Muslim life in North Alabama
Islam means peaceful submission to God, and Muslims worship the One God, known in Arabic as Allah. Muslims in North Alabama come from many backgrounds, including families with roots in the American South, the Middle East, South Asia, Africa and the Balkans, and they gather in mosques and Islamic centers across the Tennessee Valley for prayer, learning and service.
Faith and the five pillars
Muslims believe that God revealed the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, as guidance for humanity. Practice rests on five pillars: the declaration of faith, the five daily prayers, charity, fasting during Ramadan and pilgrimage to Mecca for those able to make it. Most Muslims are Sunni and a smaller number are Shia, and both share these foundations.
The mosque and the community
A mosque, or masjid, is a place of prostration before God and also a community center. Congregational prayer is held at midday on Friday with a sermon, and many mosques host weekend schools, Quran classes, food drives and interfaith events. Men and women usually pray in separate areas of the space.
Sacred times
Ramadan, the month of fasting, ends with Eid al-Fitr. Eid al-Adha marks the end of the pilgrimage season. Muslims also remember the birth of the Prophet and the Islamic new year.
Visiting a mosque
Visitors are generally welcome, and many mosques host open houses. Remove your shoes at the entrance, dress modestly with arms and legs covered, and women may be offered a scarf. Greet people with "As-salamu alaykum," and avoid walking in front of someone who is praying. Contact the mosque first to learn visiting hours.