São Paulo – Saudi Arabia has announced that the Hajj, the traditional Muslim pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, will start next Wednesday, June 4, after the sighting of the crescent moon that marks the beginning of Dhu al-Hijjah, the 12th month in the Islamic calendar. The information was made public by the Federation of Muslim Associations in Brazil (Fambras).
Fambras explains that the pilgrimage, which is one of the five pillars of Islam, is one of the biggest displays of faith in the world, with millions of Muslims from different countries coming together for a unique spiritual experience. Last year, more than 1.8 million followers performed the Hajj.
“The Hajj is much more than just a trip. It is a deep spiritual calling. It is an opportunity for the renewal faith, for equality among all human beings before God, and for seeking forgiveness and inner peace,” a press release quoted Fambras vice president Ali Zoghbi as saying.
The journey to Mecca is obligatory for all physically and financially able Muslims at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage includes a number of rituals performed over the course of five days, including the Tawaf, which consists of circling the Kaaba – a granite structure with inscriptions from the Koran at the heart of the Grand Mosque of Mecca – counterclockwise seven times.
Translated by Gabriel Pomerancblum
