(part 1 of 2): What is Shintoism? According to the Princeton online dictionary Shintoism is the ancient indigenous religion of Japan. It lacks a formal dogma and is characterised by the veneration of nature spirits and ancestors.[1] The name Shinto comes from Chinese characters for Shen (‘divine being’), and Tao (‘way’) and means ‘Way of … Read more
(part 1 of 2): Who are the Mormons? Mormonism – the doctrines and practices of the Mormon Church based on the Book of Mormon.[1] Mormons are members of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. The name Latter-day comes from the belief that after the death of the early apostles, the Christian church fell … Read more
(part 1 of 2) What is Wicca? The word wicca comes from the Saxon root wicce, loosely translated as “wise” or “to bend or shape the unseen forces.” Wicca is the largest of the Neopagan[1] religions which are reconstructions of ancient abandoned pagan belief systems, including Celtic, Egyptian, Greek, Norse, Roman, and other traditions. Thus … Read more
(part 1 of 2): Origin and History One of the groups associated with Islam which catches the attention of most Westerners is that known as Bahaism, due to their catchy yet evasive principle of peace and the unity of humanity. In reality, Bahaism is a sect which, according to Islam, is outside its fold due … Read more
(part 1 of 2) One of the most perplexing scenarios to non-Muslims and new Muslims alike is the division they may see between Shiites and Sunni Muslims. Some tend to become confused when they see that each group claims to be following the true Islam. To truly understand this subject to the fullest, one must … Read more
(part 1 of 2) Introduction Whether it’s from a documentary on TV or a beautifully designed website, the majority have heard something about ‘Sufis’ and ‘Sufism’; programs on TV have aired, talk show hosts have made mention of them and politicians are taking a keen interest in this group… one has only to type the … Read more
(part 1 of 3): Origin and History The Prophet, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, said: ‘I asked God for three things, He gave me two and didn’t give me one. I asked God to save my nation from being destroyed by natural calamities and He gave it to me. I … Read more
All practicing Muslims accept belief in the ‘Six Articles of Faith’ and are obliged to follow the ‘Five Pillars.’ They are: 1. Muslim profession of faith orshahada. 2. Ritual Prayer or salah. 3. Obligatory Charity or zakah. 4. Fasting or sawm. 5. Pilgrimage or hajj. The First Pillar Muslim Profession of Faith The Shahada … Read more
The sixth and last article of Islamic faith is belief in divine decree which means that everything good or bad, all moments of happiness or sorrow, pleasure or pain, come from God. First, God’s foreknowledge is infallible. God is not indifferent to this world or its people. He is Wise and Loving, but this should … Read more
(part 1 of 2): The Nature of Prophethood Prophethood is not unknown to heavenly revealed religions, such as Judaism and Christianity. In Islam, however, it has a special status and significance. According to Islam, God created man for a noble purpose: to worship Him and lead a virtuous life based on His teachings and guidance. … Read more