Hajj

Islam has two main celebrations. The first is after the completion of Ramadan, the Islamic month during which Muslims fast daily from dawn to sunset as part of an effort towards self-purification. This holiday is known as Eid ul-Fitr.

The second main celebration takes place during the time of the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Makkah. This week-long event occurs during the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, and it’s a holiday known as Eid ul-Adha. The Hajj has several parts. Over two million Muslims perform the pilgrimage annually.

 

1a what is Hajj?

Hajj is a duty to be performed once in a lifetime by every adult and they have to be sane also free and able to move, both male and females can perform Hajj. The Hajj is pilgrimage the Muslims make in Makkah. This is where the Ka’bah is located. The male pilgrim must wear an ihram as he makes the pilgrimage, for women a long white garment is suitable. The Hajj is a must do for every Muslim at least once in their lifetime, if they can afford it. Some of the rituals include walking around the Ka’bah, drinking from the well of the holy Zam Zam water, walking back and forth between the hills of Safa and Marwa and sacrificing an animal.

1b why do Muslims take part in Hajj?

Muslims take part in Hajj because it is obligatory to Muslims and they have to take part in Hajj at least once in their lifetime. Before entering Makkah Muslims have to perform certain things. They have to make sure their wearing ihram. Wearing ihram symbolises 3 things:

  • Equality
  • Self-sacrifice
  • Single-mindedness

Once in Makkah to show their love and affection for god they circle the Ka’bah several times. This process is known as the Tawaf. Whilst doing this if the pilgrims can get close enough to the Black Stone they will kiss it or touch it. Once this is finished they perform another process called the Sa’i this is the process where pilgrims run or walk between mount Safa and Marwa. This is done to remember Hagar’s desperate search for water between these two places.

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The first House of worship appointed for men was that at Bakka: Full of blessing and of guidance for all kinds of beings:
In it are Signs Manifest; (for example), the Station of Abraham; whoever enters it attains security; Pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to Allah,- those who can afford the journey; but if any deny faith, Allah stands not in need of any of His creatures. This is a quote taken out of the Qu’ran where Allah says that people owe to Allah and those who can afford this should go and perform Hajj but if any ...

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