Jordan

Islam in Jordan is the official state religion and deeply integrated into the country’s culture, laws, and daily life. The overwhelming majority—over 95%—of Jordanians are Sunni Muslims, making Islam a central part of the nation’s identity.

Key Features of Islam in Jordan:
1. Sunni Islam – The Dominant Faith

  • Sunni Islam (Hanafi school) is practiced by the vast majority.
  • There is a small Shia community, mostly immigrants or visitors from neighboring countries, but they are not publicly prominent.
  • Sufism has some presence, especially in rural areas and among the elderly.

2. The Royal Family’s Role in Islam

  • The Hashemite monarchy claims direct descent from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
  • King Abdullah II and his father, King Hussein, have promoted a moderate, peaceful interpretation of Islam.
  • Jordan launched the Amman Message (2004), an international initiative clarifying what Islam is—and is not—promoting tolerance and rejecting extremism.

3. Religious Freedom

  • Islam is the official religion, but the Jordanian constitution allows for religious freedom for recognized minorities.
  • Christians (around 4%) are the largest minority and are permitted to worship and run schools, but proselytizing Muslims is prohibited.
  • Apostasy (leaving Islam) is legally discouraged and can result in social and family consequences.

4. Mosques and Religious Life

  • Jordan is filled with mosques in every town and city, used not only for prayer but also for community gatherings.
  • The King Abdullah I Mosque in Amman is a famous landmark.
  • Friday (Jumu’ah) prayers are widely attended.
  • Ramadan and Eid are major public events, with government offices and businesses adjusting hours during these times.

5. Islamic Education

  • Islamic studies are mandatory in public schools for Muslim students.
  • Jordan is home to Al-Balqa’ Applied University and other institutions teaching Islamic jurisprudence and theology.
  • Sharia courts operate alongside civil courts in personal matters (marriage, divorce, inheritance) for Muslims.

6. Islamic Influence on Law

  • Jordanian law is influenced by Sharia, particularly in family and personal status issues.
  • Criminal and civil law is largely secular in nature.

7. Islamic Charities and Organizations

  • Many Islamic charities are active, providing aid to the poor, refugees (especially Syrians, Iraqis, Palestinians), and orphans.
  • Organizations like Zakat funds and Islamic NGOs operate with government oversight.

8. Extremism and Security

  • The Jordanian government is strict in combating extremism and terrorism.
  • Jordan is considered a key player in regional anti-terrorism efforts and works closely with Western and Arab allies to promote moderate Islam.

9. Non-Muslims in Jordan

  • Christians are well-integrated and hold positions in government, military, and business.
  • Proselytizing Muslims is not permitted by law.
  • Religious minorities are respected but live within boundaries defined by the Islamic nature of the state.

10. Fun Fact
Jordan is home to important Islamic historical sites, including:

  • The shrine of Prophet Shuʿayb (Jethro).
  • The tombs of several of the Prophet Muhammad’s companions like Zayd ibn Haritha, Ja’far ibn Abi Talib, and Abdullah ibn Rawaha.

Jordan
Country Code Top-Level Domain: .jo
Country Code: +962