In Islamic architecture, the niche that marks the direction of Mecca within a mosque is called the Mihrab. Which option below correctly identifies this term?

In Islamic architecture, the niche that marks the direction of Mecca within a mosque is called the Mihrab. Which option below correctly identifies this term?

• A. Qibla Wall
• B. Mihrab
• C. Minbar
• D. Ablutions Fountain

Answer: (B)

The main idea is the mihrab, a niche set into the wall that faces Mecca and marks the direction Muslims pray toward. In a mosque, this niche sits on the wall that looks toward the qibla, guiding worshippers to align with the direction of prayer. The mihrab isn’t just a decorative feature; it signals the focal point for communal prayers and often features rich decoration to highlight its importance. The other terms refer to different parts or features: the qibla wall is the wall itself that faces Mecca, not the niche. The minbar is the raised pulpit from which the imam delivers sermons. The ablutions fountain is the place for ritual washing before prayer.

The main idea is the mihrab, a niche set into the wall that faces Mecca and marks the direction Muslims pray toward. In a mosque, this niche sits on the wall that looks toward the qibla, guiding worshippers to align with the direction of prayer. The mihrab isn’t just a decorative feature; it signals the focal point for communal prayers and often features rich decoration to highlight its importance.

The other terms refer to different parts or features: the qibla wall is the wall itself that faces Mecca, not the niche. The minbar is the raised pulpit from which the imam delivers sermons. The ablutions fountain is the place for ritual washing before prayer.