Working With Diversity in Northern Ireland - for local health and social services staff providing information, practical advice, guidance and examples of best practice on equality and diversity under Section 75 legislation. Working With Diversity in Northern Ireland - for local health and social services staff providing information, practical advice, guidance and examples of best practice on equality and diversity under Section 75 legislation. Working With Diversity in Northern Ireland - for local health and social services staff providing information, practical advice, guidance and examples of best practice on equality and diversity under Section 75 legislation. Working With Diversity in Northern Ireland - for local health and social services staff providing information, practical advice, guidance and examples of best practice on equality and diversity under Section 75 legislation.
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Religious Belief » Islam » History

History

There is no God but (Allah) and Muhammad is the messenger of God.
(The Shahada)


The literal meaning of Islam is considered to be 'Submission to Allah'. Makka (Mecca), Saudi Arabia is the place of pilgrimage and the birthplace of the prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessing on him). Muslims face the Ka'aba (shrine) within Mecca when praying, so may ask the orientation of Ka'aba or Mecca. (southeast)

The Holy Qur'an is the Holy Book of the Muslims who believe it to be the Word of God. It is recited in the original word of Arabic.

The Islamic faith is not just a pattern of religious behaviour, but a way of life with strict standards in many areas. The faithful are called to pray five times a day, although these can be joined together when necessary. Times of prayer vary because they are based on the times of dawn and dusk.


N. Ireland

  • Muslims have come to Ireland from all over the world including many from Pakistan, Malaysia and the Middle East. Most are from the Sunni tradition, but a few are Shi'a.

  • The Muslim community in Northern Ireland has existed since the late 1940s and is now thought to number between 2,000 and 3,000, with the majority living in the greater Belfast area.

  • The Belfast Islamic Centre (currently in Wellington Park) was established in the early 1980s. As well as providing a place for prayer it also organises Sunday classes for children, Qur'an study circles and seminars on Islamic topics. Small Muslim communities in Derry City, Craigavon, Ballymena, Newtownards and Coleraine also have their own congregations on Fridays.

  • The main languages spoken, in addition to English, include Arabic, Malay and Urdu.

  • Architecture and calligraphy are two of the most distinctive Islamic artforms and these are particularly evident in the design and decoration of mosques.

  • Mosques are built so that Muslims can congregate for prayer. Men and women sit separately during prayer. The prayer hall has a niche (mihrab) to indicate the direction of Mecca and is simply furnished with a carpet. To keep this area clean Muslims take off their shoes on entering a mosque. On Friday a special sermon is given by the leader (imam) of the congregational prayer.
Beliefs | Health and Social Care | History | Special Days | Worship
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