Mosque Etiquette

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Mosque Etiquette

• Kate Carducci
• Eric Oliver
• LeAnn Srock

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• Muslims would usually be delighted to show others
  their place of worship. it is the sharing of what
  they hold very dear to their heart. it is hoped,
  however, that the visitors observe certain basic
  rules of conduct. The term Mosque is commonly
  used by non-Muslims to define the Muslim place of
  worship but its correct name is Masjid and this
  is the term used by Muslims. The Muslims being
  visited would not want visitors to feel uneasy.
  Likewise, they would not want to be made ill at
  ease themselves by criticisms of their way of
  worship or of their religion.

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• Whether visiting alone, or as a group, it is
  important to follow the guidelines for clothing
  and behavior so as not to cause offence. If any
  group members have special needs, let the place
  being visited know in advance so that they can
  prepare to help.

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Clothing in a mosque Clothing should be modest
for both men and women. For women this means an
ankle length skirt or trousers, which should not
be tight or transparent, together with a long
sleeved and high-necked top. Clean and
presentable socks, stockings, or tights are
therefore a good idea.
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• Entering a mosque
• Where women attend the mosque, men and women
  usually enter the prayer hall by separate
  entrances. Also before entering the prayer hall
  or prayer room, Muslim men and women perform
  wudhu or ablutions if they have not already done
  so earlier or from home. This is not necessary
  for the non-Muslim visitor who will not be
  joining in the prayer.

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• Entering a mosque prayer hall
• go quietly into the hall, and sit on the floor,
  avoiding pointing the feet in the direction of
  the Qibla (the wall with the niche or alcove in
  it, indicating the direction of Mecca). If
  visiting as a group during a time when prayers
  are taking place, sit together toward the rear of
  the hall.

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Before going to a Mosque

• A good idea is to call first
• Some masjids are oriented to specific ethnic
  groups
• Ask about social functions or new Muslim classes
• Mention you are new or interested in Islam and
  schedule time to go and talk or ask questions

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What to Wear

• Men avoid t-shirts, especially with images or
  slogans, clean socks, loose fitting shirt and
  pants
• Women- long skirt or loose fitting pants and top
  that covers at least to thighs, some mosques
  require non-Muslim women to cover heads, avoid
  wearing make up/perfume/jewelry

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When you get there

• Find correct room for men or women
• Remove shoes and put on shelves
• Try not to walk in front of anyone doing the
  ritual prayer
• If late try not to disrupt service in progress
• Sit Indian Style, not with legs stretched
  considered offensive
• Dont drink anything or chew gum
• Dont talk during the sermon or prayer

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Left and right hand

• The left hand is used for cleaning yourself
• Right hand is used for shaking hands, picking up
  the Quran, etc
• Only shake with right hand and only shake hands
  with someone of the same gender
• Doesnt matter which hand is used for writing or
  drawing

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Prayer Movements

• Salat
• Women pray at home

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Additional Uses for Mosques

• Ramadan events
• Charity/Fundraisers
• Community center
• Education

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In the Prayer Hall

• No furniture in the prayer hall
• No chairs or pews
• Allows as many as possible to fit
• Arabic calligraphy
• Verses from the Quran

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Famous Mosques