The 5 Pillars of Islam
The 5 Pillars of Islam are the five basic acts of worship that are considered essential to the practice of Islam. They are:
1. Shahada (Creed): The declaration of faith where one affirms, "There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger." This statement is seen as the foundation of Islam and the belief in the oneness of Allah.
2. Salat (Prayer): The ritual prayer performed five times a day. Muslims are required to face towards the Kaaba in Mecca while performing this prayer. It involves physical movements and recitation of verses from the Quran.
3. Zakat (Charity): The obligation to give a specific proportion of one's wealth to the poor and needy. It is considered a means of purifying one's wealth and a way to help alleviate poverty in society.
4. Sawm (Fasting): The observance of fasting from dawn until sunset during the Islamic month of Ramadan. Muslims abstain from eating, drinking, and other physical needs during daylight hours, focusing on spiritual reflection and self-discipline.
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage): The pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia that all financially and physically able Muslims are required to undertake at least once in their lifetime. It involves a series of rituals and reenactments of the Prophet Muhammad's actions during his final pilgrimage.