Hajj

About

Hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is a mandatory religious duty for every able-bodied and financially capable Muslim to perform at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage takes place during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, specifically from the 8th to the 12th day. Hajj symbolizes unity, faith, and submission to Allah, bringing together Muslims from diverse backgrounds worldwide. The rituals of Hajj include entering a state of ihram, circumambulating the Kaaba, and running between the hills of Safa and Marwa. Pilgrims also visit sacred sites outside Mecca, such as Arafat and Mina, where they symbolically stone the devil and sacrifice an animal in commemoration of Prophet Abraham's sacrifice. Upon completion, pilgrims can add the title "Hajji" to their name, and the pilgrimage is believed to cleanse past sins for sincere believers. Hajj fosters a sense of unity and equality among Muslims, transcending social and economic distinctions.