Did the people of the Book ever have 5 prayers ?

[relearning]

Zoroastrian or other name Mazdayasna was once official religion of Iran its followers also prayed 5 times a day. Ablution also was a requirement for them. It is a strange similarity.

1: havan gah (morning prayers)
2:rapitvin gah (from midday till 3 hours later)
3:uzirin(after rapitvin gah till dusk)
4:aewi serutrem gah(after sunset till mid night)
5:ushahin gah(from dawn till before sunrise )

[good logic]

Peace.
Relearning your point is valid. But GOD is aware of it.
GOD knows exactly what He is doing. His plan for us includes sending messengers to clarify.
GOD makes sure His message is heard/seen/read/ renewed/...GOD backs up His messengers with "Bayinat"and gives them authorisation to deliver in person.
Also GOD insists that every individual is tried for their true conviction, insists He is the only Authority. No one else can claim that authority.and insists His words are the only criteria /origin of the deen.

Those who unite behind the true messenger will have no doubt whatsoever about the basic rules of salvation including Salat and Zakat.

Satan also plays his part to create doubt and divide in this life.
GOD bless.
Peace.