Topic of Choice - Hajj


    The hajj is one of the most sacred pilgrimages in all of world religion. Every physically and financially able Muslim must travel to the Kaaba in Mecca at least once in their life. The hajj, which is merely Arabic for “pilgrimage”, takes place during the last month of the Muslim lunar calendar and lasts for five days. During these five days, Muslims visit the Kaaba and other holy sites around Mecca to connect with their faith. On the first and the last day of hajj, Muslims practice a ritual known as the tawaf, during which they circle the Kaaba seven times. Overall, the hajj is an extremely sacred pilgrimage for Muslims, so much so that non-Muslims are forbidden from the city of Mecca altogether. However, the spiritual experience that occurs during hajj remains with its visitors for the rest of their life and has a profound impact on their faith.

Williams, Jennifer. “Hajj, the Islamic Pilgrimage to Mecca, Explained for Non-Muslims.” Vox.com, Vox Media, 20 Aug. 2018, www.vox.com/2016/9/12/12814258/hajj-2018-islamic-pilgrimage-mecca-what-is-explained.

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