Plenty of times we have read about Muslim religious gatherings in what they call “Mecca.” However, not many of us have info about what Mecca is. In this post we will discuss about Mecca, the meaning , the history and many other details regarding this focal point of muslim religion.
The focal point of Mecca is the Kaaba, the “House of God” believed by Muslims to have been built by Abraham and his son Ishmael, and which is covered in a gold-embroidered black fabric. Pilgrims circle the Kaaba seven times and may also try to touch or kiss its cornerstone, the Black Stone. Pilgrims may drink from the well of Zamzam. Its water of Zamzam is believed to have special properties. Few pilgrims return from the Hajj without a large plastic bottle of Zamzam water. During the Hajj pilgrims travel to Mina, a small village, where the Devil, symbolised by stone columns, is ritually stoned. They then proceed to the hill Arafat (sometimes called a mountain, but with a height of only 70 m), a site for prayers, where Muhammad is believed to have delivered his final sermon.
Mecca, [Arabic Makkah and ancient Bakkah], is a city in western Saudi Arabia, located in the Sirat Mountains, inland from the Red Sea coast. It is the holiest of Muslim cities. Muhammad, the founder of Islam, was born in Mecca, and it is toward this religious centre that Muslims turn five times daily in prayer. All devout and able Muslims attempt a hajj (pilgrimage) to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. Because it is sacred, only Muslims are allowed to enter the city. Discover extra info on History of Mecca.
Millions of muslims congregate in Mecca during the last month of the Muslim lunar year. They come from diverse countries such as Indonesia, Russia, India, Cuba, Fiji, the United States, Nigeria and others. Many pilgrims spend the next few days repeating the stoning at Mina (at least six more times) and going around the Holy Kaaba in Mecca (at least once more). Pilgrims also start to put on their everyday clothes to indicate a transition to their worldly life.
Where to stay in Mecca ? Al-Ghufran Safwah Hotel: Another modern hotel most tourists love is the Al-Ghufran Safwah Hotel. And although it’s only allowed to Muslim guests, they ensure all their 324 guest rooms and suites are tastefully furnished for the perfect respite. It’s located in front of King Abdulaziz Gate and some of their rooms offer Mecca’s skyline view. They also have a satellite TV, a minibar, a tea/coffee maker, ironing facilities, sitting area, a spacious bathroom with hairdryer and complete toiletries. As for the dining options, they have the Al Dana restaurant serves an amazing selection of local cuisine and various types of coffee and tea.
Mecca pilgrimage fact of the day : Those who perform the hajj are called hajjis, and sometime these individuals adopt the title in front of their name following their accomplishment of the ritual. The title is recognized highly of within the Muslim culture. During the pilgrimage, men are required to wrap themselves in two pieces of white sheet. Women remain in a hijab covering their hair and neck, but those who usually wear face coverings are not allowed to do so during the hajj. You can find many more information, facts and details on meccamedina.net Source: https://meccamedina.net/.