Five Pillars of Islam

According to teachings and beliefs of Islam, the mission is to reform society, making it moral and good. In the traditional practices of Islam, as a child one is taught to memorize the Qur’an. It is said that as one gets older the power of these words helps them in shaping their lives. The Qur’an teaches that there is only God that should be prayed and worshipped to. There belief is also that when humans wrote down some of God’s original messages the true message was somehow altered and not written correctly. A chant, which is the first thing that infant hears is whispered â€Å"La ilaha ill-Allah Muhammad-un Rasulu-llah† which means (â€Å"There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God†). Islam teaches that Muhammad was God’s messenger hear on earth. Muhammad is said to be the true deliverer, because his scriptures were direct from God. The Qur’an is said to be authentic, the words that God said have not be been changed, but are direct and not translated. One can only find peace and harmony if they believe and surrender to Allah (God). There are two major sins according to Islam. One is called shirk, it means to only worship one God. The other kufr, to be ungrateful to God, or atheist. Islam teaches that one must be fearful and love God. The unseen life show’s that Muslims believe in angels of God, here on earth with specific responsibilities, some recording our every deed. There is also the belief in the after life and hell. The Five Pillars of Islam are considered God’s commandments. The beliefs of Muslims are reflected in these Pillars. The first Pillar, the Shahadah, is believing and professing the unity of God and the messengership of Muhammad. Secondly, it is required that one prays five times per day, facing Mecca. Thirdly, the zakat, which is the donation of at leas two and a half percent of one’s yearly accumulated wealth. Fourth, is fasting, and finally the firth Pillar is hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca, which is expected of every Muslim at least once in their lifetime, performing traditional rituals and practices. Following these commandments are required of all that practice the Islamic religion, paying homage to God. These help to bring one closer to God and all his glory.