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Five pillars of Islam are also pillars of success

DUBAI — Does Islam have answers to all problems? Do Muslims necessarily achieve success when they embrace Islam? If that is the case, why does the reality run counter to this logic?

Answers to these questions were given at a lecture, as part of the cultural programme of the 9^th Ramadan Forum, in Al Twar area opposite Dubai Airport Terminal-2.

In his lecture titled “The Pillars of Islam, the Pillars of Success”, prominent scholar Sheikh Navaid Aziz of Canada’s Al Maghrib Institute, said the story of Islam is the story of success.

“Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) has taught Muslims every thing they should knew in their life, because he was not sent to teach them only about worship, but also success.”

“The world should not dictate the definition of success to Muslims. Rather, Muslims should define the meaning of success by changing the mindsets of people and their way of life.”

The pioneers of Islam recognised that success cannot be achieved unless a Muslim takes the practical steps to achieve success, Sheikh Aziz said, while adding that the pillars of Islam correspond to the pillars of success.

“The first pillar of Islam — which is the declaration of accepting of Islam (Shahadatain) — effectively opens the gates of success, because once a person accepts Islam he feels happy and liberated from fear.”

Likewise, the second pillar — the five daily prayers — increase the productivity of Muslims and protect them from health risks like blood pressure and diabetes, especially when they perform the Fajr (dawn) prayer, he added.

Going to the mosque for prayers helps create an extensive network of social relations, a fundamental prerequisite for success.The third pillar of Islam — Zakat (obligatory alms) — bridges the gap between the rich and the poor, so the latter do not have to resort to stealing or violence to gain livelihood. “Zakat also better handles Muslims’ assets and budgets their cash flow.”

The fourth pillar of Islam — fasting in Ramadan — teaches Muslims not to worry about their next meal, because Allah Almighty takes care of every thing. Sheikh Aziz said the fifth pillar — Haj (pilgrimage) — is not only about sacrificing money, time and effort. It’s the ultimate test that Allah Almighty puts for every Muslim to measure his patience and self control. “All of which are a crucial characteristic for a successful businessman in today’s world,” he pointed out.

ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com