A lot of times we have heard about Muslim religious happenings in what they call “Mecca.” However, not many of us have knowledge about what Mecca is. In this article 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 more details on 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. The pilgrimage is considered the fifth pillar of Islamic practice (the other four being the profession of faith, five daily prayers, charity and the fast of Ramadan). In calling Muslims to perform the hajj, the Quran says.
Where to stay in Mecca ? Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah: Boasting over 19 floors and 656 rooms, Jabal Omar Hyatt Regency Makkah situated in the heart of Makkah proves to be a premier hotel in Mecca. There are prayer areas for male and female guests at the parking level. It is one of the most loved hotels in Mecca because all rooms have refined and elegant furnishing, making you feel like royalty on your entire stay. Not to mention, they also have the Oasis, an all-day dining restaurant, the Al Forno where guests can devour on Italian cuisine, the Al Tekkeya, a Grab and Go market. Guests who want to work out can head over at the fitness center with quality equipment. A shopping gallery is also available at the Podium level if you chose to buy for souvenirs.
Mecca pilgrimage fact of the day : The hajj goes hand-in-hand with Eid al-Adha, a major holiday for Muslims – including those not performing the pilgrimage. This holiday begins on the 10th day of Dhul Hijjah. Muslims around the world with the financial means to do so traditionally slaughter a large animal, such as a cow, goat or sheep, on Eid al-Adha and distribute portions of the meat to the poor. Additionally, many American Muslims donate to organizations that slaughter animals and give meat to the poor overseas. The ritual sacrifice evokes the Quranic story of Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son for God. You can find many more information, facts and details on meccamedina.net Visit: https://meccamedina.net/.