An overview of the practice and belief of the Five Pillars of Islam.
This paper examines how the Islamic tradition is an example of the religious community and ethnic identification that has come together for the purpose of asserting individuality as well as the right to religious freedom. It shows how to be a good Muslim is to submit oneself totally to the will of God and follow exactly the practice of the prophet Mohammed, the messenger of God. It looks at how all Muslims observe the Five Pillars of Islam, which include affirmation of belief; prayer; fasting during Ramadan; paying zakat, a tax; and making the haj, or pilgrimage to Mecca.
“The affirmation of belief or Shahada, is performed publicly. The individual declares, “There is no god worthy of worship except God and Muhammad is His messenger.” The Islamic source of knowledge concerning a shared concept of God is the Qur’an. Mohammed was told, in the Qur’an, to ‘follow the teachings of Abraham’ and so share many basic tenets with Christianity and Judaism. God is believed to be the Creator of all things, and He is in full control of all things (Qur’an 39:62 ). To God belongs everything in the heavens and the earth. Whether you declare your innermost thoughts, or keep them hidden, GOD holds you responsible for them. He forgives whomever He wills, and punishes whomever He wills. God is Omnipotent (Qur’an 2:284)” (Submission Internet source).”