Hajj

Question 1

Background

Answer 1

• The pilgrimage to Makkah
• The 5th Pillar
• Means to embark on a journey with a purpose
• The purpose is essentially to visit the Kaaba in Makkah, worship on Mount Arafat and to connect with Allah
• 2-3 million people gather annually in Saudi Arabia
• An event for Muslims only, tourists are not allowed to attend

Question 2

Hajj in Stages

Answer 2

1. Arrive in Makkah
2. Put on Ihram - simple white clothing
3. Enter sacred mosque
4. Circle the Kaaba 7 times
5. Arrive at Abraham’s station and perform 2 Rak’ah (prayer)
6. Go to well of Zamzam and have some refreshing water
7. Walk/jog between the hills of Safa and Marwa 7 times

Question 3

Monotheistic Allah

Answer 3

• Through the commitment and sacrifice involved
• The circling of the Kaaba - considered God’s house

Question 4

Books

Answer 4

• The belief in importance fo Qur’an as the Holy Book
  
  • Chapter 22, Verse 7, “… they will come from every deep valley and distant place to perform Hajj

Question 5

Prophets

Answer 5

Expresses the belief in Muhammad as the Prophet as he said that performing Hajj correctly allows one to have their sins forgiven and be pure

Question 6

Angels

Answer 6

• It is thought that the Angel Jibril helped Hagar when she was in the desert
• The running between the hills of Safa and Marwa is both a reminder to Muslims of the importance of Angels.

Question 7

Significance for the Individual

Answer 7

• Connects adherents with the sacrifices of Prophets Abraham and Ishmael
• Pilgrims experience the places where Muhammad lived and preached message of Islam
• Adherents take the spirit of Hajj home with them to live in faithful submission to the will of Allah
• Sense of diviersity and unity of the Muslim world - the individual feels supposrted and a part of a community, having a chance to show their submission to Allah
• The Hajj has been called a humbling reminder that all are equal before God, regardless of race, gender or wealth

Question 8

Significance for the Community

Answer 8

• It is a public statement to the world
• Provides inspiration to others
• Edification of the Muslim community
• The ultimate symbol of Ummah 0 unity against all forms of racial, financial and ethical division
• Brings everyone together