Like many other religions, the Muslim faith has gone through many changes and branches. Like Christianity, the original faith is still practiced by some, but others have started new branches with their own unique interpretation being Muslim. Despite these differences within the Muslim religion, a set of rules of moral guidance is essential to all. These rules constitute the five pillars of Islam. The Five Pillars act as a moral compass for Muslims and are universally accepted because they are mentioned specifically in the Quran, the Muslim holy book of God's words as recited to Muhammad (Molloy, 425). The first of the Five Pillars is the creed. The creed states: “There is no God but Allah, and Muhammad is his messenger” (Molloy, 431). This pillar is the core of the Muslim faith. When the creed is recited and believed, it is believed that that person is now truly Muslim. This message is also found throughout the Muslim faith. It is recited daily and frequently written in mosques and private homes (Molloy, 431). The second pillar is prayer. Devoted Muslims pray five times a day, at dawn, at noon, mid-afternoon, at sunset, and at night (Molloy, 432). The prayer process for Muslims is rich in rituals. Prayers are called by a muezzin from the top of a tower called a minaret. Another ritual involved in prayer includes a process of purification with water or sand, during which the believer cleans his hands, arms, face, neck and feet before beginning. Believers always pray facing Mecca, whether they pray in a mosque, at home or elsewhere. However, if they pray in a mosque, there will be a leader who will orchestrate the recitation and instruct the followers on various body positions...... middle of paper ...... people believe that there is a constant struggle against good and evil on earth, and choosing to live an equal and compassionate life will lend itself well to a “good life” (Molloy, 431). Despite the ever-changing Muslim community, the fundamental structure of their religion, particularly the Five Pillars of Islam promote morally healthy living among its people. After completing the readings on Islamic beliefs, it is easy to see and appreciate the emphasis these people place on community and human dignity. Other religions and organizations around the world could certainly benefit from education on the rituals and values ​​of Muslim people. Works Cited Molloy, M. (2010). Experiencing the World's Religions: Tradition, Challenge, and Change (5th ed.). New York, NY: McGraw-Hill. Van Voorst, R. (2011). Anthology of World Scriptures (7th ed.). Boston, MA: Wadsworth, Cengage Learning.