New to Islam?
Whether you’re curious about Islam, exploring spiritual paths, or simply want to understand your neighbors better, we welcome you. This section provides a friendly introduction to Islam and the Shia tradition.
What is Islam?
Islam is one of the world’s major monotheistic faiths, with approximately 1.8 billion followers across every continent. The word “Islam” comes from the Arabic root meaning “submission” or “peace,” and at its core, Islam is the practice of voluntarily submitting to the will of God — known in Arabic as Allah. Muslims (those who practice Islam) believe in one God, the same God worshipped in Judaism and Christianity, and see Islam as the continuation and completion of the message delivered by all of God’s prophets throughout history.
The foundational beliefs of Islam center on six articles of faith. Tawhid (the Oneness of God) is the most fundamental: there is no god but God, and God has no partners or equals. Muslims believe in a long line of prophets sent by God to guide humanity — beginning with Adam and including Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), whom Muslims regard as the final prophet. Muslims also believe in the holy books revealed to these prophets, in angels as messengers and servants of God, in the Day of Judgment when all people will be held accountable for their deeds, and in Divine Justice — the belief that God is always just and never wrongs anyone.
Islamic practice is built upon five foundational acts of worship, often called the Five Pillars. The Shahada is the declaration of faith: “There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God.” Salat (prayer) is performed five times each day, creating a rhythm of connection with God from dawn to night. Zakat (charitable giving) obligates Muslims to share a portion of their wealth with those in need, reinforcing the community’s responsibility to care for one another. Sawm (fasting) during the holy month of Ramadan involves abstaining from food and drink from dawn to sunset as an act of discipline, empathy, and spiritual renewal. And Hajj, the pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah in present-day Saudi Arabia, is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for those who are physically and financially able, bringing together Muslims from every background in a powerful expression of equality before God.
The Quran is the holy book of Islam, believed by Muslims to be the literal word of God as revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) over a period of twenty-three years through the Angel Jibreel (known as Gabriel in the Christian tradition). Written in Arabic, the Quran addresses matters of faith, law, ethics, and the human relationship with the Creator. It is recited in daily prayers, memorized by millions, and serves as the primary source of guidance for Muslim life.
At its heart, Islam emphasizes peace, justice, compassion, and community. The Quran teaches that all human beings were created from a single soul, establishing the fundamental equality and dignity of every person. Caring for neighbors, seeking knowledge, acting with honesty, and standing up against injustice are not optional virtues — they are considered acts of worship. Islam calls on its followers to be a force for good in the world, serving humanity as a means of serving God.
What is Shia Islam?
After the Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) passed away in 632 CE, the Muslim community faced a profound question: who should lead the faithful? This question of succession gave rise to the two major branches of Islam that exist today. While the majority of Muslims followed a process of communal selection for leadership, a significant group believed that the Prophet had explicitly designated his successor before his death. This group became known as Shia Muslims — from Shi’at Ali, meaning “the followers of Ali.”
Shia Muslims, who comprise approximately 10–15% of Muslims worldwide, believe that leadership of the Muslim community (known as the Imamate) should have passed directly to Ali ibn Abi Talib (Peace Be Upon Him) — the Prophet’s cousin, son-in-law, and one of the first people to accept Islam. Shia Muslims hold that Ali was appointed by the Prophet himself at the event of Ghadir Khumm, and that this spiritual and political authority was divinely ordained to continue through Ali’s descendants.
Central to Shia belief is the concept of the Twelve Imams — a line of twelve divinely appointed leaders who are regarded as the rightful spiritual guides of the Muslim community after the Prophet. The first Imam is Ali ibn Abi Talib (Peace Be Upon Him) and the line continues through his descendants. The twelfth and final Imam, Muhammad al-Mahdi (Peace Be Upon Him), is believed to be alive but in a state of occultation (hidden from public view by God’s will). Shia Muslims believe he will return alongside Prophet Jesus (Peace Be Upon Him) to establish justice on earth.
Of particular significance to Shia Muslims — and to this community — is Imam Husayn (Peace Be Upon Him), the grandson of Prophet Muhammad and the third Imam. In 680 CE, Imam Husayn and a small group of family members and companions were martyred at the Battle of Karbala (in present-day Iraq) after refusing to pledge allegiance to a ruler they considered unjust and illegitimate. His sacrifice is understood not as a military defeat but as a profound moral victory — a universal symbol of standing for justice, truth, and human dignity against tyranny, regardless of the cost. Husaynia Islamic Society of Seattle is named in his honor, and his message of courage and conscience is at the heart of everything we do.
It is important to note that Shia and Sunni Muslims share the vast majority of Islamic beliefs and practices. Both honor the Quran as the word of God, revere Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him), observe the five daily prayers, fast during Ramadan, and make the pilgrimage to Makkah. The differences between the two traditions are primarily rooted in the historical question of leadership succession and some variations in religious practice and jurisprudence. Within the worldwide Muslim community, there is a rich diversity of thought and tradition, united by a shared commitment to monotheism, justice, and service.
How to Pray
Muslims pray five times each day: Fajr (at dawn), Dhuhr (at midday), Asr (in the afternoon), Maghrib (at sunset), and Isha (at night). Each prayer is performed facing the direction of the Kaaba — the sacred cube-shaped structure in the city of Makkah, Saudi Arabia — a direction known as the Qibla. Before praying, Muslims perform Wudu (ritual ablution), a simple washing of the hands, face, and feet that symbolizes both physical and spiritual purification.
The prayer itself is a sequence of movements and recitations: standing while reciting verses from the Quran, bowing in reverence, and prostrating with the forehead touching the ground — the posture of deepest humility before God. Each cycle of these movements is called a Rak’ah, and each of the five daily prayers consists of a set number of cycles. For Muslims, prayer is not merely a ritual obligation but a direct, personal conversation with God — a source of peace, grounding, and spiritual renewal throughout the day. You can find today’s prayer schedule for our area on our Prayer Times & Qibla page.
For detailed, step-by-step prayer instructions, we recommend speaking with a community member or visiting one of our recommended resources.
What to Expect When Visiting
Visiting a mosque or Islamic gathering for the first time can feel unfamiliar. Here’s everything you need to know to feel comfortable and welcome at Husaynia.
General Visiting Guide
When you arrive at Husaynia, you will be greeted by a warm and welcoming community. You will be asked to remove your shoes at the entrance — this is a standard practice in mosques and Islamic centers to maintain the cleanliness of the prayer area. Inside, you will find separate prayer areas for men and women, which is the customary arrangement in Islamic worship spaces. The atmosphere is one of reverence, reflection, and community — but also genuine warmth and hospitality.
Visitors are always welcome at Husaynia, regardless of faith background, ethnicity, or prior knowledge of Islam. You are free to observe prayers and lectures, ask questions before or after gatherings, and participate in communal meals. There is no expectation that you will participate in worship, and no one will pressure you. If you are unsure about anything — where to sit, what’s happening, or how to participate — simply ask anyone nearby. Our community members are happy to help.
Norms and Manners
Here are some simple guidelines to help you feel at ease during your visit:
- Remove shoes before entering the prayer area. Shoe racks or shelves are provided at the entrance.
- Silence or turn off mobile phones during prayers and lectures out of respect for the gathering.
- Greet others with “As-Salamu Alaykum” (Peace be upon you) — the standard Islamic greeting. The response is “Wa Alaykum As-Salam” (And upon you, peace).
- Men and women typically pray in separate areas. Seating or standing areas will be clearly indicated.
- During prayers, please refrain from walking in front of those praying, as this is considered disruptive.
- Feel free to sit and observe — there is no obligation to participate in prayers or rituals.
- Community meals are open to all. Food served at Husaynia is typically halal (prepared according to Islamic dietary guidelines).
- Ask before taking photos. Photography may be restricted during certain gatherings, particularly during mourning commemorations.
Islamic Dress Code
Modest dress is appreciated when visiting Husaynia. For men, this generally means long pants and a shirt with sleeves (short sleeves are fine). For women, loose-fitting clothing that covers the arms and legs is customary, along with a head covering (hijab) in the prayer area. If you do not own a head covering, don’t worry — they are usually available at the entrance for visitors.
The purpose of modest dress in Islam is rooted in respect, humility, and creating an environment where the focus is on spiritual connection rather than outward appearance. This applies equally to men and women, though the specific guidelines differ.
For visitors, the dress code is about respect and comfort, not rigid rules. If you are unsure about what to wear, err on the side of modesty — but know that you will not be turned away. Community members are always happy to help if you have questions.
During Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of the Islamic calendar and the holiest month in Islam. During Ramadan, Muslims fast from dawn to sunset — abstaining from food, drink, and other physical needs as an act of devotion, self-discipline, and empathy for those who go without. The fast is broken each evening at sunset with a meal called Iftar, which is often shared communally.
Husaynia hosts Iftar gatherings during Ramadan, and visitors of all backgrounds are warmly welcome to join. These are beautiful evenings of shared food, prayer, and fellowship. If you are visiting Husaynia during Ramadan, please be considerate of those who are fasting — eating and drinking in designated areas rather than the main gathering spaces is appreciated. Ramadan is a time of heightened spirituality and generosity, and it is one of the best times to experience the warmth of the Muslim community.
During Muharram
Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar and holds deep significance for Shia Muslims. It is a period of mourning that commemorates the martyrdom of Imam Husayn (Peace Be Upon Him) — the grandson of Prophet Muhammad — and his companions at the Battle of Karbala in 680 CE. For Shia Muslims, Muharram is not only an occasion for grief but a time to reflect on the timeless lessons of Karbala: the duty to stand for justice, the importance of sacrifice for one’s principles, and the rejection of oppression in all its forms.
During the first ten days of Muharram, Husaynia holds nightly gatherings called Majalis (singular: Majlis), which include lectures on the events of Karbala, lamentation poetry known as Noha, and communal mourning. The atmosphere during these gatherings is solemn and deeply spiritual. Speakers recount the events leading to the tragedy of Karbala, drawing lessons that remain relevant to contemporary life. It is common for attendees to weep openly — an expression of deep love and sorrow for the Prophet’s family.
Visitors are welcome to attend Muharram gatherings. Wearing black clothing is traditional during this period of mourning, but it is not required for visitors. The commemoration reaches its most intense point on the 10th of Muharram, known as Ashura, which marks the day of Imam Husayn’s martyrdom. Attending a Muharram gathering is a profound and moving experience, and one of the most meaningful ways to understand what Husaynia and Shia Islam stand for.
During Arbaeen
Arbaeen (meaning “forty” in Arabic) marks the 40th day after Ashura and is one of the largest annual peaceful gatherings in human history. Each year, millions of people from around the world walk to the shrine of Imam Husayn (Peace Be Upon Him) in Karbala, Iraq — a journey of faith, solidarity, and remembrance that transcends national, ethnic, and even religious boundaries. People of all faiths and backgrounds participate in this remarkable pilgrimage.
Locally, Husaynia holds special Arbaeen programs including Majlis, communal meals, and a commemorative walk that echoes the global tradition. Visitors of all backgrounds are warmly welcome to participate in these programs. Arbaeen is a powerful expression of the enduring legacy of Imam Husayn’s sacrifice and the universal human desire to stand on the side of justice and compassion.