Arkan al-Islam
The five acts every Muslim upholds.
Declaration of faith
أَشْهَدُ أَنْ لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَأَشْهَدُ أَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا رَسُولُ اللَّهِ
Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, wa ashhadu anna Muhammadar-Rasulullah
"I bear witness that there is no god but Allah, and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah."
The foundation of Islam. Believing and openly testifying that Allah alone is worthy of worship, and that Muhammad ﷺ is His final messenger, enters a person into the faith.
The five daily prayers
"Muslims pray five times a day — Fajr, Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha — to maintain a direct connection with Allah throughout the day."
Salah trains the heart in mindfulness of Allah. It is the first act a person is questioned about on the Day of Judgement.
Purifying charity
"Giving 2.5% of yearly savings to those in need. It purifies wealth and cares for the poor, the traveler, and those in debt."
Zakat is a right of the poor upon the wealthy. It reminds us that wealth belongs to Allah, and we are only its trustees.
Fasting in Ramadan
"Abstaining from food, drink, and desires from dawn until sunset for the whole month of Ramadan."
Fasting develops taqwa (God-consciousness), empathy for the hungry, and self-control. It is a shield against sin and a doorway to spiritual renewal.
Pilgrimage to Makkah
"A once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to Makkah, required for every Muslim who is physically and financially able."
Hajj gathers millions of Muslims from every nation in white robes at the House of Allah — a rehearsal of standing before Him on the Day of Judgement.