The Four Pillars of Islam

<p>This comprehensive work explores the <strong><em>spiritual social and intellectual dimensions of the four foundational acts of worship in Islam</em></strong>-Salat (prayer) Zakat (almsgiving) Saum (fasting) and Hajj (pilgrimage). Going far beyond mere ritual the author examines <strong><em>the deeper wisdom moral vision and civilizational relevance</em></strong> of these duties drawing from Qur'anic texts Prophetic traditions and classical Islamic scholarship.</p><p>Rather than treating these acts as isolated obligations the book reveals how they form <strong><em>an integrated framework that shapes both individual character and community life</em></strong>. With clarity and precision it highlights their <strong><em>inner meanings transformative effects and ethical implications</em></strong> while also addressing how these duties have been misrepresented or diluted under modern pressures.</p><p>The author's approach is not only rooted in classical sources including <strong><em>Shah Waliullah's seminal insights</em></strong> but is also mindful of contemporary challenges. This makes the book particularly useful for readers who seek to reconnect with Islamic practice <strong><em>without losing sight of spiritual purpose or social integrity</em></strong>.</p><p>The final chapters provide a <strong><em>comparative reflection on worship in other faiths</em></strong> offering a broader perspective on what distinguishes Islamic devotion in both form and spirit.</p><p>Essential for <strong><em>educators students of Islamic thought and anyone seeking a richer understanding of faith-based practice</em></strong> this book is both a resource and a renewal.</p><p><strong><em>A timeless guide that restores meaning to the pillars of Islam and offers a path back to purposeful devotion.</em></strong></p><p></p><p> </p><p> <strong>Gist of Subjects Covered in the Book (Summarised TOC)</strong></p><ul><li><ul><li><strong>Salat (Prayer)</strong></li><li> Explores its spiritual significance structure timing moral influence communal aspects (Azan mosques congregational prayers) and its parallels in other religions.</li><li><strong>Zakat (Almsgiving)</strong></li><li> Discusses its philosophy economic and ethical goals divine wisdom historical implementation societal reforms and contrast with charity in other faiths.</li><li><strong>Saum (Fasting)</strong></li><li> Covers the purpose benefits spiritual dimensions Qur'anic injunctions Ramadhan Itikaf Laylat al-Qadr and historical/cross-religious perspectives on fasting.</li><li><strong>Hajj (Pilgrimage)</strong></li><li> Delves into the symbolic and spiritual meanings rituals prophetic legacy (especially of Ibrahim) unity of Muslims and its role in renewing divine connection.</li><li><strong>Universal Themes and Reformative Role of Islam</strong></li><li> Includes concepts like divine attributes man's purpose moral development and how Islam revived and structured worship in contrast to distortions in earlier traditions.</li></ul></li></ul>