Things left at the entrance of a mosque - NYT Crossword Clue

Introduction

Today's clue, "Things left at the entrance of a mosque," is a perfect example of a straightforward, knowledge-based clue often found in early-week crossword puzzles. It doesn't rely on tricky wordplay but instead on a piece of common cultural and religious knowledge. Let's break down how to approach it.

Clue Analysis

The clue is a direct definition asking for a specific noun. The key components are:

• "Things left at the entrance": This points to objects that are deposited or removed before proceeding further.
• "of a mosque": This provides the specific context. The answer must be something directly associated with the customs of entering a mosque.

The solver's task is to connect the action (leaving something) with the location (a mosque) to identify the object.

Thinking Approaches

There are a couple of ways to arrive at the answer:

1. Direct Knowledge: The most common approach is simply knowing the custom. Many people are aware that it is customary to remove footwear before entering a mosque, as well as many other places of worship and private homes in various cultures.

2. Visualization: If you're not immediately sure, try to visualize the scene. Picture the entrance to a mosque. What do you see? Often, there are shelves, cubbies, or a designated area filled with the items people have taken off before going inside.

3. Crossings: For any crossword, using the crossing letters is a fundamental strategy. If you had a few letters, say S_O_S, the answer would likely become obvious very quickly. This clue is common enough that even a single letter can be a powerful confirmation.

Background Context

The practice of removing footwear before entering a mosque is rooted in respect and cleanliness. The interior of a mosque is a prayer space, often covered in carpets, where worshippers perform prayers that involve kneeling and prostrating, with their foreheads touching the ground. Removing outdoor footwear ensures the prayer area remains clean.

This custom is a sign of humility and respect for a sacred space. It's a practice shared by many other religions and cultures. For instance, it's also customary to remove footwear before entering Hindu and Buddhist temples, Sikh gurdwaras, and many homes throughout Asia and the Middle East.

For more information, you can read about etiquette in mosques on Wikipedia.

Conclusion

This clue serves as a great reminder that crosswords test a wide range of knowledge, including cultural practices. By being a direct and accessible clue, it provides a solid foothold for solvers to build upon as they tackle the rest of the puzzle.

Hints

1. Hint 1: Think about items of clothing or accessories.
2. Hint 2: Consider what one might remove as a sign of respect before entering a sacred or clean space.
3. Hint 3: This custom is also common in many homes and other places of worship across various cultures.
4. Hint 4: These items are worn on one's feet.