The Star And Crescent
On some mosques, the dome and/or the minaret sometimes have the symbol of Islam on them, the star and crescent. The star has 5 points on it which symbolises the 5 pillars of Islam.
Internal Features
The Prayer Hall
The prayer hall is probably the most important part of the mosque. The prayer hall is simply a large room or can even be an open courtyard, for both men and women to pray. There are also no seats because room is needed to go through the Rat’ahs. In all mosques women and men are separated because Muslims believe praying together causes distractions. In most mosques there is often a balcony at the back of the prayer hall, the balcony is usually smaller than the men’s because fewer women attend mosques as they often have to tend to their families. The prayer hall can be used for many different things including teaching and funeral services.
Washing
Muslims believe it is important to keep the mosque clean so it is important to keep the prayer hall clean. It is also kept clean to show respect to Allah. Muslims remove their shoes before entering. Non-Muslim visitors do not have to wash before entering, but Muslims going there to pray have to be washed before entering, washing facilities are provided in the mosque and in the courtyard there may be two separate fountains or taps in the courtyard.
Carpeting & Prayer Mats
Most Muslims use their own prayer mats in the mosque but the mosque will be also carpeted. Prayer mats usually have an arch on them or point which is to be laid down in the direction of the holy city of Makkah.
The Mihrab
In all mosques there is a qiblah wall with an alcove in the wall which is called the mihrab, this indicates the direction of Makkah as all Muslims need to know the direction of Makkah when praying.
The Mimbar
The mimbar is the only piece of furniture needed in a mosque. The mimbar is a set of at least 3 or more steps to raise the imam who preaches the Friday sermon, this is needed so he can be seen and heard. In some large mosques the imam may be very high and also may have a small platform at the top.
