Download Islamic Tradition and Daily Life

Islamic Tradition
and Daily Life
Religious Practice
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For most of the 1.3 billion Muslims in the
world, Islam is both a religion and a
complete way of life.
Religious Practice
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Muslims find guidance in the Qur’an
(Koran), the holy book of Islam. This is an
Arabic text that is said to have been
revealed to the prophet Muhammad by
Allah (God).
Religious Practice

Islamic teaching outlines the Five Pillars of
Islam, which are the framework of a
Muslim’s life (see Five Pillars on the back)
The Five Pillars of Islam
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Iman and Shahadah: Declaration of Faith
A Muslim believes that “There is no god but
Allah, and Muhammad is his prophet
(messenger).”
The Five Pillars of Islam
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Salah: Establishment of regular prayer
Prayers are performed five times per day—
one will usually bow face down, toward
Mecca.
The Five Pillars of Islam
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Zakah: Required donation
Payment each year of 2.5% of one’s
income to the needy; more can be given in
private
The Five Pillars of Islam
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Siyam (Sawm): Fasting
No eating or drinking during the daylight
hours of the month of Ramadan; the
purpose is to teach patience, self-control,
and focus
The Five Pillars of Islam
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Hajj: Pilgrimage
Annual trip to the holy city of Mecca. This
is a requirement at least once in a lifetime
for all Muslims who are physically able and
who can afford it.
Some Islamic Traditions in the Middle
East
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Both men and women are to dress
modestly
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The definition of modest dress is different in
each country, and has changed over the
years
Some Islamic Traditions in the Middle
East
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Muslims in non-Muslim countries have
more freedom of dress

In some extreme cases, women are to be
completely covered, including the eyes
Some Islamic Traditions in the Middle
East

Men are usually not to show skin above the
knees or elbows

A head-covering is usually always
customary, especially for women
Family/Marriage

As with many cultures, family is central in
Muslim culture

Elderly parents are usually always taken
care of by their children—not placed in
nursing homes
Family/Marriage

Arranged marriage is not uncommon in the
Middle Eastern Muslim countries
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While divorce is rare, the Qur’an allows for
a man to have up to four wives
Traditional Muslim Wedding Dresses