Five Pillars of Islam KS2
The Five Pillars of Islam are the five key duties that help guide the lives of Muslims around the world. Learning about the Five Pillars of Islam in KS2 helps children understand the beliefs, values and practices that are important in Islam.
Each pillar represents an important aspect of Muslim life and faith. Together, they provide a framework for worship, charity, community and personal responsibility.
Teaching the Five Pillars of Islam in KS2?
Save planning time with our ready-to-teach lesson, including lesson plan, teaching slides and a range of printable activities for adaptive teaching.
What are the Five Pillars of Islam?
The Five Pillars of Islam are:
- Shahadah: declaring belief in one God, Allah, and that Muhammad is His messenger.
- Salah: praying five times a day.
- Zakah: giving to those in need.
- Sawm: fasting during the month of Ramadan.
- Hajj: making a pilgrimage to Makkah, if able to do so.
Why are the Five Pillars of Islam important?
The Five Pillars of Islam provide guidance for Muslims in their everyday lives. They encourage worship, kindness, generosity, self-discipline and a sense of belonging to a wider community.
Shahadah: The Declaration of Faith
Shahadah is the first pillar of Islam. It is the statement of faith that expresses the core belief of Muslims: that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.
Salah: Daily Prayer
Salah is the practice of praying five times each day. Muslims pray at set times, facing towards the Kaaba in Makkah. Prayer helps Muslims remember Allah throughout the day.
Zakah: Giving to Others
Zakah teaches Muslims the importance of helping those who are less fortunate. Eligible Muslims give a portion of their wealth to charitable causes each year.
Sawm: Fasting During Ramadan
Sawm refers to fasting during the month of Ramadan. Adult Muslims who are able to do so refrain from eating and drinking between dawn and sunset. Fasting encourages self-discipline, gratitude and empathy.
Hajj: The Pilgrimage to Makkah
Hajj is a pilgrimage to Makkah in Saudi Arabia. Muslims who are physically and financially able are expected to complete Hajj once in their lifetime.
Teaching the Five Pillars of Islam at KS2
When teaching the Five Pillars of Islam KS2, it can be helpful to explore how each pillar influences the daily lives of Muslims. Children can compare religious practices with their own routines, discuss the values represented by each pillar and investigate how Muslims express their faith today.
Using real-life examples, photographs, videos and first-hand accounts can help pupils develop a deeper understanding of Islamic beliefs and practices.
Explore Islamic Rites of Passage
Looking for ready-to-teach RE lessons on Islam? Our Islamic Rites of Passage scheme of work helps children explore important ceremonies and traditions in the lives of Muslims, making it an excellent companion resource when studying Islam at KS2.
Five Pillars of Islam KS2 FAQs
What are the Five Pillars of Islam?
The Five Pillars of Islam are Shahadah, Salah, Zakah, Sawm and Hajj.
Why do Muslims follow the Five Pillars?
The Five Pillars provide guidance for living a faithful and responsible life according to Islamic teachings.
Which pillar is about helping people in need?
Zakah is the pillar that focuses on charity and supporting those who are less fortunate.
