Author Description

The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam is the largest pilgrimage in the world today and a scared duty for all Muslims. Each year millions of the faithful from around the world make the pilgrimage to Mecca, the birthplace of Islam where the Prophet Muhammad received his revelation. This book pulls together many strands of Hajj, its rituals, history, and modern manifestations. Travel was once a hazardous gamble, yet devoted Muslims undertook the journey to Mecca, documenting their experiences in manuscripts, wall paintings, and early photographs, many of which are presented here. Through the many illustrations including pilgrims' personal objects, souvenirs, and maps, this book provides a glimpse into this important holy rite for Muslims already grounded in the tradition and non-Muslims who cannot otherwise participate. The book does not merely trace pilgrimages of the past. The Hajj is a living tradition and its practice in modern times is influenced by new conveniences and obstacles. This book opens out onto the full sweep of the Hajj: a sacred path walked by early Islamic devotees and pre-Islamic Arabians to Muslims of today; a site of worship under the care of sultans, and an expression of faith in the modern world.