Mosque - GCSE Religious Studies Definition

A mosque is a place of worship for Muslims, serving as a community hub for prayer, learning, and reflection within the Islamic faith. Central to a mosque is the main prayer hall, which is often oriented towards Mecca, the holiest city in Islam. The mosque may feature a minaret, a tower from which the call to prayer, or Adhan, is announced. Worshippers remove their shoes and perform ablutions before entering to maintain cleanliness and purity. As a key aspect of Islamic practice, the mosque also plays a vital role in fostering community bonds and understanding of religious teachings and principles, making it an essential topic in the study of religious practices and community life in GCSE Religious Studies.