prayer in any position is unthinkable to the Moslem. To him posture of the body is part of the prayer, as is purification of the body. There are six definite postures assumed by the Moslem when engaged in the regular prayers, which must be used in the proper order whether one is praying alone or in a congregation of thousands. Each posture has a definite significance. The full prostration with the forehead on the ground indicates complete submission to God.
Prayer in Arabic. The Moslems say that Arabic is "the language of the angels." At any rate it is the sacred language of Islam, and prayer to be valid must be recited in it, for these Moslem prayers we have been discussing are not voluntary prayers, but required ritual prayers.
When the worshiper prays he says the following, each portion being accompanied by a definite posture:
1. "God is most great."
2. "I seek refuge from accursed Satan." He then recites the Fatiha, the opening chapter of the Koran, and one other short chapter as well, such as the last chapter which reads:
In the name of God, the compassionate, the merciful.
Say: I betake me for refuge to the Lord of men,
The King of men,
The God of men,
Against the mischief of the stealthily withdrawing whisperer (Satan),
Who whispereth in man's breast Against jinn and men.
THE
