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¶ … interior of a mosque and a basilica. There are three references used for this paper.
Most religious structures have a unique interior. It is interesting to compare and contrast a mosque and a basilica.
Differences
A mosque's interior is "much more inextricably decorated than the exterior. Structures, surface patterns and light are commonly used within mosques to create a sense of space, weightlessness and clarity. Interlacing designs accompanied with variations in color and texture create the illusion of many planes (computingws1.gold.ac.uk/ma702ab/mosqInteriors2.htm)." There is a mihrab, which is a "niche in the wall of the mosque or a room in the mosque that indicates the direction of Mecca (http://education.yahoo.com/reference/dictionary/entries/02/m0290200.html)."
To enter a Christian basilica, one must pass through a "covered porch or antechamber called the narthex. After passing through the narthex, the worshipper enters the nave, a great hall flanked on each side by one or two aisles. Large windows pierce the wall above the height of the aisle, known as the clerestory, and light the nave (www.yale.edu/adhoc/research_resources/liturgy/f_basilica.html)." Semicircular apses, or recesses, overlook a large open area which contains a bishop's throne and benches for the church elders.
Similarities
There are similarities noted in both types of structures, such as arches and embellishments. The architecture of some of the early Christian basilicas contain elliptical, or oval arches. Arches are also used throughout mosques, with many of the entrances and mihrabs containing ornamentation and depictions. Similarly, the "interiors of the basilicas are decorated with beautiful marbles, colorful mosaics and exquisitely worked coffered ceilings (www.yale.edu/adhoc/research_resources/liturgy/f_basilica.html)."
Conclusion
There are contrasts and similarities in both places of worship. By examining each structure, the beliefs of the religions can be distinguished.
Works Cited
(Basilica. (accessed 05 April, 2004).
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(mihrab. (accessed 05 April, 2004).
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(mosque interiors. (accessed 05 April, 2004).
).
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