Ismail BhaiJournal

By Ismail Bhai, Dallas, Texas

Many people in North Texas have driven past a Jamatkhana without knowing what it is. This short guide, written for neighbours and friends of every faith, explains.

What the word means

Jamatkhana means a place of gathering. It is the congregational space of the Shia Ismaili Muslim community, used for prayer, reflection and community life.

What happens there

Members gather for prayers, particularly in the early morning and the evening, and for religious and cultural occasions through the year. The Jamatkhana is also the base for education programmes for children and adults, health and welfare initiatives, and a great deal of volunteer work.

A community hub

Because the community is spread across many countries of origin, the Jamatkhana is where families from South Asia, East Africa, Central Asia, the Middle East and North America meet as one community.

Volunteers

Much of the work of running a Jamatkhana is done by volunteers, from organising events to teaching classes. That ethic of service is described in Service.

Being a good neighbour

Ismaili communities often take part in interfaith events, open houses and civic service days. They are a reminder that faith communities can be good neighbours to everyone around them.

Learn more about the Ismaili tradition.