The Pillars of Islam

2004 Vol. 5: Sept/Oct

Although a Muslim embraces a belief system in which he expresses faith regarding the spiritual realm, his religious works and rituals are seen as the critical pillars which uphold his religious system and provide it with strength, meaning, and preservation. Being a good Muslim is determined more by what is done, than what is simply believed. One's inner beliefs can remain hidden in the private realm of reasoning and uncertainty, but religious works provide a public demonstration that reveal both one's religious identity and religious devotion.