Eid al-Fitr, marking the joyous conclusion of Ramadan, takes on a unique character in North America. Here, it’s a vibrant tapestry woven from the rich traditions of diverse Muslim communities. This article explores how Eid is celebrated in this multicultural landscape. Traditional Observances and Prayers: The heart of Eid lies in shared religious practices. Eid…
Sawm is the Arabic term used to describe the act of fasting. Passed the age of puberty, Muslims are required to fast during the month of Ramadan, which entails abstaining from food, drink, sexual relations and displeasing speech and behaviour from dawn until dusk. Why is Sawm important? The month of Ramadan is the ninth month of…
Both require a penalty to be paid, however the amount due for each broken promise/oath and intentionally missed fast, will vary. The amount paid for each missed fast is the equivalent of feeding 60 people. Therefore, for each missed/intentionally broken fast you must pay £300. The amount paid for each broken promise/oath is the equivalent…
When someone cannot fast in Ramadan (due to ill health, travelling or menstruation for example) they should make up the missed fasts when they are able to do so. However, if they will not be able to make up missed fasts (due to old age or chronic illness that is unlikely to improve) they should…
In Islam, Aqiqah is the sacrifice of livestock; such as goats and sheep, at the birth of a child. The Aqiqah is performed as part of the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It often takes place on the seventh day after a baby’s birth. However, there’s nothing wrong with doing it…
Undertaking Hajj is an Islamic and spiritual duty – it is the fourth pillar in Islam. In the Holy Qur’an, Allah (SWT) commands Muslims to visit Makkah and complete it as part of their faith at least once in their lifetime – in fact, there’s a whole Surah (chapter) in the Qur’an named after it! In this chapter, Allah…
What is Zakat? Zakat (zakaat, zakah), or almsgiving, is one of the five pillars of Islam. This means that Zakat is mandatory for Muslims, along with the other four sacred pillars of Islam. For every sane, adult Muslim who owns wealth over a certain amount – known as the Nisab – he or she must…
What is Salah (salat)? Salah (salat) is the Arabic term for the ritual prayer that is obligatory for Muslims to perform five times a day. It forms one of the five pillars of Islam. The five prayers are: Aside from the five obligatory prayers, Muslims may offer Sunnah and Nafl Salah. The Sunnah Salah (prayers) are ones…
What time is Eid prayer? Eid Salah (prayer) takes place in the early morning (after Fajr) on the first day of Eid. Muslims are encouraged to pray in Jama’ah (congregation) with their local Muslim community on occasions such as these. Please check with your local mosque for the prayer schedule in your local area. How…
The “Foundations of Salah” course is designed to provide comprehensive guidance and instruction for new Muslim converts, commonly referred to as reverts, on the essential aspects of Salah (Islamic prayer). This course covers the fundamental concepts, practices, and etiquette related to the five daily prayers. Whether you’re new to Islam or seeking to strengthen your…
