Thursday, March 5, 2009

Asian Religions


Asian Religions


In Srinagar there is a famous mosque called Jama Masjid, it is located in Nowhatta. A man called Sultan Sikandar constructed the Jama Masjid Mosque in 1400 AD. Some years down the line, his son called Zainul-Abidin made the mosque quite a bit larger. The mosque is most famous for its Indo-Saracenic architecture, a spectacular garden area and around 370 wooden pillars. The mosque is also known for its peace and quiet, although its surrounded by chaos and noise outside. Every Friday many Muslims come to prayer in the mosque. The mosque has suffered much destruction over the years. Apparently it was burned three times in a fire and was built back up again time after time. Maharaja Pratap Singh was the last ruler to have to reconstruct the mosque.
I think in my picture Muslims have gathered for their weekly prayers on Fridays. They are praying to Allah. Muslims always face east towards Mecca, as it’s their holy centre, if you will. There are pilgrims to Mecca each year, and each person must try to g to one at least once in their life. Muslims rest on their knees and lean forward until their heads touch the floor; they do this each time they pray. The people in my picture are praying, silent and deep in thought. They are calm and relaxed. The Muslims in my picture are praying and on their knees doing so. They seem very committed to their religion, in the sense that they are very religious and pray every Friday. The Mosque is very beautiful; it has a sense of peace about it. The sun is shining though the small windows of the mosque and it adds warmth to the photo. It makes me feel relaxed an tranquil as the people are praying. It's a very nice feeling from a photo!

My impressions are that it is a huge tourist attraction and is very famous. It is a wonderful sight, of what I have seen!! The mosque looks very pretty and is a place of peace. I think that Muslims enjoy visiting it too. The sun is shining brightly through the window, lighting up the room. The carpet of the mosque is sage with red patterns covering it. There are a few Muslims praying, looking very quiet and concentrated. They are all facing East towards Mecca. There are three pillars in the room, spread out evenly. It is a very beautiful picture!! I feel happy that people are taking the time to be religious and enjoy doing their duties. They look happy about being in the mosque and praying to Allah. This is rather removed from what I know, I do not do this! I do not go to mosques or churches. There are no real traditions in my house, however Muslims are showing respect by praying, and there is a mutual respect in my house. I think that by taking part in these activities people hope to be taken care of for the rest of their human lives and have a good after life. I think that by fulfilling their religious duties they assume that they will be safe and have a great life and enjoy it!!

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