Hajj

Why do Muslims go to Mecca?

• It is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad.

• It is the home to the Ka'ba, the holiest place and the direction Muslims face when they pray.

• Most sacred place on earth.

• The 'heart' of Islam.

What is the Influence/Impact of going on Hajj while there?

• Feel part of the united Ummah- 3 million pilgrims visit per year.

• Feel a sense of equality.

• Feel closer to God.

• Feel strengthened in their faith- praying/circling the Ka’aba.

• Reminds them what is important.

• Forgiveness of sins allows for a fresh start / new beginning- Visiting Arafat.

• Emotional, e.g. seeing the Ka'aba.

What are the longer term Influence/Impact of going on Hajj?

• Stronger faith and relationship with God -Zamzam well=dependence on God for spiritual life.

• More respected in the community- completed all the 5 pillars.

• Source of spiritual advice.

• More focused on being a good Muslim/following the faith.

• Feel more purpose/peace in life- teaches them patience, and provides time to reflect.

• Strengthened as a Muslim.

• Committed to helping the poor- Eid ul Adha (feast of sacrifice).

Why is Hajj pilgimage important for Muslims?

• The Qur'an says it is obligatory for all Muslims who are physically able and can afford it.

• Hajj is seen as a powerful demonstration of the unity of the ummah, with Muslims from different denominations and countries converging in one place for worship/fulfilling the requirement of faith.

• It means Muslims can see the Kaaba -for themselves, strengthening their faith and relationship with God. This has long-lasting effects.

• It is an opportunity for sins to be forgiven.

What is the first ritual and its importance?

• Muslims put on ihram.

• Have entered into the ‘state of ihram’.

• Shows unity and equality - all dressed identically.

• Strengthens feeling of commitment and community within the ummah.

What is the second ritual and its importance?

• Tawaf- circle the Ka’aba seven times in an anticlockwise direction.

• Demonstrates unity of all Muslims together in submission to Allah.

• Shows love for Allah.

What is the third ritual and its importance?

• Running between the hills of Safa and Marwa.

• Drink/take water from the Zam Zam well.

• Remembers Hajar’s searching for water for Ismail. The Zamzam well was seen as a miracle from God.

• Shows dependence on God.

What is the forth ritual and its importance?

• Mount Arafat where Muslims praise Allah, read from the Quran and ask for forgiveness.

• Muhammad gave his final sermon.

• Muslims hope to be forgiven.

What is the fifth ritual and its importance?

• Collect and throw stones at 3 pillars (jamarat).

• An animal is sacrificed, men’s heads are shaved and women cut off a lock of hair.

• Symbolises rejection of the devil/evil.

• Celebrate Eid ul Adha (Feast of Sacrifice) -Ibrahim was prepared to sacrifice his son for God. Reminder of faith, and submission to God.

• Hair is cut as a symbol of purity.

Surah 3

“Pilgrimage to the House is a duty owed to God by people who are able to undertake it”.