Family
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Birth - When a child is born the words 'La illah alla Allah wa Muhammed Abduhu wa rassoulu hu' should be the first words a child hears. This means 'There is no God but Allah and Muhammed is his messenger.'
On the seventh day after birth, the child is named. This is 'Aquiqa.' The child's hair will be cut and a sacrifice of sheep or goats will be made. The weight of the hair in gold and silver will be given to the poor.
Marriage - The Qu'ran allows the man to have up to four wives, they MUST be all treated equally. The marriage ceromony is very simple. Each partner agrees in front of two people to marry. There are however, many elaborate ceromonies accompanying this simple declaration.
Marriages are often arranged by parents and older relatives. The Qu'ran says that no woman should marry against her will. The woman must be given a gift (a dowry) of money or jewellery by the man which is hers to keep. She keeps her name, as her father is still responsible for her.
Divorce - A divorce can be obtained quickly and easily. The wife is entitled to remain for three months in the family home. She is allowed to keep her dowry, but once the divorce is final she can expect no further support.
Death - Death is seen by Muslims as a release from the troubles in life. Muslims believe they will either enter Paradise or Hell.
Burial - After washing the corpse, it is wrapped in three white sheets and laid, on the right hand side with the face turned towards Mecca. It has no marker or headstone.
Last Updated March 15, 2006 | Copyright and Disclaimer | E-mail Webmaster |