Hajj means intending to visit a place of significance. It refers to the pilgrimage to Mecca and its vicinity that all Muslims are required to do at least once in their lives. Hajj incorporates the performance of approved religious acts, at prescribed times, at particular places, and in a specific manner. It was first proclaimed by Prophet Abraham and has been revived by Prophet Muhammad. Hajj is considered one of the five pillars of Islam.

Why can Hajj only be performed at one time during the year? Muslims are allowed to visit Mecca throug-hout the year and perform what is referred to as the minor pilgrimage. The obligatory pilgrimage has to be performed from the eighth day to the 13th day of the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Zul-hijjaj. Hajj, being a form of worship, manifests the universality of Islam and unity of all believers. During Hajj, people from all parts of the world gather at the same place, at the same time, in the same attire, doing the same prescribed acts, thus reflecting the harmony and fraternity of all believers. Each of these acts and places where they are performed have a purpose and serve as a reminder to the mindful, lesson to the heedful, exhortation to the faithful, instruction to the dutiful, and source of reflection for the wise.

What is the significance of the pilgrimage? Hajj is the largest annual convention of faith, where between three to five million faithful gather to perform their religious duties. — Beliefnet.com