Embarking on Faith: The Essence of Islam

1. Islam: A Religion of Submission: Islam, the second-largest religion globally, is founded on the principle of submission to the will of Allah (God). Muslims, followers of Islam, adhere to the teachings outlined in the Quran, considered the holy book revealed to Prophet Muhammad. The central tenet of Islam is the declaration of faith, the Shahada, which underscores the oneness of God and the prophethood of Muhammad.

2. The Pillars of Islam: A Framework for Spiritual Practice: At the heart of Islamic practice are the Five Pillars of Islam, providing a comprehensive guide for a Muslim's way of life. These pillars include the declaration of faith (Shahada), ritual prayers (Salah), charitable giving (Zakat), fasting during the month of Ramadan (Sawm), and pilgrimage to Mecca (Hajj). Each pillar serves as a means of fostering spiritual connection, discipline, and social responsibility.



3. Diverse Practices, Shared Faith: While Islam unifies its followers through shared beliefs and principles, there is cultural and ethnic diversity among Muslims worldwide. From the Arab world to Southeast Asia and beyond, cultural variations influence traditions and practices. Yet, the core tenets of Islam transcend these differences, fostering a global sense of community among Muslims, regardless of their background.


4. Islamic Art and Architecture: A Reflection of Faith: Islamic art and architecture are renowned for their intricate designs, geometric patterns, and calligraphy. These artistic expressions often find their roots in the Quranic teachings that discourage the representation of living beings. From the awe-inspiring architecture of the Alhambra in Spain to the delicate geometric designs of Persian carpets, Islamic art serves as a visual testament to the beauty and unity of the faith.

5. Seeking Knowledge and Understanding: Islam places a strong emphasis on seeking knowledge, and the pursuit of education is considered a sacred duty. Muslims are encouraged to explore and understand the world around them, using reason and intellect. The Islamic golden age, marked by advancements in science, medicine, and philosophy, stands as a historical testament to the compatibility of faith and intellectual pursuit.


Sikh Expressions of Identity and Devotion in Music, Art, and Architecture

Sikhism is a religion that celebrates art and worship as the same. We will look at different types of artistic expression such as music and architecture within this exploration, considering what they mean for Sikh identity and community life.

Art of Sikhism & Iconography:The simplicity of Sikh art lies in its symbolism which revolves around spiritual themes. For example, there are many mediums used including frescos or gurdwara (Sikh temples) decorations; all serve their purpose well by conveying divine messages through visuals alone.

Representations can take the form of paintings or portraits depicting historical events like battles fought between various kings under Muhammad Ghori against Prithviraj Chauhan along with other significant moments from Sikh history up until now such as birth anniversary celebrations dedicated towards Guru Nanak Dev Ji Maharaj who was born on 15th April 1469 AD in Nankana Sahib (now Pakistan).

श्वेतांबर और दिगंबर समाज का पर्युषण पर्व भाद्रपद माह में मनाया जाता है।

इस दिन ऋषि-मुनि अधिक से अधिक धार्मिक ध्यान, यज्ञ और तपस्या करते हैं। एक-दूसरे से माफी मांगना और दूसरों को माफ करना दोस्ती की ओर बढ़ता है।

The Parsi religions dynamics in a global setting

The Parsi re­ligion comes from old Zoroastrianism. It holds many deep be­liefs, customs, and proofs that lasted over long pe­riods of history and moving. As a scattered group across the world, Parsis use­ digital methods to get the word out, talk be­tween differe­nt faiths, and deal with things like caring for nature, ge­tting young people involved, and tre­ating all genders equally. By ke­eping their customs alive, changing little­ by little, showing respect for the­ old, Parsis keep their community involve­d. This helps shape how they vie­w religion and social arrangements.

Understanding Parsi Diaspora: Living Abroad in a Multicultural WorldParsi diaspora spe­aks of Parsis going beyond their Persia roots, mainly toward India. Late­r, they spread worldwide. Living in diffe­rent cultures has create­d a balancing act for Parsis between prote­cting and adapting their culture.The Powe­r of Digital Reach: Building Bridges in the Te­ch EraTechnology is expanding fast, and Parsis are part of this change­. Today, they tap into digital resources to stay close­ to other Parsis globally. From religious service­s online to digital chats and social media groups, Parsis are using te­chnology to talk, learn, and share their culture­ across the globe. 

Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 15

Hindi (हिन्दी):
यं हि न व्यथयन्त्येते पुरुषं पुरुषर्षभ।
समदुःखसुखं धीरं सोऽमृतत्वाय कल्पते॥

English:
yaṁ hi na vyathayantyete puruṣhaṁ puruṣharṣhabha,
sama-duḥkha-sukhaṁ dhīraṁ so'mṛitatvāya kalpate.

Meaning (Hindi):
हे पुरुषोत्तम! जो धीर पुरुष दुःख सुख में समान रहता है, उसे यह सिद्ध हो जाता है कि वह अमरत्व को प्राप्त हो गया है।

Meaning (English):
O best of men (Arjuna), the person who is not disturbed by happiness and distress, and remains steady in both, becomes eligible for liberation and attains immortality.

Bhagavad Gita, Chapter 2, Verse 24

In this verse, Lord Krishna describes the inherent qualities of the individual soul (jivatma). He explains the eternal, unbreakable and unchanging nature of the soul, emphasizing its divine qualities.