5 Pillars of Islam

The Five Pillars of Islam

HUM/130

Nicole Pehrson

02/22/2013

The central beliefs of Islam are said to be peace, purity, acceptance, and commitment.  The five pillars of Islam are belief and witness, daily prayers, Zakat, fasting, and Hajj. The first pillar is the Shahadah, which means that one must not only believe but also profess the Unity of God. A Muslim must also believe in Muhammad, and that he is the messenger of God.   Muslims are required to tell others that Muhammad is the messenger of God and that they must have respect for the prophets. The second pillar, Salat, is a continual prayer session that happens daily. Prayers are said five times a day at specific times. Muslims stop what they are doing, and face Mecca, and recite their prayers. The third pillar of faith is Zakat. Zakat is also known as tithing, or almsgiving.   Muslims are required to give at least 2.5% of their income to the needy. The purpose of Zakat is supposed to help prevent greed in the wealthier Muslim people. They are also required to give one-fifth of their wealth each year to Imam. The fourth pillar, Saum, reflects the central beliefs of Islam because the fourth pillar is fasting. Fasting is used during Ramadan to achieve purity and a clear mind. When one fasts during Ramadan, it means no food from sunrise to sunset, no smoking, drinking, or sexual intercourse. Fasting is encouraged at other times, but everyone, except those with health problems is required to fast during Ramadan. This is an example of how Muslims can learn to be like God. The fifth pillar Hajj, also illustrates this central Islamic belief because Muslims have to pilgrimage to Mecca once in their lifetime in order to get closer to God. 

Fulfilling these pillars of faith would be very challenging for me. The third pillar would probably be the easiest thing to do, because giving to the needy is something that is good for others and good for yourself to do. It would not be the greatest things to give away so much...