Islam is a monotheistic Abrahamic faith that believes in one God, Allah, and follows the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad, who is considered the final prophet in a line that includes figures such as Abraham, Moses, and Jesus. The core texts of Islam are the Qur'an, which is considered the literal word of God as revealed to Muhammad, and the Hadith, which are sayings and actions of Muhammad.
Islamic practice is guided by the Five Pillars of Islam:
1. **Shahada (Faith)**: Professing the oneness of God and Muhammad as His prophet.
2. **Salah (Prayer)**: Performing ritual prayers five times a day.
3. **Zakat (Charity)**: Giving to those in need and supporting the welfare of the community.
4. **Sawm (Fasting)**: Observing fasting during the month of Ramadan from dawn to sunset.
5. **Hajj (Pilgrimage)**: Undertaking a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca at least once in a lifetime, if financially and physically able.
Islam emphasizes submission to the will of Allah, adherence to ethical guidelines, and living a life of righteousness and justice.
