Basic facts about Islam   * Islam is the second largest religion in the world.   * There are 2.2 billion Muslims across world (Henderson 64).   * Muslim majority countries include Indonesia, Pakistan and India ( Henderson 64)   * Islam has rules which govern different aspects of faithful lifestyles.   * Islam is a comprehensive religion and thus promotes wholesome growth of followers.   * Some of rules of Islam include the six pillars of faith and five pillars of faith. Islam Religion Demystified   * Increased scrutiny on Islam especially in the post 9/11 era. Among the factors contribute to the above phenomenon is the rise of radical Islamists (Imam Afroz para. 3).   * Increased stereotyping in the post 9/11 era has led to cases of discrimination against Muslim faithful.   * The central theme of Islam as carried in all beliefs is peaceful co-existence and respect for other people’s religion.   * Need for more information on Islam including Islamic belief and practices. As such people will be in a position to associate some of their daily activities with Muslim practice. Similarly, people are in a position to understand some positive Muslim practices which contributes to a shift to positive image of Islam. Five Pillars of Islam First pillar of Islam – Shahaadah or Kalima . This basically is a faith testimony and is the foundation of Islam. Encompasses testifying to Allah (God) divinity. Similarly, Muslim faith encompasses professing Prophet Muhammad as Allah’s sole messenger. The Shahaadah is recited to newborn soon after birth. Also, new converts to Muslim are expected to learn the Shahaadah. Thereafter, they should recite it as part of their faith. Second pillar – Salah or prayer . Through prayer, Muslims believe their connection to Allah is strengthen. The Salat is performed at specific times of the day. There are specific words and actions associated with prayers. Major themes of the prayers include forgiveness , guidance and self discipline. Third pillar – Zakah or giving of alms . Islam puts emphasis on collective responsibility ensuring everyone’s wellbeing. Advocates for increased sharing with both Muslims and non-Muslims. Under the religion , this is seen as purification process which is also the implication of the word “ Zakah”. Fourth pillar – Sawm or fasting . Muslims are expected to fast in the holy month of Ramadan. Includes refraining from certain activities including eating and sexual relation. There several advantages associated with Ramadan. This includes promotion of healthy eating habits through increased self discipline. This translates to a healthy lifestyle Fifth pillar – The Hajj or pilgrimage . Muslims are expected to make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. All Muslims are expected to make during their pilgrimage. Involved several rites including going round the Kabbah seven times. Six Pillars of Faith in Islam  1. Belief in the unity of Allah  2. Belief in Allah’s Angels.  3. Belief in Allah’s books.  4. Belief in prophets.  5. Belief in the day of judgment.  6. Belief in the decrees of Allah. Discussion on Six Pillars of faith First pillar of faith in Islam – Belief in one God, Allah . This pillar of faith lays foundation to Islam where all faithful regardless of race, tribe of country believe in one supreme God, Allah.   * Allah’s superiority is expressed in the Quran. Quran , 112:1-4 indicates that there is only one God.   * All Muslims are bound t