The foundation of Islam rests upon five essential pillars, as described by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in an authentic hadith. These pillars outline the key practices every Muslim must uphold to live a life rooted in faith, worship, and social responsibility. This hadith provides a comprehensive understanding of these foundational acts, reminding believers of their duty to maintain a steadfast connection to Allah. Here, we will examine the complete hadith and discuss each pillar in detail.
حضرت عبداللہ بن عمر رضی اللہ عنہ سے روایت ہے کہ رسول اللہ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے فرمایا: “اسلام کی بنیاد پانچ ستونوں پر ہے: یہ گواہی کہ اللہ کے سوا کوئی معبود نہیں اور محمد اللہ کے بندے اور رسول ہیں، نماز قائم کرنا، زکوٰۃ ادا کرنا، بیت اللہ کا حج کرنا، اور رمضان کے روزے رکھنا۔”
Full Hadith in English
The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “Islam is built upon five pillars: bearing witness that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His servant and Messenger; establishing prayer; giving Zakat (charity); performing pilgrimage to the House (Hajj); and fasting during the month of Ramadan.”
Explanation of Each Pillar in the Hadith
In this hadith, the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) outlined the core practices that define a Muslim’s commitment to Islam. These five pillars form the spiritual, social, and physical framework through which believers express their faith and obedience to Allah.
Shahada (Declaration of Faith)
The Shahada, or the testimony of faith, is the first pillar and serves as the gateway to Islam. It is the firm declaration that “There is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His Messenger.” By reciting this, a Muslim acknowledges the oneness of Allah and accepts Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the final prophet.
Significance of Shahada
This declaration is not only a verbal commitment but also a commitment of the heart and mind. It represents the essence of Islamic monotheism, affirming that Allah alone deserves worship. The Shahada serves as a constant reminder of one’s purpose in life: to worship and obey Allah sincerely, while also following the teachings of His Messenger.
Salah (Establishing Prayer)
The second pillar, Salah, or prayer, is a daily act of worship performed five times a day. Salah is an essential part of a Muslim’s life, serving as a direct link between the believer and Allah.
Significance of Salah
Through Salah, a Muslim not only fulfills an obligation but also finds spiritual tranquility and guidance. Regular prayer instills discipline and creates a strong bond with Allah, keeping the believer grounded and mindful of their Creator. Salah is a time to seek forgiveness, express gratitude, and ask for help in all aspects of life.
Zakat (Charity)
The third pillar, Zakat, requires Muslims to give a portion of their wealth to those in need. It is both an act of worship and a social responsibility, aiming to purify one’s wealth and promote social equity.
Significance of Zakat
Zakat reflects the importance Islam places on caring for others and reducing wealth inequality. By giving a fixed percentage of their wealth to those who are less fortunate, Muslims fulfill their duty to help uplift the community. Zakat instills compassion and empathy, reminding Muslims that wealth is a trust from Allah, meant to benefit not just themselves but also those in need.
Hajj (Pilgrimage to the House of Allah)
The fourth pillar, Hajj, is the pilgrimage to the Kaaba in Mecca, which every able Muslim must perform once in their lifetime. Hajj takes place annually during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah and is an act of worship that brings Muslims together from around the world.
Significance of Hajj
Hajj represents unity, humility, and devotion. During the pilgrimage, all Muslims, regardless of their status or wealth, wear simple clothing to symbolize equality and submission to Allah. Hajj serves as a reminder of the Day of Judgment, as believers stand before Allah, seeking forgiveness and purifying their souls.
Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan)
The fifth and final pillar, Sawm, requires Muslims to fast from dawn to sunset during the holy month of Ramadan. Fasting is an act of self-discipline and sacrifice, where Muslims refrain from food, drink, and other physical needs.
Significance of Sawm
Fasting develops patience, empathy, and self-control. It is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, and charity, as Muslims focus on purifying their hearts and deepening their connection with Allah. Fasting allows believers to experience the hardships of the less fortunate, fostering empathy and a greater appreciation for blessings.
Conclusion
The hadith on the five pillars of Islam is a profound reminder of the core practices that every Muslim should uphold. Each pillar strengthens a different aspect of a believer’s faith, from declaring one’s commitment to Allah (Shahada) to establishing a regular connection through prayer (Salah), caring for others through charity (Zakat), uniting in devotion during Hajj, and developing self-discipline through fasting (Sawm). By practicing these pillars, a Muslim not only fulfills their religious obligations but also embodies the values of compassion, unity, and submission to Allah.
