The HajjThe Hajj

The Muslim’s pilgrimage to Mecca

What is the Hajj?

The Hajj is a pilgrimage that Muslims make. They make the trip once in their lifetime as it is one of the 5 pillars.The pilgrimage to Makkah makes the Muslim’s faith stronger.They feel it makes them more obedient to Allah (they carry out his wishes).

Who goes on the Hajj?Anyone can go on the Hajj but they need to check three things first:That they are able to look after themselves (i.e. that you are old enough).That they are healthy and fit enough to go.That they can afford to go – without borrowing money from anywhere.

Where do they go?

Muslims go to Mecca – It is the capital city of Saudi Arabia's Makkah province.

What do they do when they get there?

There are many things Muslims do – here are the seven most importantWear an Ihram.Perform Tawaf.Run between As-safa and Al-Marwah.Visit Arafat.Stone ‘evil’ at Mina.Some people cut their hair.Some people sacrifice an animal.

They change into an Ihram.

Everyone must wear a white cloth – this is so all people are equal – there is no difference between the rich and the poor.

They perform Tawaf

Muslims circle the holy Ka’bah seven times.They kiss the black stone (a sacred stone from the time of Muhammad).

The Ka’bah is important as it was the first place built to worship Allah.

Run between As-safa and Al-Marwah

This action helps the Muslims to remember an important person in Muslim history.

It reminds Muslims that Allah looks after those who obey him.

Hagar and her son, Ishmail, were left in the desert without water. Hagar was very concerned about her son. The story says that Ishmail dug his heels into the sand and a spring of water gushed forth.

A well still remains here and Muslim's may drink from it.

Visiting Arafat

The most important part.They stand on The Plain of Arafat (24 km from Makkah) on the ‘Mount of Mercy’They beg for Allah’s forgiveness of their sins.

Stoning ‘evil’ at Mina

There are three pillars and the Muslims throw stones or pebbles at the pillars.The pillars represent ‘evils’ such as unkindness, temptation etc.By throwing the stones the pilgrims are reminded to resist temptations and evil in their own life.

Cutting hair and sacrificing an animal

Many men cut their hair to show they are close to Allah.It also shows that they do not worry about their appearance – and that everyone is equal.They may sacrifice a sheep if they can afford it.It reminds Muslims that they must give up everything for Allah.

You will use the information to create a leaflet explaining the Hajj to other children.