Islam: Worship

Topics

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Sample objectives

What this unit covers

• Worship in the mosque: The mosque, known as masjid or 'place of prostration', serves as a focal point for Muslim worship and acts as the hub for the ummah (community).
• K ey features of a mosque in different Muslim communities; the meaning and importance of these: Identify the key characteristics of mosques across various Muslim communities and explain their significance and meaning. This includes features such as: (a) Minaret, which serves as a 'site of light' and is the mosque's tower; (b) Dome, symbolizing the vault of heaven; (c) Qiblah, indicating the direction of Makkah; (d) Mihrab, a niche in the qiblah wall; (e) Minbar, a stepped platform for sermons; (f) Musalla, the prayer hall; (g) Designated areas for men and women to pray, along with the reasons for this separation; (h) Architectural elements and calligraphy, noting the absence of images or representations of humans or animals.
• A rtefacts used in worship in different Muslim communities; the use, meaning and importance of: Examine the various artefacts utilized in worship across diverse Muslim communities, focusing on their usage, significance, and meaning. This includes: (a) Copies of the Qurʾan, (b) Compass, (c) Prayer mat, (d) Turbah (prayer stone), and (e) Misbahah (prayer beads).
• P ublic/communal and private/individual worship in different Muslim communities: Explore the aspects of public and private worship within various Muslim communities, including: (a) The adhan, or call to prayer; (b) The practice of wudu, its importance; (c) Salah, the formal prayer, and the five designated prayer times; (d) The timing and order of the rakʿahs, along with their significance; (e) Jumʿah prayer, its unique importance on Fridays; (f) Duʿa, or private prayer, including its preparation and content; (g) Dhikr, its role as a devotional act; (h) Diverse perspectives on the role and significance of the Qurʾan in both public worship and private prayer and study; (i) The need for respectful handling of the Qurʾan.
• T he roles and significance of leaders in the mosque and in different Muslim communities: Understand the functions and importance of leaders within mosques and various Muslim communities, including the roles of an Imam (the religious leader) and a Muʾazzin (the person who calls Muslims to prayer).