One of my more intelligent friends sent me a little more information on prayers that the most religious Muslims take part in. I thought it was interesting.
“I was interested in your comment on the the mother who prayed. From what I understand the five prayers she is doing are the “salah.” The one in the morning is the “fajr.” […] Notice if at the end a specific prayer session, she looks to the left and right and says something-if she does, that means she is greeting her two angels (one good, one bad, like in the cartoons). I am curious as to how signifant a role religion plays in social life (as big as tv)?”
To answer the question at the end, I would have to say both yes and no. No because television is a central part of social life here regardless of age – it touches the old and the young. Religion on the other hand, seems to influence the older population more than the young (sound familiar?). Principles such as no drinking and conservative dress are followed very strictly by the older population (well, at least the ones that are very religious, which is most), whereas many of the youth seem to believe in Allah without actually praying and practicing Islam. My sister, for instance, says she is a believer, but she does not pray, and she wears sexier clothes than I do! She also likes to have a beer ever now and again, but her mom can never know about that!
Also, there is this brotherhood within the Muslim population here. I don’t know their official name, but they call them “biayfalls” here. Traditionally, this brotherhood is THE MOST religious of all muslim groups, but youth have kind of corrupted that one as well. Generally nowadays, a biayfall is best spotted by his dreadlocks and crazy colored clothing. Sometimes, biayfalls now use their religion as an excuse to engage in alcoholism and marajuana smoking. But, of course, that is not always. I’ve met my fair share of biayfalls who do neither and seem very clear headed. But none of them pray – i would have to say they are spiritual and philosophical as opposed to religious.
Anyway, that was a tangent. Sorry.
