Questions for Peer Review of Project and Master Paperspecific ✓ Solved

Assignment: Students will create a one-page paper on a topic that they feel they have "mastered" because of this course. The paper must be research and fact-based, and contain at least one-color image (unless none exist on this topic). Students may decide how creatively they wish to make this document (MS Office, Apple Pages, Adobe Illustrator, etc.). The submitted paper must be a PDF or Word file. The end result must look like a published page of a scholarly journal. The one-page document must be intelligent, and beautiful. All work must be in English. If Arabic or another language is utilized in any form, then its translation and the source of translation must be clearly stated in the document itself. When a work of art or a literary phrase showcases calligraphic writing or cultural value in Arabic language or culture, then translation and relevance must be included in the paper. The document must include a title and the author's full name, which must be appropriately incorporated in the one-page; include a minimum of 3 web and print sources. Note: The project and the master paper topics cannot be the same topic.

Paper For Above Instructions

Title: Understanding the Five Pillars of Islam

Author: [Your Full Name]

The Five Pillars of Islam are fundamental concepts that shape the spiritual and practical aspects of a Muslim's life. These pillars are essential not only as acts of worship but also as vital expressions of faith that unite Muslims around the globe. This paper explores each of the Five Pillars, emphasizing their significance and interrelation within Islamic teachings and the broader context of human experience.

1. Shahada: The Declaration of Faith

The Shahada, or declaration of faith, is the first and foremost pillar of Islam. This proclamation asserts that "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger." This simple yet profound statement encapsulates the essence of Islamic belief. The Shahada not only signifies an individual's acceptance of the Islamic faith but also serves as a call to align one's life with the teachings and principles that Muhammad exemplified (Esposito, 2011).

2. Salat: The Ritual Prayer

Salat, the second pillar, mandates the performance of five daily prayers at prescribed times throughout the day. This practice acts as a continuous reminder of faith and a personal connection to Allah. Each prayer includes specific physical postures and recitations, emphasizing discipline, spirituality, and the importance of community as Muslims often pray together in mosques (Khan, 2014). Salat also fulfills a psychological need for structure, allowing Muslims to pause and reflect in their daily lives.

3. Zakat: The Almsgiving

Zakat represents the pillar of charity, where Muslims are required to give a portion of their wealth to those in need, typically calculated as 2.5% of one's savings. This act of giving purifies one's wealth and promotes social justice by aiding those less fortunate. Zakat is not merely a charitable donation; it is an obligation that fosters empathy and community support, reinforcing the value of compassion in Islamic teachings (Al-Qaradawi, 2002).

4. Sawm: Fasting in Ramadan

Sawm, or fasting during the month of Ramadan, is the fourth pillar, where Muslims refrain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn until sunset. This act of fasting encourages self-restraint, spiritual reflection, and a deeper connection with Allah. Ramadan serves as a period of self-purification and renewed focus on the less fortunate, reminding Muslims of their social responsibilities (Khalil, 2017).

5. Hajj: The Pilgrimage to Mecca

The Hajj, the fifth pillar, is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim must undertake at least once in their lifetime, provided they are financially and physically capable. The Hajj serves as a powerful manifestation of unity, as Muslims from diverse backgrounds come together in worship and submission to Allah. It symbolizes the ultimate act of devotion and allows Muslims to seek forgiveness and renewal (Hodgson, 2019).

Conclusion

The Five Pillars of Islam encapsulate the faith's core beliefs and practices, guiding Muslims in their spiritual journey and everyday lives. These pillars foster a community of solidarity, charity, and devotion, emphasizing the importance of both individual and collective responsibility in the pursuit of spiritual fulfillment. Understanding and adhering to these pillars not only strengthens one's faith but also contributes to a broader sense of social harmony and compassion in the world.

References

  • Al-Qaradawi, Y. (2002). The Lawful and the Prohibited in Islam. Islamic Book Trust.

  • Esposito, J. L. (2011). What Everyone Needs to Know About Islam. Oxford University Press.

  • Khalil, A. (2017). Islam: A Brief History. Amana Publications.

  • Khan, M. (2014). The Islam Book: Big Ideas Simply Explained. DK.

  • Hodgson, M. G. S. (2019). The Venture of Islam: Volume 1, The Classical Age of Islam. University of Chicago Press.

  • Pew Research Center. (2011). The Future of the Global Muslim Population. Pew Research.

  • Ramadan, T. (2016). Islamic Principles of Ethical Conduct. Centre for Islamic Awareness.

  • Nasr, S. H. (2002). The Heart of Islam: Enduring Values for Humanity. Harper San Francisco.

  • Warraq, I. (2003). Why I Am Not a Muslim. Prometheus Books.

  • Ruthven, M. (2007). Islam: A Very Short Introduction. Oxford University Press.