Hajj

Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, the holiest city for Muslims. It is a mandatory religious duty for adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey. The Hajj occurs from the 8th to the 12th of Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, and is one of the Five Pillars of Islam.

History

The Hajj has its roots in the time of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family. According to Islamic tradition, the Kaaba, a sacred building located in the center of the Great Mosque in Mecca, was built by Ibrahim and his son Isma'il as a house of worship dedicated to the one true God.

Significance

For Muslims, the Hajj is a demonstration of their submission to Allah and an opportunity to seek forgiveness and spiritual fulfillment. It is a time of unity, equality, and humility as pilgrims from all over the world come together to perform the same rituals.

Key Rituals

Ihram: Pilgrims enter a state of consecration, wearing special white garments, abstaining from certain activities, and reciting the intention to perform Hajj.
Tawaf: Pilgrims perform seven anti-clockwise circuits around the Kaaba, signaling their devotion to Allah.
Sa'i: Pilgrims walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, reenacting Hagar's search for water for her son Isma'il.
Mount Arafat: Pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafat, where Prophet Muhammad delivered his Farewell Sermon, to pray and seek forgiveness.
Stoning of the Devil: Pilgrims throw pebbles at three pillars in a symbolic act of rejecting temptation and the devil.
Eid al-Adha: The Hajj concludes with the celebration of the festival of sacrifice, commemorating Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son as an act of obedience to God.

Study Guide

What is the Hajj and when does it occur?
What is the historical significance of the Hajj?
What are the key rituals performed during the Hajj?
Why is the Hajj considered a significant event for Muslims?
How does the Hajj demonstrate the unity of the Muslim community?

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