Centre of Unity

Hajj And Unity This is a grand system established through thousands of years of history. If Muslims have a true awareness of it and can learn the lesson for which this grand system was created, a revolution could come into their lives. Every one of them would be united as part of a worldwide spiritual community. The truth is that the Ka‘bah is a sign of God on earth, and it is also a symbol of Muslim unity and collectivity. One visible aspect of this great system of unity is that all individuals are made to remove their garments and don the same simple attire. Here, the distinction between king and subject vanishes. The distinctions between Eastern and Western dress are lost in the air. In the common dress of Ihram, everyone appears as though they have only one identity—that they are all believers in one God, and no other identity exists for anyone. Although the prescribed rituals of Hajj end in Makkah, most pilgrims, after completing Hajj, also go to Madinah. The ancient name of Madinah was Yathrib. However, the Prophet of Islam made it his centre during the latter part of his life. Since then, it has been known as “Madinat alNabi” (the city of the Prophet), and Madinah is the short form of this name. In Madinah is the mosque built by the Prophet Muhammad. Here is his grave. Here are scattered the signs of his prophetic life. In these circumstances, when pilgrims reach Madinah, it becomes a profound lesson in unity and collective spirit. In the Prophet’s Mosque, they renew their understanding that their religious leader is one. They return with the