What is so special about how Muslims pray?

Muslims are required to :

• pray five times a day (prayer times are fixed by the sun and change daily),
• wash themselves before prayer and
• face in the direction of Mecca (Mekkah) while praying.

Why do Muslims face Mecca when praying?

Mecca or Makkah is the birthplace of prophet Muhammad, peace is on him. In the center of the mosque in Mecca, is the cube-shaped building called a Kaaba (Ka'bah) is found. All Muslims face the direction of the Kaaba during ritual prayer (Salat).

Muslims believe that the Kaaba is the holiest place on earth. It is generally thought to have been built by Prophet Abraham. It is used only as a focal point for prayer (not worshiped) and simply signifies a direction, imposed by God to maintain unity and uniformity among worshipers.

The Kaaba is draped with a black cloth, which is covered with Koranic verses that are embroidered in gold and silver thread. During performing the Hajj ceremony a Muslim walks seven times around the Kaaba and then he or she kisses and touch the Black Stone.

Every Muslim family, no matter where they live, knows what direction the Kaaba is from their house.

(The Kaaba is also called Bakka )

When do Muslims pray?

Each period for prayer has a special name and each time is separated by two hours.
These essential times are:

1. After first light and before sunrise ( Fajr )
2. Between the sun reaching its height and mid-afternoon ( Dhuhr )
3. Between mid-afternoon and sunset ( Asr )
4. After the sun has finished setting ( Maghrib )
5. In the dark of the night ( Isha )