5 Pillars of Islam
The foundation of the Islamic faith is built upon five key practices or pillars as they are more commonly known. Muslims across the world must practice the rituals set within each pillar throughout their lifetime.
The five pillars of Islam are Shahada, Salat, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj.
Although the five pillars don’t have a set precedence each pillar has its own appointed time, place, and guidelines that need to be adhered – be it daily (Salat), annually (Zakat, Ramadan), or once in a lifetime (Hajj). The Shahada, however, is the most important pillar as it is the basis upon which the other four are built. It is a prerequisite to accepting Islam and the difference between being a Muslim or a non-muslim.
1. The Shahada
The first pillar of Islam is Shahada, or the declaration of faith. It is the most fundamental pillar of Islam, and it affirms that there is no god but Allahﷻ and that Muhammadﷺ is His messenger. This declaration is a testament to one’s faith and is necessary for anyone who wishes to become a Muslim. The sacred Islamic oath has to be read, understood, and accepted wholeheartedly by anyone wanting to accept Islam.
أشهدُ أنْ لا إلهَ إلاَّ اللهُ وأشهدُ أنَّ محمّداً رسولُ الله
Ashadu An La Ilaha Illa Illa-Ilah, Wa Ashadu Anna Muhammadan Rasul Ullah.
Translation: There is no God but Allahﷻ and Muhammadﷺ is the Messenger of Allahﷻ
2. Salat
The second pillar of Islam is Salat or prayer. Muslims are required to perform five daily prayers, which serve as a way to communicate with Allah and seek His guidance and blessings. The prayers are performed at specific times throughout the day and involve reciting verses from the Quran and performing physical movements such as standing, bowing, and prostrating.
3. Zakat
The third pillar of Islam is Zakat or charity. Muslims are obligated to give a portion of their wealth to those in need, including the poor, the needy, and those who are in debt. The act of giving charity is seen as a way to purify one’s wealth and to fulfill one’s obligation to help those who are less fortunate.
4. Sawm
The fourth pillar of Islam is Sawm or fasting. Muslims are required to fast from dawn until sunset during the month of Ramadan, which is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar. Fasting serves as a way to purify the soul, practice self-discipline, and gain a greater understanding of the needs of others and those less fortunate.
5. Hajj
The fifth pillar of Islam is Hajj or pilgrimage. Muslims are required to make a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able to do so. The pilgrimage involves performing a series of rituals, including circling the Kaaba, a cube-shaped building in the center of the Grand Mosque in Mecca, and standing on the plain of Arafat to seek Allah’s forgiveness and mercy.
5 Daily Prayers
Islam is a religion that emphasizes the importance of maintaining a strong connection with the divine. One of the fundamental ways Muslims do so is by performing the five daily prayers, also known as Salah. These prayers serve as a reminder of one’s relationship with Allahﷻ
Salah, also known as Salat or prayer, is of utmost importance in Islam. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice. It holds great importance in the life of a Muslim, second only to the declaration of faith. Serving as a means of a spiritual connection, purification, and community building. It also instils a sense of discipline, gratitude, and humility It is therefore a profound expression of faith and devotion which helps shape a Muslim’s character and guides them on the path of righteousness.
The importance of Salah in Islam cannot be overstated and therefore it is a mandatory obligation for every able-bodied adult Muslim to perform Salah five times a day, regardless of their location, situation, or circumstances. The five daily prayers consist of Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha. Each prayer has a specific time frame during which it must be performed, with the timings determined by the position of the sun. The prayer times are spread throughout the day, providing a constant reminder of Allah’sﷻ presence and the need to stay connected to Him.
The significance of Salah can be understood from multiple perspectives:
1. Connection with Allahﷻ: Salah is a direct means of communication and connection with Allahﷻ. It is a way for Muslims to show their devotion, gratitude, and submission to the Almighty. Through regular prayers, Muslims strengthen their connection with Allahﷻ, reminding themselves of His omnipresence seek guidance, forgiveness, and blessings from Allahﷻ.
2. Spiritual Growth: Salah serves as a reminder of the purpose of life, the transient nature of this world, and the ultimate goal of attaining paradise. It fosters spiritual growth, inner peace, and a sense of purpose in a Muslim’s life.
3. Discipline and Routine: Observing the five daily prayers instills a sense of discipline and structure in a Muslim’s life. It helps in training one to be punctual and develop a sense of routine organizing one’s daily activities around the worship of Allahﷻ and acts as a constant reminder of the divine presence. This discipline extends beyond Salah, impacting other aspects of their lives, such as work, education, and personal relationships.
4. Unity and Equality: Muslims from all walks of life, regardless of their social status, nationality, or ethnicity, stand side by side in rows during congregational prayers. This practice fosters a sense of unity, brotherhood, and equality among Muslims.
5. Purification of the Soul: Salah is believed to cleanse the heart and soul of sins and wrongdoings. It provides an opportunity for repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allahﷻ, leading to spiritual purification.
6. Protection from Evil: Regular prayer is believed to protect individuals from falling into sinful behaviour and temptations. It acts as a shield against evil and negative influences.
7. Community and Social Aspect: Salah is not only an individual act of worship but also a communal one. Muslims gather in mosques to perform congregational prayers, creating a sense of unity and community. This shared experience strengthens the bonds between believers, promoting a sense of belonging and brotherhood. It also provides an opportunity for social interaction, mutual support, and collective remembrance of Allahﷻ.
8. Balance in Life: Taking time to pause and pray throughout the day helps Muslims balance their spiritual and worldly obligations. It reminds them of their higher purpose in life and encourages them to lead a righteous and ethical existence.
9. Mental and physical benefits: Apart from its spiritual significance, Salah also has numerous mental and physical benefits. The act of standing, bowing, and prostrating during Salah helps improve flexibility, balance, and overall physical health. It also promotes mental calmness and reduces stress, anxiety, and depression.
10. Reminder of the hereafter: Salah serves as a constant reminder of the hereafter. It reminds Muslims that this life is temporary and that they will one day be held accountable for their actions. Salah helps believers stay focused on their ultimate goal, which is to attain Allah’sﷻ pleasure and eternal salvation.
In summary, the five daily prayers are an essential part of Islam. They serve as a means to strengthen the connection with Allahﷻ, promote discipline, foster unity and community, provide mental and physical benefits, and serve as a reminder of the hereafter. As such, Muslims should make every effort to perform Salah regularly and with sincerity, striving to improve their relationship with Allahﷻ and their fellow human beings.
7 Beliefs of Islam
Islam is a monotheistic religion that emphasizes the importance of faith in one God, Allahﷻ There are seven core beliefs in Islam that every Muslim must accept as part of their faith. These beliefs provide a framework for Muslims to understand their faith and their place in the world. These beliefs emphasize the importance of monotheism, prophethood, holy books, angels, judgment, predestination, and the afterlife. As such, Muslims strive to live their lives in accordance with these beliefs, seeking to please Allahﷻ and earn His eternal reward.
Belief in the Oneness of Allahﷻ
The most fundamental belief in Islam is the belief in one God, Allahﷻ Muslims believe that Allahﷻ is the only deity worthy of worship and that He is the creator of the universe and everything in it. Muslims believe in Allahﷻ attributes of mercy, justice, and compassion, and strive to live their lives in accordance with His teachings.
Belief in the Angels (Malaikah) of Allahﷻ
Muslims believe in the existence of angels, who are spiritual beings created by Allahﷻ to carry out His commands. Muslims believe that angels play an important role in their lives, from recording their deeds to protecting them from harm.
Belief in the Revelations (Books) of Allahﷻ
Muslims believe that Allahﷻ revealed His message to humanity through holy books, including the Quran, the Torah, the Psalms, and the Gospel. Muslims believe that the Quran is the final and complete revelation from Allahﷻ and that it supersedes all previous revelations.
Belief in the Prophets of Allahﷻ
Muslims believe that Allahﷻ sent prophets to guide humanity throughout history. These prophets include Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and the final prophet, Muhammad. Muslims believe that these prophets were chosen by Allahﷻ to convey His message to humanity, and that they were all truthful and righteous individuals.
Belief in the Day of Judgment.
Muslims believe that there will be a Day of Judgment when Allahﷻ will judge all human beings based on their deeds in this life. Muslims believe that this judgment will determine their eternal fate and that they must strive to live a righteous life in preparation for it.
Belief in Premeasurement (Qadar)
Muslims believe in predestination, which means that Allahﷻ has already determined the destiny of every human being. Muslims believe that Allah’sﷻ knowledge of the future does not interfere with their free will, and that they are responsible for their actions and choices.
Afterlife
Belief in Resurrection after Death.
Muslims believe in life after death, where they will be held accountable for their actions in this life. Muslims believe that the souls of the righteous will be rewarded with eternal paradise, while the souls of the wicked will be punished in hell.