The Five Pillars of Islam

Pillar #1:Shahada                                                                                                                     

• What is the meaning of the declaration of faith? 

Declaring your belief in one god.

• Why do you think that this statement is a significant part of being a Muslim?

Because part of being Muslim is the belief in one god.

Video – Islam_vid_muslimpray.mov

Pillar #2 Shalah Prayer:                                                                                                             

• Describe the process that Muslims go through to prepare to pray.

Washing of hands, feet and face

• Describe the process of praying in Islam. How many times each day, and when, do Muslims pray?

5 times a day, morning, afternoon and before sleep

• What do the prayers sound like?  What do the movements look like? 

Prayers are sung so it is easily remembered. Prostrate position of praying.

                                                                                                                                                  

• In which direction do Muslims pray? Why do they face this way?

Facing Mecca because they belive that god is in Mecca and that their prayer is invalid if they don’t do so.

• What are some of the things Muslims say during prayer? 

God is great, merciful, I am nothing compared to him.

• Why do Muslims pray?

To talk directly to God

Video – Islam_vid_zakat.mov

Pillar #3:Sawm                                                                                                                         

• What is Zakaat?  What is emphasized in Zakaat?

Giving to the poor if you can.

• Why do Muslims make donations?  How much money is a person expected to give to charitable causes? 

Two and a half percent of your income is given (minimum), they make donations because God gave us money and part of it is for the poor

• What is the relationship between prayer and money?

The more you give the more you get.

• How is zakaat different from ordinary charity that Muslims might give?

They often give a lot more than usual.

Video – Islam_vid_islam_celeb.mov

Pillar #4: Zakat                                                                                                                         

• As part of the Muslim religion, what does it mean to fast? 

To purify yourself and become closer to God.

• Why do Muslims fast? 

To remind them how blessed they are to have food and how others are not so lucky.

• What and when is Ramadan?   What is Eid al-Fitr? 

The 9^th month on the Islamic calendar is Ramadan. It is the month to fast and purify yourself.

Videos – Islam_vid_hajj (part 1 & 3)

Pillar #5: hajj                                                                                                                            

• How often must Muslims participate in Hajj? 

At least once in their lifetime.

• Where do Muslims go during Hajj? 

Mecca

• What and where is the Kaaba?  Describe this place. 

It is the box that is where god lives. It’s is in the center of Mecca

• How many Muslims participate in Hajj?

They expect around two million every year.

• What is the goal of Hajj? 

To replenish their connection with god.

• What does it mean to enter spiritual purity? What is the purpose of the special garments?

This means to show that you are equal to everyone and everyone is equal to you.

• How does Mubarek describe his experiences as a pilgrim?

It broadened his scope on the world.

• What is the significance of Abraham to pilgrims?

He made the first pilgrimage to Mecca.