Foundations of Religion - Major World Religions SP TLIGHT ON THE HAJJ – A MUSLIM EXPLAINS
Each year about two million Muslims take part in the Hajj between the 8th and the 13th day of Dhu al-Hijja.
Muslims do so to follow the example of the prophet Muhammad.
REMEMBER! The Hajj is the 5th pillar of Islam. This states that if you are an adult Muslim who has both the health and the means, you must make a pilgrimage to Makkah at least once in your life.
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Makkah is the holiest place on Earth for Muslims. Non- Muslims are not allowed to enter the city precincts at any time.
Pilgrims after morning prayer, Makkah.
Before setting out on pilgrimage to Makkah, you are expected to:
ò Settle all your outstanding debts. ò Take care of all your family commitments.
When you arrive in Makkah you must: ò Take a purifying ritual bath to show that you intend to complete the pilgrimage. ò Put on a plain white garment called the ihram and wear sandals. This shows that you accept that everyone is equal before Allah.
For a man, the ihram consists of two pieces of plain white cotton – one piece is folded around the waist and the other hangs over the left shoulder.
For a woman, the ihram is a long, white cotton dress that covers everything except the face, hands and feet.
All pilgrims to Makkah must wear the plain white garment called the ihram.
