Islamic theology and prayer: Relevance for social work practice

This article examines aspects of knowledge that are important to social work practice with Muslim clients: Islamic theology, prayers and the pillars of Islam (the shahada, or profession of faith; the salat, or practice of prayer five times daily; the zakat, or alms-giving; the siam, or fasting during the holy month of Ramadan; and the hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca). Major aspects include natural forms of social support, familial and marital mediation, conflict resolution, group cohesion and support, individual catharsis and psychological relief, and self-actualization.