The types of worship which are performed physically and verbally are called the Pillars of Islam. They are the foundations upon which the Religion is built and by which a person is regarded a Muslim. These pillars are as follows:
1. Declaration of Faith: The "Declaration of Faith" is the statement, "La ilaha illa Allah wa Muhammad Rasul-ullah", meaning "There is no deity worthy of being worship except God (Allah), and Muhammad is the Messenger (Prophet) of God". This testimony of faith is called the *Shahada*, a simple formula which should be said with conviction in order to convert to Islam .
2. Prayer *Salah* : Muslims perform five prayers a day. Each prayer does not take more than a few minutes to perform. Prayer in Islam is a direct link between the worshipper and God. There are no intermediaries between God and the worshipper.
In prayer, a person feels inner happiness, peace, and comfort, and that God is pleased with him or her.
3. Zakah: A type of charity. Muslims recognize that all wealth is a blessing from God, and certain responsibilities are required in return. In Islam, it is the duty of the wealthy to help the poor and needy.
4. Fast of Ramadan: Once each year, Muslims are commanded to fast for an entire month from dawn to sunset. The period of intense spiritual devotion is known as the fast of Ramadan in which no food, drink and sex is allowed during the fast. After sunset one can enjoy these things. During this month Muslims practice self-control and focus on prayers and devotion.
5. The Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca: It is an obligation once in a lifetime for those who are physically and financially able to perform it. It is the most intense spiritual experience for a Muslim. Typically, 2-3 million perform hajj every year.
Islam does not call upon Muslims to merely perform these acts of worship; rather, it wants of them to purify their souls. Allah says regarding Prayer:
“Indeed, the prayer prevents from immorality and sin.”
[29:45]
