Pillars of Islam are core beliefs and practices fundamental to the Islamic faith. Here’s a list of the 5 pillars of Islam and their meaning:
- Shahada (Faith) – The declaration of faith in Islam.
- Salat (Prayer) – Performing ritual prayers five times a day.
- Zakat (Charity) – The giving of alms or charity to help those in need.
- Sawm (Fasting) – The observance of fasting during Ramadan.
- Hajj (Pilgrimage) – The pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca.
As we know the benefits of seeking Islamic knowledge in Islam so, these Five Pillars serve as the foundation of Islamic practice and belief, guiding the lives of Muslims by providing a framework for their faith and actions. Besides, Facts that these faiths of Islam provide valuable insights into the core beliefs and practices that shape the lives of Muslims worldwide.
Overview of 5 Pillars of Islam With Examples
Here is a detailed guide of every sigler pillar of Islam with examples.
1. The First Pillar – Shahada (Faith)
The first pillar of Islam is like the superhero cape that every Muslim wears – it’s called “Shahada,” which means “Faith.” The declaration of faith, belief in one God (Allah) and the prophethood of Muhammad. It’s like telling the world about your special friend, Allah.
“Ash-hadu an la ilaha illa Allah, Wa ash-hadu anna Muhammadan Rasulu-Allah.”
“I bear witness that there is no God but God (Allah – i.e. there is none worthy of worship but Allah), and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.”
“Say, [O Prophet,] “I am only a man like you, ˹but˺ it has been revealed to me that your God is only One God. So whoever hopes for the meeting with their Lord, let them do good deeds and associate none in the worship of their Lord. —(Surah Al Kahf)”
Exploring Faith Concept with Examples
- Think of Shahada as a big, magical promise. You know how you promise your friends that you’ll always be there for them? Muslims make a promise to Allah by saying, “I believe in you, Allah, and I promise to try my best to be a good person.”
- It’s like believing in superheroes in your favorite stories. Just like you believe in their amazing powers, Muslims believe in the power of Allah to make everything in the world happen.
- Shahada is a bit like saying, “I love my family.” When you love someone, you want to make them proud and happy. So, Muslims love Allah, so they promise to do their best to make Him happy by being kind and good.
2. The Second Pillar – Salat (Prayer)
Imagine the second pillar of Islam, Salat, as a magical bridge that connects you to Allah. It’s like having a special chat with your best friend. Muslims are required to pray five times a day facing the Kaaba in Mecca. So, Salat is like a secret code that helps you chat with Allah five times a day, and it’s all about love, respect, and kindness. For kids, it is very important to learn and understand this faith so they can follow and practice regularly. Kids can learn prayer in Islamic studies for kids sessions.
“And seek help through patience and prayer. Indeed, it is a burden except for the humble —Surah Al-Baqarah (2:45).”
“Successful indeed are the believers: those who humble themselves in prayer; —Surah Al-Muminoon (23:1-2).”
Exploring Prayer Concept with Examples
- Think of Salat as a letter to Allah. Just like you write a letter to your pen pal or Santa, Salat is like a letter to Allah where you say, “I love you, and I’m thankful for all the good things in my life.”
- Salat is like a bedtime story. As your parents read you stories before bed, Salat is a special moment to talk to Allah before sleeping. Moreover, you tell Him about your day, apologize for any mistakes, and ask for His help to be good and kind.
3. The Third Pillar – Zakat (Charity)
The third pillar of Islam, Zakat, is like a shining star in the night sky. It’s all about sharing and helping those who need it. Muslims typically give 2.5% of their savings and investments to assist the less fortunate. In addition, Zakat is a way to spread love and make the world a better place.
“O believers! Donate from the best of what you have earned and of what We have produced for you from the earth. Do not pick out worthless things for donation, which you yourselves would only accept with closed eyes. And know that Allah is Self-Sufficient, Praiseworthy. —Surah Al-Baqarah (2:267)”
“Establish regular prayer and give Zakat, and obey Allah and His messenger. —Surah Al-Ahzab ”
Exploring Charity Concept with Examples
- Think of Zakat as a magic jar of smiles. When you give, it’s like putting smiles in the jar. And when you share that jar with others, you make the world a happier place.
- Zakat is like sharing your favorite toys with friends. Just like you love to share and make your friends happy, Muslims share a part of what they have with people who might need help.
- Charity is like playing a game of kindness. Giving is like scoring points in being a good and caring person. Further, the more you give, the more points you earn!
4. The Fourth Pillar – Sawm (Fasting)
Imagine the fourth pillar of Islam, Sawm, as a special adventure, like a treasure hunt! It’s like being a secret agent on a mission to discover how strong you can be. Sawm is all about fasting during a special month called Ramadan. It’s not about being hungry; it’s about feeling the power of self-control and showing love and understanding to others.
“O believers! Fasting is prescribed for you—as it was for those before you 1 —so perhaps you will become mindful ˹of Allah˺ —Al-Baqarah (2:183).”
“Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins. —Bukhari”
Exploring Fasting Concept with Examples
- Sawm helps you remember those who are hungry. By fasting, you feel more connected to people who don’t have enough to eat.
- Sawm is like learning self-control. It’s like practicing to not eat all your favorite candy at once. By learning self-control, you become a master at being patient and understanding.
5. The Fifth Pillar – Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca)
Picture the fifth pillar of Islam, Hajj, as a grand and thrilling journey, like an incredible adventure to the most magical place on Earth, Mecca. It’s like a secret map that guides you to the heart of Islam. Thus, Hajj is all about bringing people together and feeling super close to Allah.
“In it there are clear signs and the station of Abraham;80 whoever enters it becomes secure.81 Pilgrimage to the House is a duty owed to Allah by all who can make their way to it. As for those who refuse to follow His command, surely Allah does not stand in need of anything. —(3:97)”
“So travel freely, [O disbelievers], throughout the land [during] four months but know that you cannot cause failure to Allah and that Allah will disgrace the disbelievers —(Surah Al Tawba).”
Exploring Pilgrimage Concept with Examples
- Hajj is like going on an epic quest. Just like in your favorite stories where heroes go on daring adventures, Muslims go on a once-in-a-lifetime journey to Mecca.
- Think of Hajj as a big, exciting family trip to a magical theme park. Just like you get ready for a day of fun at the park, Muslims get ready for a unique adventure in Mecca.
- Hajj is like a treasure hunt, where the treasure is love and kindness. You search for treasures of love, forgiveness, and understanding by sharing special moments with other pilgrims.
Why Are the 5 Pillars Important to Explain to Kids?
Explaining the Five Pillars of Islam to kids is vital for several reasons:
- Cultural Understanding: Helps kids appreciate different cultures and beliefs.
- Fosters Tolerance: Encourages acceptance of people with diverse faiths.
- Teaches Fundamental Islamic Values: Imparts essential values like faith, kindness, and charity.
- Global Awareness: Prepares kids to be informed global citizens.
- Promotes Empathy: Encourages understanding and compassion for others.
- Respect for Diversity: Instills respect for various beliefs and practices.
By learning these Islamic faiths deeply anyone can begin their journey to become an Islamic scholar. Online Islamic classes are best to anyone learn these Islamic faiths.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the 5 pillars of Islam explained to kids are so easy. First, Shahada serves as the declaration of faith in Islam, affirming the oneness of Allah and the prophethood of Muhammad. Second, Muslims pray five times daily, facing the Kaaba in Mecca to connect with Allah throughout the day.
Third, Zakat involves giving a portion of one’s wealth to those in need, promoting charity and kindness. Fourth, fasting during Ramadan, from sunrise to sunset, cultivates self-discipline and spiritual reflection. Lastly, the Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, undertaken by those physically and financially able, is a journey of profound spiritual significance, following the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim and his family.
In summary, these Five Pillars form the bedrock of Islamic faith and practice, guiding the lives of Muslims and strengthening their connection with Allah and fellow human beings. By learning and understanding them anyone can start their journey to become an Islamic scholar.
