Shaykh Ibn Baz explains that the religion of Islam is built upon five essential pillars, which are the foundation of a Muslim's faith and practice. These are obligatory upon every sane, adult Muslim. The basis for these pillars is the hadith of Abdullah ibn 'Umar, who reported that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "Islam is built upon five: the testimony that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, establishing the prayer, giving the zakat, making the pilgrimage to the House, and fasting in Ramadan." ([Sahih [al-Bukhari 8](/hadith/bukhari/8)](/hadith/bukhari/8); [Sahih Muslim 16](/hadith/muslim/16)).

These pillars are:

1. The Shahadatayn (The Two Testimonies of Faith): This is the verbal and heartfelt declaration that "There is no god worthy of worship except Allah, and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah." This is the cornerstone of faith, upon which all other acts of worship are built. It affirms Allah's sole right to be worshipped and the prophethood of Muhammad (peace be upon him) as the final messenger.

2. Iqam as-Salah (Establishing the Prayer): Performing the five obligatory daily prayers at their prescribed times. Prayer is the direct connection between the worshipper and Allah, and it is considered the most important pillar after the Shahadah.

3. Iita' az-Zakat (Giving the Zakat): This is an obligatory annual charity paid by Muslims on their surplus wealth. A calculated amount (typically 2.5%) is given to the poor and other specified categories of recipients. Zakat purifies one's wealth and soul from stinginess and serves as a vital social support system.

4. Sawm Ramadan (Fasting in Ramadan): Abstaining from food, drink, and marital relations from dawn until sunset during the entire month of Ramadan. This act of worship cultivates piety (taqwa), patience, and empathy for the poor.

5. Hajj Bayt-illah al-Haram (Pilgrimage to the Sacred House of Allah): Making the journey to the Kaaba in Makkah at least once in a lifetime, for every Muslim who is physically and financially able to undertake it. The Hajj is a powerful symbol of Muslim unity.

These pillars are the practical framework of a Muslim's life and the minimum required duties for one to be considered a practicing Muslim in good standing.