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ORGANS (Pillars) OF ISLAM

Organs of Islam comprise of those basic principles and actions which
support the entire set up of this religion. The Holy Prophet says thus:

The building of Islam has been raised upon five pillars; The evidence that
only Allah Almighty is fit to worship and that Hazrat Muhammad is a
creature of Allah Almighty and his last Prophet; observance of Namaz; payment
of Zakat; performance of Hajj and keeping of Fasts in the month of Ramadhan.
KALIMA-E-SHAHADAT
The most important organ of Islam is Kalma-e-Shahadat which is given
as under:

I bear witness that there is no one fit to worship except Allah Almighty, He is one and
has no partner. I also bear witness that Muhammad is the Servent and
Messenger (of Allah).
With reference to the belief in Oneness of Allah Almighty a few points are
given below for further elaboration.
Importance of KALIMA-E-SHAHADAT:
KALIMA-E-SHAHADAT brings a revolution in the faith of a person. One
becomes Muslim by uttering this. One also becomes clean and upright.
Two Declarations:
There are two declarations in it. One is the declaration of the Oneness of
Allah Almighty and the second is the declaration of the Prophethood of Hazrat
Muhammad . Without these two declarations, one cannot become a faithful
Muslim.
1. Declaration of the Oneness of Allah:
The first part of Kalma Shahadat i.e.

I bear witness that there is no one fit to worship except Allah. He is one and has no
partner.
Is a declaration and recognition of the belief in the Oneness of Allah.
2. Declaration of The Prophethood of Muhammad :
The second part of the Kalima-e-Shahadat i.e.
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I also bear witness that Muhammad is the Servent and Messenger (of Allah).
It has been testified that Hazrat Muhammad is a creature of Allah
Almighty and His true Prophet, and that Din brought by him is true and valid.
Without declaration and affirmation of these two parts no one can
become Muslim.
Freedom from KUFR And SHIRK:
Apparently Tauheed and Risalat (The Oneness of Allah Almighty and
Prophethood) are two separate matters but actually these are two aspects of the
same reality. It is not possible to have a faith in Allah Almighty without having a
faith in the Prophet and vice versa. A faith in the Holy Prophet implies
a faith in his teachings. Therefore when a person sincerely reads out Kalima-e-
Shahadat with a belief in its contents he gets rid of all concepts of Kufr and Shirk.
A REAL TESTIMONY:
The requirements of testimony are fulfillled when a person accepts that
only Allah Almighty is fit to worship and Hazrat Muhammad is His true and
last Prophet. However, it is necessary that a person who utters Kalma-e-Shahadat
verbally must also sincerely and faithfully believe its contents and follow the
dictates of Allah Almighty and His Prophet in every day life. All his desires
and demands should be subjected strictly to the teachings of Islamic Shariah.
Hazrat Muhammad says thus:

No one amongst you can be a perfect believer unless all his desires are subject to my
Shariah.
CONCLUSION:
A study of Islamic history shows that when the Muslims followed the beliefs
in the Oneness of Allah Almighty and Prophethood of Muhammad in letter
and spirit and fashioned their lives in accordance with the Islamic Shariah they
reached the heights of greatness. But when they paid only lip service to these
beliefs they were ruined and lost their prestige.
May Allah Almighty bless us with true faith!

NAMAZ
Islam is a complete code of life which does not end with acceptance of certain
beliefs by its followers but it lays down a system of prayers and obligations which
consists of Namaz, Zakat, Fasting, and Hajjj. The first and foremost of these articles
is Namaz. Allah Almighty says in the Holy Quran:

Establish regular prayers, and be not ye among those who join gods with Allah
Almighty.
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In many Hadiths the Holy Prophet has emphasized the observance of

Namaz. In one Hadith the Holy Prophet says:
The real foundation of Din is submission to Allah Almighty and His Prophet
. Namaz is the pillar of Din.
Meaning and Definition of :

Is an Arabic word which means "to pray" or "to be near". This is the
physical worship that is binding on the faithful at a certain time five times a day.
This is the second pillar of Islam.
The Emphasis on NAMAZ:
Namaz is the most important part of religious training. Therefore, it has
been made compulsory for every Ummah. All the Prophets preached the
observance of Namaz to their followers. It has been declared in the Holy Quran
that observers of Namaz will attain welfare and success in their life and its shirkers
will face disgrace and humiliations.
NAMAZ IN THE LIGHT OF THE HOLY QUR'AN
In the Holy Qur'an more than 700 times offering of NAMAZ is advised.
1. In a verse of the Holy Quran it has been mentioned that the angels deputed
to torture the dwellers of hell would ask them the cause of their torture they
would say that one reasons for this punishment is:

They will say, we were not of those who prayed.

2. It is obligatory for all the faithful to offer NAMAZ:

Say to My servants who have believed, that they should establish regular prayer.
3. To offer prayer with other believers is advised as:

And establish prayer and pay the Zakat (poor-rate) and bow down with those who
bow down.
4. To offer prayer is for the believers like providing the witness of faith
in Almighty Allah Almighty:

And establish regular prayer for my remembrance.

5. By offering Prayer one seeks the help of Allah Almighty:

And seek help through patience and prayer.

6. Namaz ‫صلوة‬
ٰ safeguards a person from sins:
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Surely prayer forbids (one from) indecency and sin.

NAMAZ IN THE LIGHT OF HADITH

The Holy Prophet repeatedly advised to keep the Namaz alive.

Following are some Hadiths about the importance of Namaz:
1. After including a belief in Allah Almighty the most important order to the
believer is observance of Namaz. Therefore, the Holy Prophet has said:
The real foundation of Din is submission to Allah Almighty and His
Prophet and Namaz is the pillar of Din.
2. It is similar to have a conversation with Allah Almighty:

The person who offers Namaz in fact indulges in a quiet conversation with Allah
Almighty
3. Namaz is as imporatant for Islam as a pillar for the erection of a building:
Namaz is a pillar of Din
4. The very first question on the day of judgment will be about Namaz:

First of all you will have to render the account of Namaz on the day of judgment
5. Namaz is the differentiating action between the believers and the non-
believers.

The person who deliberately gives up Namaz follows the way of non-believers
6. The Holy Prophet declared that if he had not the consideration for
their wives and children, he would have put the houses of people not offering their
prayers, on fire.
THE ADVANTAGES OF NAMAZ
The advantages of NAMAZ are as under:
1. A Sense of Submission to The Will of Allah:
When a man presents himself before Allah Almighty five times a day to offer
his prayers he remains conscious that he is a believer of Allah Almighty. Regular
prayers develop a sense of submission to the will of Allah Almighty in the heart of a
Muslim. This enables him to lead his life in accordance with the commands of Allah
Almighty.
4
:
Thee do we worship, and Thine aid we seek.
2. Consciousness of Allah's Presence:
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During the prayers five times a day a Muslim is convinced that Allah Almighty
is always with him. He never feels himself alone.

The person who offers Namaz in fact indulges in a quiet conversation with Allah.
3. Liberty from all kind of Fears:
The consciousness of Allah Almighty's presence makes him avoid sins and
keeps his heart free of all kinds of fears and sorrows.

Verily those who say, "Our Lord is Allah," and remain firm (on that path),- on them
shall be no fear, nor shall They grieve.
4. Physical and Spiritual Purgation:
The good effects of Namaz continue during the intervals between five Namaz.
After offering his prayers if a man thinks of committing a sin, he at once remembers
that he has just prayed to Allah Almighty to save him from sin. If he commits a sin
how he would face Allah Almighty in the next prayers. This enables him to avoid evil
deeds permanently.

Surely prayer forbids (one from) indecency and sin.

4. Mutual Affection and Intimacy:
The people who meet one another five times a day during prayers develop
mutual affection and intimacy which is beneficial for all.

The believers are but a single Brotherhood.

5. A Sense of Collective Unity:
Congregational prayers specially Jumma and Eid Prayers develop a sense of
collective unity among Muslims.

And hold fast, all together, by the rope which Allah Almighty (stretches out for you),
and be not divided among yourselves.
6. Practical Demonstration of Equality:
When the Muslims stand side by side in one row during Salat there is a feeling
of equality among them. Everyone the rich, the poor, the leader and the worker all
are equal near to Allah Almighty.

Verily the Most honoured of you in the sight of Allah is (He who is) the Most
righteous of you.
7. Reward for Congregational Prayer:
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The effects of collective actions of a community have a greater impact as

compared with individual actions. Therefore, the reward for congregational prayer
is twenty seven times more than the Namaz of an individual.
8. Lesson for Piety:
When the Muslims come to mosque to offer their prayers the defaulters also
follow their suits and become regular in the observance of Namaz.
9. Discipline:
The appointment of an Imam to lead the prayers ensures collective discipline.
10. Punctuality:
Observation of prayer at a certain time teaches punctuality and one becomes
aware of the value of time.

Prayers are enjoined on believers at stated times.

INEFFECTUAL PRAYERS:
The question arises as to why the above advantages are not available to us
despite observance of Namaz on our part. As a matter of fact we offer our prayers
just as a matter of routine without being conscious of the meanings of the verses and
prayers uttered during the course of Namaz. We have no consciousness that we are
present before Allah Almighty and seeking His help and blessings. We do not give
any impression that we are aware of the most important object of offering prayers:

Surely prayer forbids (one from) indecency and sin.

In fact our prayers are without any purpose. These are just like a flower
without fragrance or a body without soul.
May Allah Almighty bless us with the real blessings of NAMAZ!
FASTING
Roza is a fundamental organ of Islam and according to the Holy Qur'an it
was also made compulsory for the previous Ummahs. Allah Almighty says:

O ye who believed fasting is prescribed to You as it was prescribed to those before you,
that ye may (learn) self-restraint.
The above verse indicates that Roza is compulsory and its compulsion is to
attain piety.
Meaning:
In Arabic language is used for Fasting. The word means to stop
oneself from an action, to abstain or to control oneself.
Definition:
In religious terms Fasting is to stop oneself from eating, drinking and all
other desires for the whole day (from dawn to dusk) throughout the month of
Ramadhan.
Purpose of Fasting:
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According to the Holy Qur'an purpose of Fasting is to achieve (Taqwa)

piety.

That ye may (learn) self-restraint

TAQWA:
Taqwa means piety. It is a state of mind and heart which prevents a
man from evil deeds and persuades him to perform good actions.
Importance of Fasting:
Fasting is one of the basic pillars of Islam. The importance of Fasting is as
under:
According to the Holy Qur'an:
1. The Holy Qur'an makes it clear that Fasting was also made compulsory to
the previous Ummahs.

As it was prescribed to those before you

2. It is binding upon every Muslim to observe Fast during the month of
Ramadhan.

1
85
:
So whosoever of you comes by the (Holy) month let him fast for the whole month.
3. Fasting has been made compulsory during the month of Ramadhan to
make a man pious through fasting and enable him to derive true benefit from the
Holy Quran:

The Holy month of Ramadhan in which was sent down the Glorious Qur'an as a
guidance to mankind.
According to Hadith:
The importance of Fasting can be understood through the following
Hadiths of the Holy Prophet :
1. Fasting is more than hunger and thirst:
Fasting does not mean to bear thirst and hunger but it develops the capacity
to restrain a man from all acts, which violate the Shariah. The Holy Prophet
said:

If a person does not shun lying and misdeeds during his fasting Allah Almighty has
no concern with his doing away with eating and drinking.
2. Safety From the Fire of Hell:
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The most important factor to motivate man to follow the path of goodness
or to adopt the evil way is the selfish desire of man. If desires are subjected to the
commands of Allah Almighty man's individual as well as collective welfare is
promoted. In case human desires violate the will of Allah Almighty a man is
degraded to animal level. The real object of fasting is to make man pious by
subjecting his desires to the dictate of Allah Almighty. Even if a person arranges
for the Iftar of a FAST will be rewarded with forgiveness as the Prophet said:

A person who arranges Iftar of a keeper of fast will ensure forgiveness of his sins
and safety from the fire of Hell. He will get a reward equal to the reward of the keeper
of fast in addition to his own reward.
3. Reward for Fasting:
The Holy Prophet said, fasting when restored to with faith in Allah
Almighty and seeking His pleasure will be fitly rewarded as is evident from the
following Hadith.

Allah Almighty rewards for the good deeds of a man tenfold to seven hundred fold
but reward for fasting is of a special nature. Allah Almighty says that keeping a fast
is exclusive for Him and He would Himself decide its reward.
BENEFITS OF FASTING
When a man maintains a complete check over his desires for eating,
drinking and worldly pleasures throughout the month of Ramadhan, and avoids
other moral evils and spends most of his time in prayers and good deeds he
develops a taste for goodness and repulsion for evil. Roza is not only training for
a man to control his desires but is also an effective cure of his negative egoism.
INDIVIDUAL BENEFITS:
Self Control:
A person who keeps fasts for one month every year and completes an
exercise to control his basic desires he attains such a power of self control which
enables him to avert every persuasion of the evil (Satan).
Piety:
When a man finds himself incapable of eating and drinking despite extreme
hunger and thirst he becomes conscious of his helplessness before Allah Almighty,
and when this feeling becomes permanent it enables a man to avoid every action
contrary to Shariah.
Remission of Sins:
The Holy sense of accountability ensures remission of all previous sins of the
believer.
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Physical Health:
Fasting for a period of one month and remaining hungry for the most part of
the day is very much beneficial for physical health.
The Collective Benefits of Fasting:
Although Roza is an individual act of WORSHIP, yet it has many collective
benefits detailed as under:
Feelings for the poor:
When a man remains hungry and thirsty throughout the month of fasting
he becomes conscious of the hunger and thirst of other people and develops
sympathy for the poor.
Passion for Sacrifice:
A man becomes habitual to the use of less food and this develops qualities
of contentment and sacrifice in a man. He becomes ready to help the needy.
Sense of Unity:
The entire Muslim Ummah remains busy in fasting throughout the world.
This creates Muslim understanding and unity. From this point of view the month
of Ramadhan is called the month of Sharing of Sorrows.
THE SIGNIFICANCE OF RAMADHAN-UL-MUBARAK:
Following are the points that clarify the significance of Ramadhan:
A Memorial to the Revelation of The Holy Quran:
The month of Ramadhan is the Holy month in which the Holy Qur'an was
revealed. Allah Almighty has declared:

Ramadhan is the month in which was sent down the Quran.

Laila-tul-Qadr:
Ramadhan is the moth in which there is a night equal to 1000 months.

The Laila-tul-Qadr (Night of Power) is better than a thousand months.

Three Decades:
The Holy month of Ramadhan can be divided into three decades.
According to a Hadith, the First decade is called REHMAT, the second decade is
called MAGHFIRAT and the third decade is called Liberty from the fire of Hell.
RAMADHAN AND PAKISTAN:
Ramadhan-ul-Mubarak is a month of blessing and forgiveness for Muslims
throughout the world but this month is significant for the Muslims of Pakistan
that Allah Almighty blessed us with the gift of freedom during one blessed night
of the month of Ramadhan. The formation of Pakistan on the twenty seventh night
of the Ramadhan guides us to the fact that a system of life based on the teachings
of the Holy Quran should be enforced in this country. We demanded Pakistan for
the object of enforcing Islamic system of life in the country. From this point of
view the month of Ramadhan provides us an opportunity to celebrate the
anniversary of Pakistan and also renew our pledge made with Allah Almighty to
make it an Islamic state in the real sense.
INEFFECTUAL FASTING:
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Now a days our fasting does not produce the blessings and benefits
indicated above. The reason is that we are indifferent to the real objective of
fasting, i.e. self control. We do not observe the important condition of fasting as
well as lack true faith and sense of accountability.
CONCLUSION:
In short, Fasting is a matchless Islamic institution which teaches man the
principle of sincere love to Allah Almighty. Fasting teaches man a creative sense
of hope, devotion, patience, unselfishness, moderation, willpower, wise saving,
sound budgeting, mature adaptability, healthy survival, discipline, spirit of social
belonging, unity and brotherhood.
May Allah Almighty bless us with real blessings of Roza and Ramadhan!
ZAKAT
[The Poor Rate] (The Obligatory Charity)
The economic system is basic to the formation of human society. Therefore,
Allah Almighty has laid down the best guideline to run an economic system as in
the case of social system. Economic justice can be maintained following these
guidelines: If these are ignored injustice takes roots which give rise to many other
evils. Zakat is of primary importance in the economic system prescribed by Allah
Almighty.
Meaning:
The Arabic word has been derived from which means "to purify".
By giving Zakat, the giver's heart is purified from the love of wealth.
Definition:
The Holy Prophrt described Zakat as wealth taken from the rich and
given to the poor. Zakat, the backbone of the economic system of Islam, is also
called poor-rate or poor-tax. It is really a welfare tax.
IMPORTANCE OF ZAKAT
Zakat was made compulsory in the SECOND year of Hijrat and its detailed
were told in Nineth year of Hijrat .The importance of Zakat is as under:
IN THE LIGHT OF THE HOLY QURAN:
We may have an idea of the importance of Zakat from the fact that in the
Holy Quran payment of Zakat has been emphasised along with observance of
Namaz at most places.

And be steadfast In prayer; practise regular charity;

Zakat is a kind of prayer through spending of money where Namaz is a
prayer where a man experiences physical exertion.
PURGATION OF HEART AND PURIFICATION OF SOUL:
Zakat means to purify. A person who make payment of Zakat not only
purifies his wealth but purifies his heart and gets rid of the greed for wealth. Love
for money is replaced by love for Allah Almighty. He sacrifices wealth at the
command of Allah Almighty. When he pays Zakat he realizes that he is not the
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owner of wealth earned by him. In fact his wealth is a trust granted by Allah
Almighty. This consciousness saves him from monetary irregularities and all his
actions are subjected to the commands of Allah Almighty. So it was advised to the
Holy Prophet .

Of their goods take alms, that so thou mightest purify and sanctify them.
FORGIVENESS OF SINS AND INCREASE IN WEALTH:
When a man spends his wealth at the commands of Allah Almighty such
wealth is treated as a loan to Allah Almighty and Allah Almighty commits to
return this loan, increasing it many fold and also forgives sins. Allah Almighty
says in the Holy Quran:

If ye loan to Allah, a beautiful loan,He will double it to your (credit) and He will
grant you Forgiveness: For Allah is most ready to appreciate (service) most
forebearing.
PENALTY FOR NON-PAYMENT OF ZAKAT:
The people who do not pay Zakat are described by Allah Almighty as
under:

And there are those who bury gold and silver and spend it not in the way of Allah;
announce unto them a most grievous penalty.
A SOURCE OF ALLAH'S BLESSINGS:
According to the Holy Quran the payment of Zakat is a source of acquiring
blessings of the world hereafter and salvation from the torture of hell. This is indeed
a great blessing.

Those who believe, and do deeds of righteousness, and establish regular prayers and
regular charity.
RIGHT OF THE POOR AND THE NEEDY:
Allah Almighty has declared Zakat as a right for the poor and the needy as
it is said in the Holy Quran:

And those in whose wealth is a recognised right. For the beggar and the destitute.
IMPORTANCE OF ZAKAT IN THE LIGHT OF HADITH:
According to the Holy Prophet economic matters are an important
part of the religion. He emphasized on the payment of Zakat as under:
1. ZAKAT AS A TREASURE OF ISLAM:
The Prophet declared Zakat as the treasure of Islam as he said:
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Zakat is the treasure of Islam

Zakat is the treasure that is spent for the welfare of mankind not for the
luxuries of the rulers.
2. ZAKAT SAFEGUARDS THE PROPERTY:
By the payment of Zakat one gets his property safe from all sorts of dangers
as the Prophet said:

Safeguard your wealth by paying Zakat

3. PUNISHMENT FOR THE NON-PAYMENT OF ZAKAT:
The Holy Prophet announced a painful punishment for the people who
store their wealth and do not pay (poor-rate) Zakat. He said:
"The people who store wealth and do not pay Zakat, on the day of
judgment their wealth will become a poisonous snake and will bite them saying:

I am your wealth, I am your treasure"

ZAKAT AND THE FIRST CALIPH OF ISLAM:
In view of the importance of the Zakat Hazrat Abu baker Siddique (R.A)
carried out Jehad against the defaulters of Zakat, although they were believers.
Hazarat Abu Bakar (R.A) declared that he would ensure strict observance of
Namaz and Zakat during his life time.
MINIMUM LIMIT OF WEALTH FOR PAYMENT OF ZAKAT :
The payment of Zakat is compulsory for people who are in possession of a
certain quantity of gold, silver, money or trade goods, This specific quantity is
called Nisab. The Nisab of different articles is as under:
1. Gold: 7½ Tolas
2. Silver: 52½ Tolas
3. Money or trade goods:
Equivalent to the value of Nisab prescribed in the case of gold or silver.
Ratio for deduction of Zakat is 2.5 % means 40th part.
4. Goats or Sheep: 40 in numbers
5. Cows or Buffalows: 30 in numbers
6. Camels: 05 in numbers
Zakat is due on the Nisab when it remains in the possession of the owner
for one year.
LEGITMATE HEADS OF ZAKAT

Allah Almighty has determined the legitimate heads for distribution of Zakat.
Allah Almighty says in the Holy Quran:
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Alms are for the poor and the needy, and those employed to administer the (funds);
for those whose hearts have been (recently) reconciled (to Truth); for those in
bondage and in debt; in the cause of Allah Almighty; and for the wayfarer: (thus is
it) ordained by Allah Almighty, and Allah Almighty is full of knowledge and wisdom.
1. THE DESTITUTE:
The people who are totally poor, who have neither material possessions nor
means of livelihood are called destitute .
2. THE NEEDY:
The people who are with insufficient means of livelihood to meet basic
needs are called the needy.
3. ZAKAT COLLECTORS:
Payment of salaries to the staff who are appointed to collect Zakat.
4. NEW MUSLIMS:
Aid to the people who are newly convert to Islam to console them.
5. SLAVES AND PRISONERS:
To assist slaves and to meet the expenses to liberate the people who are
undergoing imprisonment.
6. THE INDIGENT:
One who is in debt; for the clearance of loans of indigent people.
7. IN THE WAY OF ALLAH:
To meet the expenses of Jehad and assist the people who undertake the
preaching of Islam.
8. TRAVELERS:
To aid the traveler who needs money during the journey although at home
he is capable of paying Zakat.
The payment of Zakat at collective level is compulsory in an Islamic State.
However, if Muslims are living under an un-Islamic government the Zakat should
be paid through organizations or other cooperative bodies.
SOME PRINCIPLES OF PAYMENT OF ZAKAT:

1 Zakat is payable only by the Muslims.

2. Members of the family who are dependents e.g. mother, father, son,
daughter, wife etc, are not eligible to receive Zakat. However, Zakat may
be preferably distributed among the far relatives in preference to other.
3. Generally Zakat collected from a town should be distributed among the
deserving inhabitants of that town, However, if there are no deserving
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recipients in that town or there exists any emergency condition e.g., flood,
earthquake, famine etc. Zakat can be distributed outside that town.
4. The distribution of Zakat, should be made to the deserving after full
satisfaction about there eligibility.
5. The requisite goods can also be purchased out of Zakat for distribution
amongst the needy.
6. The deserving recipient need not be told that the money or goods given to
him pertain to Zakat.
The blessing and benefits of Zakat can materialize only when the will of
people keep in view the blessing and approval of Allah Almighty as their basic
guideline. An effort should be made to perpetuate the collective system of recovery
and distribution of Zakat for all times to come.
BENIFITS OF ZAKAT

Zakat is the pillar of Islam. It is in fact the foundation of Islamic economic

system. It helps the society to become a welfare society. Some of its advantages are as
under:

(A) ECONOMIC BENEFITS

DISTRIBUTION OF WEALTH:
In the economic system based on interest, capital has more utility than
labour. As a result, the workers become poorer and the capitalist deprives them
of their wealth through different tactics. In this way, the economic system is
paralysed. Zakat is the best solution of this problem. Through this system a
sizeable portion of wealth is transferred from the rich classes to the poor classes.
The economic condition of the poor is improved. This fact is described by the Holy
Quran thus:

That it become not a commodity between the rich among you

ERADICATION OF USURY (Interest on Loan):
Zakat helps in eradicating usury as the gulf between the rich and the poor
decreases and social co-operation increases.

Allah Almighty will deprive usury of all blessing, but will give increase for deeds of
charity.
ECONOMIC GROWTH:
Distribution and division of wealth decreases the gulf between the rich and
the poor thus the result is economic growth. As the rate of Zakat is only 2½% the
wealthy person pays it willingly and honestly as compared to the payment of other
heavy taxes. Zakat promotes investment whereas heavy taxes result in the
concealment of capital and weakness of national economy.
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INCREASE IN INVESTMENT:
The wealthy person is compelled to invest his wealth in some profitable
business to make up for the deficiency on account of Zakat. In this way, investment
grows.
(B) SOCIAL BENEFITS
LOVE BETWEEN THE RICH AND THE POOR:

Distribution of Zakat among the poor by the rich creates passion of love
among the poor for the rich.
END OF SOCIAL EVILS:
Wealth in a society is like blood in the human body. If all the blood is
concentrated in the heart (i.e. the rich classes) all other organs in the body (i.e.
people) will be paralysed and ultimately damage the heart. If the poor classes
suffer from poverty, the rich classes will fall a victim to moral diseases like luxury,
love for comfort and ignorance to the life hereafter. Obviously both these classes
will develop jealously and hatred for each other. The tension will grow gradually
with the passage of time and produce undesirable consequences. Payment of Zakat
reduces all these dangers and purifies not only the wealth but also the heart of
faithful.
PASSION FOR SACRIFICE:
Payment of Zakat produces passion of sacrifice and welfare among the
masses. Thus, a society becomes a real human society.
ETERNAL SUCCESS:
Payment of Zakat is a source of eternal success. As it is delared in the Holy
Qura'n:

Who are active in deeds of charity…

In view of all these individual as well as collective benefits, the Holy Prophet
Hazrat Muhammad Mustafa was directed immediately after the
establishment of Islamic state in Madina.

Of their goods take alms, that so thou mightest purify and sanctify them.
THE ROLE OF ISLAMIC GOVERNMENT:

An Islamic government immidiately after its establishment is bound to

establish a complete system of Zakat. All the Muslims have to pay Zakat to the
collectors of the government. If, however, the Muslims are under non-Muslim rule,
they should pay Zakat to organizations or institutions, which operate on the basis
of mutual co-operation.
CONCLUSION:
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Zakat has a deep humanitarian and social-political value; for example, it

frees society from class warfare, from ill feelings and distrust and from corruption.
Although Islam does not hinder private enterprise or condemn private possession, it
does not tolerate selfish and greedy capitalism. Islam adopts a moderate but positive
and effective course between individual and society, between the citizen and the state,
between capitalism and socialism, between materialism and spiritualism.

HAJJ
Muslims from all walks of life, from every corner of the globe assemble in
Makkah in response to the call of Allah Almighty. There is no royalty, but there is
loyalty of all to Allah Almighty, the Creator. It is to commemorate the Divine
rituals observed by the Prophet Abraham and his son Ismael ,
who were the first pilgrims to the house of Allah Almighty on earth: the Ka'abah.
It is also to remember the great assembly of the Day of Judgement when people
will stand equal before Allah Almighty.
LITERAL MEANING:
The literal meaning of the word Hajj is the will and desire to visit.
DEFINITION:
"In the terminology of Shariah, it means the will to visit the Holy Ka'abah
which was the first structure built by Hazrat Adam (A.S) for the worship of Allah
Almighty."
Hajj is a pilgrimage to Makkah, at least once in a lifetime and it is
obligatory upon every Muslim male and female who is mentally, physically and
financially fit. It is the largest annual convention of faith on earth.
SIGNIFICANCE AND IMPORTANCE OF HAJJ:
Hajj is one of the fundamental institutions of Islam. Its significance is as
under:
IN THE LIGHT OF THE HOLY QUR'AN
1. A COMPULSORY RELIGIOUS DUTY:
According to the Holy Qur'an Hajj is compulsory only on those who are
sound of mind, adults and have the provision of travel as it is said:

Pilgrimage thereto is a duty owe to Allah Almighty, those who can afford the journey;
2. PUNISHMENT FOR REFUSAL TO PERFORM HAJJ:
All those Muslims who fulfill the obligation and yet abstain from
performing Hajj once in their life time give a lie to their being Muslims. It is said:

And if anyone deny faith; Allah Almighty stands not in need of any of His creatures;
It means that this comprehensive prayer has been made compulsory for the
sake of Allah Almighty. Allah Almighty has such a right over His creatures but
He wants to shower blessings and benefits to human beings through this prayer.
3. PROHIBITION OF FIGHT AND QUARREL:
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Peace is the dominant theme of Hajj. Peace with Allah Almighty, with one's
soul, with one another, with all living creatures. To disturb the peace of anyone or
any creature in any shape or form is strictly prohibited.

Let there be no obscenity, nor wickedness, nor wrangling in the Hajj.

4. THE BEST PROVISION FOR HAJ:
It is allowed to fetch necessities alongwith while going to Hajj yet it is also
declared that the best provision is piety:

And take a provision (With you) for the journey, but the best of provisions is right
conduct.
IN THE LIGHT OF HADITH
1. REMISSION OF SINS:
The greatest benefit of the performance of Hajj is the total remission of
sins. The Holy Prophet has declared;

Anyone who performs Hajj in compliance with the command of Allah Almighty and
shuns evil deeds during Hajj returns as innocent as a newly born child.
This arrangement to cleanse and chastise the sinners in this world is a token
of the mercy and blessing of Allah.
2. PUNISHMENT FOR REFUSAL TO PERFORM HAJJ:
It is the height of ingratitude and misfortune if we do not avail ourselves of
this opportunity. The Holy Prophet says:

If a person, who can afford to perform Hajj and there is nothing to obstruct his way
e.g., a pressing need, a tyrant king or a disease, fails to perform Hajj and dies, dies
not as a Muslim but will die as Jew or a Christian.
3. REWARD OF HAJJ:

The Holy Prophet , about the reward of performing Hajj said:

Hajj accepted and approved by Allah Almighty is rewarded with paradise

RITES OF HAJJ
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The rites of Hajj centre on complete submission and devotion to Allah

Almighty. At the same time, they serve as an example of total submission and
obedience of Prophet Ibrahim , especially his willingness to sacrifice what
he loved most in the world, his son Ismail , at Allah's Command. The main
RITES of Hajj are as follow:
MEEQAAT:
It is the place beyond where from no one can proceed to Makkah to
perform Hajj and Umra without putting on THE EHRAM otherwise he shall have
to offer sacrifice.
THE EHRAM:
Ehram, two white sheets of unsewn cloth is the prescribed dress of Hajj.
TAWAF:
The literal meaning of the word TAWAF is to go round (to move
round). The pilgrims walk seven times around the Ka'abah. This is called Tawaf.
One circle around Ka'abah during Tawaf is called Shaut . There are three
major types of Tawaf:
Tawaf-e-Qadoom:
It is Sunnat and is performed on entering Masjid-Haram.
Tawaf-e-Ziarat:
It is also called "Tawaf-e-Rukn". It is a Rukn or obligatory component of
Hajj and must be performed between the dawn of 10th and 12th of Zil-Hajj.
Tawaf-e-Widaa:
This is performed at the time of departure and is WAJIB for all those
performing Umra.
SAYI:
Sayi is running seven times between the SAFA and MARWA . These
two hills are close to the well of ZAM ZAM . It was between these two hills
that Hazrat Hajra , wife of Hazrat Ibrahim , ran in search
of water for her infant son, Hazrat Ismail . This ritual expresses respect for
maternal love and gratitude to Allah Almighty Who made the sacred spring of
ZAM ZAM appear.
JOURNEY TO MINA:
On the 8th Zil-Hajj the Pilgrims journey to Mina, a plain which lies
between Arafat and Makkah.The Pilgrims must reach there before noon so that
the Zuhr prayer may be performed there.
WUQUF-e-ARAFAT:
On the 9th of Zil-Hajj which is called Yaum-e-Arafah the pilgrims should
leave Mina after the Fajr prayer and move on to the plain of Arafat. The stay in
the plain of Arafat is called WUQUF-e-ARAFAT (The Assembly at
Arafat). This stay at Arafat is the supreme experience of Hajj and is also the most
important part of Hajj, without it Hajj would be incompete.
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RAMI OF JAMARAT:
Rami is the symbolic ceremony of stoning the Satan held at Mina.
Rami is performed on 10, 11 and 12 Zil-Hajj.
SACRIFICE:
On the 10th of Zil-Hajj at Mina the pilgrims offer a sacrifice in memory of
Hazrat Ibrahim who was willing to sacrifice his son Hazrat Ismail
at the command of Allah Almighty.
HALQ (Head Shave):
After the sacrifice, the male pilgrims should shave his head and a female
pilgrim may clip a lock of hair only. After this the pilgrims are no longer in
EHRAM.
IT IS COMPREHENSIVE
Hajj is such a prayer as contains the essence of all other prayers. From the
point of departure for Hajj till his return a Muslim offers his Namaz regularly and
gets closer to Allah Almighty. When he spends money for Hajj it is similar to
payment of Zakat. When he controls his sensual desires and avoids moral evils he
undergoes a state of fasting. Leaving his home enduring the hardship of travel are
similar to the efforts of Jehad. Hazrat Ayesha Siddiquah (R.A) quotes the Holy
Prophet as under:
"The greatest Jehad is the performance of Hajj”
Keeping in view the saying of the Holy Prophet Hazrat Umer (R.A)
used to say:
"Be prepared for Hajj because it is also a kind of Jehad"

THE FEELINGS OF THE VISITORS OF KAA'BA

If we consider the rites of Hajj we will appreciate that every step implies a
moral and spiritual training of a Hajji. When a person leaves his nears and dears,
shuns worldly pursuits, covers himself with two unsewn sheets, and presents himself
with two unsewn sheets, and presents himself at the Bait Ullah Sharif raising the
cries of this journey becomes a journey towards the world hereafter.
While performing the rites of Hajj in a pure atmosphere he experiences
strange feelings. In Medan-e-Arafat he remembers the tidings of Allah Almighty
that in the form of Islam he had perfected their religion as a great gift. He also
remembers the unique commands of the Holy Prophet uttered during his last
address that the Muslims should uphold the Holy Quran and Hadith to remain on
the right path. When offering sacrifice, he remembers the great sacrifices of
Hazrat Ibrahim. He realizes that his petty sacrifices cannot be a match to those
great sacrifices. He realizes that he should live and die for the sake of Allah
Almighty. He recites the following verse of the Holy Quran:
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Say: Truly, my prayer and my service of sacrifice, my life and death, are (all) for
Allah the Cherisher of the Worlds. No partner hath He: This am I commanded, and
I am the first of those who bow to His Will.
At Mina he throws pebbles at his eternal enemy Satan with the intention
that if Satan would try to mislead him from the right path, he would not be led
astray. When he reaches Bait Ullah he is in a state of ecstasy. He is over whelmed
with the joy of looking at the long cherished Bait Ullah Sharif. After circling round
the Khana Kaa’ba he runs between Safa and Marva. Here he makes a resolution
that he would developed all the powers and energy bestowed upon him by Allah
Almighty in the service of Islam and he would always following path prescribed
by Hazrat Muhammad . He expresses his desire in the following prayers:

O Allah; keep me on the path of thy Prophet and call me for Hajj and enable me to
avoid evil lapses.
BENEFITS
The real benefit of Hajj is that one remembers Allah Almighty throughout
the process of Hajj and comes nearer to Allah Almighty. Apart from this Hajj has
many other social and moral benefits like other organs of Islam.

1. PURIFICATION:
On this occasion people coming from different regions all over the world
are purified and chastised.
2. REFORMATION OF SOCIETY:
These people are inspired with the power of faith and piety and become a
source of reforms and improvement of their respective community.
3. GRANDEUR OF MUSLIM UMMAH:
The grand congregation of Hajj reflects the glory and grandeur of the
Muslim Ummah.
4. SIMPLICITY AND EQUALITY:
Muslims in pilgrimage meet in one place, Makkah, dressed in one uniform,
worshipping Allah Almighty, the One God, and performing the same rites during
the fixed period of Hajj. There is no discrimination between them since all are
Allah's bondsmen. No white man has preference over a black man, neither the rich
over the poor.The people who come from different parts of the world repeat the
same Kalma irrespective of their colour, race, nation or country.
5. DEVOTION TO THE CAUSE OF ISLAM:
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In this way, Muslims are acquainted with one another, cooperate one with
the other, and they remember the day when they will be resurrected and gathered
before Allah Almighty who will account them for their deeds. Thus, they prepare
themselves for the Hereafter and do their best to obey Allah Almighty, their Lord.
They are overwhelmed with a spirit of submission to Allah Almighty and appear
to be an army of soldiers devoted to the causes of Islam.
6. ECONOMIC GROWTH:
Hajj has an important commercial and economic benefit. Pilgrims Hajj is
coming from different countries exchange their goods and obtain profit.
CONCLUSION:
Hajj is one of the fundamental religious institutions of Islam. It is the
greatest of all acts of worship. It is, in fact, the culmination of worship. It is an
exhibition of brotherhood, equality, punctuality and discipline. It provides an
opportunity to Muslims from various countries of the world to become acquinted
with one another and of discussing common problems facing the Muslim
community. The chief importance lies in the fact that it strengthens one's faith in
Islam.
The Hajj Accepted and Approved by Allah:
The above mentioned collective and individual benefits of Hajj can be
fruitful only when our object is to seek the blessings of Allah Almighty. The center
of our all activities should be to gain the spiritual objects of Hajj. Only then our
Hajj can be accepted and approved by Allah Almighty.