Islam As It Is
The Five Pillars of Islam
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riority, and instead will adopt a humble demeanour
on a parallel with his self-prostration before his
Maker. The submission which he expresses in
prayer to God becomes a reality in terms of his
observance of others’ rights. The very act of facing
in the correct direction influences him to take a
principled stand in his everyday dealings. At prayer
in the mosque, he is the epitome of servitude to
God: outside the mosque, he is the perfect character
- humble in demeanour, morally upright, and kind
considerate and forgiving in all his transactions.
Besides the five daily prayers, there are other
prayers, designed for particular times and special
occasions, which are intended to supplement them,
and to reinforce this state of mind induced by them.
There are prayers for the fulfillment of some great
need, for the help of God in some difficult task or
new venture, (when the supplicant will offer two
rak’ats
of prayer) as well as prayers to be said in the
context of extraordinary events or special
individual needs.
Tahajjud
is the prayer recited in
the early hours of the morning. This time has been
chosen as the most peaceful and quiet period in all
of the 24 hours, during which it is easier for the
