SPIRITUAL JOURNEY

A Pilgrim

Today, My friends, I would like to talk about one of the cardinal principles of worship in Islam.The Hajj or pilgrimage to Mecca is a principal cornerstone of Islam. It is a ritual which borders on the spiritual significance of a muslim's obligation to Allah. It's a journey of purification of the soul. Hundreds of thousands of Muslims, belonging to different nationalities and races and drawn from all walks of life, from all parts of the world to worship together at Islam's central mosque and world's most ancient house of worship, the Ka'bah.

The question ordinary people who do not understand why Muslims have to go on Hajj, ask? What is the motivation behind this ritual?

According to Islamic teachings and literature. The performance of Hajj is very important to every Muslim, and should be fulfilled at least once in a lifetime, only if the following conditions are met. These are the physical and economic strength to undertake the journey to Mecca and also to make sufficient provision for their families during the period of their absence.

Pilgrims performing the Spiritual Observance

Mecca is considered the holiest place on earth for Muslims. The performance of Hajj period must coincide with a specific date and time in accordance with the Islamic calendar. During the performance of Hajj. The atmosphere of equality, simplicity, and unity is created among Muslims all over the world, without gender, linguistic, social status, geographical locations, cultural, ethnic, and sectarian barriers.

The performance of Hajj is unique and has existed for the past fourteen centuries, and every Muslim cherishes the ambition of obtaining the blessings of the Hajj at least once in his or her lifetime.

Spiritual Significance

The Hajj is primarily a Muslims demonstration of devotion to Allah in ritual observance. The innermost connotation to this ritual observance should be understood in the light well-defined transcendent "idea" within which a Muslim attains the highest spiritual relations with Allah. Thus, the pilgrim demonstrates his advance from the common level of human life to a higher state of internal glory where he affirms his relation to Allah.

Pointers for reflection

It seeks to renew faith, trust, and love of Allah.
The pilgrim gets purified and comes out of his sins like a newborn baby.
It is a school of training towards consciousness of one's duties towards Allah.
It is a manifestation of brotherhood, equality and Unity.