Believe in God, Last Day, uphold salat and bring zakat? You aint guided yet!
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peace all,
918 Only will develop/cultivate God's maSaJiD is one who believes in God and the Last Day, and upholds the bond/salat, and brings forth zakat/betterment, and does not fear except God. Then perhaps these that will be of the guided ones.
In case anyone is confused by the above, I am of the view that unlike in Traditional Islamic teachings, the Quranic position is not a case of someone being either a believer or non-believer, i.e. clear cut, as the Quranic journey is all about steps, and it just so happens those attributes mentioned in 918 are some of the basic/core steps required in order to hopefully lead to even higher development/guidance.
Interesting considering it is common for Traditional Muslims to rank a person's piety by how many times they pray daily, as if this is the pinnacle, when the above verse implies different.
Background
http//free-minds.org/node/10 -
I agree with that view completely.
Heres some more Quranic input on the subject that might be of interest if it hasnt been laid down elsewhere alreadyThe Arabs said, "We are Mu'mens (believers)." Say, "You have not believed; what you should say is, `We are Muslims (submitters),' until belief is established in your hearts." If you obey GOD and His messenger, He will not put any of your works to waste. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.
Mu'mens (believers) are those who believe in GOD and His messenger, then attain the status of having no doubt whatsoever, and strive with their money and their lives in the cause of GOD. These are the truthful ones.
Say, "Are you informing GOD about your religion? GOD knows everything in the heavens and the earth. GOD is Omniscient."
They act as if they are doing you a favor by embracing Submission! Say, "You are not doing me any favors by embracing Submission. GOD is the One who is doing you a great favor by guiding you to the faith, if you are sincere."
GOD knows all the secrets in the heavens and the earth; GOD is Seer of everything you do.
