Stairway to heaven: the spiritual journey of Hajj

Published September 28th, 2014 - 11:38 GMT

Hajj — it’s that time of year, again!

When Muslims from all around the world pack their bags and head for Saudi Arabia to take part in the holy pilgrimage to Mecca.

Set by the Prophet Muhammed (pbuh),
this 1,400-year-old tradition is one of the world’s largest gatherings. Muslims from all over the world, of every race and color, make their way towards the holy city of Mecca to take part in this spiritual journey. 

Translated roughly, the word itself is “to intend a journey,” and its meaning is two-fold. The Hajj is both a pilgrimage to afar and an inward journey into one’s spirit.

The trek is a religious duty meant to be carried out by all able-bodied Muslims at least once in their lives.

Neat, right?

We rounded up a list of some more neat things about Hajj, this year and over the ages. If you’re not Muslim, think of how well-read you’ll sound at dinner parties. And if you are, let us know if we missed something by commenting below!

God bless! 

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