Hajj

Hajj

Hajj is the sacred pilgrimage performed by Muslims at the holy mosque of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. It is one of the five pillars of Islam, which means that it is obliged of every Muslim at least once in their lifetime (so long as they have the means). Hajj takes place during the same…

Zakat

Zakat

What is Zakat? Zakat (zakaat, zakah), or almsgiving, is one of the five pillars of Islam. This means that Zakat is mandatory for Muslims, along with the other four sacred pillars of Islam. For every sane, adult Muslim who owns wealth over a certain amount – known as the Nisab – he or she must…

Salah

Salah

What is Salah (salat)? Salah (salat) is the Arabic term for the ritual prayer that is obligatory for Muslims to perform five times a day. It forms one of the five pillars of Islam. The five prayers are: Aside from the five obligatory prayers, Muslims may offer Sunnah and Nafl Salah. The Sunnah Salah (prayers) are ones…

Shahada – A profession of faith

Shahada – A profession of faith

What is the Shahada? The Shahada (shahadah) is the Arabic term for the declaration of faith in one God (Allah) and His messenger. What does the Shahada mean? Transliteration: “Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah, Wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Rasulu-Allah.” Translation:  “I bear witness that there is no God but God (Allah – i.e. there is none worthy of…

A Prayer of Compassion – The Dua for Parents

A Prayer of Compassion – The Dua for Parents

The Dua for Parents: In the vast tapestry of Islamic teachings, there exists a prayer that transcends individual concerns and extends into the realm of collective mercy and forgiveness – the “Dua for Parents” or the “Dua for One’s Parents.” In Arabic, it is a heartfelt entreaty: “رَّبِّ اغْفِرْ لِي وَلِوَالِدَيَّ وَلِلْمُؤْمِنِينَ يَوْمَ يَقُومُ الْحِسَابُ,”…

Shielding from Envy – The Dua for Protection from Evil Eye (Nazar)

Shielding from Envy – The Dua for Protection from Evil Eye (Nazar)

The Dua for Protection from Evil Eye (Nazar): In the vibrant tapestry of Islamic traditions, there exists a prayer that serves as a protective shield against an intangible yet potent force – the “Dua for Protection from Evil Eye” or “Dua for Nazar.” In Arabic, it is whispered with intention: “بِسْمِ اللَّهِ أُرِيكَ مِنْ شَرِّ…

Seeking Refuge in Distress – The Dua of Yunus

Seeking Refuge in Distress – The Dua of Yunus

The Dua of Yunus: In the rich tapestry of Islamic prayers, there exists a supplication that echoes through the corridors of time, a prayer born from the depths of distress – the “Dua for Relief from Distress” or the “Dua of Yunus.” In Arabic, it is a humble plea: “لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا أَنتَ سُبْحَانَكَ إِنِّي…

Cultivating Gratitude – The Dua for Gratitude and Contentment (Shukr)

Cultivating Gratitude – The Dua for Gratitude and Contentment (Shukr)

In the vast landscape of Islamic supplications, there exists a prayer that transcends mere acknowledgment and ventures into the realm of deep gratitude and contentment – the “Dua for Gratitude and Contentment” or the “Dua for Shukr.” In Arabic, it is a sincere plea: “اللَّهُمَّ أَعِنِّي عَلَى ذِكْرِكَ وَشُكْرِكَ وَحُسْنِ عِبَادَتِكَ,” and in English, it…