1. Shahadatain: This means to bear witness that there none worthy of worship except Allah and that Prophet Mohammad (PBUH) is his last messenger to all of humanity up to the day of judgment. The prophet-hood of Mohammad(PBUH) obliges all Muslims to follow his exemplary life as a model.
2. Salah: Daily prayers that are offered daily, five times a day as a duty towards God. This strengthens and reaffirms the belief in Allah and inspires man to higher levels of spirituality and morality. A constant reminder for purification of the soul and barrier against evil and evil actions. These are viz: The early morning prayer (before sunrise), The noon prayer (at midday), The afternoon prayer (before sunset), the sunset prayer and the evening prayer ( after sunset).
3. Zakah: The literal and simple meaning of Zakah is purity. The technical meaning of the word refers to a designated annual amount of wealth that needs to be given to the poor. This can be in form of cash or kind given to the poor or to those deserving of this charity. The religious and spiritual significance goes far deeper and holds great virtue. It contributes to humanitarian, sociopolitical needs of human beings. In simple words, the rich taking care of the needy and poor.
4. Sawm: The fourth pillar of Islam. During the month of Ramadan, Muslims not only abstain from food,drink and sexual intercourse from dawn to sunset. This also requires abstention from evil deeds, slander and all other vices that will taint and corrupt the character. This in turn prepares one to adopt the same way of life throughout the rest of the year. This month in particular fosters love, sincerity, self restraint, devotion and humility. It helps develop sound character, a strong will power and unselfish behavior.
5: Hajj: (Pilgrimage to Makkah) This pilgrimage is to be performed once in a persons lifetime, only if one has the financial means and the physical strength to do so. A once in a year event. A wholesome demonstration of the universality of Islam where Muslims from across the globe congregate at one common point. It also contributes to brotherhood and equality amongst Muslims.
English: Faithful praying towards Makkah; Umayyad Mosque, Damascus. Português: Damasco (Síria) – Homens voltados para a Cidade de Meca se reúnem para rezar, na hora do almoço, na Mesquita Umayyad, a mais importante da Síria. (Foto Antonio Milena/ABr – hor – 08) (Photo credit: Wikipedia)
