Five pillars of Islam

The Five Pillars of Islam are the core practices and beliefs that shape a Muslim’s faith and actions. These pillars serve as the foundation for a Muslim’s life and guide them in their relationship with God (Allah) and their fellow human beings.

The five pillars of Islam:

1. Shahada (Faith):
   The declaration of faith, professing that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad (PBUH) is His messenger. This statement of belief is central to a Muslim’s identity and is recited as part of their daily prayers and in moments of spiritual affirmation.
   • “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.”
2. Salat (Prayer):
   Muslims are required to perform five daily prayers at specific times throughout the day:
   • Fajr (before dawn)
   • Dhuhr (midday)
   • Asr (afternoon)
   • Maghrib (sunset)
   • Isha (night)
   These prayers connect the individual to Allah and remind them of their dependence on Him. Salat includes physical movements like standing, bowing, and prostrating, along with recitations of verses from the Quran.
3. Zakat (Charity):
   Zakat is an obligatory form of almsgiving, typically calculated as a percentage (usually 2.5%) of a Muslim’s savings or wealth. The purpose is to purify one’s wealth, support the needy, and reduce inequality. Zakat is often seen as a means of social justice and community welfare.
4. Sawm (Fasting):
   Muslims fast during the month of Ramadan, abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs (such as smoking and intimacy) from dawn until sunset. Fasting is an act of self-discipline and spiritual reflection, aimed at fostering empathy for the poor, increasing devotion, and purifying the soul.
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage):
   Every Muslim who is physically and financially able is required to make the pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, at least once in their lifetime. Hajj takes place during specific days in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah and involves a series of rituals that trace the steps of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family. The pilgrimage symbolizes unity, submission to God, and spiritual renewal.

These Five Pillars are considered the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice, and fulfilling them is seen as essential for leading a righteous and fulfilling life.