Lauren Griffith

L.A./History

12/03/08

Islam

As the Qur'an states, " Attend constantly to prayers and to the middle prayer and stand up truly obedient to Allah." There are many different religions. Islam is the second largest religion in the world. Islam is monotheistic and follows Allah. This religion originated from the Middle East. The followers, also known as Muslims, follow the last prophet. For example, if Jesus was the last prophet they would listen to his teachings, but Muhammad is the last prophet and has been for a long time. Islam is an interesting religion and has many different practices.

Prayer is a very important part of a Muslim's life. They pray towards the holy land (Mecca). The direction towards Mecca is called the "quiblah". The Mosque is where they come together to worship and pray. The Mosque prayer room is plain with no symbols in it. It has only one big rug to kneel on. The women don't pray in the same room as the men. In addition most of the women cover themselves and unveil only for their husband to see. It doesn't matter where the children pray. Muslims pray five times a day. If one misses prayer during prayer time they have to make up that time as soon as possible. Islam prayer seems very strict.

At least one or more times during a Muslim's life, they try to go to Mecca. It's called their "Hajj". The biggest Mosque is in Mecca, a "Kaaba" is in the center. A "Kaaba" is a big black box that people walk around three times. There can be up to three million people in that holy Mosque. This experience must be overwhelming.

The Islam religion only eats a certain arrangement of foods. Muslims buy only meats that have a certificate of proper slaughter. Islamic people do not eat blood or pork. They fast during Ramadan from sunrise until sunset. I can't imagine not eating for an entire day.

Islam is an interesting religion and has many different practices. Prayer is a very important part of a Muslim's life. At least one or more times during a Muslim's life, they have to go to Mecca. The Islam religion only eats a certain arrangement of foods. It's been a great experience learning about islam!