RELIGION
Turkey is a muslim country . To appreciate the true sprit
of Turkey and its people one must get to know , if only a small part , about its
religion . You cannnot fail to notice the religion , all around you, are
majestic mosques which poke pencil thin minarets into the sky . You will find
the interiors entrancing , engraved ceramic tiles bearing inscriptions ,
decorated walls and richly carved columns and arches .
The holy book is the Koran , and the prayers are recited
from minarets five times a day starting at around 5.00 am . Though the rules of
the Koran are very rigid they are not always adhered to , for example , alcohol
is freely available though not often abused .
The birth of islam dates back to the 7th century
when Mohammed was born in Mecca . In 612 BC whileMohammed was meditating he
heard the voice of God commanding him to recite his words . Mohammed was then to
become the messenger of God . The written collection of all his recitings were ,
after his death , put into a book which today is called the Koran .
You are welcome to visit the mosque during your stay ,
however , as a mark of respect I
recommend that you follow a few guidelines . Women must always cover their legs
and arms and wear some sort of headdress . Men are also advides to wear long
trousers . At the entrance you will find a platform and a carpet , take your
shoes off on the platform , being careful not to dirty the holy carpet .
Never walk in front of someone who is praying , as you will
be coming in between them and Mecca .
Never visit during prayer time or on a Friday , which is
the holy day .
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