Arkanul Islam are basically five Pillars of Islam to teach a Muslim humility, respect and worship for his Creator. Every deed performed throughout a Muslim’s life whether it is a holy act or a bad act but it must always be perform with the mind-set that Allah is watching and hearing everything. It is simply not enough for a Muslim to practice the five Pillars (Arkanul Islam). Also not understand or accept their meaning and the belief of the Aqeeda ul-Islam.
The deeds of the Arkanul Islam are welfare acts as well as acts of worship and faith declaration towards Allah, But they also provide a moral system fundamental to a believer’s life. Without niyyah or pure purpose, the deeds become worthless in the eyes of God. One must understand and feel the significance of his acts before they are counted to his good deeds.
Significance of Arkanul Islam
Arkanul Islam translates to the “Pillars of Islam” are the core acts of worship and devotion that form the essence of a Muslims faith. They represent the visible expressions of a Muslim submission to Allah. They play a central role in the spiritual and moral development of a believer. Each of the five pillars work in al together with one another to bring the essence of Islam as a religion of peace and submission to Allah SWT into the lifestyle of every Muslim
Shahada (Faith):
The first pillar Shahadah is the declaration of faith which proclaims “There is no god but Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger.” This simple yet profound statement signifies a Muslims acceptance of monotheism and the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is the gateway to Islam and symbolizes the foundation of everyone’s faith.
By reciting the Shahada every person enters the fold of Islam. The Shahada is significant because it serves as a constant reminder of the central belief in Islam across the world in a common faith. It provides spiritual grounding and a sense of purpose in life with guiding everyone’s actions and decisions. Our entire life and everything that we are doing is Only for Allah’s sake.
The First Part : La ilaha illah-Allah (There is no God but Allah).
Al-Hadith “Whoever say La ilaha illah-Allah sincerely will surely enter paradise.” (Reported by Bazaar and declares authentic by Al-Albani Bin Sahih Al-Jami)
The Second Part: Muhammad Dur Rasool Allah (Muhammad is the messenger of Allah)
Al-Hadith “Do not exaggerate in praising me as a Christian did to (Jesus) the son of Mary, I am only a servant. So say Muhammad the servant of Allah and his Messenger ”. ( Sahih Bukhari )
Salat (Prayer):
Salat is the second pillar and it highlights the importance of regular prayer and a religious connection with Allah. Salah is an essential part of the lifestyle of a Muslim. Through prayer, Muslims are require each day to think about the verses of the Qur’an. The Shahadah (the declaration of faith), and Allah’s credit. Muslims across the world unite in prayer at five set times each day in the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca. As a means of connecting to Allah and their purpose in life to remember and pray to him. Muslims express thankfulness to seek guidance and seek forgiveness through Salat.
Significance of Salat:
The significance of Salat lies in its role as a spiritual discipline that fosters mindfulness, humility and a regular connection with God. It also serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life for emphasizing the importance of spirituality amidst worldly distractions.
- The Blessings of Consistent Prayer: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The covenant between us and them (ALLAH) is prayer, so whoever abandons it has disbelieved.” (Sunan Ibn Majah)
- The Importance of Salat: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The first matter that the slave will be brought to account for on the Day of Judgment is the prayer. If it is sound, the rest of his deeds will be sound. And if it is bad then the rest of his deeds will be bad.” (Sunan an-Nasa’i)
- Quran (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:45): “And seek help through patience and prayer and indeed! it is difficult except for the humble submissive [to Allah].”
Zakat (Charity):
The third pillar of Islam is Zakat. It requires every Muslim to give a portion of their wealth (usually 2.5% of savings and investments) to those in need. It is a means of wealth redistribution to make sure that the less blessed members of society are taken care of. Muslims are require to give a portion of their wealth to those in need thus encouraging compassion and awareness within the community.
Significance of Zakat
Zakat is significant because it promotes social justice and compassion by reminding Muslims of their responsibility to help those less fortunate. It also purifies Muslim wealth and serves as a reminder of the transient nature of material possessions.
- Accountability on the Day of Judgment: Every Muslim is accountable on the day of judgment and answers the following question. From where did you earn it? Where did you spend it?
- Zakat as a Purifier: “Charity does not in any way decrease wealth and the servant who forgives Allah adds to his respect. And the one who shows humility Allah elevates him in the estimation (of the people).” (Sahih Muslim) This Hadith highlights that Zakat is not a loss of wealth but a means of purification and increased blessings from Allah.
Sawm (Fasting):
Sawm is the fourth pillar and refers to the fasting observed during the holy month of Ramadan. Muslims abstain from food, drink and other physical needs from sunrise to sunset during this month. Fasting is not only a physical discipline but also a spiritual one and promotes self-control for the hungry and also closeness to Allah.
Significance of Sawm
Fasting during Sawm means more than just not eating or drinking. It helps you become a better person by teaching self-control and making you think about others who don’t have enough. It also brings people in the Muslim community closer especially when they all gather to eat together at Iftar after a day of fasting.
- Spiritual Reflection and Discipline: Muslims use this time to engage in extra prayers, read the Quran and build a deeper connection with their faith.
- Community and Togetherness: The daily ritual of breaking the fast is also known as Iftar. It is a communal event where family and friends gather to share a meal and celebrate the end of the day’s fast.
- Renewed Gratitude for Food: After a day of fasting, the joy and gratitude experienced during Iftar enhance the significance of every meal.
Hajj (Pilgrimage):
The fifth pillar is Hajj and its pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca that every Muslim who is physically and financially able is require to undertake at least once in their lifetime. Hajj is a journey of spiritual cleansing, unity and submission to Allah’s will.
Significance of Hajj
The significance of Hajj is immense. It represents the unity of Muslims worldwide for transcending boundaries of nationality and social status. It also serves as a reminder of the ultimate submission to God and the importance of regret and forgiveness.
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:158): “Indeed! As-Safa and al-Marwah are among the symbols of Allah. So whoever makes Hajj to the House or performs umrah, there is no blame upon him for walking between them.”
- Narrated by Ibn Abbas (RA): The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said “There is no deed that Allah rewards more after obligatory duties than performing Hajj and Umrah.” (Tirmidhi)
- Symbol of Equality: During Hajj all pilgrims dress in simple white clothing called Ihram which eliminates distinctions of wealth and social status. Also points out the equality of all Muslims before Allah.
Importance of Arkanul Islam
The significance of Arkanul Islam is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings and traditions. The Quran explains the importance of all five pillars. For example, the obligation of Salat is mentioned numerous times in the Quran such as in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:45) and Zakat is highlighted in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267-273). These pillars are clearly mentioned underlining their significance.
The Hadith or sayings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provide further insight into the importance of Arkanul Islam. The Hadith contain detailed guidance on how to perform these pillars and highlight their significance in shaping a Muslim’s character and relationship with Allah. Throughout history, Islamic scholars have presented upon the significance of Arkanul Islam. Scholars like Imam Al-Ghazali and Ibn Taymiyyah have written extensively on the philosophical pillars. They also explain how they contribute to the development of a strong and religious Muslim community.
Conclusion
Arkanul Islam also known as the Five Pillars of Islam are the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and the basis of their relationship with Allah. They are deeply rooted in the Quran, Hadith and the wisdom of Islamic scholars and highlight the importance of faith, prayer, charity, fasting and mission in leading a morally upright life as a Muslim. These pillars are not only formality but also pathways to spiritual growth, compassion and unity within the Muslim community.