1. The Five Pillars
The Tenets of Islam

2. The Five Pillars

3. First Pillar: Shahadah
Repetition of the Creed
There is no God but Allah; Muhammad is the messenger of Allah; La ilaha illa Allah
Confession of faith
First word a child hears, likely to be last words uttered by a dying Muslim

4. Second Pillar: Salaht Daily Prayer, five times
Dawn, midday, mid-afternoon, sunset and nightfall
Muezzins: in many Muslim communities, strong voiced men climb to the tops of minarets (towers) and cry out that it is time for prayer
Must wash hands and feet before prayer to be cleansed of any impurities (sand if water is not available)
Face Mecca and offer prayers
Men and women do not pray together

5. Third Pillar: Zakaht Almsgiving or sharing of possessions
Muslims are expected to share their possessions with the poor, widows and orphans
May be used to support religious institutions, scholars and students
2.5 and 10 percent of one’s wealth
receiving is also considered a source of God’s blessing

6. Fourth Pillar: Sawm Fasting: longest and most stringent
Ramadan: no eating, drinking, smoking or sexual relations during the hours of daylight (enough light to distinguish a black thread from a white thread)
In remembrance of when Muhammad first received his revelation
Excused: sick, nursing mothers, travelers and small children

7. Fifth Pillar: Hajj Pilgrimage, part of pre-Islamic Arab religion
Mentioned in Qur’an as ritual duty
At least once if one can afford it
Takes place during Dhu al-Hijah: special month in Muslim calendar
Outside of Mecca, pilgrims must leave whatever transportation and walk the rest of the way
Clad in simple garments, no head covering and simple sandals; poor and rich cannot be distinguished by their apparel
Abstain from food, drink and sex during daylight hours
Walks around the Ka’ba seven times and kiss the sacred black stone
Sacrifice a sheep or goat on tenth day to symbolize Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice even his own son to obey God’s command
After these duties, they may visit Medina to pay respect to the grave of Muhammad and to visit his mosque
When pilgrims return home, they may have the title haji attached to their names so all the world will know they have fulfilled this religious obligation.

8. The Five Pillars