Cultural aspects in Christian and Islamic religions - unesdoc - Unesco

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For Muslims names are special and have a virtue.
The Prophet (PBUH) said: ‘You are called by your
names and the names of your fathers so be careful
in the choice of names.’ Islam prefers giving
names that are virtuous, dislikes giving names
that indicate non-honorable things, and forbids
the giving of some names. The names considered
virtuous are: ‘Abdallah’ since the Prophet (PBUH)
said: ‘The most favorite names for God (the
Mighty and the Majestic) are Abdullah and Abdul
Rahman’ since they indicate worship of God and
since they are a true blessing for they carry the
name of God.
The names of prophets are also virtuous especially
‘Muhammad’ and ‘’Isa’ among others. Forbidden
names include ‘malik al-muluk’ (King of kings)
among others since they show greatness of
oneself whereas Islam called upon humbleness.
Other forbidden names are those of Pharaoh or
Korah (Qarun), Haman, and the names of angels
as Gabriel and ‘Israfil among others.
Setting up Charity
Associations and
Mabarrat
Modern civilization reinforces the idea of justice
both culturally and politically as it is a necessity to
organize society based on the principle of social
justice in order to ensure each one’s rights and
dignity, be that spiritually or physically. However,
the number of those in need is increasing every
day. Every day, there are more sick people,
handicapped, orphans, abandoned children,
children who are astray, elderly who need care,
prisoners, lost immigrants, battered women, etc.
Poverty is not only physical, but also cultural
and religious since there is a growing need
for education, knowledge, guidance, spiritual
comfort, and moral support through tolerance
and patience.
Social justice laws have preserved the dignity of
people who have encountered various hardships
in life. Yet, these laws have not been able, in the
best of cases, to remove all forms of need in society.
All religions urge believers to give, contribute to
charities and mabarrat to help either physically or
spiritually. Giving to those in need – whoever they
may be – is a true testimony of love for the others
and loyalty to justice that may please God. Many
associations have been set up and offer organized
help and assistance, some in specific fields, others
in cases of emergency.
These associations also endeavor to mobilize
public and private bodies so that they may help
in cases of emergency. They urge people to take
part in organized initiatives for the sake of those
in need. The best deed is that of raising awareness
among people and individuals giving them all
that is necessary to thrive and be economically
independent.