The Hajj is a pilgrimage (religious journey) to the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Every adult Muslim is expected to make this special trip at least once in their lifetime.
The Hajj begins on the 8th day of the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar and ends on the 13th day.
The Hajj involves performing rituals (special religious ceremonies) in and around Mecca. Each of these rituals has a special meaning. One of the first happens 6 miles from Mecca when pilgrims put on simple white clothes to symbolize a state of holiness and purity.
When they reach Mecca, the pilgrims perform several rituals, which include walking around the Ka'bah shrine seven times. They also visit holy places outside Mecca for other rituals. On the last day, they return to Mecca and perform a farewell circling of the Ka'bah.
The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is important for every Muslim to perform the Hajj before they die. However, if someone is sick or does not have the means, they may choose another to do the Hajj pilgrimage for them.
People who go on the Hajj learn more about Islam and how to live a good life. They also get to meet other Muslims from all over the world. More than two million people perform the Hajj each year.
Source: worksheetsplus.com/Reading/Hajj.html What Is the Hajj?
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