Rituals of Islam Assignment Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Rituals of Islam - Assignment Example Prayer serves myriad purposes such as teaching self-discipline that is required to perform prayer regularly and at proper times, to perform ablution that precedes prayer. Prayer is the central point of the life of a Muslim, which enables him to maintain a strong link with their Lord or continue his inner struggle against temptation. These aspects remind a Muslims of the limited and temporary nature of this worldly life and the certainty of death and life to come. Thus, it enables a Muslim to maintain a balance between the needs and claims of this life and the Hereafter (Brockopp 156). Similarly, Jews also perform prayer (Tefilah) three times a day: morning, afternoon and evening. Like Muslims, they believe that prayer should be performed with utmost concentration as it reminds them of God’s presence and countless blessings. Primarily, Jewish prayers are recited in Hebrew like Muslim prayers are recited in Arabic. However, Jewish prayers can be offered in any vernacular language, as Jews believe that God can understand them regardless of the language used. Jewish prayer is usually performed in a group of at least ten people called ‘minyan’. In contrast, though congregational prayers are considered more meritorious for Muslims; however, there is no barrier to praying singly. Similarly, like Islamic prayers, concentration (kavanah), and mindset that one is conversing with God is a pre-requisite for Jewish prayers. Jews believe that daily prayers direct their soul, heart, and mind away from everyday matters towards God. It reminds them of their co re beliefs and intensifies their bond with God. Thus, the fundamental purposes and significance of prayers in Islam and Judaism is the