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During 2012 devout Muslims need to observe their religious obligations in order to maintain their position of submission to God. These five obligations are grouped together and described as The Five Pillars of Islam. The Quran sets out these as the basis under which a Muslim shows his true commitment. The first of these five is the Hajj, the pilgrimage to Makkah, which every able-bodied Muslim must complete at least once in their life. Hajj 2012 is estimated to take place from October 24th to 27th, and Hajj packages 2012 are still available. To guarantee a safe and devout Hajj, pilgrims should look for a reliable and long-standing Hajj and Umrah travel operator. Such an agent will provide Hajj packages that guide pilgrims through their preparation for the journey to Makkah, as well as experienced guides to steer groups through the intricacies of the Hajj and to arrange things like the Qurbani sacrifice. Without such service a Hajj Package is unsatisfactory. The shahada, or profession of faith constitutes another pillar. “There is no God but God, and Muhammad is the prophet of God” is the Muslim creed that is normally recited in Arabic. As well as being a constant profession of faith to God and the prophet, a dying Muslim should also recite the shahada. Every day in 2012 and for every day for the rest of their lives Muslims should pray five times, the salat. Each of these prayers is slightly different and corresponds to a different time of the day. But each one repeats the raka’at, or unit of prayer, at least twice. Before prayer, Wudu, cleansing of the body, should be performed, and the believer must face the Ka’bah in Makkah while praying. The giving of alms is an important part of being Muslim. This is formalised in the practise of zakat, charitable donations to Muslims less fortunate. Zakat has two parts. Firstly, the kajj, an amount based upon the cost of food during Ramadan. Secondly, at least 2.5% of a Muslim’s income from accumulated wealth, earnings and any other monetary gains. Fasting, sawm, during the holy month of Ramadan, is the fifth pillar. This ritual abstention from food, drink and sexual intercourse for the hours from dawn until dusk, is a necessary act for every Muslim who has reached puberty. Only those with specific medical conditions are exempted. Sawm shows followers’ gratitude to Allah and their dependence on him. During this time, Muslims should also pay great heed to avoiding any other sins. More information about Hajj Packages, HajjandUmrah can be viewed at: http://www.nabil-hajjandumrah.co.uk
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