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to
man's wisdom which is mostly victim of carnal desires and is, as a result,
faced with aberration and misery? The reply to this question is selfevident.
Consequently,
Allah must send instructions to human beings by prophets --
who are free from any kind of sin and error --
to lead men to happiness and prosperity by following
them.
We
realize that in this world, the signs and valuable benefits of adherence
to religious principles do not become completely evident. Neither the righteous
are rewarded, nor the criminals and oppressors are punished for their deeds.
From this, we understand that another world must exist where people's deeds
are closely investigated, so that if one has done a charitable act, he
would be rewarded or if he has committed an indecent deed, he would be
castigated. Religion encourages people with these tenets and other rightful
beliefs, which will later be thoroughly discussed in this book, and warns
them of paganism and ignorance.
2.
ETHICS
Religion
decrees that we adopt praiseworthy qualities in life, have a good nature,
and accomplish ourselves with good and commendable attributes. We must
be conscientious, benevolent, philanthropic, kind, faithful, good-natured,
pleasing to meet, and just. We must defend our own rights. We must not
transgress our own limits and rights and should not encroach upon the property,
reputation, and lives of people. In search of knowledge and civility, we
must not spare any effort for self-sacrifice and self-denial whatsoever.
Finally, we must have equality and moderation in all affairs of life.
3.
COMMANDMENTS
Religion
decrees that we perform acts that are beneficial to ourselves and to our
society during our life and refrain from acts that cause corruption and
immorality. It also teaches us to engage in reciting salat
(prayers), observing sawm
(fasting), and performing similar other duties
which are signs of servitude and obedience towards Allah.
These
are the laws and instructions the religion offers and invites us to perform.
As it is evident, some of them are doctrinal, others ethical, and some
others practical. As mentioned before, acceptance and performance of these
principles is the only means of happiness and prosperity, for we are aware
that man should be nothing but realistic and should live with good ethics
and praiseworthy deeds.
IS
IT NECESSARY FOR MAN TO FOLLOW A RELIGION?
The
foremost question that comes up here is "what is the relation of men's
lives with religion and piety?" Is it not possible for a human society
to continue its humanitarian existence without religion and faith in Allah?
Is it not that a religious person is one who proves Allah's existence and
performs specific acts for His satisfaction?
It
is possible that in the society, according to the laws enacted by human
beings, the duty of each member of the society determines the benefit and
the
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