Music in Religion; Women, The Recited Qur'an, and Islamic Music in Indonesia; Zach Dagan #Hearing

     The tunes and melodies in religious songs, prayers, psalms, etc. is what makes them so sacred and special. The unique sounds that we hear in prayers are distinguishable tunes that bring some of us closure and peace when praying. They are tradition, as our ancestors from thousands of years ago were singing the same songs. In Anne Rasmussen's book Women, The Recited Qur'an, and Islamic Music in Indonesia, is very eye opening to me because I am not that familiar with the religion of Islam and I gain more knowledge reading which is very enjoyable. I also read things that were relatable in my religion of Judaism as well.

     Reading the bible aloud to the congregation is a major part of services in Synagogues, Churches, and even Mosques. A quote from Rasmussen on page 53, "Muslims rarely read the Qur'an without reciting it and the experience of the Divine text is primarily auditory." I can relate to this because people love to rejoice prayers together, creating a bond within the members. The experience of moving one's lips and singing words of God comes differently when there are melodies involved. When I attend services at my local Temple, the canter is a very large man with a deep voice, but the way he sings the prayers is an amazing sound to hear. He brings the energy up within the congregation, leading the way, getting everyone to sing along. These sounds spark memories when I hear them, which is an extraordinary part about sound/hearing in religion. As Rusmussen said that Islam may activate Kinesthetic memories. Without the intricate sounds that we hear when we pray, religions would be vastly different and have a totally completely different feel.