A Look into Islam including interviews with local Muslims

Essay by LothosCollege, UndergraduateA-, October 2009

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Final AssignmentWorld Religions ReportReligions of the WorldAxia College of University of PhoenixIslam is the youngest of the three Judaic religions. Its members traditionally hail from the deserts surrounding the ancient city of Mecca, in Saudi Arabia. For over 1500 years, these followers of the prophet Muhammad have practiced their faith in reverence for the one god and in the tradition set by their founder. Although fractured into several sects over the centuries, the basic tenements, the Five Pillars of Islam have remained the backbone of this religion.

Because I wanted to learn more about a faith that I have very little familiarity with, I went to a neighboring town to visit Masjid Al-Islam, an Islamic Mosque in Gastonia, NC. When I arrived, I was welcomed by a Muslim named Abdul Mangel. As I shook his hand, I said to him “Assalamu Alakum Wa Rahmatulah Wa Barakatuh.” Which means peace, mercy, and blessings be upon you from Allah.

Abdul happily greeted me and explained to me that such a greeting was generally only given from one Muslim to another and that non-Muslims were not expected to give or return greetings. If I wished to do so, a simple “Assalamu Alakum,” meaning peace be upon you, would suffice.

After thanking him and giving him a more appropriate greeting, I explained to him that I was there to witness their prayer service and interview some of the Muslims in attendance. Abdul offered to show me around and was willing to answer any questions I had. As I toured the mosque prior to their prayer service, Abdul explained to me the different traditions and beliefs of the Muslim faith.

“First of all, to be Muslim, you have to adhere to the five pillars of Islam. First, and most important, is iman, which is the...