Peace be upon you (As-salamu alaykum),

Welcome to the Reverts Guide to Islam! By the conclusion of this post, you will not only grasp the essence of the five core pillars of Islam but also gain insights into the foundational beliefs of this faith.

Embarking on this journey, we initiate our series, A Revert’s Guide to Islam, designed for new converts or those with a keen interest in this religion. Throughout this series, we aim to illuminate the fundamental aspects of Islamic beliefs, offering valuable advice based on personal experiences as a recent convert. Additionally, our discussions draw from extensive research, creating a comprehensive analysis and explanation of Islam’s core tenets, uniquely tailored for a Western perspective.

Islam, as a complete way of life, provides guidance across all facets, shaping individuals spiritually, morally, and socially. The exploration of its principles may bring about transformative and, at times, challenging adjustments, particularly for those living and working in Western societies.

In this inaugural post, we delve into the foundational structure of Islam, unraveling the significance of the five pillars. Whether you are a recent convert seeking a deeper understanding or an inquisitive soul eager to explore the rich tapestry of Islamic beliefs, our guide aims to bridge the gap and provide clarity on the core tenets that define this global faith.

Join us in this enlightening journey as we navigate through the foundational principles of Islam, offering insights, advice, and a nuanced perspective for those embarking on the path of discovery.
Terminology/Definitions

Before we begin, here are some important definitions that you will need to know.

1. Qur’an: The Book of Islam
   • The Qur’an is the holy scripture of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to Prophet Muhammad. It serves as the ultimate guide for faith and practice, covering a wide range of topics including theology, morality, law, and guidance for personal conduct.
2. Sunnah: The Words, Actions, or Way of the Prophet
   • The Sunnah encompasses the teachings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad. It complements the Qur’an, providing practical examples of how to implement its teachings in daily life. Understanding the Sunnah is crucial for Muslims seeking to emulate the Prophet’s exemplary character and follow his guidance.
3. Hadith: Sayings of the Prophet
   • Hadith refers to the recorded sayings, actions, and approvals of Prophet Muhammad. Compiled by scholars, Hadith collections offer additional insights into the Prophet’s life and provide context for understanding and interpreting the Qur’an.
4. Fard or Wajib: Obligatory
   • These terms denote actions or duties that are obligatory in Islam. Fard or Wajib obligations are fundamental and non-negotiable, representing the core responsibilities that Muslims are required to fulfill in their worship and daily lives.
5. Halal: Permitted
   • Halal signifies what is permissible or lawful in Islam. This term extends beyond just dietary restrictions and encompasses all aspects of life, ensuring that actions and choices align with Islamic principles.
6. Haram: Not Permitted
   • Conversely, Haram denotes what is prohibited or unlawful in Islam. This term helps delineate actions or practices that go against Islamic teachings, guiding Muslims to avoid behaviors that are considered sinful or morally reprehensible.

Additionally the following abbreviation (PBUH: Peace Be Upon Him) is stated after referring to the prophets of Allah to show reverence and respect.

The Core Ideas

Islam is both belief and laws in which Allah and his prophets hove told us what is halal (permitted) and what is haram (not permitted) morals and acts of worship as well as the duties and rights of human beings.

When Allah completed the religion of Islam, He chose it to be the way of life for all mankind until the day of judgement. The verse from the Qur’an (al-Maa’idah 5:3) emphasizes the completion and perfection of the Islamic faith, indicating that the guidance provided in the Qur’an, along with the Prophet’s teachings, constitutes a comprehensive and final revelation for believers.

"Forbidden to you are carrion, blood, and swine; what is slaughtered in the name of any other than Allah; what is killed by strangling, beating, a fall, or by being gored to death; what is partly eaten by a predator unless you slaughter it; and what is sacrificed on altars. You are also forbidden to draw lots for decisions. This is all evil. Today the disbelievers have given up all hope of ˹undermining˺ your faith. So do not fear them; fear Me! Today I have perfected your faith for you, completed My favour upon you, and chosen Islam as your way. But whoever is compelled by extreme hunger—not intending to sin—then surely Allah is All-Forgiving, Most Merciful." [5:3]

Note As you may have noticed, within this same ayah (verse), Allah additionally informs us of the animals that are unlawful to eat which are carrion (dead and decaying flesh), blood, and swine (pig) and additionally forbids us not to eat any animal that is not slaughtered in the name of Allah.

Additionally, the prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has explained in the following Hadith:

"It is narrated on the authority of ‘Abdullah son of ‘Umar that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: (The superstructure of) al-Islam is raised on five (pillars), testifying (the fact) that there is no god but Allah, that Muhammad is His bondsman and messenger, and the establishment of prayer, payment of Zakat, Pilgrimage to the House (Ka’ba) and the fast of Ramadan." [Sahih Muslim 16C (Vol. 2, Book 1, Chapter 5)]

See also: Sahih al-Bukhari 8 (Book 2: Belief, Chapter 2: Your invocation means your faith, Hadith 1)

Types of Worship

Before delving into the exploration of the five pillars of Islam, it’s essential to address another crucial aspect. Within the religion, worship takes two distinct forms: voluntary or encouraged worship, known as Sunnah, and obligatory acts of worship, referred to as Fard or Wajib.

In this article, we are only going to focus on the obligatory acts of worship and the reason for this is explained in the following Hadith:

"On the authority of Abu Abdullah Jabir bin Abdullah al-Ansaree (may Allah be pleased with him) that: A man questioned the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and said, “Do you think that if I perform the obligatory prayers, fast in Ramadhan, treat as lawful that which is halal, and treat as forbidden that which is haram, and do not increase upon that [in voluntary good deeds], then I shall enter Paradise?” He (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) replied, “Yes.”" [40 Hadith An-Nawawi, Hadith 22)

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) did not explicitly outline specific voluntary acts, implying that there is flexibility in their observance. This lack of detailed prescription suggests a permissibility to abstain from them without incurring any religious transgression.

This serves as a sharp reminder for us not to burden ourselves excessively with an abundance of information or additional actions. In the above Hadith, a man explicitly states his commitment to only engaging in the obligatory acts—neither exceeding nor falling short. This illustrates the principle of moderation and emphasizes the importance of recognizing our individual capacities in fulfilling religious obligations, promoting a balanced approach in our practice of faith.

In addition to the Hadith provided above, there are two other examples that correlate directly with this idea from the Qur’an, Al-Baqarah 2:121 and Al-Ma’idah 5:87.

"Those We have given the Book follow it as it should be followed. It is they who ˹truly˺ believe in it. As for those who reject it, it is they who are the losers." [2:121]

"O believers! Do not forbid the good things which Allah has made lawful for you, and do not transgress. Indeed, Allah does not like transgressors." [5:87]

What does this mean?

• Permit that which Allah has made lawful.
• Forbid that which Allah has made unlawful.
• Individuals do not change the meaning or context of a hadith or Quranic verses for any personal reasons.
• Muslims accept what has been stated by Allah wholeheartedly

The Interconnectedness of the Pillars:

Each pillar complements the others, creating a holistic framework for a devout and balanced life. The Five Pillars collectively shape a Muslim’s character, fostering spiritual growth, social consciousness, and a sense of community.

Understanding the significance of the Five Pillars provides a deeper insight into the daily lives and values of Muslims. In the upcoming posts, we will delve into each pillar individually, exploring their spiritual, social, and ethical dimensions. Join us as we continue to unravel the beauty and depth of Islam’s guiding principles.

The Five Core Pillars of Islam

Shahada | Salah | Zakat | Sawm | Hajj

Shahada (Declaration of Faith)

The foundational pillar of Islam, known as Shahada, encapsulates a profound testimony and declaration. At its core, Shahada signifies the unequivocal affirmation of the oneness of Allah and the acknowledgment of Prophet Muhammad as His messenger. This declaration serves as a bedrock principle, encapsulating the fundamental creed that distinguishes Islam.

In bearing witness to the oneness of Allah, Muslims express their unwavering belief in the absolute unity and uniqueness of the Divine. It is a declaration that encapsulates the core tenet of Islamic monotheism, emphasizing that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah.

Simultaneously, Shahada affirms the prophethood of Muhammad, underscoring the belief that he is the final messenger sent by Allah to convey His guidance to humanity. This acknowledgment establishes a direct link to the divine teachings revealed to Prophet Muhammad, encompassing the Quran and the Sunnah, as the guiding sources for Islamic faith and practice.

Shahada is not merely a verbal expression but a profound commitment that shapes the worldview and daily life of a Muslim. It serves as the gateway to the other pillars of Islam, embodying the foundational creed upon which the entire edifice of Islamic belief and practice rests.

By reciting the Shahada—

—a person embraces the central tenet of Islamic belief. This declaration signifies submission to the divine will and unity.

"˹He is˺ the Originator of the heavens and earth. How could He have children when He has no mate? He created all things and has ˹perfect˺ knowledge of everything." [6:101]

"That is Allah—your Lord! There is no god ˹worthy of worship˺ except Him. ˹He is˺ the Creator of all things, so worship Him ˹alone˺. And He is the Maintainer of everything." [6:102]

[MORE]: Kitab at Tawheed: Introduction to Tawheed (Episode 1)

Salah (Prayer)

The second pillar of Islam, Salah, is a profound practice that entails the observance of ritual prayers five times daily, with the worshipper facing the holy Kaaba in Mecca. These prescribed prayers, referred to as Salah or Salat, are meticulously scheduled at distinct intervals throughout the day: dawn (Fajr), noon (Duhr), mid-afternoon (Asr), sunset (Maghrib), and night (Isha).

These prayer sessions represent more than just a set of religious obligations; they embody a direct and intimate communion between the individual and Allah. Each prayer is a unique opportunity for believers to engage in a spiritual rendezvous, fostering a deep sense of mindfulness, gratitude, and self-discipline.

The structured timing of these prayers is designed to weave the sacred into the fabric of daily life, allowing the worshipper to pause and reconnect with their Creator regularly. The pre-dawn Fajr prayer marks the beginning of the day with a solemn call to devotion. The Duhr and Asr prayers punctuate the workday, reminding the faithful to pause and express gratitude amidst life’s busyness. Maghrib signals the end of daylight, while Isha provides a serene conclusion to the day.

Salah transcends a mere physical ritual; it serves as a spiritual compass, directing believers toward a path of constant awareness of the divine presence. Through these daily prayers, Muslims strive to cultivate a sense of mindfulness, express gratitude for blessings, and reinforce their spiritual discipline—a continuous journey of spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.

"Observe the ˹five obligatory˺ prayers—especially the middle prayer—and stand in true devotion to Allah." [2:238]

"When the prayers are over, remember Allah—whether you are standing, sitting, or lying down. But when you are secure, establish regular prayers. Indeed, performing prayers is a duty on the believers at the appointed times." [4:103]

The mandate of performing the five daily prayers is incumbent upon every Muslim. Prominent scholars in the Islamic tradition have emphatically asserted that an individual who intentionally forsakes or neglects the obligation of prayer ceases to be recognized as a Muslim.

This underscores the profound significance attributed to the ritual of prayer within the Islamic faith. The act of prayer is not merely a series of physical postures and recitations; rather, it is a cornerstone of one’s devotion, submission, and connection with the Divine. Scholars’ declarations regarding the abandonment of prayer as a departure from Islam highlight the fundamental role that this practice plays in defining one’s adherence to the faith. It serves as a spiritual anchor, emphasizing the essential nature of regular communion with Allah through the established ritual of daily prayers.

The reasons for this are as follows:

"˹O believers!˺ Always turn to Him ˹in repentance˺, be mindful of Him, and establish prayers. And do not be polytheists—" [30:31]

"It is narrated on the authority of Jabir that he heard the Apostle (may peace and blessings be upon him) saying. Verily between man and between polytheism and unbelief is the negligence of prayer." [Sahih Muslim 82A (Vol 2, Book 1, Chapter 35, Hadith 153)]

"It is narrated on the authority of Abu Zubair that he heard Jabir b. ‘Abdullah saying. I heard the Messenger of Allah (may peace and blessings be upon him) observing this: Between man and polytheism and unbelief is the abandonment of salat." [Sahih Muslim 82B (Vol. 2, Book 1, Chapter 35, Hadith 154)]

In order to obtain a higher reward, Allah has given us the opportunity to come together. According to the Prophet (PBUH) stated:

"Ibn Umar reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) assaying: Prayer said in a congregation is twenty-seven degrees more excellent than prayer said by a single person." [Sahih Muslim 650A (Vol 2, Book 5, Chapter 42, Hadith 311)]

"Ata’ b. Yasar reported, on the authority of Abu Huraira, the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) as saying: He who went towards the mosque in the morning or evening, Allah would arrange a feast for him morning or evening in Paradise." [Sahih Muslim 669 (Vol 2, Book 5, Chapter 51, Hadith 357)]

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) found solace and joy in prayer; even in moments of adversity when he faced mistreatment or injustice, his recourse was to turn to prayer, seeking guidance and solace from Allah. This profound connection with prayer served as a source of strength and guidance for him in navigating the challenges of life.

It is emphasized that prayer, when performed with genuine humility and deep reverence for Allah, serves as a transformative force in a Muslim’s life. Beyond the physical acts of prostration and recitation, prayer becomes a means of drawing closer to Allah, fostering a spiritual intimacy that acts as a protective shield against the allure of wrongful actions. The act of engaging sincerely in prayer is not only a demonstration of devotion but also a powerful tool for self-discipline, reinforcing the believer’s commitment to righteousness and deterring them from engaging in morally questionable deeds. Thus, the practice of prayer stands as a profound and multifaceted means of deepening one’s connection with Allah and steering clear of harmful actions.

"Recite what has been revealed to you of the Book and establish prayer. Indeed, ˹genuine˺ prayer should deter ˹one˺ from indecency and wickedness. The remembrance of Allah is ˹an˺ even greater ˹deterrent˺. And Allah ˹fully˺ knows what you ˹all˺ do." [29:45]

[MORE]: The Prophet’s Prayer according to authentic Ahadith – Assim al hakeem

Zakat (Charity)

The third pillar of Islam, Zakat, stands as a testament to the significance of charity and societal obligation. In adherence to this pillar, Muslims are duty-bound to contribute a designated portion of their wealth—typically 2.5% of savings and investments—to support those facing financial hardship. Zakat transcends the realm of mere philanthropy; it is a mechanism for fostering economic equity, compassion, and reinforcing the interconnectedness of the Muslim community.

Zakat operates on the principle of recognizing the diversity divinely woven into the human fabric. Allah, in His wisdom, has endowed individuals with distinct temperaments, colors, and varying levels of knowledge. Moreover, He has orchestrated a socioeconomic spectrum that encompasses both affluence and poverty, presenting a deliberate test for each segment of society. The wealthy are challenged to express gratitude by sharing their resources generously, while the less fortunate are tested in their ability to endure with patience.

This dynamic interplay of wealth and need underscores a profound lesson in gratitude, empathy, and mutual support within the Muslim community. Zakat is not solely a financial transaction; it is a compassionate response to the divine call for social responsibility. By addressing the economic imbalances present in society, Zakat becomes a powerful tool for fostering unity, justice, and the fulfillment of communal obligations as dictated by Islamic teachings.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

"Take from their wealth ˹O Prophet˺ charity to purify and bless them, and pray for them—surely your prayer is a source of comfort for them. And Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing." [9:103]

Zakat serves as a dual purifying force—cleansing both wealth and the human soul from the grip of avarice and selfishness. Beyond its financial implications, Zakat acts as a powerful spiritual purification, liberating individuals from the shackles of stinginess and miserliness. This transformative process contributes not only to the betterment of individual character but also to the enhancement of the collective well-being of society.

One of the remarkable aspects of Zakat is its role in fortifying the bonds between the affluent and the underprivileged. By mandating the contribution of a portion of wealth to those in need, Zakat becomes a conduit for dismantling barriers between different socioeconomic strata. It eradicates animosity, fosters understanding, and nurtures a sense of shared responsibility. In this way, Zakat becomes a tangible expression of compassion, paving the way for a society where love and mutual support prevail.

Furthermore, the ripple effects of Zakat extend to the broader societal landscape. As wealth is redistributed and needs are addressed, a sense of security permeates the community. This not only ensures a more stable and harmonious environment but also contributes to the overall happiness and well-being of its members.

Allah’s decree that Zakat is obligatory for anyone possessing the minimum wealth threshold over the course of a year underscores the universality and equity of this mandate. It is a divine directive designed to instill a sense of responsibility and compassion, emphasizing the interconnectedness of humanity and the shared duty to uplift those in need. Through the mechanism of Zakat, Islam seeks to create a society characterized by both material prosperity and spiritual richness.

"Establish prayer, and pay alms-tax. Whatever good you send forth for yourselves, you will ˹certainly˺ find ˹its reward˺ with Allah. Surely Allah is All-Seeing of what you do." [2:110]

Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan)

The fourth pillar of Islam, Sawm, encompasses the practice of fasting during the sacred month of Ramadan. From the break of dawn until sunset, Muslims willingly abstain not only from food and drink but also from other physical needs, including sexual intercourse. Beyond the surface-level discipline, the act of fasting is a multifaceted endeavor that cultivates empathy, spiritual purification, and self-discipline.

The abstention from basic necessities during daylight hours serves as a powerful reminder of the less fortunate, instilling a profound sense of empathy. By temporarily experiencing hunger and thirst, practitioners of fasting gain insight into the struggles faced by those who endure these hardships regularly. This heightened awareness fosters a deeper connection to the plight of others, motivating acts of compassion and generosity.

Fasting in Ramadan is more than a physical challenge; it is a journey of spiritual purification and self-discipline. Through this act of devotion, Muslims draw nearer to Allah, avoiding that which He has forbidden and embracing a heightened awareness of His presence in their lives. The practice becomes a conduit for a more profound understanding of patience, allowing individuals to navigate challenges with resilience and fortitude.

Moreover, fasting facilitates the cultivation of self-control, enabling individuals to harness and regulate their desires. It serves as a mechanism to bring personal impulses under scrutiny and control, promoting a more mindful and intentional approach to life. Simultaneously, the experience of fasting fosters compassion for those less fortunate, as individuals recognize the fragility of their own needs and the importance of extending kindness to others.

Sawm transcends a mere physical observance; it is a transformative and holistic practice that integrates physical, spiritual, and ethical dimensions. It becomes a pathway to self-discovery, increased closeness to Allah, and a heightened sense of empathy and compassion for the broader human experience.

"O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you—so perhaps you will become mindful ˹of Allah˺." [2:183]

The sacred month of Ramadan holds a distinctive significance in Islam, not only for being a period of fasting but also as the time when Allah revealed the Qur’an. This divine revelation serves as a guiding light for Muslims, offering profound wisdom and guidance for righteous living.

During Ramadan, the spiritual rewards for virtuous deeds, acts of worship, and charitable actions are magnified manifold. This heightened divine favor encourages believers to engage more fervently in acts of kindness, prayer, and philanthropy. The significance of this month is underscored by the belief that deeds performed during Ramadan carry exceptional weight, further motivating individuals to strive for spiritual excellence.

The imagery of the gates of heaven being opened and the gates of hell being closed during Ramadan encapsulates the mercy and divine benevolence that permeate this period. This symbolic gesture signifies an increased accessibility to Allah’s mercy and forgiveness, while the closing of the gates of hell serves as a protective shield against the forces of negativity and temptation. Believers view this as an opportune time for seeking redemption, purification, and drawing closer to the divine.

Ramadan is a time of heightened spirituality, reflection, and devotion, marked not only by the physical act of fasting but also by a collective effort to deepen one’s connection with Allah. The belief in the multiplied rewards for virtuous actions and the unique access to divine mercy underscores the profound spiritual significance of this blessed month in the Islamic calendar.

Allah made fasting in the month of Ramadan obligatory on every sane adult Muslim as it says in the Qur’an:

"Ramaḍân is the month in which the Quran was revealed as a guide for humanity with clear proofs of guidance and the decisive authority. So whoever is present this month, let them fast. But whoever is ill or on a journey, then ˹let them fast˺ an equal number of days ˹after Ramaḍân˺. Allah intends ease for you, not hardship, so that you may complete the prescribed period and proclaim the greatness of Allah for guiding you, and perhaps you will be grateful." [2:185]

There is a great reward with Allah for fasting; the Prophet (PBUH) said:

"Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) as saying: Every (good) deed of the son of Adam would be multiplied, a good deed receiving a tenfold to seven hundredfold reward. Allah, the Exalted and Majestic, has said: With the exception of fasting, for it is done for Me and I will give a reward for it, for one abandons his passion and food for My sake. There are two occasions of joy for one who fasts, joy when he breaks it, and joy when he meets his Lord, and the breath (of an observer of fast) is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of musk." [Sahih Muslim 1151E (Vol 2, Book 13, Chapter 30, Hadith 212]

Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)

The culminating pillar of Islam, Hajj, represents the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca, a religious obligation binding upon every physically and financially capable Muslim, to be undertaken at least once in their lifetime. This profound journey occurs during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah and entails a series of rituals meticulously designed to commemorate the actions of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family.

The pilgrimage serves as a powerful manifestation of unity, equality, and submission to the divine will of Allah. Regardless of socio-economic status or background, the pilgrims stand side by side, dressed in simple white garments, symbolizing the inherent equality and unity of the Muslim Ummah. The rituals of Hajj mirror the actions undertaken by Prophet Ibrahim and his family, highlighting themes of faith, sacrifice, and unwavering submission to the commandments of Allah.

The significance of the qibla, the designated direction of prayer, cannot be overstated in Islamic practice. Muslims worldwide face the qibla when offering their daily prayers, symbolizing a unified focus and connection with the divine. The qibla points towards the ancient House of the Kaaba in Mecca, a structure with profound historical and spiritual significance. This focal point of worship underscores the unity of the Muslim community, creating a symbolic nexus that binds believers across diverse cultures and geographies in their shared devotion to Allah.

Hajj and the qibla serve as poignant reminders of the unity, equality, and submission inherent in the Islamic faith. The pilgrimage to Mecca becomes a transformative journey, instilling a deep sense of spiritual fulfillment and fostering a profound connection with the historical roots of the Islamic tradition. Meanwhile, the qibla stands as a universal compass, guiding the hearts and souls of Muslims worldwide towards a common focal point of worship and unity.

"Indeed, We see you ˹O Prophet˺ turning your face towards heaven. Now We will make you turn towards a direction ˹of prayer˺ that will please you. So turn your face towards the Sacred Mosque ˹in Mecca˺—wherever you are, turn your faces towards it. Those who were given the Scripture certainly know this to be the truth from their Lord. And Allah is never unaware of what they do." [2:144]

Allah has made it obligatory for every sane adult Muslim who has the means to visit the ancient house and perform the rituals of hajj as Allah explains in the Qur’an:

"In it are clear signs and the standing-place of Abraham. Whoever enters it should be safe. Pilgrimage to this House is an obligation by Allah upon whoever is able among the people. And whoever disbelieves, then surely Allah is not in need of ˹any of His˺ creation." [3:97]

Final Thoughts

That concludes our discussion on the fundamental aspects of Islam. I acknowledge that the information presented may seem overwhelming, potentially causing confusion and a sense of being inundated. I can empathize with those feelings, as grasping new concepts can indeed be challenging. However, it’s essential to remain patient, persistent, and not give in to discouragement; the journey ahead is a lengthy one for all of us.

In Islam, the pursuit of knowledge holds great significance. We’ve laid the groundwork with these foundational principles, and now it’s time to progress. I recommend taking a week to absorb the content of this post before delving into the subsequent section of the reverts guide. This pause will afford you the opportunity to fully comprehend each concept individually.

It’s natural to feel a sense of urgency to catch up in your understanding, but it’s crucial to thoroughly grasp and internalize these core beliefs before advancing to the subsequent stages. This includes delving into the six articles of faith, affirming your shahada (testimony of faith), and embracing the path to becoming a Muslim.

If you have any questions, please reach out to us through the contact form here and we will respond as soon as we can inshallah (Allah willing). Additionally, don’t forget to check out our other posts relating to the Foundations of Islam, Bilal’s Bullseye and the Six Pillars of Faith.