123 School Work

Hinduism and Muslim Religions

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  wo Religions That Have Influenced the World
  
  Hinduism and Islam are two sub continental religions and philosophies, with the purpose
  
  to explore the truth behind the self-existence of the natural world. Although they have some
  
  differences, the rituals and ceremonies observed in these two religions are very much alike.
  
  In both religions one of the first ceremonies are performed during pregnancy to ensure
  
  the health of the mother and growing child. In Hinduism for instance, the father may part the hair
  
  of the mother three times upward from the front to the back, to assure the ripening of the embryo
  
  (Bolle 58). At birth, before the umbilical cord is severed, the father may touch the baby s lips
  
  with a gold spoon or ring dipped in honey, curds, and ghee. The word vak is whispered three
  
  times into the right ear, and mantras are chanted to ensure a long life to the new born (Bolle 59).
  
  In comparison to Hindus, Muslims also have a similar ritual performed during pregnancy. In the
  
  seventh or ninth month of pregnancy, the woman is dressed in new clothes, and her lap is filled
  
  with fruit and vegetables by her friends. When the child is born, the Azam or Summons to prayer
  
  is uttered aloud in its right ear and the Takbir or Muslim creed in its left (Rashmi 105). After
  
  that, a rite called Ukika is performed...