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Shiavault - a Vault of Shia Islamic Books Islamic Stories On The Path of Religion In a class at the Jaffery Primary School of Mombasa, it was time for religious instruction. The subject was: The meaning and benefits of following a religion. This is how the lesson went. Pupil: Please, Sir, tell us the meaning of religion. Teacher: Religion is a collection of beliefs.

It lays down the rules of character, how to deal with your family members as well as with other people, It also teaches us rules concerning money matters. They have been taught to us by the Prophets who were messengers of God, sent for the guidance of Mankind. Pupil: May I know what benefit do we get from following a religion? Teacher: By following the teachings of true religion, a person becomes happy in this world as well as in the next one. Pupil: Please, Sir, tell us what religion teaches us.

Teacher: The teachings of religion mainly consist of: 1) Beliefs: To believe in One God, who created this world, the Sun, the Moon, the Stars, and other planets and everything in them. Because of his kindness, he did not leave human beings without guidance. He sent Prophets to guide them to the right path so that they may fulfill the duties he has laid down. Those who follow the teachings of the Prophets would be successful and happy in this as well as the next world.

2.Character: Religion teaches us to be good and kind to everyone, to love everyone, to respect parents and teachers, to seek useful knowledge, to protect our rights and those of others and to live moderately. 3) Social and Economic Guidance: A perfect religion lays down rules about how to behave and deal with people when they do wrong.

It also teaches us rules about money matters, how one should earn one's living, how one should take care of the poor and needy relatives, what type of business is allowed. 4) Worship: Religion teaches us that we pray to God and fast, so that by such actions we remember God and purify our Body and Mind. We should obey God only and not follow people. God has created all of us. Therefore he knows better what is good for us. He has laid down a code of life for our benefit.

Therefore, it is in our interest to follow it. Pupil: May I know, Sir, how belief in a religion affects our lives? Teacher: Belief in religion not only affects a person's spirit or soul but also his body and action. A person who believes in one God, acts differently from a person who does not believe in God.

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