The Masjid

What is a masjid and what does it mean for Muslims?

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• ‘Mosque’ is the English word for masjid.
• Mosques are the places where Muslims usually pray the five daily prayers. Allah says,

“And [He revealed] that the masjids are for Allah, so do not invoke with Allah anyone.” (Soorah al-Jinn: 18)

• In the masaajid Muslims call upon Allah and do not worship anything besides Him. Muslims observe certain manners when they go to the masjid.

1. They enter the masjid with the right foot and leave with the left, reciting the recommended du’aas.
2. When Muslims enter the masjid they pray a two-rak’ah prayer before they sit down. This is known as tahiyyatul-masjid (greeting for the masjid).
3. Muslims should arrive at the masjid early.
4. They walk calmly to the masjid and do not run, because they do not want to disturb any of the people praying.
5. They should avoid eating food that smells such as onions or garlic before going to the masjid.
6. Muslims do not spit inside the prayer area of the masjid.
7. Muslims should not buy, sell, or advertise things inside the prayer area of the masjid.

Discussion questions for comment

1. What does the Arabic word masjid mean?
2. Describe how Muslims should walk to the masjid and what they should do once they are inside.

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What is the purpose of a masjid and how do Muslims use it?

• Muslims use the masaajid to worship only Allah ﷻ , and to learn about things that will help them worship Allah ﷻ better.
• Many masaajid provide information to Muslims and non- Muslims about Islam so that they can learn more about Islam and worshipping Allah ﷻ correctly. Muslims use the masaajid for learning. They can study the Qur’aan Hadeeth Figh, and many other subjects there.
• Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said,

“Allah, His angels and all those in the Heavens and on Earth, even the ants in their hills and the fish in the water, pray for blessings for those who teach people beneficial knowledge.” (Tirmidhi)

• Muslims also use the masjid as an Islamic center for activities in the community, such as:

1. Learning Arabic and other subjects as well as skills.
2. Community help for Muslims and new Muslims.
3. Family help.
4. Important meetings for the community.
5. The two ‘eed celebrations.
6. Sport-keeping fit and healthy. The formation of the masjid soccer team, cricket team, basketball team and so on.

• Many non-Muslims visit Islamic centers to gather information about Islam. Islamic centers can guide non Muslims to Islam.
• Muslims should not build masaajid on graves. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said that Allah ﷻ does not like people who do so.

Discussion questions for comment

1. What acts of worship take place there?
2. What other activities take place inside the masjid?