Muslim Culture: Family, Faith, and Modernity

Introduction to Muslim Culture and Values

Muslims are a family-oriented people with religious-centered traditions and governance structures. They follow Sharia law, which is based on the Qur'an (Koran). The experiences of women in Muslim societies vary widely, ranging from liberal dress codes with colorful headscarves to strict restrictions on driving and public participation. Although Westerners often paint a negative picture of Muslim culture, there are many wonderful and beautiful aspects of the Muslim faith and culture to be understood and appreciated.

In recent times, many Muslims have adopted new ways of living, providing outsiders access to their pursuits. From female racecar drivers to singing competitions, Muslims have grown and expanded their culture to embrace modernity and diversity. The best example of this transformation is Dubai. Dubai houses ultramodern skyscrapers and the latest in cars and fashions. Although separation of genders remains prevalent, even in a more modern city like Dubai, this does not prevent Muslims from enjoying life and experiencing new things.

Modern Muslim Societies and Urban Development

Modern Muslim societies have grown and expanded in recent years, as seen in places like Dubai. Tourists visiting these cities are often amazed at the level of beauty and modern elegance they witness. The buildings emerge past the clouds and showcase the brilliance of Muslim wealth and culture. The food is flavorful and presents a pleasurable eating experience for those not accustomed to regional and local Muslim cuisine. Each Muslim country differs from Iran to Saudi Arabia; they all have their own variations on cuisines.

Those who practice Islam cannot eat pork or drink alcohol. Consequently, they tend to create beef and lamb dishes with spices such as Fenugreek. They have specialty teas that utilize milk and tealeaves grown or exported into the region. Depending on where one travels, for instance in Saudi Arabia, fruit from all over the world is available, making Muslim food either varied or simple depending on the locale.

One of the reasons gender separation and dress codes are instilled in Muslim society is their adherence to Sharia, or Islamic law, as established in the Qur'an. "The separation of genders, marriage and divorce law, and even some of the customs related to weddings are dictated by the rules and guidelines established by Islamic law. The preferred source of all Islamic law (Sharia) is the Qur'an" (Pohl, 2010, p. 38). Muslims in countries where Sharia law is not enforced are less adherent to the laws of the Qur'an and instead form their own version dictated by personal morality and level of religious belief.

Islamic Law and Religious Practices

Muslim faith is one of the main components of being Muslim. Islam is a well-known religion, and over one billion people follow the ways of Islam. Most Muslims are followers of Islam, with some new converts being of various racial and ethnic backgrounds. Much of Islam centers on God (Allah), prayers, the Kaaba, the Qur'an (Koran), and the life of the Prophet Muhammad. The Prophet Muhammad is a revered religious figure to Muslims. The Charlie Hebdo attacks came from Islamic fundamentalists who believed the artists insulted or depicted the Prophet Muhammad in a negative light. Islam unites Muslims and, especially for the core of Muslim faith, family, and identity, provides them with roots from which to develop their own identities.

Muslims pray in a mosque and observe a month of fasting called Ramadan, a period of spiritual reflection and discipline. During Ramadan, Muslims fast during the day and eat at night. Although some may find Ramadan difficult to endure, it is an important way for Muslims to strengthen their faith and respect tradition.

Besides Ramadan, there is the Hajj month, during which Muslims embark on a pilgrimage to Mecca. "Every year in the Hajj month, Muslims from all over the world travel to Makkah. The men and boys wear special white clothes. When our family gets together, my dad often tells us about his journey to Makkah" (Knight, 2006, p. 24-25). These special events serve as a way to explore the Islamic faith and feel connected to Allah. Much like praying and fasting, a pilgrimage strengthens the faith and connection for many Muslims. The Muslim community embraces Islam and its customs and traditions in order to feel close and connected with their families and Allah.

Women's rights in Islamic countries vary significantly by region. In Saudi Arabia, women can drive, do not need to be fully covered, and retain more rights than Muslim women in Afghanistan, where they cannot drive, dance, or go outside without being fully covered. Although strict restrictions occur in some regions of Afghanistan, being well-covered remains a very important component of Muslim society in many areas. This variation demonstrates that Muslim cultures are not monolithic but shaped by local governance, tradition, and religious interpretation.

Women's Rights Across Muslim Countries

In terms of Muslims interacting with other races, ethnicities, and religious groups, integration can be a touchy and difficult topic. Like anyone who has experienced difficulty assimilating to another culture, Muslims who move to Western countries such as the United States and England encounter hardships. This difficulty could be due to stereotypes others hold about Muslims and some of the recent news coverage of terrorist attacks. Still, some people have welcomed and accepted Muslims, and even when facing difficulties, Muslim communities spring up in all parts of the world to offer a sense of belonging and connection.

In this context, Muslims still adhere to their cultural and individual identity in order to preserve a sense of self. "We should never deny that we are Pakistanis (later this became Asian, and then Muslim) in order to join a social circle, to get a job, or even to avoid a skinhead's taunts. This identity—composite and shifting but ultimately settling on Muslim—should be accepted with pride" (Modood, 2005, p. 4). Many Muslims face identity challenges. Many of them exist in Asia and Africa but are white in terms of race. They are not regarded as white by white people and face discrimination because of the actions of a few extremist groups.

Muslim Identity and Integration in Western Communities

These Muslim and Asian communities provide a form of refuge for Muslims in order to develop a stronger identity to counter negativity directed at their community. "Some children will grow up in communities that are, if not all Asian, then culturally very Asian. Most of these children will develop feelings of family, neighborhood, community, and discourses to counter anti-Asian discourses" (Modood, 2005, p. 9). That is not to say everyone rejects Muslims; however, the sentiment toward Muslims tends to lean negative when news and media highlight Islamic extremists bombing and killing innocent people. Even if a Muslim is nonreligious, they are still seen as associated with these extremists and sometimes are treated as such.

Muslims outside of Muslim countries understand the sacrifices they must make in order to assimilate and grow accustomed to a new culture and country. However, because of these communities and their dedication to family, they remain strong in developing a sense of self and identity. Muslim parents are some of the most dedicated parents. Both mother and father raise their children and teach them the ways of the Qur'an.

Although Muslims sometimes appear overzealous with their religious pursuits, religion is so ingrained into their identity that it is important for some to keep with traditions. Nonreligious Muslims, although in the minority, still have some respect for traditions and culture. When Muslim women who are nonreligious wear regular clothing and socialize with friends, they still respect their family, especially when it comes to certain matters like marriage and dating.

Conclusion: Diversity and Evolution in Muslim Culture

In conclusion, Muslims possess a beautiful and evolving culture. They care for their families and their communities. At times they may have trouble integrating into other cultures, but they care and show respect for others. Islamic fundamentalists have damaged the image of Muslims through their terrorist attacks, killings, and bombings. However, Muslim groups and Muslim people in general are showing the various and different sides of what it means to be Muslim.