The Five Pillars of Islam

The Five Pillars of Islam are the foundation for Muslim life and practice. It is incumbent upon Muslims to practice the following:

1. Declaration of Faith - This is called Shahadah, which declares that nothing is worthy of worship except God, and Muhammad is God's messenger.
2. Prayer - This is called Salat in Arabic. Prayer is offered by Muslims five times each day between dawn and night.
3. Fasting - This is know as Sawm. During the month of Ramadan, fasting begins at sunrise and ends at sunset each day of the month. Muslims avoid food, water, and sexual relations during the time of fasting. Muslims are expected to be on their best behavior during the month of Ramadan.
4. Almsgiving (Charity) - This is called Zakat in Arabic. Every Muslim who is financially able, must give to the poor and needy in society at least once a year.
5. Pilgrimage - This is called Hajj. Muslims, at least once in their lifetime, make a trip to the city of Mecca and surrounding areas. They visit the Ka'ba, the first House of God which was built by Abraham and Ishmael. The also visit the Mount Arafah where Adam and his wife are believed to have descended from heaven.