Glencoe World History

"The Hajj"

Introduction
The hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is not one ritual, but a defined set of rituals that are observed at a set time each year in and around Makkah. Each able-bodied Muslim is expected to participate in the hajj at least once in his or her life. In this activity you will explore the hajj in detail and can gain a greater appreciation for how the hajj reinforces values and stories that are central to Islam.

Destination Title: Hajj Intro for People of Other Faith

Note: Clicking on the link above will launch a new browser window.
Need help using your browser for this activity? Click here for tips.

Directions

Start at the Hajj Intro for People of Other Faith Web site.

• Read the introductory paragraphs, followed by the sections titled "Abraham," "The Hajj," and "Eid ul-Adha." Take notes as you go.
• Feel free to use the vocabulary list further down on the page to increase your knowledge of the hajj.

1			According to Islam, what are the origins of the city of Makkah?
2			What does the hajj commemorate?
3			What is a tawaf?
4			Why do participants in the hajj dress in white?
5			Imagine that you are a Muslim during the time of Harun al-Rashid. Based on your reading online and in the textbook, compose a one- to two-page diary entry on a separate piece of paper that you might have written during a pilgrimage to Makkah for the hajj. Describe in some detail the rituals in which you took part and your reaction to them. Use Arabic terms as appropriate.