Page:The Mohammedan system of theology (IA mohammedansyste00neal).pdf/152

 merciful, the King of the day of judgment. Thee do we worship, and of thee do we beg assistance. Direct us in the right way, in the way of those to whom thou hast been gracious; not of those against whom thou art incensed, nor of those who go astray." Mohammed retains the institution of the Sabbath with the peculiarity of transferring it to Friday, the day on which the Koran was feigned to be delivered from heaven.

2. The second practical duty enjoined is alms. The enactments of the Koran are of a benevolent tendency. "They will ask thee what they shall bestow in alms. Answer, the good which ye bestow, let it be given to parents and kindred and orphans and the poor and the stranger. Whatsoever good ye do, God knows it." Again, "O true believers, bestow alms of the good things which ye have gained, and of that which we have produced for you out of the earth, and choose