ISLAM See also: http://www.pluralism.org/religion/islam/introduction/muslim Introduction Islam is an Arabic word which means ‘the peace gained by willingly obeying Allah’. This day I have perfected your religion for you, completed my favour upon you, and have chosen Islam as your religion. (Surah 5:3 Al Maïdah) Islam as a religion is a complete way of life. It represents the guidance provided by Allah for all humanity. In Islam, there are no physical representations of Allah or of his prophets. Therefore the text of this section is accompanied with examples of Islamic art and architecture and with Qur’anic calligraphy. Islam Islam is an Arabic word which means ‘the peace gained by willingly obeying Allah’. The name of the religion was given by Allah (God). This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed my favour upon you, and have chosen Islam as your religion. (Qur’an: Maïdah 5:4) Followers of Islam are Muslims. A Muslim is ‘one who submits to the will of Allah’. The key figure in Islam is the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) who was chosen by Allah to receive his divine message. This message from Allah has been written in the holy book, the Qur’an. The Qur’an is Allah’s final message to humanity, and Muhammad is Allah’s last and final prophet, known as ‘The Seal of the Prophets’. Being a Muslim means practising the Five Pillars of Islam. These duties are saying the Shahadah (the basic creed), Salah (prayer) five times a day, Zakah (giving alms), Sawm (fasting) during Ramadan and Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca). The history of Islam Muslims say that Islam has always existed, and always will - the first Muslim was the very first person on earth. Islam acknowledges a long line of ‘prophets’ or ‘messengers’, beginning with Adam (pbuh = alayhi as-salām (‫)عليه السالم‬, which translates as "peace be upon him"), and ending with Muhammad (pbuh). Muhammad (pbuh) was the last messenger, bringing the complete message to humanity. Thus, Muhammad (pbuh) is not seen as the founder of Islam, but as the final prophet who received Allah’s final message to humanity. Muhammad (pbuh) Muhammad (pbuh) was born in Makkah c. 570 CE. His father died before he was born, and his mother died when he was only six years old. He lived with Halimah, a woman who lived in the desert, until he was eight, and then he went to live with his uncle Abu Talib who was a trader in Makkah. He worked for his uncle as an apprentice camel driver, and gained the respect of all who had dealings with him. A wealthy widow, Khadijah heard about his honesty and integrity, and employed him to look after her business interests. She was so impressed with him that she asked him to marry her. Muhammad and Khadijah were well suited to each other and had a very happy marriage. They had six children: two sons and four daughters. The two sons both died in childhood, but the daughters survived and were happily married. 1

Muhammad (pbuh) Muhammad (pbuh) used to escape from the noise of life in Makkah by going into the hills or the desert to sit and think. One night, while he was sitting in a cave, a figure appeared before him. The figure commanded him: Proclaim! (or Read!) in the name of thy Lord and Cherisher, Who created - Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood. (Surah 96:1-2 Iqraa) Muhammad (pbuh) could not read or write, so he had to repeat the words spoken to him until he could remember them. The figure that appeared to him was the Angel Jibril (Gabriel). Jibril told Muhammad (pbuh) that he was to be the Messenger of Allah. Muhammad (pbuh) The messages from Allah through Jibril continued for several years. Receiving the revelation was a difficult and painful experience for Muhammad (pbuh) as he would often have violent fits or go into long trances. At first, there were very few who would listen to his message. These faithful followers included his wife, his two friends, Abu Bakr and Uthman, his cousin Ali (son of his uncle Abu Talib) and a former slave, Zaid. These five were the first Muslims. Others in Makkah ridiculed Muhammad (pbuh) and resented his preaching. They were not prepared to change their way of worship. Muhammad (pbuh) In 622CE, following the death of his uncle Abu Talib and his wife Khadijah, Muhammad (pbuh) and his followers were forced to leave Makkah. This move is called the Hijrah (the migration). They settled the city of Yathrib about 480km north east of Makkah. The city became known as Madina an-Nabi (the City of the Prophet) and today it is simply called Medina. It is the site of the very first mosque. Muhammad (pbuh) The Islamic calendar begins in the year of the Hijrah, so years are numbered 1 AH, 2 AH (after Hijrah) etc. The Hijrah is seen as the birth of the Islamic community. Muhammad (pbuh) was very successful in Medina, but when news of this reached Makkah, bands of armed men rode to Medina to attack the Muslims. After seven years of battles, Muhammad’s men were the victors. In the centre of Makkah, is the Ka’bah (Cube) which was a house of idols at the time. After his victory, Muhammad rode into Makkah and smashed the idols. Makkah became the centre of Islam and Islam was proclaimed to be ‘the truth’. Muslims turn towards Makkah when they pray and they try to visit the city at least once in their lifetime. The prophets of Allah Islam recognises a long line of prophets before Muhammad (pbuh). These prophets brought some of the message of Allah, but this message was not made complete until the Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad (pbuh) who is known as the ‘Seal of the Prophets’ and is the last Prophet of Allah. Adam (pbuh) Adam (pbuh) was the first man to be created and the first prophet. Before Adam (pbuh), there were only angels (divine messengers created out of light) and jinn (spiritual beings created from smokeless fire with the capabilities of being either good or bad). Adam (pbuh) was created out of clay, and given the ability to think and learn. Allah asked the angels and jinn to prostrate themselves before Adam (pbuh). The angels did as they were told, but a jinn named Ibis refused. Allah cast Ibis out of Paradise. From that day, Ibis 2

vowed to try to misguide Adam (pbuh) and his descendants. He managed to achieve this by getting Adam (pbuh) and his wife Hawwa to eat fruit from the forbidden tree. Adam (pbuh), who up to this point had lived in heaven was sent to earth to live, with the promise that they would be allowed to return to Paradise if they and their children obeyed Allah in the future. The story of Adam (pbuh) is told in the Surah 2, Baqara of the Qur’an and mentioned in many other surahs. ‘Isa (pbuh) ‘Isa (Jesus) (pbuh) is the prophet who was born of Maryam in a miracle birth without a father, as Adam (pbuh), the first prophet had been born without a father. In Islamic tradition, it is said that ‘Isa (pbuh) could talk even as a baby. He began his life as a prophet when he was around 30 years old and used the miraculous powers which Allah had given him to cure people from illness and raise people from the dead. ‘Isa (pbuh) is believed to be a prophet and servant of Allah but Muslims do not share the Christian belief that he was the Messiah. The rightly-guided Khalifahs (al-Khulafa-ur-Rashidun) Abu Bakr Abu Bakr was also known as As-Sadiq which means ‘the truthful one’. He was chosen by the religious community themselves to be their leader after Muhammad (pbuh). He had been one of the first people to accept Islam as a religion and had been the best friend of Muhammad (pbuh). He often took over prayers and leadership when Muhammad (pbuh) was ill. One of the many kind deeds that Abu Bakr is remembered for is the lengths he went to in order to free slaves. One of the slaves he freed was Bilal, who became the very first Muezzin as he had a strong clear voice and called Muslims to prayer by standing on the roof of the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina. The lasting achievement of Abu Bakr was that he collected together the revelations given to Muhammad (pbuh) by Allah. The collection eventually became the Qur’an. He died after only two years as Khalifah. The rightly guided Khalifahs (al-Khulafa-ur-Rashidun) Umar Umar was also known as Al-Faruq which means ‘the one who distinguishes between’. He was appointed by Abu Bakr as the next khalifah of Islam after he had first consulted with other members of the faith. It was at the suggestion of Umar that Abu Bakr started to collect together the pieces of the Qur’an into one volume. Umar had started off being against Islam and was an enemy of the Prophet, but one day he was going to visit his sister Fatimah and her husband Said, who were both Muslims, and as he approached their house, he heard the Qur’an being recited. He asked his sister what the ‘nonsense’ was that he had heard. Knowing that he hated Muhammad (pbuh), the sister and husband both refused to answer him. He tried to attack Said but ended up badly hurting his own sister. The shock of this made him come to his senses and he took a proper look at what they were reading. Fatimah insisted that before he did this, he washed himself properly. Umar, as he read, was so moved by the beauty of the language that he immediately became a Muslim. He led conquests in Persia and Damascus, and was the power behind the Muslim occupation of Jerusalem which was an important religious city for the Muslims. He was stabbed to death by a non-Muslim. In 687 CE (about 40 years after his death), the mighty Dome of the Rock mosque was erected in Jerusalem. This holy building is also known as the Mosque of Umar. The rightly guided Khalifahs (al-Khulafa-ur-Rashidun) 3

Uthman Uthman was sometimes known as Al-Ghani meaning ‘the rich one’. Uthman was married to one of the daughters of the Prophet (pbuh), Ruqaiyyah. He was elected as successor to Umar Al-Faruq by a committee of six people who were appointed by Umar before he died. It was under Uthman’s guidance that the official copies of the Qur’an were first published and sent to the main cities of the Islamic world. Uthman was not a strong political leader, and six years after he was appointed there was a massive civil war in the Islamic world. He was unable to settle this, and was assassinated by an angry mob six years later. The rightly-guided Khalifahs (al-Khulafa-ur-Rashidun) Ali Ali was also known as Ali Al-Murtada, which means ‘the gate of learning’. He was the son of Abu Talib, the uncle of Muhammad (pbuh). He converted to Islam when he was only ten years old. He was married to Fatimah, the daughter of the Prophet and was the khalifah most closely related to Muhammad (pbuh). He spent much of his time as khalifah trying to avenge the murder of Uthman. He was caliph for five years. He was assassinated during early morning prayers one Friday in the month of Ramadan. After his death, there was a major split in the Muslim community. Muhammad (pbuh) Muhammad (pbuh) was born in Makkah c. 570 CE. His father died before he was born, and his mother died when he was only six years old. He lived with Halimah, a woman who lived in the desert, until he was eight, and then he went to live with his uncle Abu Talib who was a trader in Makkah. He worked for his uncle as an apprentice camel driver, and gained the respect of all who had dealings with him. A wealthy widow, Khadijah heard about his honesty and integrity, and employed him to look after her business interests. She was so impressed with him that she asked him to marry her. Muhammad and Khadijah were well suited to each other and had a very happy marriage. They had six children: two sons and four daughters. The two sons both died in childhood, but the daughters survived and were happily married. Muhammad (pbuh) went to the hills or the desert to sit and think. One night, while he was sitting in a cave, a figure appeared before him. The figure commanded him: Proclaim! (or Read!) in the name of thy Lord and Cherisher, Who created - Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood. (Surah 96:1-2 Iqraa) Muhammad (pbuh) could not read or write, so he had to repeat the words spoken to him until he could remember them. The figure that appeared to him was the angel Jibril (Gabriel). Jibril told Muhammad (pbuh) that he was to be the Messenger of Allah. Muhammad (pbuh) The messages from Allah through Jibril continued for several years. Receiving the revelation was a difficult and painful experience for Muhammad (pbuh) as he would often have violent fits or go into long trances. At first, there were very few who would listen to his message. These faithful followers included his wife, his two friends, Abu Bakr and Uthman, his cousin Ali (son of his uncle Abu Talib) and a former slave, Zaid. These five were the first Muslims. Others in Makkah ridiculed Muhammad (pbuh) and resented his preaching. They were not prepared to change their way of worship. In 622CE, following the death of his uncle Abu Talib and his wife Khadijah, Muhammad (pbuh) and his followers were forced to leave Makkah. This move is called the Hijrah (the migration). They settled the 4

city of Yathrib about 480km north east of Makkah. The city became known as Madina an-Nabi (the City of the Prophet) and today it is simply called Medina. It is the site of the very first mosque. Muhammad (pbuh) The Islamic calendar begins in the year of the Hijrah, so years are numbered 1 AH, 2 AH (after Hijrah) etc. The Hijrah is seen as the birth of the Islamic community. Muhammad (pbuh) was very successful in Medina, but when news of this reached Makkah, bands of armed men rode to Medina to attack the Muslims. After seven years of battles, Muhammad’s men were the victors. In the centre of Makkah, is the Ka’bah (Cube) which was a house of idols at the time. After his victory, Muhammad rode into Makkah and smashed the idols. Makkah became the centre of Islam and Islam was proclaimed to be ‘the truth’. Muslims turn towards Makkah when they pray and they try to visit the city at least once in their lifetime. After Muhammad (pbuh) After the death of Muhammad (pbuh), there were a number of successors known as Khalifahs. The first of these was Abu Bakr who had been one of the first of Muhammad’s friends to follow Islam as a religion. He made a collection of the revelations of Muhammad (pbuh) which were to form the Qur’an. Abu Bakr appointed Umar ibn ul-Khattab as his successor. Before he was chosen, it was Umar who had suggested to Abu Bakr that he should gather all the pieces of the Qur’an into one volume. As Caliph, he made conquests in Persia and Damascus as well as negotiating terms for the Muslim occupation of Jerusalem (the most holy city after Makkah and Medina). Before Umar died, he appointed a committee of six people to select his successor. They chose one of the members of that committee - a man called Uthman who was married to one of the daughters of the Prophet (pbuh). It was under his guidance that official copies of the Qur’an were published and sent to the main cities of the world. The successor to Uthman was Ali, Muhammad’s cousin and son-in-law. He spent much of his five years as Khalifah trying to avenge the murder of Uthman, but he himself was assassinated. After the death of Ali, the Muslim community split. Introduction The most sacred of all scriptures for Muslims is the Qur’an: the very word of Allah as given to Muhammad (pbuh). A Muslim acknowledges all the ‘revealed’ books which are mentioned in the Qur’an. These are: Tawrat [the Torah] of Musa (pbuh) [Moses] Zabur [the Psalms] of Dawud (pbuh) [David] Injil [the Gospel] of ‘Isa (pbuh) [Jesus] Qur’an [the final revelation to Muhammad (pbuh)] The Qur’an is the final revelation, and is the only one of these books that still exists in its original form. Other books have been changed, which means that they contain a mixture of the divine and human words. People have changed and distorted the words of God, but the Qur’an is Allah’s unchanged guidance for humanity, and is completely divine. The Qur’an This is the Sacred book of Islam, and is regarded by Muslims as being the very word of God. Muslims 5

believe that Allah originally deposited the Qur’an in Heaven and then commanded the Angel Jibril to tell it to Muhammad (pbuh). The Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad (pbuh) between the years 610-632 CE. The Qur’an (meaning reading or recitation in Arabic), is believed to be guidance from Allah to show humanity the right path in life. The Qur’an still exists in its original form - the words which Allah commanded Muhammad (pbuh) to proclaim. It is divided into Surahs (chapters), and after the first chapter, there are 114 Surahs. These are arranged according to their length, the longest being first and the shortest at the end. They are not grouped in themes or chronologically. All Surahs, except Surah 9, begin with the words ‘In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful’. The Surahs are also divided into verses. The Qur’an is written in rhyming prose, in lines of unequal length. The first revelation The first revelation took place in the month of Ramadan in 610 CE, in the Cave of Hira, which is on Mount al-Nur. The Angel Jibril (Gabriel) appeared to Muhammad (pbuh) and commanded him to: Proclaim! (or Read!) in the name of thy Lord and Cherisher, Who created - Created man, out of a (mere) clot of congealed blood: Proclaim! And thy Lord is Most Bountiful, - He who taught (the use of) the Pen, - Taught man that which he knew not. (Surah 96:1-5 Iqraa) The last verse was revealed when the Prophet (pbuh) gave his farewell sermon on ninth Dhul-Hijjah (10 AH): This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion. (Surah 5:4 Maïda). The Qur’an consists of 30 Ajza (parts), 114 Surahs (chapters) and 6,236 Ayahs (verses). Ninety-three Surahs were revealed in Makkah and twenty-one in Medina. The Qur’an The Surahs revealed to Muhammad (pbuh) in Makkah teach Muslims about spiritual matters, such as: Allah, the Creator and Sustainer of the Universe; The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh); The Qur’an as the only book of guidance for humanity; Islam as the only way in which humanity may achieve happiness, peace and wealth; Angels and their functions; The Day of Judgement and the various rewards; People themselves. The Surahs revealed to Muhammad (pbuh) in Medina teach Muslims about a divine system of government, and include such things as: Islamic affairs, foreign affairs, defence, justice, matrimonial affairs; Social welfare, refugee welfare; Agriculture, health, water supply; Qur’an and Hadith in education; Labour, revenue, finance, monetary fund; Trade and transportation, information and communication, housing and land, natural resources, fuel and power. The Hadith The Hadith are collections of the practices and sayings of the Prophet (pbuh). Muhammad (pbuh) was a 6

person who lived an exemplary Muslim life and so the Hadith clarify some of the teachings of the Qur’an by using his example. Sunnah is Arabic for the ‘way’ of the Prophet (pbuh). Six collections of Hadith which were compiled in the third century CE by Bukhari came to be regarded as authoritative by Sunni Muslims. Shi’ah Muslims have their own five collections of Hadith based on the authority of ‘Ali and his followers. The Hadith have always been treated with great reverence, and are regarded as being next to the Qur’an in importance. Showing respect for the Qur’an Before touching or reading the Qur’an, it is Sunnah (the practice of the Prophet (pbuh)), but not obligatory, for a Muslim to be clean and to have performed Wudu (ablution). To show respect for the book, it will be kept clean and safe, usually wrapped in a silk cloth (to keep the dust off) and placed on the highest shelf in the house. Nothing would be put on top of the Qur’an. When reading the Qur’an, Muslims often use a rahal (a low stand or stool). This is usually made from two pieces of beautifully carved wood, set together to form an ‘X’ shape. The rahal allows the Qur’an to be opened safely; it keeps it off the floor or any other surface which may not be clean and allows the person reading it to sit cross-legged while chanting. Whilst reading the Qur’an, a Muslim should be in the right state of mind, and avoid talking, eating or drinking. It is Sunnah, but not obligatory, for male Muslims to wear a topi (prayer cap) and for female Muslims to cover their head with a scarf when reading the Qur’an. Rahal (Qur’an stand) The use of a Qur’an stand relates to the way in which a Muslim respects and reveres the Qur’an. While the Qur’an is being read, it is often placed on a rahal. The Qur’an is a book of guidance for the whole of humanity. It is seen by Muslims as the very word of Allah, and it is therefore treated with great respect. Before touching the Qur’an, a Muslim should perform the washing ritual, wudu. Whilst reading the Qur’an, a Muslim must be in a right state of mind, and avoid talking, eating or drinking. Whilst not in use, many Muslims believe that the Qur’an must be placed high up and covered. The role of the Qur’an within the community The Qur’an is a complete book of guidance from the cradle to the grave. It contains moral and spiritual principles for people everywhere and of every age. It covers every aspect of human life. Verily, this Qur’an doth guide to that which is most right (or stable), and giveth the glad tidings to the Believers who work deeds of righteousness, that they shall have a magnificent reward.’ (Surah 9:7 Bani Isra-il) The Qur’an is the main basis of Shari’ah (the code of living for the Islamic way of life). It was also the main book of guidance for the Prophet (pbuh) who taught Muslims how to follow it by putting it into practice himself. Everything a true Muslim does in worship and in daily living, even how to greet another person, and how to talk and behave, is done because of Allah’s guidance given in the Qur’an. The Madrasa 7

The second Khalifah, Umar, started schools for teaching the Qur’an in many Muslim communities. He also called for people who had memorised the whole of the Qur’an to become teachers. Mosque schools still exist today. In non-Muslim countries, Muslim children will complete their day at school, and then attend the Madrasa where they will learn to recite the Qur’an in Arabic. A person who memorises the Qur’an and can recite it all earns the special honourable title of Hafiz. The Qur’an This is the Sacred book of Islam, and is regarded by Muslims as being the very word of God. Muslims believe that Allah originally deposited the Qur’an in Heaven and then commanded the Angel Jibril to tell it to Muhammad (pbuh). The Qur’an was revealed to Muhammad (pbuh) between the years 610-632 CE. The Qur’an (meaning reading or recitation in Arabic), is believed to be guidance from Allah to show humanity the right path in life. The Qur’an still exists in its original form - the words which Allah commanded Muhammad (pbuh) to proclaim. It is divided into Surahs (chapters), and after the first chapter, there are 114 Surahs. These are arranged according to their length, the longest being first and the shortest at the end. They are not grouped in themes or chronologically. All Surahs, except Surah 9, begin with the words ‘In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful’. The Surahs are also divided into verses. The Qur’an is written in rhyming prose, in lines of unequal length. Basic beliefs Al-Imanul-Mufassal (The Faith in detail) Amantu Billahi, wa Mala’ikatihi, wa Kutubihi, wa Rusulihi, wal Yawmil Akhiri, wal Qadri, Khairihi, wa Sharrihi minal Lahi Ta‘ala, wal Bat‘thi Ba‘dal Mawt I believe in Allah, in his angels, in his books, in his messengers, in the Last Day, and in the fact that everything, good or bad is decided by Allah, the almighty, and in life after death. The seven basic beliefs of Islam are: Allah Mala’ikha (Angels of Allah) Kutubullah (Books of Allah) Rasulullah (Messengers of Allah) Yawmuddin (The Day of Judgement) Al-Qadr (Predestination) Akhirah (Life after death) Basic Beliefs These seven basic beliefs can be grouped into three: Tawhid is about the oneness of Allah, Risalah is about prophethood, and Akhirah is about life after death. These three beliefs summarise the whole of the Islamic way of life. Tawhid: the Oneness of Allah Predestination Risalah: 8

the Angels of Allah the Books of Allah the Messengers of Allah Akhirah: the Day of Judgement Life After Death Basic beliefs - Tawhid The most important belief in Islam is the belief that Allah is the one and only god. Tawhid relates to the Oneness of Allah. This is the main part of Iman (faith). It is expressed in the Qur’an: Say: He is God, The One and Only;. God the Eternal, Absolute; He begetteth not, Nor is he begotten And there is none Like unto Him. (Surah 112 - Ikhlas) Tawhid is the most important Islamic belief. It implies that everything on the earth is created by Allah, and that Allah is also the sustainer of the universe and the source of its guidance. A Muslim must be totally obedient to Allah. This is the most important aspect of Tawhid. A true believer would never go against the wishes of Allah, or commit a sin, as Allah can see everything. The idea of Tawhid has two aspects: the first is belief in Allah as the only God, the second is concerned with practising obedience. Belief and practice go hand-in-hand - Islam is a visible religion. The first duty of a Muslim is to declare their faith, and to make this declaration a person must not only say these words but believe them in their heart and act upon them: La ilaha illal Lah Muhammadur rasulullah There is no God but Allah; Muhammad is the messenger of Allah This declaration of faith is known as the Shahadah. It is the first of the Five Pillars of Islam. Basic beliefs - Risalah Risalah is the channel of communication between Allah and humanity. Communication is made through three different channels : Allah’s prophets Muslims say that since the beginning of creation, Allah has sent guidance for humanity through his selected people. The Qur’an mentions 25 prophets by name. Muslims must believe in all the prophets and messengers of Allah, which began with Adam (pbuh) and ended with Muhammad (pbuh) Allah’s angels Muslims say that angels are a special creation of Allah. Created from nur (divine light) to perform special functions. Angels always obey Allah and carry out His will. They can never disobey Allah because they have not been given free will. The duty of angels is to glorify and praise Allah. Angels are not human and neither need sleep nor any of the other things humans need.

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Allah’s books Muslims say that Allah has sent books of guidance for humanity to follow. The books mentioned in the Qur’an are: Tawrat [the Torah] of Musa [Moses] (pbuh) Zabur [the Psalms] of Dawud [David] (pbuh) Injil [the Gospel] of ‘Isa [Jesus] (pbuh) Qur’an [the final revelation to Muhammad (pbuh)] The Qur’an is the final revelation, and is the only one of these books that still exists in its original form. Other books have been changed, which means that they contain a mixture of the divine and human words. People have changed and distorted the words of God, but the Qur’an is Allah’s unchanged guidance for humanity, and is completely divine. Basic beliefs - Akhirah Akhirah is life after death. Belief in akhirah is very important for all Muslims. Muslims say that there will be a day of judgement - Yawm-ud-Din - and that to prepare for this day, they must follow the guidance given by Allah through the Prophets. Muslims believe that there will be a reward in the afterlife for all good actions, and that wrong doers will be punished. Every soul will be (held) in pledge for its deeds. (Surah 74:38 Muddaththir) Muslims say that everyone who is born on earth will eventually face death and return to Allah, the Creator. Life on earth has no meaning without divine justice being applied. Akhirah shapes the whole life of a Muslim who tries to perform those actions which will please Allah, and refrain from anything which might incur punishment in the hereafter. Yawmuddin On the day of Judgement, each person will be questioned about their deeds in this world and punished or rewarded accordingly. Muslims believe that there is a place called Heaven, a place of eternal happiness and peace. The safest way to ensure a place in Heaven is to follow the guidance given to Muhammad (pbuh) by Allah; to do all Allah requires, and to give up all bad habits and wrong actions. Muslims also believe that wrong-doers will be punished on the Day of Judgement, and sent to Hell, a place of severe punishment and suffering. Beliefs about Allah Muslims believe that Allah created everything on the earth. Allah sustains the universe and is the sole source of guidance for humanity. Allah is all-knowing, all-wise, all-powerful. He is all-merciful and all-beneficent. Allah is present at all times. He can see everything but cannot be seen himself. Allah is the first and the last. He has no partner and no son or daughter. He gives life and takes it away. All people will return to Allah after their death. After death, Allah will judge all men and assign them either to paradise or hell. Al Qadr Muslims believe that everything in the universe has a pre-determined course, Al Qadr. Nothing can happen without the will and knowledge of Allah. Al Qadr means that Allah knows the past, present and future of every creature. This does not mean that people have no freedom of will. Allah does not force people into anything. It is up to them to obey Allah. Allah knows whether or not a person is going to obey or disobey him. Belief in Al Qadr is a testament to the fact that Muslims believe that Allah is the absolute controller of all 10

of the affairs of the universe. The Five Pillars of Islam Islam is a practical religion and there are five basic duties which Muslims must perform. These are known as the Five Pillars of Islam. The Pillars are mentioned in the Hadith (sayings of the prophet): Buniyal Islamu ‘ala khamsin ; Shahadati ‘an la ilaha illal lahu wa anna Muhammadar rasulul lahi; wa iqamis Salati, wa ita’iz Zakati, wal Hajji, wa Sawmi Ramadan (Bukhari) The translation of this is: Islam is based on five things; declaring that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah, the establishment of Salah, the payment of Zakah, the Hajj and Sawm in the month of Ramadan. The Five Pillars mentioned in the Hadith are : Shahadah (declaration of faith) Salah (Compulsory prayers five times a day) Zakah (Welfare contributions) Hajj (Pilgrimage to Mecca) Sawm (Fasting during Ramadan) These pillars are the visible signs that a Muslim has submitted to the will of Allah. Islam is a way of life. It is not a religious belief which can be separated from ordinary living. The Shahadah La ilaha ilal Lahu Muhammadur rasulullah There is no god but Allah; Muhammad is the messenger of Allah This is the Muslim creed and is recited as a statement of belief by converts to Islam. To be a Muslim, a person has to believe in the unity of Allah, and the prophethood of Muhammad (pbuh). All other Muslim beliefs stem from these. The words of the Shahadah are repeated many times each day by a Muslim. They are recited many times in the prayer ritual; they are announced five times a day from the minaret of a mosque during the Adhan (call to prayer); they are the first words whispered into the ears of a newborn baby by its father; Muslims who know they are about to die will try to make these words their last breath. The Shahadah is the first of the five pillars because all the others are an outward expression of its meaning. These acts are known as Ibadah (acts done to gain Allah’s favour). Salah - prayer Salah (ritual prayer) is the second of the Five Pillars of Islam. The Qur’an says: Set up Regular Prayers: for such prayers are enjoined on believers at stated times. (Surah 4:103 Nisaa) The Qur’an tells Muslims to pray at fixed times, but it is unclear about what those times actually are. The accepted times of prayer are based on a combination of what is said in the Qur’an and how the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) actually carried out this ritual. The five established times of prayer are: Fajr (between dawn and sunrise) Zuhr (after mid-day) 11

Asr (between late afternoon and sunset) Maghrib (between sunset and the end of daylight) ‘Isha (night, until dawn) In Muslim countries, the times for prayer are announced by a muezzin who calls out from the minaret of the mosque. This call to prayer is known as the Adhan. Tasbih (prayer beads) Tasbih can be obtained in any colour. The colour is of no religious significance, but is usually chosen to suit the preferences of individuals. There are 99 beads, and these are split in to 3 sets of 33 by elongated beads of the same colour. The beads are used during prayer as a aid to devotion. They represent the 99 beautiful names of Allah. The beads would usually be used after formal prayer. As the first 33 beads are handled, the words Subhana Allah (Glory be to Allah) are said ; then Allamdu Allah (Thanks be to Allah) is recited 33 times with the second set of beads, and finally Allahu Akbar (God is Great) is said over the third set of beads. Topi (prayer cap) A small skull cap is worn by male Muslims. Some will wear a cap like this when outdoors, others put it on before worship. It is seen as a mark of respect to Allah. There are various types of cap depending on geographical and cultural differences. Sometimes it is a white (or black) cotton cap in a crochet style, or it could be a woollen cap, or a plain cotton cap with embroidered patterns. Zakah In Arabic, the word zakah means ‘to purify or cleanse’. In Islam, sharing your wealth is not an option, it is fard (compulsory). Zakah as purification is performed as part of worship. It is one of the visible signs of Islam. Zakah is a religious duty, and another sign of submission to Allah. A person cannot call themselves a Muslim if they do not pay zakah. The Qur’an does not specify exactly how much to pay: O ye who believe! Spend out of (the bounties) We have provided for you. (Surah 2:254 Baqara) They ask thee how much they are to spend; Say: ‘What is beyond your needs.’ (Surah 2:219 Baqara) The accepted rate for zakah is two and a half percent of savings. It is a means of keeping wealth free from greed and selfishness. Zakah is an act of ibadah. It is paid to gain Allah’s favour. In the Islamic economy, which is based on social welfare and fair distribution of wealth, zakah is one of the main principles. Sawm The Qur’an makes it clear that to be a Muslim, a person must practice fasting: O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) Self-restraint. (Surah 2:183 Baqara) Sawm is another act of ibadah. It helps Muslims to be truly obedient to Allah’s commands. The month of Ramadan was when the first revelation of the Qur’an was sent down by God as a guidance for humanity. The Qur’an says that every healthy adult Muslim must fast. 12

Hajj Hajj is the pilgrimage to Makkah which is made by Muslims during the month of Dhul-Hijjah. The word Hajj means ‘to set out with a definite purpose’. Hajj is the only one of the Five Pillars which is not compulsory for a person to perform in order to be a Muslim, although it is a duty imposed by Allah on humanity and every Muslim tries to make the pilgrimage. Pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to God, - Those who can afford the journey. (Surah 3:97 Ali-’Imran) For Hajj are the months well known. If any one undertakes that duty therein, Let there be no obscenity, nor wickedness, nor wrangling in the Hajj. And whatever good ye do, (be sure) God knoweth it. (Surah 2:197 Baqara) Muslims who go on Hajj follow a set form of movements and rituals. For most Muslims Hajj is a once in a lifetime event (although there are some who are able to make the journey more than once, and some who are never able to go). Muslims are only expected to make the pilgrimage to Makkah if they have enough money to leave behind to care for their dependants. They are not to go if it will cause hardship for their family. They are also excused from going on Hajj if they are not mentally and physically fit. Hajj is a very demanding ritual. Muslims who have been on Hajj say that it is the most demanding, and yet challenging and intensive experience of all the Pillars of Islam. A man who goes on Hajj is called a Hajji; a woman, a Hajja. Introduction Pilgrimage to Makkah is important in Islam, and Muslims from all over the world take part in the famous ceremonies of the Hajj. Pilgrims travel by any means possible - by land, air or sea, or sometimes by walking. There are even cases where Muslims have travelled to Makkah, continuously prostrating themselves throughout the journey (a prostration is a form of bow, where the worshipper kneels down on the ground before Allah). Pilgrimage is so important that many people will save all their lives for the one journey to Makkah. Makkah The original village of Makkah lay in a valley surrounded by rocky hills. Today the town spreads far beyond the valley, covering the hills and extending into the hot dry desert. Makkah is the site of the Holy Ka’bah, and the place where every Muslim tries to go on pilgrimage at least once in their lifetime. A new mosque has been constructed on the site of the house of Abu Bakr (the first Khalifah) and named after him. The house of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) has been made into a school, and many other famous mosques have been built in this most holy city of Islam. Non-Muslims are not allowed to enter the Holy City of Makkah. The area around Makkah is called ‘haram’ a word which means both sacred and forbidden. The Ka’bah At the very heart of the city of Makkah is the Ka’bah. Islamic tradition says that when Allah created the earth, the first thing to be built by the angels was the Ka’bah. It was rebuilt by Adam (pbuh) and by his 13

son, then later by Ibrahim (pbuh) and Isma’il (pbuh). The rebuilding by Ibrahim (pbuh) and his son is mentioned in the verses of the Qur’an. Ibrahim (pbuh) asked Isma’il (pbuh) to hand him a stone which was to be placed in the Ka’bah to mark the exact spot where the ritual of Sa’y should begin. This stone is known as the Black Stone, and it is still there today. Every Muslim turns towards the Ka’bah five times every day in prayer (salah). During Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) pilgrims begin by circling the Ka’bah seven times. They start at the spot where the Black Stone is. This ritual is known as the Sa’y. Medina This city was formerly known as Yathrib, and named Medina (from Medinann-Nabi - the City of the Prophet) after the Hijrah, the migration of the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from Makkah to Medina. It lies some 480-500km north-east of Makkah. Medina is the site of the very first mosque. This is the mosque Al-Nabawi. Pilgrims who go on Hajj usually make a visit to Medina to visit the tomb of the Prophet (pbuh) which is in the Masjid Al-Nabawi. There are many other mosques in and around Medina, such as the Masjid Qiblatan (the mosque with two qibblah), the Masjid Jumu’ah (the Friday mosque) and the Masjid Ghamma (the mosque of the Clouds) where Muhammad (pbuh) is reported to have prayed for rain during Id. Al-Quds (Jerusalem) Jerusalem is a holy city for Muslims as well as for Christians and Jews. Here stands the Dome of the Rock (Qubbat al-Sakhra). The dome of the building is directly above a slab of rock on which there are marks. These marks are believed to have been made by Muhammad (pbuh) during his ‘night visit’ to Jerusalem (Surah 17:1 Bani Isra-il). The Dome of the Rock is also known as the Mosque of Umar. It was built 40 years after the death of Umar by Abd al-Malik. The building is covered with gold and the walls are made of marble and mosaics on both the outside and the inside. The walls are inscribed with many Qur’anic inscriptions. At the end of the courtyard, there is the al-Aqsa mosque. Hajj Hajj is the pilgrimage to Makkah which is made by Muslims during the month of Dhul-Hijjah. The word Hajj means ‘to set out with a definite purpose’. Hajj is the only one of the Five Pillars which is not compulsory for a person to perform in order to be a Muslim, although it is a duty imposed by Allah on humanity and every Muslim tries to make the pilgrimage. Pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to God, - Those who can afford the journey. (Surah 3:97 Ali-’Imran) For Hajj are the months well known. If any one undertakes that duty therein, Let there be no obscenity, nor wickedness, nor wrangling in the Hajj. And whatever good ye do, (be sure) God knoweth it. (Surah 2:197 Baqara) Muslims who go on Hajj follow a set form of movements and rituals. For most Muslims Hajj is a once in a lifetime event (although there are some who are able to make the journey more than once, and some who are never able to go). 14

Muslims are only expected to make the pilgrimage to Makkah if they have enough money to leave behind to care for their dependants. They are not to go if it will cause hardship for their family. They are also excused from going on Hajj if they are not mentally and physically fit. Hajj is a very demanding ritual. Muslims who have been on Hajj say that it is the most demanding, and yet challenging and intensive experience of all the Pillars of Islam. A man who goes on Hajj is called a Hajji; a woman, a Hajja. Hajj - before entering the Holy City Before entering Makkah, pilgrims must prepare themselves both spiritually and physically. They bathe, cut their hair (some men shave their heads), they cut their nails, and put on special clothes. Men wear Ihram - two pieces of white unsewn cloth, one covering from waist to knees, the other thrown over the shoulder, but not covering the head. Women wear long cotton outfits and cover their heads, but they do not veil their faces. Dressing in this way demonstrates the equality of all humanity. Stages of Hajj Tawaf Once Muslims are in Ihram, they are allowed to enter the Holy City and the courtyard of the Great Mosque. In the centre of the courtyard, is the Ka’bah. Pilgrims start in the south-east corner, and walk in a circle around the Ka’bah, seven times in a clockwise direction. The first three circuits are usually completed much faster than the other four. Each time pilgrims pass the Black Stone, they try to reach out and either touch it or kiss it. The Black Stone is set into the wall of the Ka’bah. This encircling is known as Tawaf. The Sa’y The pilgrims walk or jog between two hills, Al-Safa and Al-Marwar, seven times. The distance between the hills is approximately 400 metres. This reminds them of the story of Hagar the wife of Ibrahim (pbuh) who ran between the two hills looking for water for her baby, Isma’il (pbuh). Water sprang up from the place where Isma’il had been kicking his heels into the sand, and this formed the famous well at Zam Zam. Muslims on Hajj will try to bring back some water from this well which is thought to have healing properties. Going to Mina Pilgrims make a journey from Makkah to Mina, which is a distance of about 5 kilometres. Here they spend the night in prayer and meditation. Wuquf at Arafat On the ninth day of the month, the pilgrims travel 25 kilometres to the plain of Arafat. When they get there, they spend the whole afternoon in prayer, from noon until sunset. This is known as wuquf. For many pilgrims, this is the most supreme experience of the Hajj. There may be as many as 2 million people there, and yet extreme quietness covers the valley as Muslims of all ages and nationalities join together in their devotion to Allah. Muzdalifah The journey continues to a place called Muzdalifah, where pilgrims spend the night before returning to Mina. On the way back to Mina, they gather pebbles to take with them. The Ramyee The pilgrims spend the next three nights at Mina. Among the rituals involved is the Ramyee, which involves throwing pebbles at three stone pillars. The stone pillars represent evil. Muslims throw stones at 15

the pillars to remind themselves of the time when Ibrahim and Isma’il were tempted by the Devil, and threw stones to drive him away. The pillars therefore represent the Devil. Id-ul-Adha Id-ul-Adha is a feast of sacrifice. An animal is sacrificed in commemoration of how Ibrahim was willing to sacrifice his son, Isma’il, and of the ram which Allah provided instead. At this feast, pilgrims remove Ihram, and put on brightly coloured clothes. The final act of the pilgrimage is a ceremony involving head shaving, or hair cutting, and the cutting of nails. This ceremony frees pilgrims from the restrictions of Ihram. Pilgrims again circle the Ka’bah seven times before making their journey home. PRAYER Prayer mat Salah (Prayer) is the second, and most important Pillar of Islam. For Muslims, it is a direct way of communicating with Allah. Salah must be preceded by wudu (ablution) and purity of the whole body. This includes cleanliness of clothes and a clean place in which to pray. Jihad Jihad means ‘to try one’s utmost in the cause of Allah’. The ultimate aim of Jihad is to seek the pleasure of Allah. It involves the use of all of a Muslim’s energies and resources to try to establish the Islamic system of life, as this would gain Allah’s favour. Jihad is concerned with removing munkar (evil) and establishing mar’uf (right) in society even to the point of giving up one’s life. Jihad was practised by the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) who Muslims regard as a perfect example of how to live life. The religious community The Islamic community is known as Ummah. It crosses the boundaries of race, nationality, social status, occupation and family ties. Being a member of the Islamic community depends upon an individual person’s willingness to submit to the will of Allah. The reward for this is the feeling of support and solidarity that Ummah provides. All Muslims are responsible for each other. Muslims are responsible both for people they know and for people that are unknown to them. And hold fast, all together by the Rope which God (stretches out for you), and be not divided among yourselves. (Surah 3:103 Al-i-’Imran) Masjid (the mosque) Masjid means ‘a place of prostration’, or ‘a place where the head touches the ground’. The mosque is a Muslim building for public worship. The main use of a mosque is as a prayer hall, and this the most important area within a mosque, although the building may serve many more purposes within the Ummah (Muslim community). Outside features of a mosque Mosques are traditionally built of stone or brick in the form of a square with an open courtyard in the centre. Minarets rise from the front or the corners of the mosque. These are towers which were introduced in the first century. They serve as a high place from which the Adhan (call to prayer) can be made by the Muezzin.

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Many mosques have several minarets which form the distinctive skyline of Islamic towns. In modern times, it is becoming more popular to use a recording for the call to prayer. In Britain, the muezzin might disturb local residents who are not Muslims, so the call to prayer may not be made outside the mosque. Mosque - entrance The entrance to a mosque will contain shoe racks so that people can go into the prayer hall barefoot. They would never carry the dirt and dust from the outside streets in to the prayer hall, and they spend time in preparation for prayer ensuring that they have a clean place in which to pray. Wudu There will also be washing areas. These will be separate for men and women. In some countries these are pumps or fountains, but there may be a series of taps, running into gullies, with stools for the worshippers to sit on whilst performing wudu (the washing ritual) that is required before prayer. The prayer hall The most important part of a mosque is the prayer hall - an area designated for prayer, either when Muslims gather together for Salat-ul-Jumu’ah (Friday prayers) or for individual prayers. This hall is a large open area without seats. Some mosques have Qur’anic inscriptions or mosaic patterns on the walls. The name masjid indicates the main purpose of the building - a place of prostration - one of the positions of prayer. The mihrab The direction of the Ka’bah in Makkah must be obvious to anyone who comes into a mosque, as they need to know which direction to face when praying. This is known as qiblah (the direction of Makkah). The qiblah wall will be differentiated by the inclusion of a mihrab - a decorated panel or plaque on the wall, or an alcove set in the wall. The function of the mihrab is to show the direction of Makkah. The minbar In the main prayer hall of a mosque, on the same wall as the mihrab, is the minbar, a short flight of stairs with a platform at the top. The purpose of the minbar is to enable the Imam (prayer leader) to be heard by everyone when he preaches or gives out notices to the congregation at Salat-ul-Jumu’ah. Near the qiblah, there may be a plaque showing six or nine clocks. These clocks are set to show the times of the five daily prayers and of the Friday midday prayers - Salat-ul-Jumu’ah. The prayer hall of a mosque is a clear space with no fixed pews or chairs - usually it is carpeted and it may have many prayer mats. Islamic art and architecture Inside a mosque there are no statues, figurines or pictures of people or animals. Figurative art is never found in a mosque or in a copy of the Qur’an. There are no pictures of Allah. Muslims say that Allah does not look like anything - Allah is a pure spirit without a body or form. Allah is beyond the bounds of imagination. Similarly, Muslims never try to produce likenesses of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) who, although well loved, might divert attention away from Allah if portrayed in his human form.

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Muslims feel that worshipping a picture or statue of Allah or the Prophets would be idolatry (idol worship) and this is against the teaching of the Qur’an. Mosques are decorated in the most beautiful ways: through calligraphy; geometric patterns in mosaics, and through arabesque patterns. Islamic calligraphy The Arabic script is very beautiful to look at and verses from the Qur’an are used as decoration. The writing expresses the idea that the Qur’an is a wonderful gift given by Allah to Muslims. The beauty is expressed in the way the words are written as well as in what is said. The inscriptions are often in gold leaf. Geometric patterns Geometric designs may be used to achieve stunning effects on the inside and outside of a mosque. This stems from the fact that, from the earliest times, the Arabs have been extremely accomplished mathematicians. They were interested in numbers and shapes, and developed many theories about quantity and space Arabesque patterns Special swirling self-repeating leaf or flower patterns are often used in Islamic art. The idea stems from the Muslim concept of Paradise which is believed to be a delightful garden filled with cool waters and leafy groves. The repeating patterns illustrate the belief that Paradise is infinite. Muslims believe that after Yawmuddin (the day of Judgement), those who have pleased Allah will live forever in Paradise. Salah - prayer Salah (ritual prayer) is the second of the Five Pillars of Islam. The Qur’an says: Set up Regular Prayers: for such prayers are enjoined on believers at stated times. (Surah 4:103 Nisaa) The Qur’an tells Muslims to pray at fixed times, but it is unclear about what those times actually are. The accepted times of prayer are based on a combination of what is said in the Qur’an and how the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) actually carried out this ritual. The five established times of prayer are: Fajr (between dawn and sunrise) Zuhr (after mid-day) Asr (between late afternoon and sunset) Maghrib (between sunset and the end of daylight) ‘Isha (night, until dawn) In Muslim countries, the times for prayer are announced by a muezzin who calls out from the minaret of the mosque. This call to prayer is known as the Adhan. The Adhan Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar Allah is the Greatest Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah, Ashhadu an la ilaha illallah I bear witness that there is no god but Allah

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Ashhadu anna muhammadar rasulullah, Ashhadu anna muhammadar rasulullah I bear witness that Muhammad is Allah’s messenger Hayya ‘alas salah, Hayya ‘alas salah Rush to prayer Hayya ‘alal falah, Hayya ‘alal falah Rush to success Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar Allah is the Greatest La ilaha illal lah There is no god but Allah (At Salat-ul-Fajr - morning prayer, the following line is added after Hayya ‘ala falah) Assalatu khairum minan naum, Assalatu khairum minan naum. Prayer is better than sleep Preparing for prayer The Qur’an says: For God loves those who turn to Him constantly and He loves those who keep themselves pure and clean. (Surah 2:222 Baqara) Cleanliness of the body is known as taharah (purification). To say Salah, a Muslim must be clean and pure. Muslims should not offer Salah without first performing a washing ritual and this can be achieved in one of two ways: Wudu (ablution) - this is a partial wash, cleaning only certain parts of the body. Ghusl - this is a full wash of the whole body with clean water but is only required after converting to Islam, childbirth or sexual intercourse. Performing Wudu 1. Niyyah (intention) is made - Muslims say Bismillahir rahmanir rahim (In the name of Allah, the most Merciful, the most Kind). Both hands are washed three times up to the wrist making sure that the water goes in between the fingers. 2. A handful of water is put into the mouth, and the mouth rinsed out three times. 3. The nostrils are washed three times. 4. The face is washed three times from the right ear to the left ear and from the forehead to the throat. 5. The arms are washed from the wrist to the elbow three times, starting with the right arm, going on to the left. 6. Wet hands are passed over the head, beginning at the top of the forehead and going to the back of the head. 7. Wet fingers are rubbed into the grooves of both ears and passed behind the ears. 8. Wet hands are passed over the nape of the neck. 9. Both feet are washed to the ankles, starting with the right foot, and making sure that the water reaches between the toes and all other parts of the feet. 19

At the end of Wudu, the following words are said: Ash hadu an la ilaha illal lahu wahdahu la sharikalahu wa ash hadu anna muhammadan ‘abduhu wa rasuluhu. (I bear witness that there is no God but Allah and He is One and has no partner, and I bear witness that Muhammad is His servant and messenger.) Tayammum (dry ablution) Sometimes it is not possible for a Muslim to perform wudu using water. In these cases, a ritual known as Tayammum is performed. Muslims may perform salah (prayers) with Tayammum (dry ablution) in the following circumstances: If they are ill, and unable to use water; If no water is available; If using water will be harmful. How to Perform Tayammum 1. Place both hands on earth, stone or sand, or any object which has dust on it. 2. Blow the dust off the hands and wipe the face on them. 3. Repeat this for the right arm up to the elbow with the left arm, and the left arm with the right. Prayer - compulsory prayers A Muslim must pray five times a day. The compulsory prayers are known as ‘fard’. Each unit of prayer is called a rak’ah. The compulsory prayers are: Fajr - 2 rak’ahs Zuhr - 4 rak’ahs Asr - 4 rak’ahs Maghrib - 3 rak’ahs ‘Isha - 4 rak’ahs Jumu’ah - 2 rak’ahs (replacing Zuhr on Fridays) Sunnah Salah - extra prayers In addition to Fard prayers, the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) prayed extra rak’ahs. These are known as Sunnah prayers. Sunnah prayers are as follows: Fajr - 2 rak’ahs before Fard prayers Zuhr - 2 or 4 rak’ahs before Fard prayers, and 2 or 4 afterwards Asr - 2 or 4 rak’ahs before Fard prayers Maghrib - 2, 4 or 6 rak’ahs after Fard prayers ‘Isha - 2 or 4 rak’ahs after Fard prayers and 3 Witr Performing Salah Before prayer, a Muslim must have a clean body, clean clothes and a clean place to pray. A prayer mat is used to ensure a clean place. Once wudu has been performed, a Muslim can proceed to perform Salah. Prayer must be said while facing the right direction. This is known as Qiblah. Muslims must face the direction of Al-Ka’bah (Makkah). Some prayer mats have a built in compass in order that worshippers 20

can find the Qibbla. The procedure for Salah is as follows: 1. Stand upright on the prayer mat, facing the direction of Al-Ka’bah. 2. Say the Niyyah (the intention) either verbally or in the mind: I intend to say.....(e.g. two fard, four sunnah, rak’ahs ‘Asr) for Allah facing Ka’bah 3. Men raise their hands to their ears, women up to the shoulders, and the words Allahu Akbar (Allah is most Great) are said. 4. The right hand is placed on the left hand just below the navel, the chest for women, and the following is said: Subhanaka allahumma wa bi hamdika wa tabara kasmuka wa ta’ala jadduka wa la ilaha ghairuku (O Allah, glory and praise are for You, and blessed is Your name, and exalted is Your Majesty; there is no God but You). A ‘udhu billai minash shaitanir rajim (I seek shelter in Allah from the rejected Satan) Bismillahir rahmanir rahim (In the name of Allah, the most Merciful, and the most Kind). Congregational worship Salat-ul-Jumu’ah Friday Zuhr prayer is made by the congregation. Muslims are a community, and Salat-ul-Jumu’ah is a community prayer, so Muslims offer this prayer together. All adult male Muslims must take part. Jumu’ah prayers take place at mid-day. Jumu’ah prayers are not fard (obligatory) for women, but women can join this prayer if they have time. Muslims assemble for Jumu’ah Prayers just after 12 noon. On arriving at the Mosque, they offer 2, 4, or 6 rak’ahs of Sunnah prayer. After this, the Imam delivers the khutbah (sermon). After the khutbah, the Imam leads the congregation in a 2 rak’ah Fard prayer. After the Fard prayer, 2, 4, 6 or more rak’ahs of Sunnah or Nafillah (optional) prayers are offered individually. Masjid (the mosque) The idea of Ummah is portrayed most vividly through life within a mosque. Masjid is literally translated as a ‘place where the head touches the ground’. As this is one of the positions used during the rak’ahs (units) of prayer, the most important area within a mosque is the prayer hall. The most important use of the prayer hall is for congregational prayer, but a mosque can be used for private prayer too. A mosque serves the Islamic community in a number of other ways: it can be used for weddings, meetings, clubs, receptions, Id celebrations and other social occasions. It is also used in non-Muslim countries as a madrasa (mosque school) where young Muslims attend after ordinary day school to learn Arabic and recite the Qur’an. The mosque can also be used to prepare a body for burial and arrange a funeral. The Islamic way of life The Qur’an says more about the family than any other topic, and clearly defines the roles of men and women. Both men and women are expected to dress with modesty. They must not display (or even suggest) parts 21

of the body which may be attractive to members of the opposite sex. In Islam, sexual intimacy is something to be shared only by two people joined in marriage. The hijab According to the tradition of the Prophet (pbuh), a woman who has reached puberty should only display her face and her hands. Islam does not specify a particular style or form of dress, but the coverings must be such that they conceal the shape of the woman’s body, and in some cases a veil may be worn over the face. Cosmetics and jewellery are not to be worn in public (rings are permitted) and women should not dress in the style of men. Muslims must be clearly recognisable as Muslims. Wearing the hijab earns the pleasure of Allah. It is seen as part of the act of Ibadah (worship). One of the Hadith (sayings of the Prophet) says: Modesty and faith are joined closely together; if either of them is lost, the other goes also Another hadith reports that women who are dressed and yet naked (i.e. displaying other parts of their bodies than the face and hands) will not enter paradise or even smell its odour. The term hijab is also used to describe the scarf or the scarf and loose clothes which a Muslim woman wears. Stages of life - birth Children are not initiated into Islam at birth because Muslims consider all new-born babies to be Muslims. It is the custom for the father of a baby to recite the Adhan (the words used during the call to prayer) in a low voice into the right ear of the baby. This means that the words ‘Allah is great’ will be the first a baby will hear. Parents will bring their children up to be Muslims, but they are not considered responsible for their own thoughts and actions until the age of puberty when they are free to believe or disbelieve and are answerable to Allah. Aqiqa Another prayer is said into the baby’s ear by the Imam at the Aqiqa ceremony which takes place on the seventh day after birth. The head of the baby is shaved, and the hair is weighed. The equivalent weight of gold or silver is given away to charity. In the Islamic tradition, if the baby is a girl, a goat or a sheep is slaughtered; if it is a boy, two goats or sheep are slaughtered. One third is given to the relatives of the baby, and the remaining two thirds is given to the poor and needy. Some families circumcise their sons at the Aqiqa, but this may be performed any time before a boy’s tenth birthday. Stages of life - marriage A Muslim marriage may take place anywhere. In some countries, this might be in the home, and in some it will be in the mosque. There does not need to be an Imam present, and there is no set sequence of events or words which must be followed. There must be clear consent from the bride and the groom for the marriage to take place. In some cases, 22

the woman will be represented by her father. Two witnesses are needed. There will usually be readings from the Qur’an on the theme of marriage. After this, the bride will be asked whether the groom is acceptable to her. The bridegroom is then asked whether the bride is acceptable to him. The Aqd Nikah (contract of marriage) is spoken as well as written. There are three copies of this contract which are signed by the bride and groom. They keep a copy each and, in a Muslim country, the third is kept by an official. The Qur’an requires that the groom should give his bride mahr (a sum of money), some property, or another gift of value, and this gift will remain her property whatever happens. This is announced during the ceremony, but need not be given straight away as long as this is agreed by both parties and pronounced on the wedding day before witnesses. A wedding feast is recommended but extravagance is forbidden. The Stages of life - death When Muslims are on their death bed, they try to follow the example of the Prophet (pbuh), who, during his final illness, is said to have spoken these words: Allah, help me through the hardship and agony of death. Muslims who know they are about to die will say the Shahadah, and others will read from the Qur’an. When a Muslim hears of a death, it is the custom to say: To Allah we belong and to Allah we return. The dead are treated with the greatest respect. The body is washed with soap three times. Perfume is then applied, and the body is wrapped in one piece of cloth. Funerals take place within three days of death according to Sunnah practice. The body is carried in a coffin to the mosque or cemetery. Prayers are said, and the al-Fatihah (Surah 1 of the Qur’an) is recited. The coffin is placed in front of the Imam, who stands facing Makkah. Anyone who passes the coffin when it is on its way to burial should stand in respect. As the coffin is lowered into the ground, the mourners say the following words: From the (earth) did We create you, and into it shall We return you, and from it shall We bring you out once again. (Surah 20:55 Ta-Ha) It is traditional for the grave to be raised a little above the level of the ground, but monuments are forbidden. Introduction The Islamic calendar is based on lunar months, and festivals are observed according to this calendar. As the Muslim year has only 354 days, the Muslim year is shorter than the solar year used in the Western calendar. This means that there are 33 Muslim years to 32 solar ones. Over the course of 32 years, a Muslim month will have occurred in all the seasons of the year. As a result, Islamic festivals move back eleven days every year. The two major celebrations for Muslims are Id-ul-Fitr and Id-ul-Adha. In Islam people do not celebrate for their own pleasure. Festivals are observed with devotion to seek the 23

pleasure of Allah. Festivals occur in regular cycles, and give Muslims the chance to forgive each other and spend some time with members of their family who they do not see often. Muslims remember all people at festival times, particularly the poor and needy. Ramadan In the year 2 AH (After Hijrah), fasting during the month of Ramadan was prescribed. This is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The month of Ramadan was when the first revelation of the Qur’an was sent down by God as a guidance for humanity. The Qur’an says that every healthy, adult Muslim must fast : Ramadan is the (month) in which was set down the Qur’an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgement (between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, But if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (should be made up) by days later. God intends every facility for you; He does not want to put you to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that he has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful. (Surah 2:185 Baqara) And eat and drink until the white thread of dawn appear to you distinct from its black thread; then complete your fast till the night appears; But do not associate with your wives while ye are in retreat in the mosques. (Surah 2:187 Baqara) Customs and practices The obligation to fast begins on the first day of Ramadan, traditionally when two reliable witnesses convince the authorities that they have seen the new moon. The fast ends when another new moon is seen. Muslims are expected to keep away from all bad actions during the fast. They should not tell lies, break promises, do anything deceitful or get angry. Laylat-ul-Qadr (The Night of Power) This night occurs during the last 10 days of Ramadan (most probably an odd-numbered night). It is spoken of as being ‘better than a thousand months’ (Surah 97:3 Qadr). It is a night of great importance, when the first revelation of the Qur’an was made, and Muslims should worship as much as they can on this night. The breaking of the fast It is customary to break one’s fast as soon as the sun has set with dates and a drink. Before beginning to eat, a Muslim says the following words: Oh Allah, I have fasted for You, and I have believed in You, and with Your food I break the fast. In the name of Allah the Merciful, the Most Kind. The breaking of the fast is called Iftar. It is followed by Salat-ul-Mahgrib (evening prayers) and a full dinner. This is not a time to eat as much as possible to compensate for the fast. Suhur During Ramadan, Muslims are able to take another meal during the night so that they can resume the fast before dawn. Any light food is suitable for this. After this suhur (pre-dawn meal), a Muslim will privately make a pledge to fast for the day ahead. Oh God, I intend to fast today in obedience to Your command and only to seek Your pleasure. 24

The period between the end of the suhur and the break of dawn may be spent in reading the Qur’an, and as soon as dawn has broken, Salat-ul-Fajr (dawn prayers) are performed. Tarawih During the month of Ramadan, extra prayers are said after Salat-ul-Isha (the fifth prayers of the day). These consist of eight or twenty rak’ahs. They are not obligatory, but are highly recommended according to the custom of the Prophet (pbuh). In some mosques, the whole of the Qur’an is recited during Tarawih prayer over the 29 or 30 days of Ramadan. Id-ul-Fitr Ramadan ends when the first glimpse of the new moon is seen on the 29th or 30th day of Ramadan. The festival of Id-ul-Fitr marks the end of the fast. Id prayers are said in the mosque and this is followed by a festive meal at home. Giving to charity is an important aspect of this festival, and children are given presents. Id cards are sent, and the focus of the festival is on community and togetherness. Families often visit each other for Id. Mawlid an-Nabi (the birthday of the Prophet (pbuh)) This festival takes place on the 12th day of the Islamic month of Rabi’ ul-Awwal, which is believed to be the day of the birth and death of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). The Prophet (pbuh) himself never celebrated his birthday, so many Muslims do not celebrate this festival. Mawlid an-Nabi is a way of celebrating or remembering the Prophet’s life and his mission. Muslims also remember the character of Muhammad as well as his successes and sufferings. Children are reminded of the Greatness of the Prophet, and of how to be a good Muslim. Muharram and Ashura The month of Muharram commemorates the Hijrah (the departure of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) from Makkah to Medina). The origin of the festival The month of Muharram was proclaimed as the first month of the Islamic calendar by Umar, the second of the Caliphs of Islam. The intention on this day is for Muslims to leave their sins and make a fresh start with resolutions for the new year. Ashura Day In Islamic tradition, 10th Muharram was the day when Allah created the seven heavens, the hills, the mountains, the land and all the seas. Adam was created on this day. It is also believed to be the day when Noah was able to leave the ark after the flood, the day on which Allah saved Musa (Moses) from the Pharaoh, and the day on which the day of Judgement will take place. The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) made the 9th and 10th Muharram obligatory days of fasting, based on the fact that Jews fasted on 10th Muharram as a thanksgiving to Allah for helping them to cross the Red Sea. Once the Prophet received the revelation about fasting during Ramadan, he changed fasting on 10th Muharram to an optional day, although many Muslims still mark Ashura Day by fasting. Outside features of a mosque Mosques are traditionally built of stone or brick in the form of a square with an open courtyard in the centre. 25

Minarets rise from the front or the corners of the mosque. These are towers which were introduced in the first century. They serve as a high place from which the Adhan (call to prayer) can be made by the Muezzin. Many mosques have several minarets which form the distinctive skyline of Islamic towns. In modern times, it is becoming more popular to use a recording for the call to prayer. In Britain, the muezzin might disturb local residents who are not Muslims, so the call to prayer may not be made outside the mosque. Masjid (the mosque) Masjid means ‘a place of prostration’, or ‘a place where the head touches the ground’. The mosque is a Muslim building for public worship. The main use of a mosque is as a prayer hall, and this the most important area within a mosque, although the building may serve many more purposes within the Ummah (Muslim community). Wudu There will also be washing areas. These will be separate for men and women. In some countries these are pumps or fountains, but there may be a series of taps, running into gullies, with stools for the worshippers to sit on whilst performing wudu (the washing ritual) that is required before prayer. The prayer hall The most important part of a mosque is the prayer hall - an area designated for prayer, either when Muslims gather together for Salat-ul-Jumu’ah (Friday prayers) or for individual prayers. This hall is a large open area without seats. Some mosques have Qur’anic inscriptions or mosaic patterns on the walls. The name masjid indicates the main purpose of the building - a place of prostration - one of the positions of prayer. The mihrab The direction of the Ka’bah in Makkah must be obvious to anyone who comes into a mosque, as they need to know which direction to face when praying. This is known as qiblah (the direction of Makkah). The qiblah wall will be differentiated by the inclusion of a mihrab - a decorated panel or plaque on the wall, or an alcove set in the wall. The function of the mihrab is to show the direction of Makkah. Inner washroom In modern mosques there are often specially designed washrooms where wudu can take place. Within the washroom there will usually be rows of taps with gullies. Men and women have separate rooms. The minbar In the main prayer hall of a mosque, on the same wall as the mihrab, is the minbar, a short flight of stairs with a platform at the top. The purpose of the minbar is to enable the Imam (prayer leader) to be heard by everyone when he preaches or gives out notices to the congregation at Salat-ul-Jumu’ah. Islamic art and architecture Inside a mosque there are no statues, figurines or pictures of people or animals. Figurative art is never found in a mosque or in a copy of the Qur’an. There are no pictures of Allah. Muslims say that Allah does not look like anything - Allah is a pure spirit 26

without a body or form. Allah is beyond the bounds of imagination. Similarly, Muslims never try to produce likenesses of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) who, although well loved, might divert attention away from Allah if portrayed in his human form. Muslims feel that worshipping a picture or statue of Allah or the Prophets would be idolatry (idol worship) and this is against the teaching of the Qur’an. Mosques are decorated in the most beautiful ways: through calligraphy; geometric patterns in mosaics, and through arabesque patterns. Shoes Shoes are not worn in the mosque, as people may bring dirt into the building. Shoes are also removed as a sign of respect. Salah - prayer The mosque is a place of prayer and many Muslims visit a mosque a number of times a day. Salah (ritual prayer) is the second of the Five Pillars of Islam. The Qur’an says: Set up Regular Prayers: for such prayers are enjoined on believers at stated times. (Surah 4:103 Nisaa) The Qur’an tells Muslims to pray at fixed times, but it is unclear about what those times actually are. The accepted times of prayer are based on a combination of what is said in the Qur’an and how the prophet Muhammad (pbuh) actually carried out this ritual. The five established times of prayer are: Fajr (between dawn and sunrise) Zuhr (after mid-day) Asr (between late afternoon and sunset) Maghrib (between sunset and the end of daylight) ‘Isha (night, until dawn) In Muslim countries, the times for prayer are announced by a muezzin who calls out from the minaret of the mosque. This call to prayer is known as the Adhan. Topi (prayer cap) A small skull cap is worn by male Muslims. Some will wear a cap like this when outdoors, others put it on before worship. It is seen as a mark of respect to Allah. There are various types of cap depending on geographical and cultural differences. Sometimes it is a white (or black) cotton cap in a crochet style, or it could be a woollen cap, or a plain cotton cap with embroidered patterns. A Muslim badge The inscription on this badge is Allah, the name of God. It is a statement of belonging to Islam. Badges are sometimes worn on prayer caps. Id cards Muslims have two major festivals each year. These are Id-ul-Fitr and Id-ul-Adha. Id-ul-Fitr comes at the end of the month of Ramadan during which Muslims fast from dawn to dusk and Id-ul-Adha at the end of Hajj (the pilgrimage to Mecca). At festival times, Muslims send cards to their families and friends wishing them the blessings of the festival - Id Mubarak. Islam and abortion 27

Some individual discretion is allowed in making decisions about birth control as the welfare of the woman is the most important issue in such a debate. As it is written in the Qur’an: God intends every facility for you; He does not want to put you to difficulties. (Surah 2:185) Some types of birth control are more acceptable than others dependent upon which stage of the woman’s cycle and of the process of conception the method intervenes. The fear of not being able to afford to bring up the child is not an acceptable reason to use birth control as Allah is the ultimate provider. Muslims believe that life is given and taken by Allah and therefore abortion is only permitted when the mother’s life is in danger. Islam and sexual relationships Muslims consider that all human beings have spiritual, intellectual and physical needs and that each one has to be satisfied in order for that person to be balanced and whole. Islam recognises that sexual relationships are important and blessed, if conducted according to the laws laid down by Allah: When a husband and wife share an intimacy it is rewarded, and a blessing from Allah; just as they would be punished if they engaged in illicit sex. (Hadith) Illicit sex is forbidden by Islam; this includes any form of sexual relationship outside of marriage. Let no man be in privacy with a woman who is not lawful unto him. (Hadith) Muslims do not accept sexual freedom before entering into marriage. However, the betrothed couple are actively encouraged to meet each other, in the presence of a chaperon, so that a friendship and closeness can develop between them. Sex before marriage is sinful according to Islam but sex outside of marriage, especially in the form of adultery is a greater evil: Nor come night to adultery: for it is a shameful (deed) and an evil, opening the road (to other evils). (Surah 17:32) Adultery is the worst kind of theft; an act of evil which ultimately leads to the breakdown of society. Homosexuality is regarded as a form of illicit sex and is prohibited by Islam because it is seen as a deviation in the law of nature: If two men among you are guilty of lewdness, punish them both. (Surah 4:16) Muslims abhor homosexual intercourse as they see it as a depraved and unnatural practice which makes people victims of their own desires and takes away all their dignity and morality. Islam - marriage and divorce No institution in Islam finds more favour with God than marriage. (Hadith) Marriage is the basis of Islamic society. Marriage represents a social contract between man and wife and this contract is sealed by a dowry or mahr, which the bride receives from the groom, and is usually a sum of money or some property. Marriage in Islam has many purposes, it provides: a balance between individual needs and the welfare of the community; a moral and mutually beneficial method of controlling sexual behaviour and of procreation; a stable atmosphere for raising children; crucial economic benefits for women during their child-bearing years, and, finally, close companionship and emotional support for the couple. A Muslim couple may marry even if they have different social or financial backgrounds. What is 28

important is that the husband and wife are spiritually compatible and that their basic view of life is sufficiently similar for them to become true partners. A woman can be married for four reasons: her wealth, her family, her beauty, and her religion. So choose the one with religion. (Hadith) Islam accepts that not all marriages will be successful and it does allow couples to divorce, but only after all attempts at reconciliation have failed. Divorce is the last resort. After a waiting period, or iddah of three months, the divorce is final and both parties are free to remarry. Islam and euthanasia Older people are highly respected members of the Muslim community. Younger generations recognise that old people were the carers and providers of yesterday and when the elderly can no longer care for themselves, it is the younger Muslim’s duty to take on the role of provider and carer: Thy Lord hath decreed that ye worship none but Him, and that ye be kind to parents. Whether one or both of them attain old age in thy life, say not to them a word of contempt, nor repel them, but address them in terms of honour. And, out of kindness, lower to them the wing of humility, and say: ‘My Lord! bestow on them thy Mercy even as they cherished me in childhood.’ (Surah 17:23-4) Islamic religious law decrees that all senior members of Muslim society must be honoured and cared for until the end of their life, no matter how diseased or confused they may be. The younger Muslim must accept the responsibility of nursing their parent or grandparent into the next life. Any method of speeding up this transition is condemned. May his nose be rubbed in dust, who found his parents approaching old age and lost his right to enter Paradise because he did not look after them. (Hadith) A Muslim who carried out euthanasia would be failing to do their duty according to Islam and would, therefore, forfeit their place in Paradise. Euthanasia is seen as an act of suicide, and is totally prohibited and not forgivable. Whosoever throws himself from the top of a mountain to kill himself, he will be in Hellfire doing the same thing to himself for ever. Whosoever swallows a poison to kill himself, he will be in Hellfire doing the same thing to himself for ever. (Hadith) Islam and conservation For Muslims the world is a divine creation. Humans are God’s trustees, and must look after the world for it is not theirs to abuse; if they do so they will be made to answer for their neglect on the Day of Judgement. Whoever plants a tree and diligently looks after it until it matures and bears fruit is rewarded. (Mohammed (pbuh)) There is not an animal (that lives) on the earth, nor a being that flies on its wings, but (forms part of) communities like you. (Surah 6:38) The three central concepts of Islam, unity, trusteeship and accountability, show environmental concerns to be very closely related to the religion’s fundamental beliefs. Mr Shariff Din is a Muslim, living and working in the north of England. He lives with his wife, Mrs Emna Khartoon Din, and has been on pilgrimage to Mecca. Mrs Emna Khartoon Din is a Muslim. She lives in the north of England with her husband Mr Mohamed Shariff Din. 29

In the fast like we are fasting, we fast once in a year, lasting for one month. So the fasting is like sunrise and sunset, so that is a different time in every year almost. After ten years it changes completely, it only seems simple, you can’t follow the times now, but we know we have to fast once in a year, and that is very important for the Muslim people, for their religion they have to fast. So we start the kids when they are seven years old, we teach them. Then we don’t force them to fast, we teach them, as you have brought them up. Yes, especially when it is Id, we feel like we are all together and we are having something nice, and we just feel that anyone passing through would think we are all in one religion, in the way we feel. It is exciting. The same is at Christmas in this country, we think everything is the same. Because you see everybody is happy then you know something is happening for all of them, and we are all on holidays, we think the same. But when Id comes, I don’t know how English people feel, but we feel the same. First of all to be a Muslim you know ‘I must go in Heaven, I must try to go in Heaven’, I have to pray five times, I have to follow the Qur’an right, that’s my aim - to go to Heaven in the end. Well, sometimes daily, sometimes weekly, because we have to read the Qur’an daily, because we pray daily. Everybody who is Muslim has to pray five times and read the Qur’an and go the right ways. You don’t do any wrongs. Just like in the Bible is the Ten Commandments. Yes, you have to follow the Commandments. Same with this one. You have to be good with your neighbours. All books say the same. You don’t fight with each other. You are all the same. But people do not understand, they don’t do it. We spend our time in praying and that is all, most of the time. Now if you go to Medina down there, there is the grave, Muhammad’s grave down there but there is another grave next to it. It is empty grave, a space, not a grave, I mean, a space. The grave is here, the empty space is there. That empty space is for Jesus. We believe in Jesus, but we believe in Jesus in one particular way. We believe in Jesus that he was the prophet, not the God. He is not the God. None whatsoever, when I pray, I pray on my side and if he is Christian he can do what he said. I don’t go against anybody’s religion, not anybody’s religion. I don’t go against it. That is my personal view. Relaxed, because it does not take hours to pray, it just takes 10 to 20 minutes, 10 minutes in one go to pray, so 10 minutes is nothing.

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