Five Pillars of Islam

by Ron Kurtus (updated 22 December 2022)

Muslims believe in the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the foundation of their faith and way of life. These beliefs consist of: faith, prayer, concern for the needy, self-purification and the pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca) for those who are able.

A question you may have include:

What are these pillars or principles?
How do they combine as a belief system?
How do they compare with my beliefs?

This lesson will answer those questions.

Note: This is an educational website. We are not promoting any one religion.

Five pillars

The five pillars or principles upon which Muslims base their faith are:

Faith

Muslims believe there is only one God, whom they call Allah. They also believe that Muhammad was a prophet and Allah's messenger.

Prayer

They believe in daily prayers, called Sala. These prayers are performed five times a day and are a direct link between the worshipper and God.

Concern for the needy

One of the most important principles of Islam is that all things belong to God, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The Prophet said, "Charity is a necessity for every Muslim." This concern for the needy is called the Zakat.

Self-purification

Every year in the month of Ramadan, all Muslims fast from first light until sundown, abstaining from food, drink and sexual relations. This is a ritual of self-purification through fasting.

Pilgrimage

The annual pilgrimage to Makkah is called the Hajj. Muslims believe that this is an obligation, but only for those who are physically and financially able to perform it.

Belief system

These concepts combine to form a belief system that is the basis for the Muslim religion.

Comparison

Compare these tenants with your own religion to see the similarities and differences.

Summary

The Five Pillars of Islam consist of: faith, prayer, concern for the needy, self-purification and the pilgrimage to Makkah. This belief system is a foundation of that religion.

Be faithful