LIFE CYCLES OF A MUSLIM

BIRTH Two rituals welcome a baby “Adhan” or call to prayer, spoken into the baby’s right ear video “Aqiqa” or naming ceremony is held seven days after birth Hair is cut from the baby’s head or the head is shaved and the equivalent weight is given in silver to the poor video Males are circumcised

Marriage A wedding is known as “nikah” Although the Qur’an allows males to practice polygamy, most Muslim males do not Marriage bonds two families together and for this reason they are arranged Divorce is permitted but strongly discouraged

Death Last words are the Shahadah After the person dies, they are washed, covered, and buried as soon as possible When buried, their face is turned towards Mecca

Muslim Community (Umma) Islam does not have a central authority or hierarchy “Imam” leads prayer and worship but is not a priest The Mosque Present wherever there is a group of worshipers Muslims gather Friday afternoon for prayer at the mosque