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Path of Attainment - Islam
Faith in Allah (Shahada): there is no God but God (Allah) and Mohammed is God's Prophet or Messenger (in Arabic – Ia - illalah il-lalah ud Muhammedun rdsulon). Ritual Prayer (Salat): Praying five times (Sunnis) or three times (Shiites) daily facing Mecca the holy city of Saudi Arabia. All male Muslims are also enjoined to meet for community prayer each Friday at noon. Alms Giving (Zakät): The Koran requires that 2.5% of one's income be given to the poor, mosque, and to the spread of Islam. Fasting (Säwm): Fast throughout Ramadan, the ninth month of the Muslim calendar. The faithful fasts (abstaining from food and drink) from sunrise to sunset. Pilgrimage (Hajj): At least once in a lifetime every believer must go to Mecca, the holy city. They go dressed in simple, seamless white garments. This is the binding force of the people who have embraced Islam. A sixth pillar, called jihad, is often added. The term means "exertion" or "struggle" in behalf of God. Jihad is the means by which those who are outside the household of Islam are brought into its fold. Jihad may be by persuasion, or it may be by force or "holy war." The fact that any Muslim who dies in a holy war is assured his place in paradise provides strong incentive for participation!
