Islam is the world's great monotheistic religion. The
followers of Islam, called Muslims, believe in God-in Arabic, Allah - and that Muhammad is His Prophet. today, the worldwide community of
Muslims numbers nearly one billion.
Historically, Saudi Arabia has occupied a
special place in the Islamic world. Indeed, it is toward the
sacred Ka'abah in Makkah that Muslims turn devoutly in prayer
five times a day. The Holy Qur'an, the sacred scripture of Islam, was revealed and
is universally recited in Arabic.
A Muslim has five obligations, called the
Five
Pillars of Islam:
first is Shahadah, the profession of faith; second is Salah, praying five times a day; third is Zakat, almsgiving; fourth is Sawm, fasting during the month of Ramadan; fifth is
the Hajj, the pilgrimage to Makkah.
The Shari'ah, the Islamic code of law
based on the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah, is the foundation
of the legal system of Saudi Arabia. The Holy Qur'an itself
is considered the constitution of the country and provides
ethical values and guidance.
RELIGION & LEGAL SYSTEM: