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regard vary from case to case, and need a detailed discussion. So the reader may be
advised to consult the elaborate sources of law and religion
The Pilgrimage (Hajj)
The final pillar and one of the finest institutions of Islam is the Hajj or pilgrimage to
Mecca. The performance of the Hajj is obligatory, at least once in a lifetime, upon
every Muslim, male or female, who is mentally, financially and physically fit. The
Muslim who is of responsible age, in fairly good health, and is financially capable and
secure must make the Hajj at least once in his or her lifetime. The financial security
here means that he should have enough to cover his own expenses and those of his
dependents, and to pay his debts, if he is in debt, until he completes the course of Hajj
The course of Hajj is another unique characteristic of Islam, it is enjoined by God to
serve many purposes among which are the following:
1. It is the largest annual convention of Faith where Muslims meet to know one
another, study their common affairs and promote their general welfare. It is also the
greatest regular conference of peace known in the history of mankind. In the course of
Hajj peace is the dominant theme; peace with God and one’ s soul, peace with one
another and with animals, peace with birds and even with insects. To disturb the peace
of anyone or any creatures in any shape or form is strictly prohibited
2. It is a wholesome demonstration of the universality of Islam and the brotherhood
and equality of the Muslims. From all walks of life, from all trades and classes, and
from every corner of the globe the Muslims assemble at Mecca in response to the call
of God. They dress in the same simple way, observe the same regulations, utter the
same supplications at the same time in the same way, for the same end. There is no
royalty, but loyalty of all to God. There is no aristocracy, but humility and devotion
3. It is to confirm the commitment of the Muslims to God and their readiness to
forsake the material interests in His service
4. It is to acquaint the pilgrims with the spiritual and historical environment of
Prophet Muhammad, so that they may derive warm inspirations and strengthen their
Faith
5. It is to commemorate the Divine rituals observed by Abraham and Ishmael
(Ibraheem and Isma’ eel), who are known to have been the first pilgrims to the first
house of God on earth, i.e., the Ka’ bah at Mecca (Makkah)
6. It is a reminder of the Grand Assembly on the day of Judgement when people will
stand equal before God, waiting for their Final Destiny, and where no superiority of
race or stock can be claimed. It is also a reminder of the fact that Mecca alone, in the
whole existing world, was honored by God in being the center of monotheism since
the time of Abraham, and that it will continue to be the center of Islam, the religion of
pure monotheism, till the end of time
In the performance of Hajj it can easily be observed that it is a course of spiritual
enrichment and moral rearmament, a course of intensified devotion and disciplinary
experience, a course of humanitarian interests and inspiring knowledge – all put
together in one single institution of Islam
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