The Significance of the Five Pillars of Islam

Reciting the Shahadah, the profession of Islamic faith, is the basic method of conversion to Islam and is also one of the religion's five pillars. Reciting this oath, which states, "There is no God but God and Muhammad is the Messenger of God," allows Muslims to show acceptance and commitment to Islam, according to the Royal Embassy of Saudi Arabia in Washington, D.C. In fact, the Saudi Arabian flag is decorated with the Shahadah written in Arabic script.

The pillar of Salah, which requires Muslims to perform five daily prayers at specific times, serves more than one purpose. First, it connects Muslims across the globe with one another as they all face Mecca to perform the same prayers at the same times complete with specific words and movements. Praying five times a day is also important because it is a commandment of Allah, and Muslims believe that worshipping him earns them rewards, according to the BBC.

Zakat is a charitable tax, used to help the poor and is believed to "purify, increase and bless the remainder of one's wealth," according to Islamic Relief Worldwide. To calculate Zakat, which consists of 2.5 percent of one's net worth, various things are taken into consideration, including savings and the value of property. Paying Zakat is another part of obeying Allah's commandments and earning his favor while helping those who are in need to better the world.

During the holy month of Ramadan, Muslims practice the pillar of Sawn, fasting from sunrise to sundown and abstaining from food, drink, smoking and even sex. This practice allows Muslims to "diminish dependence on material goods, purify their hearts and establish solidarity with the poor to encourage charitable works," according to "TIME Magazine." After a day of fasting, Muslims share a meal with family and friends, partaking in community and togetherness.

The final pillar of Islam, Hajj is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, where Muslims visit the Kaaba, the religion's most holy site, and perform special rites. All Muslims who are financially and physically able to make the journey must do so and it promotes oneness with fellow Muslims, acting as a "common bond among the diverse believers," according to "The Guardian." Performing the Hajj is also an important part of obeying rules laid down by Muhammad.