5 Pillars of Islam & Islamic Etiquette to Follow While Visiting a Mosque

The Islamic place of worship - Mosque AKA Masjid is a resemblance to the Muslim God - "Allah".

Only Muslims can enter a mosque. Though, non-Muslims can attend a marriage function or Islamic funerals as they choose, who believe in Allah. Like temples and churches, Islamic Mosques also have their etiquette - "Islamic Etiquette"

Every religion has its core beliefs and customs. For Hindus it's the traditions in temples, for Christians, it's church etiquettes and for Muslims, it's the "5 pillars of Islam" and the Islamic etiquette and manners.

So,

What are the 5 Pillars of Islam?

The five pillars of Islam are the basic norms of Islamic practices and customs. Irrespective of the sects' differences and ethics, these 5 pillars of Islam are accepted by Muslims across the globe.

So, basically the 5 pillars of Islam AKA "5 Arkan of Islam" go like this:

1. Shahada(Declaration of Faith):

Quran - The Holy Book of Islam, is very much prominent in Islam. The one who reads the phrases that declare their faith in the Quran with conviction is said to become a "Muslim".

"Shahada", The Declaration of Faith says - "There is no true god but God(Allah) and Muhammad is the Messenger(Prophet) of God". This is the declaration of faith in Allah and his messenger, as per the Quran. By simply residing in this conviction, one is said to be converted to Islam and becomes a Muslim. And this makes the first pillar of Islam.

2. Salat(Prayers):

Prayers are said to be very sacred among Muslims. Salat, Salah, or Namaz, known by different names, is the 5 times of prayers conducted by Muslims facing Mecca - Kabba, the Great Mosque in Saudi Arabia. Followed by the 5 pillars of Islam, Salat is observed 5 times:

• Fajr - The Prayer done at dawn

• Zuhr - The Prayer done at noon

• Asr - The prayer done late in the afternoon

• Maghrib - The Prayer done after sunset

• Isha - The prayer done at dusk

The prayers will be a constant repetition of bows & prostrations, called rakat. Salat or Salah can be done in a long and clean place at home or elsewhere, yet it is recommended that it is done in mosques.

3. Zakat(Charity Offerings)

Among the 5 pillars of Islam, Zakat stands as a powerful symbol of compassion and shared responsibility within the Muslim community. Translated as "purification" or "growth," Zakat signifies the obligation for Muslims to share a portion of their wealth with those less fortunate. This mandatory act of charity helps build stronger communities, promotes social justice, and fulfills a spiritual duty.

4. Sawm(Fasting)

Sawm, the fourth pillar of Islam, requires Muslims to abstain from food, drink, and certain other activities during the holy month of Ramadan. This annual period of fasting serves as a profound spiritual journey, fostering self-reflection, empathy, and heightened devotion to Allah.

5. Hajj(Pilgrimage)

Hajj, the fifth and final pillar of Islam, represents a once-in-a-lifetime journey for Muslims who are physically and financially able. This pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city in Islam, brings together millions of Muslims from all walks of life, united in their faith and devotion.