Masjid: meaning, definitions and examples

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masjid

[ˈmæs.dʒɪd ]

Definition

^{Context #1 | Noun}

place of worship

A masjid is a place of worship for Muslims, where they gather to pray, listen to sermons, and engage in communal activities. Masjids are considered sacred spaces and are typically adorned with intricate decorations and calligraphy. They serve as a hub for spiritual growth, community bonding, and social events.

Synonyms

Islamic center, mosque.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
masjid	Used primarily among Arabic-speaking communities or in Islamic contexts to refer to a mosque. It is a more traditional and religious term. The community gathered at the masjid for the Friday prayer. There is a new masjid being built in the neighborhood.
mosque	The most commonly used term in English for a place of worship for Muslims. It is widely understood and used in both formal and informal contexts. Tourists visited the famous mosque in the city center. The mosque is holding a charity event this Saturday.
Islamic center	Refers to a broader facility that often includes a mosque, but also offers other services such as educational programs, social activities, and community support. The Islamic center hosts regular classes for children and adults. We attended a lecture at the Islamic center last weekend.

Word

Description / Examples

masjid

Used primarily among Arabic-speaking communities or in Islamic contexts to refer to a mosque. It is a more traditional and religious term.

The community gathered at the masjid for the Friday prayer.
There is a new masjid being built in the neighborhood.

mosque

The most commonly used term in English for a place of worship for Muslims. It is widely understood and used in both formal and informal contexts.

Tourists visited the famous mosque in the city center.
The mosque is holding a charity event this Saturday.

Islamic center

Refers to a broader facility that often includes a mosque, but also offers other services such as educational programs, social activities, and community support.

The Islamic center hosts regular classes for children and adults.
We attended a lecture at the Islamic center last weekend.

Examples of usage

The local masjid is where the Muslim community comes together for Friday prayers.
During Ramadan, the masjid is filled with worshippers breaking their fast together.
The masjid's architecture reflects Islamic artistic traditions.
The imam leads the congregation in prayer at the masjid.
Many masjids also offer educational classes and social services to the community.

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The word 'masjid' comes from the Arabic word 'sajada,' which means 'to bow down' or 'to prostrate.'
In Arabic, masjid directly translates to 'place of prostration,' emphasizing its purpose for worship.
The term has existed for centuries and reflects the Islamic practice of submitting oneself to God.

Cultural Significance

Masjids serve as community centers where Muslims come together not only for prayers but also for educational and social activities.
They often host events like weddings, funerals, and communal meals, reinforcing community bonds.
In many societies, masjids are symbols of cultural identity for Muslims, showcasing architectural style and artistry.

Architecture

Traditional masjids often feature large domes and minarets, which serve both functional and aesthetic purposes.
The design of a masjid varies by region, with influences from local cultures, leading to diverse styles from Andalusian to Mughal.
Decorative elements such as calligraphy and geometric patterns are commonly found, reflecting Islamic art.

Religious Role

The masjid is central to Muslim life, acting as a space for the five daily prayers and the Friday congregation known as Jummah.
During the holy month of Ramadan, masjids become focal points for community iftar meals and daily prayers.
Educational programs in masjids teach children and adults about the Quran, fostering spiritual growth.

Global Presence

There are estimated to be over 3 million masjids worldwide, reflecting the global Muslim population's growth.
Masjids can be found in many countries, serving diverse communities, from major cities to small towns.
In non-Muslim majority countries, masjids often serve as important cultural and interfaith dialogue centers.

Translations

Translations of the word "masjid" in other languages:

🇵🇹 mesquita

🇮🇳 मस्जिद

🇩🇪 Moschee

🇮🇩 masjid

🇺🇦 мечеть

🇵🇱 meczet

🇯🇵 モスク

🇫🇷 mosquée

🇪🇸 mezquita

🇹🇷 cami

🇰🇷 모스크

🇸🇦 مسجد

🇨🇿 mešita

🇸🇰 mešita

🇨🇳 清真寺

🇸🇮 mošeja

🇮🇸 moska

🇰🇿 мешіт

🇬🇪 მეჩეთი

🇦🇿 məscid

🇲🇽 mezquita

Word Frequency Rank

Ranking #37,859, this word is encountered relatively rarely in everyday English. It might appear in literary works or specialized texts but isn't essential for general communication.

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37856 gherkins
37857 catapulting
37858 stiller
37859 masjid
37860 overbear
37861 umpteen
37862 bankrupting
...