BIRTH Muslims believe that children are born free of sin. Soon after a child's birth an elder Muslim whispers the call to prayer (ADHAN) into the child's right ear, in the left ear the command to rise and worship (IQAMAH). Seven days after birth is the name giving ceremony (AQIQAH). The hair of the child is cut and the weight of the hair in silver is donated to the poor. In boys, circumcision (KHITAN) often takes place, usually in a hospital.
MARRIAGE The goal of an Islamic family is the same as that of Jews and Christians, to produce a family to serve and please God, a family that will be courteous, polite, and compassionate to themselves and others. A Muslim wedding must be witnessed by at least 2 other Muslims, but often Muslim weddings are festive events. Most cermonies are held in a Mosque presided over by an IMAM.
POLYGAMY In the days of Mohammed, there were more women than men. The biggest cause of this was the loss of men in battle. It was considered very charitable for a man to have and care for more than one wife.Men are allowed to have up to 4 wives, but in many countries the man needs the permission of his first wife in order to take another wife.