Muslim Rites of Passage, Observances and Symbols

Early Life Adhan the ceremony that is performed after the birth of a child. The father or an elder whispers the Call to Prayer in the baby’s right ear. These are the first words said to the baby. The person then whispers the Command to Rise and Worship into the baby’s left ear. Male children are usually circumcised at the hospital. Picture : (http://img2.photographersdirect.com/img/21621/wm/pd1302165.jpg)

Early Life Aqiqah A name giving ceremony Families choose between: A family name One of Muhammad’s names One of the 99 names of God with Abd (servant) before it. The hair of the baby is cut and the weight of the hair in silver (or available currency) is given to the poor. A goat or sheep is butchered. Two thirds is used at a feast to celebrate and one third is given to the poor. http://muslimnames.4stuffs.com/wp-content/uploads/2009/11/muslim-baby-girl-names-150x150.jpg

Marriage Often parents will help select a spouse for their children; however, the individuals to be married make the final decision. Cultural customs may be different for different Muslims; however, some Muslims would have in-laws meet first in each other’s homes, followed by similar introductions of friends. http://emel.com/images/issue5_muslim_marriage_moadh_and_hadia.jpg

Marriage The bride and groom promise to do their best to make their marriage ‘an act of obedience to God, to make it a relationship of mutual love, mercy, peace, faithfulness, and cooperation…’ The couple sign a business like contract containing anything the couple wants in it about their relationship and property. Eg. Marriage gift, only one wife, woman may work or go to school, money matters, etc. http://lh3.ggpht.com/_aiXQ5-qvErE/Rw71P1ThflI/AAAAAAAAADM/2zbDzYUIwQg/S+307.jpg

Marriage Many Muslims like an imam to officiate in the home or mosque, with readings from the Qur’an, a talk about the responsibilities of marriage, and prayers. A big feast follows the signing of the marriage contract

Divorce Only allowed as a last resort after the couple has taken time to reconcile. The wife must be properly provided for.

Funerals The burial should happen on the day the person died. Dead body is washed three times, and wrapped in three white sheets (if the have made the Hajj pilgrimage then these sheets are used). The body is carried on a stretcher or plain coffin to the burial site. The body is placed with its right side facing Mecca and the head turned toward Mecca.

Funerals Bystanders throw three handfuls of earth on the grave. The Qur’an is recited. Some Muslims believe that the body must touch the earth. Two angels visit the grave and question the deceased to prepare her/him for Judgment Day. The soul of the dead person will wait in a dreamless sleep until judgment day. http://www.1st-art-gallery.com/thumbnail/29912/1/The-Body-Of-Christ-With-Two-Angels-1600.jpg Funerals

Observances and symbols

Symbols Star and Crescent Not actually religious. Originally the symbol for the city of Byzantium, back in Roman days (Diana was the patron goddess of the city, and she’s a moon goddess) In 330 CE, Constantine added the star in honour of Mary Became a symbol for the city, which some Muslim leaders adopted for their own. Shahadah “There is no God but God, and Muhammad is his messenger” May be a more fitting representation of Islam, as it’s a statement of belief. Used in mosques and flags. (pictured below, the flag of Saudi Arabia)

Ramadan A month of fasting, from dawn to dusk every day. One of the 5 Pillars. Serves to draw Muslims closer to God and develop piety, patience and perseverance At the end of the day, a small meal called an iftar is had, often consisting of dates. Predates Islam. It is believed that the first revelation to Muhammed took place during Ramadan

Eid al-Fitr “The Festival of Breaking the Fast”. Celebrates the end of Ramadan. Marks a period of spiritual renewal Celebrate with gifts, family gatherings, and donations to the poor

Eid-al-Adha “The Great Festival of Sacrifice” Marks Abraham’s submission to the will of God Gift giving, wearing new clothes, prayers and donations Eid Mubarak! (“Blessed celebration!”