The structure of Islam in five foundations

What are the five pillars of Islam?

The Prophet ﷺ described Islam as a structure built on five pillars: the Shahadah, prayer, zakah, fasting Ramadan, and Hajj.

01 — The two testimonies

The foundation of the religion and entry into Islam.

02 — Establishing prayer

Five daily prayers that connect the Muslim to his Lord every day.

03 — Paying zakah

An obligatory right in wealth when its conditions are fulfilled.

04 — Fasting Ramadan

An annual month of worship that cultivates patience and taqwa.

05 — Hajj to the Sacred House

Once in a lifetime for whoever is able to make the journey.

Do I need to learn everything at once?

Learn the overall structure first, then begin with what you need now. A new Muslim starts with the Shahadah and prayer and learns the other pillars in their proper time and according to ability.

Sources

Primary source: the hadith of Ibn ‘Umar, may Allah be pleased with them both: Islam is built on five. It is recorded by al-Bukhari and Muslim.