regulate the whole of human life. The straight path reaches everywhere through the realms of. religious, personal, social, economic, national and international affairs. However, in this chapter we shall deal only with that which has to do with the personal religious life of the Moslem how he worships.
THE RITUAL OF ISLAM
"A Moslem," Mohammed is reported to have said, "is one who is resigned and obedient to God's will." Five duties clearly mark out the straight path for the Moslem.
1. He bears witness that there is no god but Allah.
2. He continues steadfast in prayer.
3. He fasts in the month of Ramadan.
4. He gives the required alms.
5. He performs the pilgrimage to Mecca, if he has the means.
These duties are also called the pillars of religion. While they were laid down by Mohammed in a general way, the working out of the details was left to later generations and masters of the art of religious etiquette. Their source is, of course, the Koran and the Traditions, and the obligation to perform them is unquestioned.
One of the things that impresses a Westerner visiting Moslem lands is the serious manner in which the average man takes his religion. As we followed Mohammed Beg and Abdullah on their journey across India we found that it is no uncommon thing to see
THE
