer is the only one which consists of three Ra’kaats. It is performed right at sunset.
~ The fifth and final prayer is ‘Isha.’ Consists of four Ra’kaats and is performed after the suns redness disappears from the horizon.
All prayers MUST be preceded by Wudu, which is, in brief, the washing of the hands, face, forearms and the feet.

Zakat

The word Islam is usually translated as “poor-due” or “charity.” But the words literally means, “To make clean; to make pure.” But how is that linked to the concept of charity? Quiet simple, the world and everything within it has the potential to distract us from our primary duty in life, to surrender our self to Allah. Money and worldly things causes greed, selfishness, jealousy, hatred, and all of that sort. Therefore, when we are made to let go of some of our worldly possessions, we are forcing ourselves to let go of some of the material things we love. “O you who believe! Don’t let your riches or your children divert you from the remembrance of Allah. If any do so then the loss is their own.” (63:9) By taking part in Zakat, our souls indeed. The forces of greed are put in check. The spirit of Islam is at its best when we learn to give freely for Allah’s sake.

Saum

Fasting, the fourth pillar of Islam. During the month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar lunar calendar. Every Muslim who meets certain requirements is required to fast. We all need food to survive but many abuse this act and ‘live only to eat’. They let their animals instincts take over them. Fasting is a way to train our stomachs to obey our mind.

Hajj

“And Hajj [pilgrimage to Mecca] to the House [Ka’bah] it is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who can afford the expenses”
This just means that if you can afford transportation expenses, food and residence expenses and has no reason such as any illness to prevent them, they should attend Hajj at least once in a life time.


This is enough for now. Just the basics of Islam. Will go further into the pillars when in future updates as we go along.