4th Dec 2024
In a cozy living room, Ahmed sat on the couch, a warm smile brightening his face. His son, Muhammad, entered, swinging his school bag. "Muhammad, today is Friday! Let’s perform ablution and pray in the mosque," Ahmed said cheerfully. Muhammad looked up, curiosity sparkling in his eyes. "Sure, Baba, but I’m not sure how to perform ablution and pray in the mosque. Can you explain a little to me?"
Ahmed nodded, pleased. "Of course, my love, let me walk you through it step by step. First, we need to start with ablution in a clean place. We’ll wash our hands, from the wrist to the fingers. When you’re done, you wash your mouth, stretching out your tongue to clean it well." He demonstrated the steps with care, showing Muhammad how to do it properly.
Muhammad watched intently, trying to memorize every detail. After rinsing their noses and making sure their faces were clean, Ahmed showed him how to wash his arms up to the elbows, then gently wipe over his head, and finally clean his ears. "And don't forget," Ahmed added, "the last step is washing your feet, ensuring the water reaches between your toes." Muhammad giggled as the water tickled his feet, feeling proud of himself for following each step meticulously.
Once they were done with ablution, they dressed in their finest clothes, ready to head to the mosque. As they walked, hand in hand, Ahmed shared stories of his own father teaching him about the importance of prayer and community. "You see, my dear," he said, "praying together in the mosque makes us feel connected to something greater and to each other."
Arriving at the mosque, Muhammad felt a sense of awe and peace. The prayers were soothing, and he enjoyed the gentle rhythm of the recitations. Afterward, he and Ahmed shared a smile, feeling a new bond between them. "Thank you, Baba," Muhammad whispered as they left, the sun setting softly in the sky. "I loved learning with you today." Ahmed ruffled his son's hair, his heart full of warmth. "It was my pleasure, my love," he replied, knowing this was just the beginning of many beautiful Fridays together.
