Unlike some Muslim countries, women in Jordan are not required to wear hijab or burkha. Before entering the main prayer hall, we all took off our shoes and the ladies covered their heads with a hijab. This was done as a sign of respect and modesty.

Like churches and synagogues, many mosques also act as community centers and assembly places. While most Jordanians pray during the call to prayer, anyone can come to a mosque and pray whenever they please. During our visit, in the main prayer hall, there were several men kneeling on the carpet, quietly praying toward Mecca.

Ben and I climbed up one of the mosque’s minarets. Later, that evening, as the call to prayer rang out from the minaret and echoed throughout the city, I thought to myself, “I was just up there!” I wondered how crowded the King Abdullah Mosque must get during each of the five prayer calls. During our visit there were only a few people there.

A final note: We are visiting Jordan during Ramadan, when Muslims fast for the entire month. Our team member, Ilana, decided to try fasting. Her experience is helping us all to gain a better understanding of Islam.

Up Next, Time to Break Fast.

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