Islamic Students
From AFSWiki
Islam claims up to one billion followers worldwide. It is not only the youngest and fastest growing religion in the world, but its influence touches virtually every area of life--not only the spiritual, but the political and economic as well. There are now up to 5 million Muslims in the U.S., and over 1,100 mosques or Islamic centers.
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Five Pillars of Islam
The first pillar is recitation of the creed: "There is no God but Allah, and Muhammed is his prophet."
The second pillar is the regular practice of prayers. Sunni Muslims are required to recite specific prayers five times daily. (Shi'ites do so only three times a day.)
The third pillar is almsgiving. Born an orphan himself, Muhammed was deeply concerned for the needy. The Koran requires that 2.5% of one's income be given to the poor or to the spread of Islam.
The fourth pillar of Islam is the fast during the month of Ramadan (the ninth lunar month of the Muslim calendar, during which Muhammed is said to have received the first of his revelations from God, and during which he and his followers made their historic trek from Mecca to Medina). During this month, Muslims in good health are required to forego all food and liquid during daylight hours. This fast promotes the Muslim's self-discipline, dependence on Allah, and compassion for the needy.
The fifth pillar is the Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca. If possible, every Muslim is to make a pilgrimage to Mecca once during his life.
Dietary Considerations
Muslims in general do not eat pork. Pork by-products or derivatives can be found in pepperoni, sausage and hotdogs, bacon bits, gelatin, Jello, marshmallows, and products that use animal shortening and lard. If avoiding pork is important to your student, it is best to have them read the labels carefully.
Some Muslims eat halal meat. This is meat slaughtered in halal fashion. If you are to host a student who is very observant and halal meat is not available in your area, and likely it’s not, kosher meat from a local supermarket or deli, or vegetarian diet will do. Some students, on the other hand, will find it acceptable to eat non halal meat in areas where it is not available.
Alcohol is prohibited, even in cooking. Be aware that alcohol can be found in food ingredients such as vanilla extract and Dijon mustard.
Religious Holidays
- see Ramadan Facts
