Before researching the topic of Islamic Finance, it is pertinent to explore and establish a clear and an unambiguous view about Islam itself. Is Islam a name of relationship between a man and his Creator? Is Islam a sum of rituals? Is Islam a way of life here in this world? Is Islam a name of acts done to attain the pleasures of Allah (SWT)? So what is Islam?
According to dictionary, the word Islam, from the tri literal root s-l-m, is derived from the Arabic verb Aslama, which means "to accept, surrender or submit. “ A Muslim (Arabic: مسلم ) an adherent of the religion of Islam. The feminine form of 'Muslim' is Muslimah (Arabic: مسلمة ). Literally, the word means "one who submits to God".
“O'Allah! Guide us to The Right Way.” (Sura Al-Fatihah Aya No. 6), we asked for guidance, how we should “submit to God” to become “Muslims”. In reply to our request Allah (SWT) sent to us His message in the form of rest of “Quran”.
“This is The Book in which there is no doubt. (Since its Author, Allah, the Creator of this universe, possesses complete knowledge, there is no room for doubt about its contents.) It is a guide for those who are God conscious,”
“who believe in the Unseen, who establish Salah (five regular daily prayers) and spend in charity out of what We have provided for their sustenance;”
“who believe in this Revelation (The Qur'an) which is sent to you (O Muhammad) and the Revelations which were sent before you (Torah, Psalms, Gospel...) and firmly believe in the Hereafter.”
“They are on True Guidance from their Rabb and they are the ones who will attain salvation.”
(Sura Al-Baqara Ayat No. 2-5)
Allah (SWT) laid down a condition before anyone can be guided and it is “God Consciousness”. Allah (SWT) has also defined conclusively who are “God Conscious” is to dispel any confusion whatsoever. So if we wish to be guided by Allah (SWT), we should become “God Conscious” that means we should do following acts before we can be called “God Conscious” and can be guided by Allah (SWT).
1. Believe in the unseen
2. Establish regular Salah
3. Spend in Charity out of our wealth
4. Believe in revelations from Allah (SWT) to Muhammad (PBUH) and other messengers of Allah (SWT) before him.
