What are the five pillars of Islam?

The five pillars of Islam are foundational acts of worship and practice that define a Muslim's faith and daily life. They consist of faith (Shahada), prayer (Salah), charity (Zakat), fasting (Sawm during Ramadan), and pilgrimage (Hajj to Mecca).

Faith (Shahada) is the declaration of the belief in the oneness of God and the prophethood of Muhammad. Prayer (Salah) is the performance of ritual prayers five times a day, facing Mecca. Charity (Zakat) entails giving a portion of one’s wealth to those in need, promoting social equality. Fasting (Sawm) involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn until sunset during the holy month of Ramadan. Finally, pilgrimage (Hajj) is a journey to Mecca that every Muslim must undertake at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able to do so.

This option accurately encapsulates the core duties expected of all Muslims and highlights the importance of these pillars in fostering a sense of community and spiritual growth. The other choices do not reflect the specific practices associated with Islam, instead listing a variety of unrelated religious or spiritual concepts.