Pathway to Paradise — Page 12
PATHWAY TO P ARADISE 12 accomplishment, performed at the Holy Kaabah in Mecca (Arabia) and other special holy sites. The central feature of this pilgrimage is the Kaabah, which is believed by Muslims to be the first house built for the worship of One God. It was rebuilt by the Prophet Abraham (peace be on him) and his son Ishm ael, and later by the Holy Prophet himself. The Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) himself performed this pilgrimage. Historical records show that prophets before the Holy Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) also performed p ilgrimage. The Hajj serves as a striking reminder of the Oneness of Allah and it emphasizes the brotherhood and equality of human beings, as well as the importance of man’s willingness to sacrifice himself for the sake of his Creator. ISLAMIC LAW / JURISPRUDENCE (FIQAH) Fiqah or Sharia refers to the religious laws which guide Muslims in the practical living of their daily lives. There are three sources of Islamic law: the Holy Qur’an, the Sunnah and the Hadith. 1. The Holy Qur’an The Holy Qur’an is the Holy Word of Allah conveyed to the Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) by Divine revelation, over a period of 23 years. It is the sacred scripture of Islam which opens up the true and perfect path to salvat ion. It contains a complete code of teachings and laws suitable to the needs of every age and provides the means for the