The Five Pillars of Islam

Pillar- something that holds up a building.

Why do you think that Muslims call the most important parts of their religion ‘pillars’?

The statement of the Muslim faith.

Said five times a day during prayer

First thing said to muslim babies

Saying it is what makes you a muslim when you revert/convert

Five times a day

Must wash before prayer - wudu

Can pray anywhere

Prostration, bow until your head hits the floor

In muslim countries a muezzin announces the prayers from the top of towers at mosques

In Islam there are 2 types of charity: Zakat and Sadaqa.

Zakat: mandatory charity required by the hadiths (stories of the life of the Prophet Muhhamud)

Sedqa: Extra charity given beyond that amount

In the middle ages, muslim governments would collect the Zakat as a tax from Muslims citizens. Non muslims didn’t have to pay and paid a different tax called a Jizya

During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast or don’t eat during the day.

At night after the sun sets they eat a major meal called the Iftar.

Its traditional to end the fast by eating a date and drinking water because that's what Muhammad did.

All Muslims who are past puberty are required to fast unless they can’t for medical reasons.

All muslims who are able to are required to go on Hajj, or pilgrimage (trip) to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. People who are too poor or weak are not required to go.

If you die before going your family should send someone using your money on your behalf.

During the Hajj, all the pilgrims wear the same clothes and circle the Kaaba 7 times.

They also throw rocks at pillars that represent Shaitan (Satan).