What is Islam?

Islam is a monotheistic (belief in one God) faith regarded as revealed through Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as the Prophet of Allah. 

The subjects that follow this religion are referred to as Muslims. 

Five Pillars of Islam:

These are are the basic tenets of faith that hold together the foundation of Islam. Followers of Islam are obligated to abide by these values. These pillars of faith teach the way of life for a Muslim which eventually becomes routine. They help to establish a connection between Muslims and the Creator. 

They are as follows:

Profession of Faith (Shahada):

A Muslim must confess the belief that "There is no god but God and Muhammad (PBUH) is the Messenger of God". This is spoken in front of a witness in Arabic and their native language. 

Prayer (Salat):

Muslims must pray facing the direction of Mecca (toward the east) five times a day: before sunrise, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and before midnight. All prayer must begin with the opening chapter of the Qur'an. Prayers can be done at home or a local mosque. 

Charity (Zakat):

Muslims must donate a fixed portion of their income to community members in need in accordance with the Islamic law.

Fasting (Sawm):

Muslims must fast from sunrise to sunset during the ninth month of the Islamic calendar which is known as Ramadan. Muslims must share the feeling of hunger and thirst as a reminder of those who are less fortunate. 

Pilgrimage (Hajj):

Muslims whose health and finances are able must visit the holy city of Mecca (Saudi Arabia) at least once in their lifetime. Muslims around the world face toward the Holy Ka'ba in Mecca while praying. 

Who is Allah?:

Allah is the Arabic word meaning God. He is the same God that was worshipped by Abraham, Moses, Noah, Jesus, etc. Muslims refer to him as Ar-Rahman, Ar- Raheem (The Most Gracious, The Most Merciful).