The 5 pillars of Islam are considered the core of Islamic beliefs and practices. Islam is built upon these pillars and every Muslim is expected to carry out these basic duties.
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What are the 5 pillars of Islam?
The 5 pillars of Islam are the declaration of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salah), fasting during Ramadan (Sawm), giving to charity (Zakah), and the pilgrimage to Makkah (Hajj). Each of these pillars is significant in its own way and forms the foundation of our beliefs and practices.
The Messenger of Allah ﷺ states the five pillars of Islam in a clear statement:
بُنِيَ الْإِسْلَامُ عَلَى خَمْسٍ: شَهَادَةِ أَنْ لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللَّهُ وَأَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللَّهِ، وَإِقَامِ الصَّلَاةِ، وَإِيتَاءِ الزَّكَاةِ، وَحَجِّ الْبَيْتِ، وَصَوْمِ رَمَضَانَ
“Islam has been built upon five: the testimony that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, the establishment of prayer, the giving of Zakah (charity), the pilgrimage to the House (Kaaba), and fasting during Ramadan” Source: Bukhari & Muslim
1. The Declaration of Faith (Shahada):
The Shahada is the declaration of faith that a Muslim makes. It is a concise statement that affirms one’s belief in the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad ﷺ.
The Shahada is the foundation of Islam, and it is essential for every Muslim to affirm their faith in Allah and His Prophet ﷺ. It is an act of submission to Allah, acknowledging His divinity and the guidance that He has sent through His Prophet.
The Shahada is recited by Muslims during prayer, adhan, supplications or at other various times when we are engaged in adhkar (remembering Allah). It is a simple declaration that can be made at any time and any place.
However, when a person converts to Islam, they are required to recite the Shahada in the presence of witnesses. The declaration is as follows: “I bear witness that there is no god but Allah and I bear witness that Muhammad, peace be upon him, is a Messenger of Allah.“
Read more: Shahada: The First Pillar of Islam
2. Prayer (Salah):
Prayer, or Salah, is a fundamental aspect of Islamic worship. Muslims are required to perform five daily prayers at specific times of the day. The prayers are a form of devotion to Allah and a way for Muslims to seek his guidance and forgiveness.
Prayer is an act of worship that helps Muslims to maintain a close relationship with Allah. It is a way for us to fulfil His command and to express our gratitude, and submission to him. Prayer also helps Muslims to remain mindful of Allah throughout the day and to stay focused on their spiritual goals.
Muslims are required to perform five daily prayers at specific times of the day. The prayers are performed facing the direction of Mecca, and they involve a series of physical movements and recitations from the Qur’an. The prayers are performed at dawn, midday, mid-afternoon, sunset, and nightfall. During prayer, Muslims stand, bow, and prostrate themselves as a sign of humility and submission to Allah.
3. Giving to Charity (Zakah):
Giving to charity, or Zakah, is a fundamental aspect of Islamic practice. It is an obligation for Muslims to donate a portion of their wealth to those in need. Zakah is a way for Muslims to show compassion and empathy towards others and to fulfill their responsibility towards the community.
Zakah is an act of worship that helps Muslims to show gratitude for the blessings they have received. It is a way for them to share their wealth with those who are less fortunate and to promote social justice and equality. Zakah also helps to strengthen the bonds of brotherhood and sisterhood among Muslims, as it promotes a sense of shared responsibility towards the community.
Zakah is an obligation for Muslims who meet certain conditions of wealth. The amount of Zakah is 2.5% of one’s total wealth, including cash, savings, investments, and property. The money collected is distributed to those in need, including the poor, orphans, widows, and refugees. Zakah is usually given to recognized Islamic charities or directly to those in need.
4. Fasting during Ramadan (Sawm):
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, during which Muslims fast from dawn to sunset. Fasting during Ramadan is a form of spiritual discipline that helps Muslims to purify their bodies and minds, seek Allah’s forgiveness, and express their gratitude for the blessings they have received.
Fasting during Ramadan is an act of worship that helps Muslims to develop self-discipline, patience, and empathy for those who are less fortunate. It is a way for them to purify their bodies and minds and to seek Allah’s forgiveness and blessings. Fasting also helps Muslims to develop a sense of community and solidarity with other Muslims around the world who are also observing the fast.
During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset every day. They refrain from eating, drinking, and engaging in sexual activity during this time. Fasting is mandatory for all adult Muslims who are physically able to do so. The fast is broken at sunset with a meal called iftar, which is often shared with family and friends. The month of Ramadan ends with the celebration of Eid al-Fitr, a joyous festival that marks the end of the fast.
5. Pilgrimage to Makkah (Hajj):
The Hajj is an annual pilgrimage to the city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia. It is an obligation for every able-bodied Muslim who can afford it. It is a powerful spiritual experience that reinforces a Muslim’s faith and promotes a sense of unity.
The Hajj is an act of worship that helps Muslims to strengthen their faith, seek Allah’s forgiveness and blessings. It is a way for them to fulfill their religious obligation and to show their commitment to Islam. The Hajj also promotes a sense of unity as they come together in one place to worship Allah.
The Hajj is a complex series of rituals that take place over a period of five to six days. The pilgrimage involves visiting several holy sites in and around Mecca, including the Kaaba, the Grand Mosque, and the Mount Arafat. The rituals include wearing a special garment, performing prayers, and participating in a symbolic stoning of the devil. The Hajj is a physically and emotionally challenging experience, but it is also a deeply rewarding one for Muslims who are able to complete it.
Ordering of the 5 Pillars of Islam
The Shahada is the first pillar of Islam because it is the core statement of belief. The five daily prayers (salah) are the most important acts of worship in Islam and constitute the second pillar. In many instances, the Qur’an mentions Zakah immediately after Salah, which is why it is considered the third pillar of Islam. Fasting during the month of Ramadan is the fourth pillar, and the fifth is performing the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca. The order of the pillars is not significant because all these acts of worship are obligatory for Muslims to perform.
Finally, Islam is a Complete Way of Life
While the 5 Pillars serve as the core of Islam, it’s essential to remember that Islam encompasses a complete way of life. It provides guidance and principles that extend to all aspects of life. Islam emphasises the importance of submitting to Allah’s will, following the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. It covers moral, social, economic, and political dimensions, emphasising fairness and benevolence towards others. Islam’s teachings guide believers in navigating various spheres of life, spanning both personal and public domains.
For further reading on the topic of the 5 pillars of Islam, I recommend exploring the following book:
- The Five Pillars of Islam: Laying the Foundations of Divine Love and Service to Humanity by Musharraf Hussain. This book provides a comprehensive understanding of the 5 pillars of Islam. Explores their historical context, significance, and practical implementation in the lives of Muslims. It offers a balanced and insightful perspective on the pillars, making it an excellent resource for both Muslims and non-Muslims.
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