The Five Pillars of Islam: What Are They?
Most people know there are five pillars of Islam. That’s almost common knowledge. But now I’m going to go into deep detail about what each pillar is and what they mean to Muslims.
Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, has stated: “Islam is built upon five pillars.” He then went on to quote the five pillars of Islam, those being: Shahadatain (testimony), Salah (prayer), zakah (charity), sawm (fasting), and hajj (pilgrimage). You will see how these five pillars help to strengthen the soul, guide the heart, and unify the community.
- Shahadah (Testimony) – The first and most important of the pillars of Islam is the Shahadatain which means, the two testimonies. Muslims declare the shahadah several times a day. It is our testimony, our pledge to the oneness of Allah and the status of Prophet Muhammad. Without the shahadah, there is no Islam.
- Salah (Islamic Prayer) – The first and most important of the pillars of Islam is the Shahadatain which means, the two testimonies.The Islamic prayers are a unique act of worship for Muslims. Every day, five times a day, millions of people around the world take time to perform the Muslim prayers.
- Sawmi Ramadan (Fasting in Ramadan) – Ramadan is my favorite time of the year. The month of Ramadan is a blessed period when the devils are locked up and Muslims fast for the pleasure of Allah.
- Zakah (Charity) – This is not just a tax. It’s not just a charity. It’s not just giving alms. Zakat is a powerful tool that helps bring harmony, stability and cleansing.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage) – Muslims must perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. This visit to Mecca is a lifelong goal for many, and the pilgrimage is not an easy journey to make.