Islamic Living
By Huda, About.com Guide to Islam
Islam is often called a "way of life." The faith offers guidance and structure in all aspects of daily life, from birth and death rites, to courtship and marriage relationships, and in education and business dealings.
Birth Rites
Muslim parents and medical practitioners should understand Islamic customs surrounding the birth of a child. Here you can find information about birth rites, circumcision, breastfeeding, etc.
Courtship
The choice of a marriage partner is one of the most important decisions a person will make in his or her lifetime. Muslims approach this decision with prayer, careful investigation, and family involvement.
Marriage
Muslims view marriage as the foundation of society and family life. In a practical aspect, Islamic marriage is thus structured through legally-enforceable rights and duties of both parties. In an atmosphere of love and respect, these rights and duties provide a framework for the balance of family life and the fulfillment of both partners.
Conversion
Islam is recognized as the fastest-growing world religion, particularly among western women. Those who embrace Islam are known as either "converts" or "reverts" to the faith, recognizing that each person is born with a natural faith in Allah and merely returns to it as an adult.
Education
The Prophet Muhammad once said that Muslims should "seek knowledge, from the cradle to the grave." Education is a life-long endeavor, and Muslim parents have many choices with regards to their children's education. In addition, most Muslims try to learn at least the basics of the Arabic language, although only 15% of Muslims speak Arabic as a native tongue.
Eating and Drinking
Muslims follow a set of dietary laws which are outlined in the Qur'an. Everything is permitted (halal), except what God specifically prohibited (haram). Muslims do not consume pork or alcohol, and follow a humane process for the slaughter of animals for meat. Within these rules, there is wide variation among the eating habits of Muslims around the world.
- Introduction - Food and Drink
- Islamic Dietary Law
- Checking Food Labels
- Keeping Halal on the Road
- Halal Certification
Modest Dress
Islam gives guidance about all aspects of life, including matters of public decency. Islam has set minimum standards for personal modesty, which are reflected in the various styles of clothing worn among Muslims. While such standards may seem out-dated or conservative to some people, Muslims view these values of public decency as timeless.
- Islamic Clothing Requirements
- Illustrated Glossary of Islamic Clothing
- Where to Buy Islamic Clothing Online
- Islamic Sewing Patterns
- Girls and Hijab
Business
Islam has given detailed regulations for our economic life, which is balanced and fair. Muslims are to recognize that wealth, earnings, and material goods are the property of God, and we are merely His trustees.
Health
How do Muslims feel about such issues as euthenasia, organ donation, life support, cloning, infertility treatments, and abortion? What does Islam teach about these issues? How do Muslims face health issues in their daily lives?
