EASY GUIDE FOR NEW MUSLIMS

1.5) PILGRIMAGE (HAJJ)

The pilgrimage to Mecca (in Saudi Arabia) is an obligation upon every Muslim and must be performed at least once in a life-time if physically and financially able.  This event takes place during the eleventh month of the Islamic Calendar and Muslims of all racial, socio-economic and ethnic backgrounds congregate in one place,  as one big family, worshiping One Lord, praying one way, wearing One kind of garments.   Hajj is symbolic of the oneness of mankind in the eyes of our Creator,  Allah. 

If you are planning to go for Hajj, check the dates from the Islamic calendar.  Muslims in many Mosques undertake Hajj in groups.  Each group  is lead by an experienced Muslim who knows the various requirements and  procedures during Hajj.  It is advisable for a first timer or a new Muslim   to join one of these groups for guidance and support.  Advantage could  also be taken from various airlines and Mosques which provide complete  hajj packages which usually includes transportation, hotel accommodation  and guide.  Plan 4-6 months in advance before your Hajj trip.

Umrah, referred to as the minor pilgrimage, can be performed during any of other months of the year and is not obligatory

If you are interested, read the letter that brother Malcolm X wrote to his wife while performing Hajj, or check out this hajj guide for a good introduction to the largest pilgrimage that humans do every year. Click here to perform a search for articles relating to hajj on the internet.