Profession of Faith

The Profession of Faith, the shahada, is the most fundamental expression of Islamic beliefs.  La ‘ilaha ‘illallahu Muhammadun Rasulillah
لَا إِلَٰهَ إِلَّا اللهُ مُحَمَّدٌ رَسُولُ اللهِ. It simply states that “There is no God but God and Muhammad is his prophet.” It underscores the monotheistic nature of Islam.

Daily prayers

Prayers are said at dawn, mid-day, late-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day. These five prescribed prayers contain verses from the Quran, and are said in Arabic, the language of the Revelation. Personal supplications, however, can be offered in one’s own language and at any time.

Alms (Zakat)

The word zakah means both “purification” and “growth.” Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need and for the society in general. Each Muslim calculates his or her own obligatory charity individually. This involves the annual payment of 2.5% of your total net worth.