Learn more about the other pillars of Islam

Fasting during Ramadan is just one of five duties of Islam.The others are profession of faith, praying, charitable giving, and making a pilgrimage to Mecca.

Profession of faith

The profession of faith, or shahada, is the belief that there is no god but God, and Muhammad is the messenger of God.

This is the most fundamental expression of Islamic beliefs.

Prayer

Muslims pray facing Mecca five times a day: in the morning, at noon, in the afternoon, when the sun sets, and at night.

Mecca is where the Islamic religion started. All Muslims pray in the direction of a sacred building called the Ka’bah, which is in the Great Mosque of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. This is the holiest site in Islam.

Charitable giving

Muslims have a responsibility to give to those in need with charitable giving.

Charitable giving can be donating money, necessities such as clothing and food, or of time by volunteering.

Pilgrimage to Mecca

The pilgrimage to Mecca is a trip every Muslim who is able must take to the holy city of Mecca, which today is in Saudi Arabia.

The pilgrimage takes place during Hajj, the last month in the Islamic calendar, which is July 17 to July 22 this year.

Every year, millions of Muslims around the world make the trip to Mecca.

Comments: (319) 398-8411; grace.king@thegazette.com