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NON-NEGOTIABLE OBLIGATORY DECREES

Maqsood Ahmed, OBE

Obligatory decrees
The obligatory decrees are essentially related to ‘dos’ (Amr al-Maroof). Obligatory, supererogatory or pillars of Islam are important acts of worship that develop the Muslim character and fortify Islam. Muslims are commanded by Allah to carry out these duties and to follow the example of the Prophet ﷺ in performing these duties.
The five pillars of Islam – Shahaadah, Salah, Saum, Zakat and Hajj are meant to:
(1) Develop and transform Muslims – their identity, character and persona.
(2) Remind the Muslims about the purpose of their life which is to worship Allah alone in the broader sense, not just ritualistic worship but beyond that by serving humanity by following the teachings and actions of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
(3) Unite Muslims locally, nationally and internationally and strengthen links between them as they worship only one Allah and follow the example of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
(4) Support the development of consciousness of Allah and taqwa (piety).
(5)Help keep away the Shaytaan (Satan) to escape and evade transgression.
(6) These draw one close to ar-Rahman – (Allah – the Most Merciful).
(7) Help feeling closer to Allah in terms of obedience and compliance and following in the footstep of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.
(8) These facilitate accomplishing absolute obedience and conformity with the decrees of Allah.
(9) Inculcate gratefulness for all and everything Allah has provided and continues to bestow blessings on His servants.
(10) Create the essence of seeking His guidance and help all the time and in all circumstances.
Each pillar has its special importance. For example, Shahaadah (believing in one Allah) reminds the Muslims about the purpose of their life which is to worship Allah alone by following the teachings of His Messenger ﷺ. Accepting Allah as the One and Only God means that we accept our obligations toward Him alone, focusing solely on His commands and continue endeavoring to seek His pleasure all the time. We do this by demonstrating complete surrender to the will of Allah and observing His commands with robust patience, perseverance and absolute determination
A Muslim with strong faith and trust in one and only Allah does not have to worry about worldly material matters ever.
Similarly, Salaah (daily prayers) reminds Muslims of their duty to Allah in worshipping Him alone, throughout their lives and seeking His support and guidance. Zakaah (alm) reminds richer Muslims of their duty to the poor and strengthens the feelings of brotherhood among Muslims. Sauam (fasting) inculcates self-discipline, and Allah’s obedience that enhances spiritual strength, develops empathy for the poor and an opportunity to thank Allah Almighty for the gift of the Qur’an. Hajj (pilgrimage) reminds Muslims of Prophet Abraham ﷺ devotion, obedience and act of sacrifice, which Muslims follow. It provides an opportunity for the international community of Muslims to get together in Makkah.
Allah says
Establish Prayer and pay Zakaah and obey the Messenger so that mercy may be shown to you (24:56).
Establish regular prayers and pay Zakaah (charity). (24:56, 31:4, 70:22-25, 75:31).
Give thanks to Allah for everything He has provided (2:172).
Remembrance of Allah’s name is greater than the actual Prayers (4:103, 29:45).
Indeed, prayer prohibits immorality and wrongdoing, and the remembrance of Allah is greater. And Allah knows that which you do (29:45).
Lo! Those who believe and do good deeds and establish Salaah and pay zakat, their reward is with their Sustainer; and no fear shall come upon them, nor shall they grieve (2:277).
These are verses of the Book full of wisdom, a guide and mercy to the doers of good – those who establish Salaah and pay Zakaah and have the assurance of the Hereafter (31:4).
(O you who believe), fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may achieve piety (2:183).
That they may witness benefits for themselves and mention the name of Allah on known days over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals. So eat of them and feed the downtrodden and poor (22:28).
In the House of worship in Makkah are manifest signs [such as] the Station of Abraham; whosoever enters it, he attains security. And the pilgrimage to the House is a duty that mankind owes to God, those who can afford the expenses; and whoever disbelieves, then God stands not in need of any of His creatures (3:97).

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