Mosques | Mosques |
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The most important building in Islam is the mosque. The first mosque was built by Muhammed and his followers in Madinah, the most famous and most beautiful is the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem, built in 691 CE. The word 'mosque' literally means ' a place for self prostration.' This means, a place especially for the saying of prayers. Mosques are built with a dome, symbolising the heavens and a 'minaret' (like a tower), where a person can make the call to prayer.
In the prayer there is one special wall called the 'qibla' wall. When you face that wall you will be facing Mecca. The qibla has an alcove called the 'mihrab' to show that it is the qibla wall. At the front of the prayer room there is a pulpit called the 'minbar.' This is where the 'imam,' or prayer leader, delivers his 'khutbar' (speech).
Last Updated March 15, 2006 | Copyright and Disclaimer | E-mail Webmaster |