learning Aqeedah Simplified (Aqeedah) lesson
The 5 Pillars of Islam
The first thing to know is that learning Aqeedah refers to Muslims’ beliefs about Allah (God), the Prophets, the Day of Judgment, and other important Islamic concepts. Aqeedah is an important aspect of being a Muslim because it helps us understand the world around us and our place in it.
The most fundamental belief in Aqeedah is faith in Allah. Muslims believe that Allah is the only God, and that no other God exists. Allah is the Creator of the entire universe, and He is all-knowing, all-powerful, and merciful. Muslims believe that Allah has sent prophets to guide people throughout history, including Prophets Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).
Muslims also believe in the Day of Judgment, which is when Allah will judge all people based on their actions. Those who have done good will be rewarded with paradise, while those who have done evil will be punished in hellfire.
Other important beliefs in Aqeedah include the belief in angels, who are Allah’s servants, as well as the Quran, Islam’s holy book. Muslims believe that the Quran is Allah’s word, revealed to Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) over the course of 23 years.
The Five Pillars of Islam are basic acts of worship that serve as the foundation for Muslim life. These five practices are considered essential for all Muslims, reflecting their submission and devotion to Allah (God).
1. Shahada: The declaration of faith – This is the most important pillar of Islam, and it requires declaring that there is no God but Allah and that Muhammad is His messenger. It is a declaration made by a person to demonstrate their belief in God’s oneness and Muhammad’s prophetic status. It is regarded as the foundation of Islam and is recited daily by Muslims during their prayers.
2. Salah: The five daily prayers – Muslims are required to pray five times per day, facing the Kaaba in Mecca, Islam’s holiest site. Prayers are performed at specific times throughout the day to establish a direct connection with Allah. The prayers involve standing. Bowing, and prostrating in a specific manner, reciting verses from the Quran and supplications.
3. Zakat: Giving to Charity – Zakat is the practice of donating a portion of one’s wealth to those in need. Muslims are required to donate a portion of their wealth each year to help the poor and needy. It is regarded as a means of purifying one’s wealth and contributing to the development of a more equitable society.
4. Sawm: Fasting during Ramadan – During Ramadan, the ninth month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims must fast from dawn to sunset. Fasting entails abstaining from food, drink, and other bodily needs during daylight hours. It is regarded as a means of cultivating self-control, empathy, and spiritual awareness.
5. Hajj: Pilgrimage to Mecca – Muslims who are physically and financially able must make at least one pilgrimage to Mecca during their lifetime. The Hajj is a spiritual renewal journey that includes a series of rituals performed over several days in Mecca, the holy city. The pilgrimage is regarded as a means of purifying one’s soul and experiencing the unity of the Islamic community.
The pillars of imaan (faith)
Imaan’s pillars are the six fundamental beliefs that serve as the foundation of the Islamic faith. These beliefs are considered fundamental to all Muslims and reflect their submission and devotion to Allah (God).
1. Belief in Allah (Tawheed) – The fundamental belief in Islam is that Allah is one. Muslims believe that there is only one God and that He created the universe. Allah is all knowing, all powerful, and all merciful.
2. Belief in Angels – Muslims believe that Allah created angels to serve Him and carry out His commands. They are thought to be purely spiritual beings who do not have free will like humans.
3. Belief in Prophets – Muslims believe that Allah has sent prophets to guide humanity throughout history. These prophets are Adam, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all). Muslims believe Muhammad is the final prophet and Allah’s messenger.
4. Belief in Holy Books – Muslims believe in Allah’s revelations to the prophets. These books include the Quran, the final and most complete book, the Torah, the Psalms, and the Gospel.
5. Belief in the Day of Judgment – Muslims believe in the Day of Judgment, a day when Allah will judge all people based on their actions. Those who have done good will be rewarded with paradise, while those who have done evil will be punished in hellfire.
6. Belief in Divine Decree – Muslims believe in the concept of divine decree, which states that everything in the world happens according to Allah’s will. Muslims believe that Allah knows and controls everything that happens in the universe.
To summarize, the pillars of Imaan (faith) are belief in Allah, Angels, Prophets, Holy Books, the Day of Judgment, and Divine Decree. These beliefs form the basis of Muslim faith and are regarded as necessary for living a righteous and fulfilling life.
