Islam amongst the Pashtuns

The Pashtun people believe that to be Pashtun is to be Muslim. Local religious leaders (Mullahs) are generally not well instructed in Islam.  Many teachers  and religious leaders are able to pronounce the Arabic words of the language of the Muslim holy book (Quran); but, since it is not their native language, they don’t know what they are reading and are unable to understand its teachings. Islamic  teaching  therefore,  is    vulnerable to  the interpretation of the local Mullah, and not  generally understood  by  the average  Pashtun. Despite this, Islam governs all aspects of Muslim life,  both  individually  as  well  as socially. Islam expects modest dress, behavior, and high moral values.  The Taliban, who were primarily Pashtuns imposed a fanatical variation of Islam on the country. Although the Taliban regime was supported among the conservative Southern Pashtuns, it was not supported by all Pashtun people, particularly the more educated.  This month, as we celebrate Easter, may we continually pray that the Pashtun people may know Jesus who died on the cross and rose again, overcoming  death  that  we  may live.  

Muslims believe in one God (Allah) who is Sovereign and all powerful. The Islamic faith is lived out according to five  pillars that must be followed if one is to hope  for salvation.  While a Muslim may observe each of these pillars, salvation is not guaranteed. 

 

The five pillars include: 

Qalima:  The profession of faith

A Muslim is required to affirm out loud, “There is no god but Allah and Mohammad is his prophet”.

Lmunz:  Prayer

Muslims pray 5 times a day facing Mecca.  It is not uncommon to see all activity stop for the Pashtuns to pray.

Rozha:  Fasting

During Ramazan, from sun up to sun down a healthy adult must refrain from eating, drinking, and smoking.

Zakat:  Alms giving

This is an important aspect of Pashtun social structure.  The poor are often supported through alms, as is the local Mullah.

Hajj:  Pilgrimage

Every able bodied Muslim must take a pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest Islamic city located in Saudi Arabia.