Islam is a religion that emphasises deep faith in and submission to God. To the followers of Islam, the Muslims, God is one ( Allah) and his messenger is Prophet Mohammed.

God is the Creator, Sustainer and Judge. He is merciful and Compassionate. Everything progresses according to God’s plan and he completes all man’s endeavours.

The five pillars of Islam are:

• Kalima: (Faith)An unequivocal declaration of Faith in Allah is important.
• Salat: ( Prayer) Muslims are required to pray five times a day.
• Sawm: ( Fasting) Fasting is observed during the holy month of Ramadan.
• Zakat: (Charity)A percentage of every Muslim’s earnings is to be spent on charity.
• Hajj: (Pilgrimage) At least one in their lifetime Muslims are expected to undertake a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca

Prayer therefore is one of the central concepts of Islam and offering prayer becomes a Muslim’s duty. During each prayer session a Muslim:

• Praises with humility the greatness of Allah, the only God.
• Recalls that he has been created by God and is dependent on Him; that God is most merciful and compassionate
• Fears the Judgement Day
• Surrenders himself to Allah
• Appeals to Him for Guidance.

The Koran makes it clear, however, a man must do his duty before appealing to God for help. In one simple instance in the holy book, a man asks God if he should tie his camel before prayer or let it loose and hope it will not wander off during prayers, when he is clearly told that he should tie up his camel. Similarly, both in the Koran and Hadiz, it is advised a man who is ill take treatment while appealing to God for succour.

There is no disease that Allah has created for which he has not created the treatment …

Prophet’s sayings narrated by Abu Huraira
From: Shahih-al-Bukhari Vol III Book of Medicine

After prayers, Muslims offer Dua, an appeal in times of personal stress. Here too there is an emphasis on praying for others before praying for oneself. If you would like a moulvi to offer dua on your behalf or on behalf of someone dear to you, click here.