The Blessed Land
The official state religion of Egypt is
Islam. Muslims make up more than 95% of the population, whereby
almost all of them follow the Sunni Islamic sector. The
remaining 5% goes to the Coptic Christian Minority, a few Roman
Catholics, Armenians and a very small Jewish community
consisting of less than one hundred members. Fortunately,
Muslims and Copts enjoy a peaceful coexistence in Egypt.
Intermarriage however, is strictly forbidden by both doctrines.
Being a Muslim does not entail much. All the underlying
principles of Islam are presented in the Qor'an, which is their
Sacred Book. Islam in Egypt is not only a religion, but it is
also a way of life. It underlies most social and family
activities. It is the foundation for most traditions, and is a
major force that has shaped both government and law.
If you visit Egypt during the Holy month of Ramadan, you can
probably sense the Muslim spirit the most. When visiting the
Mosques of Cairo, you will be required to take your shoes of, in
respect to the Holy setting. We ask you to cooperate with such
traditions and to respect the Islamic religion at all times
while in Egypt. |