5 Pillars of Islam

Shahada

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• The first part, "...there is no God but God" shows monotheism
• "...and Muhammad is the messenger of God" tells that Muhammad is God's messenger
• Muslims must recite Shahada for two Muslim witnesses

Salat

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• Called to prayer by a muezzin chanting from a minaret
• Must perform ritual washings (wudu) before prayer
• Praying can be done from anywhere
• Some Muslims carry a prayer mat to pray wherever
• Muslims face the kiblah, which shows the direction of the Ka'bah

Zakat

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• Muslims are instructed to give 2.5 percent of their surplus each year
• Believed that wealth becomes pure when it is shared
• Money goes to many community causes
• Poorer Muslims can also receive help without paying debt
• Other religions also have similar practices to Zakat

Siyam

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• Other religions also praise fasting
• Some groups are exempt from fasting
• The month teaches generosity, equality, and charity
• Muslims try to forgive, give thanks, and avoid arguments
• A celebration called Eid al-Fitr occurs at the end of Ramadan

Hajj

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• Upon arrival, they announce "Here I am, O God, at Thy command"
• Financially and physically able Muslims must complete at least once
• Muslims circle the Ka'bah 7 times at the start and end of Hajj
• They throw stones at pillars representing Satan
• 4 day feast occurs at the end of Hajj