"The Pillars of Islam", by Frances Gumley and Brian Redhead briefly explains the basic principles which guide the lives of Muslims all over the world. Frances Gumley is a producer for religious programs for the British Broadcasting Commission and a free lance producer for Radio Four. Brian Redhead is a well known broadcaster for Radio Four. The two have worked together before on two occasions, "The good book" and "The Christian Centuries". "The pillars of Islam", is their third collaborative achievement. .
Gumley and Redhead adopt a very simple and logical style of presenting their views. They use quotations from the Koran and support their views by referring to viewpoints of distinguished Muslim scholars. The authors describe the five pillars in detail using a chapter for each one. The book being an introduction to the Islamic faith, I think that the authors have succeeded in capturing the essence of this particular religion.
In my opinion "the five pillars of Islam" is something of a misnomer. I think the first pillar, the statement of faith, Is not a pillar but the basis upon which all else rests. On this foundation rests the other four pillars. If they did not then they would not be important for they are expressions of worship and thus a form of giving, though also, like worship, a form of receiving. For in these pillars rests great inner peace and social peace- a harmony and serenity that is only possible if one is living the life for which one was created. For example everything manufactured works best when the manufacturers instructions are followed. Likewise for man: our proper performance depends upon carefully following the instructions of the manufacturer's manual. It is therefore our obligation to seek and realize and to obey the word of the creator. .
The Five Pillars of Islam are the foundation of the Islamic religion. These basic laws are very significant and stand as a way for Muslims to establish their belief in Islam.