Hajj is a demonstration of Islamic brotherhood. It acquaints pilgrims with Mecca and thus with the historical and spiritual environment of the prophets Abraham, Ishmael, and Muhammad. It serves as a bridge that links the present with moments of ancient history, and it is also a means of identifying the pilgrims with the commitments of prophets. The rituals are re-enactments of fundamental aspects of sacred history.

Why do Muslim women need to be accompanied by a mahram? A mahram is a woman’s husband or a legally approved male companion to whom marriage is prohibited. It is strongly recommended that a woman travel with a mahram for the express purpose of safety, protection, and the safeguarding of modesty.

What is ‘Eid-al-’Adha, and what is its significance? ‘Eid-al-’Adha is the celebration of sacrifice, and sacrifice is one feature of the pilgrimage in which Muslims all over the world also participate. It occurs on the 10th day of the month, and it is a day of festivity. On this day, Muslims who have returned from Arafat, or Mount Mercy, after a day-long vigil proceed to slaughter an animal to commemorate the preparedness of Prophet Abraham to sacrifice his son. The sacrifice signifies the willingness of the sacrificer to sacrifice all his/her interests and desires in the cause of truth, justice, and goodness. The sacrifice is thus a symbol of the sacrificer’s readiness to lay down his or her life for the cause of God. — Beliefnet.com Concluded)