$JES 911 Essence of World Religions Reference Book

Author(s): Pravin K Shah
Publisher: JAINA Education Committee

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Essence of World Religions
Charity through alms giving
Fasting during Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islam calendar
Pilgrimage to the Holy city Mecca
The Qur'an is the Word of God and the sacred scripture mediated through the Angel Gabriel to the Prophet Mohammed.
The direct communion of each man with God, all are equal in the eyes of God and therefore priests or other mediators are not needed.
The pure transcendence of God, great beyond imagination, no form or idol can be worshipped in His Name.
The soul of a man is immortal, embodied once on earth then entering Heaven or Hell upon death according to his conduct and faith.
In the Last Judgment and that man should stand in humble awe and fear of God's wrathful and vengeful power.
That truthfulness should be observed in all circumstances, although it may bring injury or pain.
That salvation is only obtained through God's Grace and not through man's efforts yet he should do all good and avoid all sins, especially drunkenness, usury, and gambling.
Symbols
The moon gives cool and soothing light to a weary traveler on the hot sands of Arabia and the stars guide him towards his destination. The religion of Islam also gives cool light and solace to the weary traveler on the scorched paths of worldly life and guides him towards Allah, the Supreme God.
Holidays
Islam uses a non-adjusting lunar calendar which numbers the years from the migration to Medina. Holidays shift through the solar seasons. The two major holidays are:
Id-ul-Fitr marks the breaking of the fast of Ramadan by giving charity to the needy, additional mid-morning prayer, visits with friends and family, and exchanging gifts.
Id-ul-Adha is the festival of sacrifice at the conclusion of the Hajj. It commemorates the willingness of the prophet Abraham to sacrifice
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