5 Pillars of Islam

Shahadah

• No God but God (monotheism)
• Muhammed was God’s messanger
• Heard when born, recite before death

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Salat

• Pray at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and after nightfall
• Pray anywhere, not just a mosque
• Wash before praying
• If at mosque, imam says, “Allahu akbar” before praying
• Recite verses from Qu’ran

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Zakat

• 2.5% of surplus goes to poorer neighbors
• Pays for public services (i.e. schools, hospitals, orphanages)
• Pays for community (i.e. clothing & shelter for poor, school fees)
• Similar to tzedakah for the Jewish and tithes for Christians
• Given to religious officials or
• Zakat means “purification” and reminds the people of God’s gifts

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Siyam/Sawn

• Fast during daylight hours for a month (don’t eat)
• Sick, elderly, pregnant women, children, travelers are excused
• Attend prayer service after dinner for Qu’ran
• Helps people understand hunger and poverty
• Encourages generosity, equality, and charity

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Hajj

• Once in a lifetime pilgrimage to Mecca
• On the 12th month of Islamic year
• If adult and able, you go
• Perform rituals (throwing stones, walk around Ka’aba 7 times, shave head , pray until sunset at the Plain of Arafat, walk up and down Al-Safa and Al-Marwah hills)
• 4 day celebration afterwards

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