The meaning of 'the fundamentals of religion'

A: The meaning of "the fundamentals of religion" differs from one context to another. The term sometimes refers to the pillars of Islam and Iman (Faith). Sometimes it means the principles of creed. It may also refer to the rulings of Islam whose violation will make a Muslim liable to punishment and ignorance of which will not be an excuse to cancel it such as the prohibition of adultery and drinking alcohol. This definition differs according to the different opinions of scholars. There is no unction with regard to such definitions. What concerns a Muslim is that he must act upon the ordinances of Allah (Exalted be He) and shun the forbidden things by following Allah's Purified Shari`ah (Law).May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.