Requirements in the space for Muslim prayer:
- Quiet from all participants (Muslim and non-Muslim). For Muslim prayers, this could include quietly praying together at a volume that can be heard by a neighbor; prayers can also be silent.
- A marker on the wall pointing in the direction of prayer – this is precisely North East. If facing NE means that they would be looking in the direction of people entering or exiting the space, a room divider would be necessary to block sight lines.
Other considerations:
- Generic images are acceptable (nature scenes, etc), but must be placed opposite the NE corner, so they are not visible when praying in that direction.
- No statues, figures, or other religious icons.
- A clock placed in any orientation is acceptable.
- Think about where the nearest washroom would be available for wudu (ritual washing before prayer).
- Schedule: it’s important for the space to be accessible very early and very late, especially when the days are longer in the summer.
- Shoe storage is nice but not a necessity.
Useful supplies:
- Thikr beads for meditation/remembrance practice
- Prayer Rugs and storage basket. A sign with a reminder to put them away is helpful. Rugs must always be stored when not in use, so they are not walked or sat on at other times; no chairs may be placed on the rugs; the rugs can be placed on top of a carpet or larger rug.
- Turbah – Shia stone to put on floor in direction of prayer