Muhammad, who scholars say started the Islamic movement in 622 A.D., was the final prophet. It's his teachings, as received from God, that Muslims follow in the Qur'an. Gosla, who was born in India, near Bombay, says Muslims grow accustomed to stares. People's perceptions of Islam have been shaded by Desert Storm, terrorism, nuclear testing in Asia and battles with Israel. And then there are the rituals.
Men have to explain why they face the holy temple of Kaaba in Mecca when praying.
People don't know what you're doing and you have to explain it to them. Soliman said people sometimes don't ask questions. Because Muslims often are reserved, misperceptions thrive. Muslims pray five times a day, believing the practice inspires people to higher morality and purity. They also abstain from sexual activity during those hours.