THE ROLE OF THE MOSQUE IN PREVENTING DEVIANCE AND CRIME

Abstract

The mosque is considered one of the most important social institutions in the life of a Muslim individual, as it is associated with prayer, which is the pillar of religion. Prayer serves to strengthen the relationship between the servant and his Lord, to refine and modify behaviour, and to strengthen social relations between individuals through congregational prayer and the recitation of the Qur'an. As the Qur'an states, "Indeed, prayer prevents immorality and wrongdoing" (Qur'an, Surah Al 'Ankabut, verse 45). In this article, we will discuss the role of the mosque in establishing true values and principles in educating the youth and protecting them from engaging in deviant and criminal behaviours that have seen a terrible spread in societies in recent years, such as drug abuse, theft, murder and various forms of violence. This research aims to identify the role of the mosque as an institution of social education and a mechanism of social and religious control in preventing and reducing deviant and criminal behaviour. Keeping the doors of the mosque open at all times for the purpose of Quran memorisation, prayer and religious education helps to attract young people and keep them away from crime.