Five Pillars of Islam are core obligations that serve as a guide for every Muslim. Ones that nurtures their spiritual growth, self-discipline and devotion to Allah (SWT). 

Together, these pillars form the foundation of Islamic belief and practice. It unites Muslims around the world in a shared commitment to the deen (faith).

What are the 5 pillars of Islam?

The five pillars of Islam include: Shahada (faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (almsgiving), Sawm (fasting), and Hajj (pilgrimage).

Shahada (Faith)

The Shahada is the first and most fundamental pillar of Islam, serving as the very foundation of a Muslim’s faith. This is the declaration of faith in one God (Allah) and His messenger (ﷺ).

Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah, Wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Rasulu-Allah

أشهد أن لا إله إلا الله وأشهد أن محمدًا رسول الله

“I bear witness that there is no god but God, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of God”

This testimony affirms the core belief of Tawheed (the oneness of God), rejecting any association of partners with Him. It also acknowledges Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) as the final messenger of Allah (SWT). As his legacy is one that follows a long line of prophets sent to guide humanity.

Salah (Prayer)

Salah is the second pillar of Islam and a fundamental act of worship. This is the ritual prayer every Muslim must perform five times a day (at fixed times) throughout their lifetime. It establishes a direct and personal connection between a Muslim and Allah (SWT).

The prescribed times for Salah are:

1. Fajr – Before dawn
2. Dhuhr – After midday
3. Asr – Afternoon
4. Maghrib – Just after sunset
5. Isha – Night

These prayers are a constant reminder of a Muslim’s faith, reinforcing discipline, humbleness, and mindfulness of Allah (SWT) throughout the day.

Zakat (Almsgiving)

Zakat, the third pillar of Islam, purifies a Muslim’s wealth and soul. It is an obligatory form of charity that requires Muslims who are of age, sound mind, and meet the Nisab (minimum wealth threshold) to give 2.5% of their savings annually to those in need.

The Quran outlines eight eligible recipients, as stated in Surah At-Tawbah, in this verse (ayat).

Alms-tax is only for the poor and the needy, for those employed to administer it, for those whose hearts are attracted ˹to the faith˺, for ˹freeing˺ slaves, for those in debt, for Allah’s cause, and for ˹needy˺ travellers. ˹This is˺ an obligation from Allah. And Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.

Quran 9:60

By fulfilling Zakat, Muslims uphold social responsibility and deepen their faith, ensuring that wealth benefits the entire community.

Sawm (Fasting)

Sawm, the fourth pillar of Islam, is a compulsory act of worship observed during Ramadan. It requires Muslims to abstain from food, drink, and other physical needs from dawn (Fajr) to sunset (Maghrib). As the blessed month of Ramadan is a time of spiritual purification, self-discipline, and devotion to Allah (SWT).

Key aspects of fasting include suhoor, the meal eaten before fajr prayer, and iftar, breaking the fast at sunset.

Every Muslim who are of age (i.e. has reached puberty) must fast during Ramadan. But there are also exemptions, such as those who are sick, elderly, travellers, and others with valid reasons (such as pregnancy or menstruation). However, they must also make up their fast once able to, if possible. If not, then they should pay compensation, called fidya, to the needy.

Beyond Ramadan, voluntary fasting on special days, such as Mondays and Thursdays or the Day of Arafah, is encouraged for extra rewards.

Hajj (Pilgrimage)

Hajj, the fifth and final pillar of Islam, is the sacred pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca). It is required once in a lifetime for Muslims who are physically and financially able.

Taking place in Dhul Hijjah, it symbolises submission to Allah (SWT) and unity among believers. Key aspects of hajj include:

• Ihram – Entering a state of purity and wearing simple white garments.
• Tawaf – Circling the Kaaba seven times in devotion.
• Sa’i – Walking between Safa and Marwah, honoring Hajar’s struggle.
• Arafah – The most significant day, spent in deep prayer and repentance.
• Rami al-Jamarat – Stoning the pillars representing Shaytan.
• Qurban – Sacrificing an animal in remembrance of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

What do the 5 pillars of Islam mean?

Overall, the five pillars of Islam are Shahada, Salah, Zakat, Sawm, and Hajj. They are the five key practices that all Muslims are obligated to fulfil throughout their lifetime. These practices are referred to as pillars because they form the foundation of Muslim life.

Why are the five pillars of Islam important?

Each of the five pillars works in tandem with one another to bring the essence of Islam into the lives of every Muslim:

Monotheism and the belief in Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the last messenger of God is the central tenet of Islam around which everything else revolves. Thus, reciting the Shahada (shahadah) in prayer each day serves to remind Muslims of this integral belief.

Salah (salat) occurs five times a day. This, hence, offers five different opportunities for remembrance of Allah (SWT) and our purpose in this life to worship Him.

The month of Ramadan requires every Muslim to abstain from their most basic needs and desires, like food, drink and physical relations for a period of time each day. Every year, the Sawm (fasting) gives Muslims the opportunity to gather control over their human needs. Without these distractions, Muslims can instead nurture good conduct and their connection to Allah (SWT).

While Sadaqah (charity) is greatly encouraged to be a part of everyday Muslim life, it is obligatory to offer Zakat (alms) once a year. This ensures that wealth is continuously redistributed to those who are in need of it.

During the Hajj (pilgrimage), Muslims must each wear the same simple garments and perform the same ritual acts of devotion to Allah. Stripped of worldly distinction, people are reminded that all are equal before God.

Knowing the Key Facts about the Five Pillars of Islam

The Five Pillars of Islam form the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and practice, guiding their spiritual and daily lives. While these obligations are essential, Islam also recognises individual circumstances, offering exemptions and alternatives for those unable to fulfil certain pillars due to health, financial, or other valid reasons.

By embracing these pillars, Muslims strengthen their connection with Allah (SWT), helping build a just and compassionate society.