Worship in the Mosque (Cambridge International IGCSE Religious Studies)

The mosque as a centre for Muslim worship

• Mosque or masjid means “place of prostration”

  • Prostration means lying down with arms outstretched as a sign of respect and worship

• The mosque is a place of prostration because it is a place of prayer

  • Here, Muslims pray and worship Allah and show their dedication and submission to him

• The mosque is a centre for Muslim prayer (salah). Each mosque contains:

  • Facilities for Muslims to perform wudu (or washing) before prayer, cleansing themselves spiritually to be ready for prayer
  • Clean, open space without furniture or distractions
  • **Carpets **for comfort and to serve as prayer mats during prayer and prostration

• The** features** and architecture of mosques all serve to remind Muslims of Allah’s presence and to help them submit to Allah in their prayer

The mosque as the centre of the ummah

• The mosque is also the centre of the ummah, the global community of Muslims

• It is a place where Muslims come together to pray as a global community

  • By performing the same words and actions as Muslims all over the world, the mosque is a place where Muslims are united as part of the global faith community

• The mosque also serves as a centre for the local community, holding many activities that unite Muslims, including:

  • Events to mark milestones in people’s lives, such as marriages, funerals and celebrations
  • Educational activities, such as Qur’an lessons
  • Advice centres, where people can seek help and guidance
  • Community and children’s groups

• The mosque is a centre that allows people to fulfil their duties and observe the Five Pillars of Islam

  • It is a place for salah
  • It is a place where zakat is collected

It is a place where Ramadan activities take place

Worked Example State two functions of a mosque for the Muslim community

[2 marks]

Final answer: Answer:

It is a place for Muslims to pray [1 mark]

It is a centre for educational and community activities [1 mark]

Exam Hint Remember to keep two-mark answers short. State or give the facts only – you do not need to explain or elaborate. Simply make two short points, one on each line, leaving more time for questions that are worth more marks.