The Spirit of Hajj

The Spirit of Hajj The root meaning of “Haj” is to set out or make a pilgrimage. However, canonically it has come to refer to the act of worship performed annually in the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar. At least once in their lifetime, every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able must sacrifice time, money, and comforts, becoming a pilgrim totally at God’s service. The pilgrims wear simple garments, two seamless white clothes for men and a dress that covers the body, except the face and hands, for women. These coverings symbolise purity and the unity and equality of all believers. Some essential rituals to be performed during the Hajj are as follows: • Tawaf (circumambulation), i.e. going around the Kabah seven times.