hzs202's Journal: A Break From Terror-Talk...

I have noticed many /. journals discussing Syria, Muslim's, Arabs and foreign relations. So I decided to add more to the pot. However, I wanted to lightly discuss an Islamic issue not related to current affairs but of Islam's highest principles, as I understand them.

By no means am I the most knowledgeable person on the subject of Islamic Law, however there are some basic things that I know and that is the fundamental principles of Islam are the Five Pillars of Islam (Submission) and they are:

The profession of faith in Allah (God) (Shahadah) - the declaration that there is none worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is his messenger.

Prayer (Salat) - establishing of the five daily Prayers.

The paying of alms (Zakat) - which is generally 2.5% of the total savings for a rich man working in trade or industry, and 10% or 20% of the annual produce for agriculturists. This money or produce is distributed among the poor. Also, one may give 25% of found treasure such as money won in a non-gambling lottery.

Fasting (Sawm) - refraining from eating, drinking or satisfying sexual needs from dawn to dusk in the month of Ramadan, the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar.

The Pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj) - this is done during the month of Zul Hijjah, and is compulsory once in a lifetime for one who has the ability to do it. If the Muslim is in ill health or in debt, he or she is not required to perform Hajj.

These fundamental principles are the heart and soul of practical life for Muslim's. There are many people who never have seen or heard of this before, so I thought I might post it in my journal so that those who are curious could read something about Islam that doesn't have to do with WTC, bombings or terror.

This is a peaceful post so please refrain from religious, political or anti-anything flames... I'm sure I'll give you another opportunity to flame me. Thank you.