Religious Observances Known as the Five Pillars of Islam

¶ … dental hygienist ? The Five Pillars of Islam play a central component in the worship of the religion known as Islam. These five pillars outline the basic tenets of faith that are central to the practice of this religion. In this sense, these pillars not only mandate certain internal beliefs and thoughts regarding this religion, but external behavior as well. Muslims must adhere to these five principles to rightfully belong to this religion.

Additionally, the observance of these five pillars is an integral part of keeping Muslims on the path of righteousness. The first of these five pillars is shahadah, which is a basic profession of faith in Allah and in the authority of Muhammad. These two beings are extremely important to the practice of this religion; one can rightfully declare that they are the two fundamental entities upon which the entire religion is based. Allah is the Muslim word for God.

Muslims believe that there is only one God and his power extends over virtually everything in the world. They also believe that Muhammad was Allah's prophet, and communicated with Allah directly on a number of occasions. Muhammad founded Islam, and is responsible for many of its basic principles. Therefore, the first pillar requires Muslims to acknowledge and have faith in these two entities, and the accomplishments of both of them. Salah is the second of the five pillars, and requires Muslims to pray five times a day to Allah.

While doing so, most Muslims attempt to pray in a direction that faces Mecca. This prayer ritual is based on the concept that Allah is omnipotent and divine, and that the adherent to Islam must commune with this being five times a day. Furthermore, there are set times that Muslims are supposed to pray during the day -- which includes upon their waking hour, during noon, and during other fixed times of day. The third pillar of Islam pertains to Ramadan.

Ramadan is a month long observance on the part of Muslims that effectively requires them to fast during certain hours. Muslims are expected to fast during the daylight hours. Although Ramadan lasts for approximately a month, it is critical to note that it takes place during different times of the year. Fasting is considered a way of purifying oneself and expressing devotion and dedication to Allah in the process. The fourth pillar of Islam is known as Zakat. Zakat is essentially a giving of alms to the needy.

Muslims are expected to observe this particular pillar according to their financial ability to do so. For instance, wealthier Muslims are expected to give more money than those who are less wealthy. Muslims who are not financially able to give money are not expected to do so. The act of giving money to the poor is also accompanied by spreading the word of Islam -- which attaches religious significance to this pillar. The fifth and final pillar of.