Published by Muslims are required to pray five times a day (Sallah). Whenever Muslims pray, they face towards Mecca, while praying they chant, “There is no god by Allah, and Mohammed is his prophet.” Muslims pray at a mosque. In a mosque, there is an Imam (leader of prayers). On Fridays, the Imam preaches from the Qur’an or gives out advice about being a Muslim. Before praying, all are required to wash (Wudu). During Wudu, they start by washing their right foot, then left, then finishing with their left foot or ankle. They then wash their mouth, face and arms, and then wipe their heads. Muslims are also required to take off their shoes before praying. Generally, most Muslims live in an area where they can hear the call to prayer; otherwise they must live with a timetable.
The day to day life of a Muslim can be very time consuming, busy and limited. Sallah can cause interruptions to activities, etc. “Strong drink…is part of Satan’s handiwork. Leave it aside, in order that you may success.” Qur’an 5:90. The Qur’an forbids a Muslim from consuming alcohol, in terms that it will make them not focus on Allah, and may not let them go to Paradise (heaven). A Muslims also only eats Halal food (food that is not Haram). Halal is an action or thing that is permitted in Islam that food is prepared in accordance with the Islamic law. One example of a Halal food is that the Shahadah (declaration of faith in Allah) is said whilst the animal is killed with a sharp knife. The blood is then washed from the meat; this just one of many Halals. Female Muslims must undergo Purda (the concealing of a woman (everything covered). Muslims also follow Zakah (giving 2.5% of savings to those in need).
Mahatma Gandhi lived his life following the teachings of his religion very well. He was a man who believed in peace. Gandhi chased his dream long and hard, with one occasion of trying to earn basic respect and rights for the Indian community in South Africa. Gandhi was a Hindu, and was guided by several ideas. One of which was Ahisma (no harm should be done to any living thing). This was the building block to his success. He also believed in Satya and Satagraha (truth and firmness), this helped him to live his life according to the standards and principles of his religion. Gandhi followed these well and if it wasn’t for his dedication to his religion, his success may not have even happened. Gandhi wanted India to be free from British rule, and because of his strong belief in his faith, he was successful in freeing India from British rule, but also doing this in a spiritual method; one that did not involve violence, or the need to harm something.
