* Dress — The traditional Arab dress (Ihran) must be worn at certain festivities and rituals, especially when one embarks on the final stages of his pilgrimage (hajj) to Mecca — a journey that should happen at least once in a Muslim’s lifetime.
* Food and preparation (Halal) — As with Judaism, pork is forbidden. Only certain foods can be eaten, and they must be prepared in the prescribed way.
* Marriage — The Koran states that the husband can beat his rebellious wife to keep her in subjection: “Men are in charge of women, because Allah hath made the one of them to excel the other, and because they spend of their property (for the support of women). So good women are the obedient, guarding in secret that which Allah hath guarded. As for those from whom ye fear rebellion, admonish them and banish them to beds apart, and scourge them” (Sura, 4:34). Most Islamic women are not permitted to travel freely or even possess a passport in Islamic states (Jordan is the only nation that is more lenient).
* Financial practices — Giving alms is commanded (Zakat). Also, a Muslim is not permitted to charge interest on loans to any other Muslim, but usury is permissible if the loan is made to an “infidel dog.”
* Worship — Islamic worship consists of praying five times a day on a rug as one kneels toward Mecca, fasting in the month of Ramadan (or the “hot month”) and designating Friday as the day of worship.
* Doctrine — One must obey the Koran and its teachings concerning any matter of doctrine. It is the final word in any matter, even if evidence to the contrary can prove a different course of action. The Koran supersedes everything, even the Bible.
* Figural representations are absolutely forbidden.
