The Mediator Mic

Unveiling Islam Class 2: Five Pillars of Islam vs. Christian Ascetical Practices

Mother Ezgi

In this lecture, we learn about five essential beliefs that are necessary to a person to live a life as a Muslim. We take a closer look at the Five Pillars of Islam: Shahada (profession of faith), Salat (daily prayer), Zakat (almsgiving), Sawm (fasting during Ramadan), and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). We explore how these practices shape everyday Muslim devotion, and then we compare them with Christian ascetical disciplines like the Daily Office, fasting, almsgiving, and pilgrimage. Together, we’ll discover how both traditions invite us into rhythms of prayer, self-giving, and a deeper love of God.