How Do We Explain to Others That We Don’t Worship the Kaaba When We Face the Qibla?

Answered by Ustadha Raidah Shah Idil
Question: Assalam ‘aleykum
1.How does one explain to non-Muslims that we do not worship the Ka’bah and that it is not a statue?
2.What should we say to someone interested in Islam but reluctant to become muslim, feeling that praying five times a day is to difficult?
3.Is it permissible to encourage or be neutral regarding abortions for non-Muslims?
4.How should a muslim respond to a non-muslim colleague making salaam?
Answer: Assalamualaykum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh,
I pray this finds you in the best of health and states.
1. Explain that Islam is a faith which believes in one God, and that although we are commanded to pray towards the Ka’bah, we do not worship it. We worship Allah Most High.
“And thus we have made you a just community that you will be witnesses over the people and the Messenger will be a witness over you. And We did not make the Qiblah which you used to face except that We might make evident who would follow the Messenger from who would turn back on his heels. And indeed, it is difficult except for those whom Allah has guided. And never would Allah have caused you to lose your faith. Indeed Allah is, to the people, Kind and Merciful.” [Quran, 2:143]
2. It is important for non-Muslims to first become familiar with the concept of the Oneness of Allah, before addressing the importance of establishing prayer. If you deem it suitable, please refer your non-Muslim friend to this talk by Shaykh Abdal-Hakim Murad, The power of monotheism, as well as A Reader on Understanding the Attributes of Allah – SeekersGuidance.
3. Please refer to this link: When is having an abortion permitted?
4. Respond by saying, “Wa alaykum.” Please refer to this link for more information: Instances Where One Does Not Have to Return Someone’s Greeting
Raidah Shah Idil
Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani.