London Central Mosque

My Arabic Sisters and I

As a group we went to the London Central Mosque (also known as the Islamic Cultural Center). There are about 1,500 mosques in Great Britain and this one is one of the largest. Islam is a leading religion in London, closely trailing behind if not almost equal to Christianity. 

When we entered the Great Hall we had to remove our shoes the same way that Moses did in honor and respect to God. The current London Administrator is good friends with one of the men that takes groups through the Mosque, so we were able to have a special visit and tour with him. He is a student of religion and Islam and spoke to us about the Islamic belief in the acquisition of knowledge. Both spiritual and secular knowledge and a desired balance of both. He believes that the secular education you receive doesn't teach you morals and spiritual enlightening. I agree with this to a point, but feel lucky enough to say that my schooling intermixes both (how lucky am I). 

We had a question and answer panel with our friend and guide. My professor didn't hesitate and asked a sensitive question. He asked, "We hear a lot in the media about the suppression of women in the Islamic culture; what exactly are the roles of men and women in Islam?" It was interesting to hear the answer. Our friend said that the biggest misconception of Islam is the treatment of women. He explained that the suppression of women that happens around the world is the culture that is decadent in tribal respect, not in accordance to the Islamic teachings and faith. He quoted Muhammad in saying that wives and daughters are the best of men. He also told us the story of how Muhammad was married to quite a wonderful women that A) picked him to be her husband (not only did she have the freedom to select him, she was the one who proposed) and B) she had all control of her own money and business ventures (she actually hired him and that's how they originally met). It was an interesting story and I enjoyed hearing his insights and opinions. 

While we were in the Great Hall, it was time for the 3rd prayer of the day. Normally you can't be in there, but for some reason he let us sit in and watch. My professors were really excited that we got to the opportunity to see it. The visit to the Mosque opened up my understanding to Islam in new ways, and I'm glad I was able to take that visit. 

The Golden Dome of the Mosque