Allah's Messenger (ﷺ) said: Islam is based on (the following) five (principles):
1. To testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Muhammad is Allah's Messenger (ﷺ).
2. To offer the (compulsory congregational) prayers dutifully and perfectly.
3. To pay Zakat (i.e. obligatory charity) .
4. To perform Hajj. (i.e. Pilgrimage to Mecca)
5. To observe fast during the month of Ramadan.
The Five Pillars of Islam
This foundational hadith from Sahih al-Bukhari 8 outlines the essential pillars upon which the entire structure of Islam is built. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) systematically presented these five principles as the fundamental obligations for every Muslim.
First Pillar: The Testimony of Faith (Shahadah)
The declaration "La ilaha illa Allah, Muhammadur Rasulullah" constitutes the foundation of Islamic belief. It affirms absolute monotheism and acknowledges Muhammad's prophethood. This testimony distinguishes Muslims from non-believers and serves as the entry point into Islam.
Second Pillar: Prescribed Prayers (Salah)
The five daily prayers establish a continuous connection between the servant and the Creator. Performed at specific times with physical purification and spiritual concentration, Salah serves as a constant reminder of one's purpose in life and reinforces faith through regular devotion.
Third Pillar: Obligatory Charity (Zakat)
Zakat purifies wealth and demonstrates social responsibility. By giving a portion of one's savings to the needy, Muslims acknowledge that all provisions come from Allah and cultivate generosity while addressing economic disparities within the community.
Fourth Pillar: Pilgrimage (Hajj)
The journey to Mecca represents the ultimate act of submission and unity. By performing the same rites as Prophet Ibrahim (AS), Muslims from diverse backgrounds gather as equals before Allah, demonstrating the universal brotherhood of Islam.
Fifth Pillar: Fasting (Sawm)
Fasting during Ramadan develops self-discipline, spiritual awareness, and empathy for the less fortunate. By abstaining from physical needs from dawn to sunset, Muslims strengthen their taqwa (God-consciousness) and purify their souls.
Scholarly Commentary
Classical scholars emphasize that these pillars collectively encompass the essential practices of Islam. They balance individual devotion (Shahadah, Salah, Sawm) with social obligations (Zakat, Hajj), creating a comprehensive system that nurtures both personal spirituality and communal welfare.