Editorial Introduction 2 min read
Introduction to Islamic Verdicts on the Pillars of Islam (Volume 2)
مقدمة فتاوى أركان الإسلام (الجزء الثاني)
The pillars of Islam constitute the structural backbone of every Muslim's religious practice. While Volume 1 of this collection addressed purification, prayer, and the rulings of congregational worship, Volume 2 turns to the remaining pillars: Zakah (obligatory alms), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage) — three acts of worship that mark the full annual and lifelong rhythm of Islamic practice.
This volume gathers the fatwas of Sheikh Muhammad ibn Salih al-'Uthaymeen (1929–2001 CE), one of the foremost Hanbali jurists of the twentieth century. Sheikh Ibn 'Uthaymeen was known throughout the Muslim world for the depth and clarity of his rulings, his meticulous grounding in evidences, and his ability to address both classical fiqh questions and the new situations arising in modern Muslim life.
The fatwas on Zakah address its categories, nisab thresholds, eligible recipients, and contemporary questions around business assets, stocks, and modern forms of wealth. The fasting section covers the conditions of the fast, actions that nullify or are disliked during it, the rulings around Ramadan's start and end, voluntary fasts, and the expiation for breaking the fast. The Hajj section — the most extensive — covers every stage of the pilgrimage: ihram, tawaf, sa'y, standing at 'Arafah, the days of Mina, the farewell tawaf, and the practical rulings for those unable to complete all rites.
Together with Volume 1, this collection forms a comprehensive practical guide to the five pillars from one of the great contemporary scholars, making authentic fiqh accessible to English-speaking Muslims worldwide.