Masjid (Mosque)
The Islamic house of worship, where Muslims gather for congregational prayer.
Masjid (Arabic: مسجد) literally means "place of prostration (sujud)" and is the Islamic house of worship where Muslims gather for the daily prayers, the Jumu'ah prayer and other religious activities.
A masjid is more than just a house of worship — it functions as a center for the Muslim community. Here the Quran is taught, lectures are held, Islamic holidays are celebrated, and the community is strengthened. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "Whoever builds a mosque for Allah's sake, Allah will build a house for him in Paradise."
The most important architectural elements of a masjid are: mihrab (prayer niche indicating the qibla direction), minbar (pulpit), minaret (tower from which the adhan is called), and wudu facilities. Mosques are found in all major cities, serving the Muslim community.
Related terms
Hijri (Islamic Calendar)
The Islamic lunar calendar, which begins with the Prophet's migration to Medina.
Eid al-Ghadir (The Ghadir Festival)
Shia festival commemorating the Prophet's appointment of Imam Ali as his successor.
Khushu (Humility in Prayer)
Inner humility, focus and devotion during prayer.
Qabd (Folding the Arms in Prayer)
The practice of folding the arms over the chest or below the navel during the standing position in prayer.
Hujjah (Proof/Divine Authority)
Allah's proof over humanity — a title for the Prophet and the twelve Imams.
Wajib (Obligatory)
Actions that are obligatory in Islamic law, including the five daily prayers.