Expert: Le Anne Clausen - 10/18/2009

Question
QUESTION: Hello,

I am not a Muslim, but have been given the opportunity to visit a local mosque. I want to be a gracious guest and follow all culture and etiquette as I should. So I particularly have a question about shoe etiquette. I have heard that bare feet are best in the mosque, but I have also heard that shoe removal is optional. I really just want to do what proper etiquette would have me do, whether that's wearing shoes, or socks, or just going barefoot. Could you please help me out?

Thanks so much!

ANSWER: Greetings Sophia, and thanks for your question.  The best thing you can do in any situation like this is to ask your hosts upon arrival what they would have you do.  Most often, they will appreciate the gesture and be happy to acquaint you with their particular customs.

However, there are a few general guidelines.  Usually it's best to bring slip-on shoes and socks that can be easily removed (ie, no tights/pantyhose). Socks may or may not be okay to keep with you. There is usually a cubby/storage area near the front door where people put their footwear.  Then there is usually a washroom (separate for men and women) where you can wash face, hands, and feet.  

It's also a good idea to dress modestly with long sleeves, and perhaps an ankle-length skirt or loose trousers that will be easy for you to sit modestly on the floor with.  Some mosques provide chairs for guests, knowing that sitting and kneeling on the floor takes some getting used to.  

A long scarf, such as a 'pashmina' style that is quite popular among women in the U.S. right now, is probably the easiest option for covering your head.  It doesn't need to be pinned in place necessarily, but it's good to practice getting it to cover your head and hair, with the ends back over your shoulders.  This is sometimes referred to as the 'Grace Kelly look.'

Finally, it's best not to shake hands or make prolonged eye contact with members of the opposite gender unless they offer first.  With men, it's fine to simply place your hand over your heart and nod your head a bit to offer your peace.  With other women, you may get kisses on both of your cheeks, depending on where the woman is from.

Overall, don't be afraid to ask questions of your hosts, and feel free to let others take the lead--just follow what they do.  Enjoy a wonderful visit!

peace,

Le Anne



---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Hello Le Anne,

Thanks so much for your time taken to reply, those guidelines were most helpful. Just to be sure, do you personally go barefoot in a mosque or do you wear slippers or socks of some sort?

Thanks again,
Sophia

Answer
Greetings Sophia, and thanks for your response.  To be honest, in some places I've gone barefoot, and in others I've had stockings on.  I've generally just observed what other women were doing in the place where I was, which sometimes included some practical concerns like the time of year, etc.  In Shi'a mosques in Baghdad, I wore black stockings because women did not even show the skin of their feet and calves when in mixed-gender areas of the mosque.  Your best bet is probably to be able to go barefoot, but bring along some simple socks just in case.

Good luck, and I hope this helps!

peace,

Le Anne