Furu Deen in Shia Islam
Furu’ al-Deen: The Branches of Faith in Shia Islam
Furu’ al-Deen, or the Branches of Faith, is a fundamental concept in Shia Islam that refers to the practical aspects of the faith. It encompasses the various practices and rituals that Shia Muslims must perform in order to live a righteous and virtuous life. In this article, we will explore the concept of Furu’ al-Deen in detail, examining its various branches and the importance of each in Shia Islam.
The Roots of Furu’ al-Deen
The concept of Furu’ al-Deen is rooted in the Quran and the Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Imams (AS). In the Quran, Allah (SWT) says, “And We have certainly honored the children of Adam” (Quran 17:70). This verse emphasizes the importance of human dignity and the need for humans to live a life of virtue and righteousness.
The Branches of Furu’ al-Deen
Furu’ al-Deen is divided into several branches, each of which represents a different aspect of the faith. These branches include:
- Salat (Prayer): Salat is the second pillar of Islam and is considered one of the most important branches of Furu’ al-Deen. Shia Muslims are required to perform five daily prayers, each of which consists of a series of rituals and supplications
- Sawm (Fasting): Sawm is the third pillar of Islam and is considered an essential branch of Furu’ al-Deen. Shia Muslims are required to fast during the month of Ramadan, abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset.
- Hajj: Hajj, or pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, is considered the fifth pillar of Islam and a vital branch of Furu’ al-Deen, enabling individuals to cultivate a deeper sense of spirituality, unity, and devotion to Allah (SWT).
- Zakat (Charity): Zakat is the fourth pillar of Islam and is considered a vital branch of Furu’ al-Deen. Shia Muslims are required to pay a portion of their wealth to the poor and needy as a way of purifying their souls and demonstrating their commitment to social justice.
- Khums (One-Fifth): Khums is a branch of Furu’ al-Deen that requires Shia Muslims to pay one-fifth of their excess wealth to the Imam (AS) or his representative. This payment is used to support the poor and needy, as well as to promote the interests of the Shia community.
- Jihad (Struggle): Jihad is a branch of Furu’ al-Deen that requires Shia Muslims to struggle against their own desires and weaknesses, as well as against external enemies who seek to harm the Shia community.
- Amr bil Maruf (Enjoining Good): Amr bil Ma’ruf is a branch of Furu’ al-Deen that requires Shia Muslims to enjoin good and forbid evil. This involves promoting virtue and righteousness, as well as opposing injustice and immorality.
- Nahi un al Munkir: Nahi An Al-Munkar, or forbidding wrong, is a vital branch of Furu’ al-Deen, obliging individuals to speak out against injustice, oppression, and immorality and to promote virtue, justice, and righteousness.
- Tawalla (Loyalty): Tawalla is a branch of Furu’ al-Deen that requires Shia Muslims to demonstrate loyalty and devotion to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Imams (AS).
- Tabarra (Dissociation): Tabarra is a branch of Furu’ al-Deen that requires Shia Muslims to dissociate themselves from the enemies of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Imams (AS).
The Importance of Furu’ al-Deen
Furu’ al-Deen is essential to the spiritual and moral well-being of Shia Muslims. By performing the various branches of Furu’ al-Deen, Shia Muslims can develop a strong sense of faith and devotion, as well as a deep commitment to social justice and morality. Furu’ al-Deen also provides Shia Muslims with a sense of purpose and direction, helping them to navigate the challenges of life and to achieve their spiritual goals. Furu’ al-Deen is a fundamental concept in Shia Islam that encompasses the practical aspects of the faith. By examining the various branches of Furu’ al-Deen, Shia Muslims can gain a deeper understanding of their faith and develop a stronger sense of commitment and devotion. As a vital part of Shia Islam, Furu’ al-Deen plays a critical role in shaping the spiritual and moral lives of Shia Muslims around the world.