1) Shahada (Faith): The declaration of faith, stating that “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger.” This affirmation is the foundation of Islam.
2) Salat (Prayer): Muslims are required to pray five times a day. The prayers occur at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset, and night.
3) Zakat (Charity): Muslims must give a portion of their wealth (usually 2.5% of their savings) to those in need, purifying their income and helping the less fortunate.
4) Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan): During the month of Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn until sunset, refraining from food, drink, and other physical needs to practice self-discipline and empathy for the hungry.
5) Hajj (Pilgrimage): All Muslims who are able are required to make the pilgrimage to Mecca and the surrounding holy sites at least once in their lives. Pilgrimage focuses on visiting the Kaaba and walking around it seven times. Pilgrimage occurs in the 12th month of the Islamic Calendar.