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Five Pillars

Religion:

Islam

Level:

7

Type:

text

GCSE topic:

In Islam, there are five key practices that are considered the foundation of a Muslim’s faith and daily life. These are called the Five Pillars of Islam. Just like a building needs strong pillars to stand, Muslims believe their faith needs these pillars to support and strengthen it.

The Five Pillars are central to being a Muslim because they guide how Muslims worship Allah, how they live, and how they treat others. They bring Muslims closer to God, remind them of their duties, and help them build a strong sense of community with other believers around the world.

Every Muslim is expected to follow the Five Pillars. They are acts of faith and devotion that shape a Muslim’s relationship with God and with people in everyday life.

The Five Pillars are:

  1. Shahadah (delcaration of faith)

  2. Salah (prayer)

  3. Zakat (charity)

  4. Sawm (fasting)

  5. Hajj (pilgrimage)

📚 Key Terms:

Allah
The Arabic word for God used by Muslims.
Charity
Key moral principle; giving to those in need. Hebrew term ‘tzedakah’ literally means ‘justice’ but used to refer to charity (because giving to those in need is part of promoting justice).
Prayer
Communicating with God; listening to and speaking to God.
Salah
Obligatory prayers in Islam.

🔗 Related Resources:

Level: 7

Five Pillars text 7
View Resource →
Salah text 7
View Resource →
Shahadah text 7
View Resource →
Zakat text 7
View Resource →
Ways of Muslim Life text 7
View Resource →

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