Islam Rediscovered
12. Islamic Fundamentalism
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In the case of prayer (
salat
) too, we know that
prayer has a fixed form and is to be observed at
stipulated times. But here too it is not the adherence
to form in the repetition of prayer, or the postures
adopted, but the spirit pervading the performance
of these rites which is of overriding importance.
That is why the Quran says: “Successful indeed are
the believers who are humble in their prayers”
(23:3). It is essential, therefore, that the ritual of
prayer be imbued with the proper spirit.
The third pillar of Islam, alms-giving (
zakat
), that is,
the payment of a fixed amount from one’s earnings
to others who are in greater need, is again
apparently an act of pure formality, but according
to the Quran, the inner spirit of
zakat
is fear of God.
The Quran describes the believers as “those who
dispense their charity with their hearts full of
fear….” (23:60)
As we know, the pilgrimage to Makkah (
hajj
)
,
the
fourth pillar of Islam, is organized along particular
lines, according to the rites and rituals of
hajj
. But
believers are made aware at all times that it is not
just mere presence in Makkah and the physical
