The Significance of the Rituals of the Hajj

Step One: Purification

Shedding one's worldly concerns and ties is the first step that begins the moment the pilgrim departs for Mecca. Symbolically, this ritual of purification is shown by the shedding of one's attire and the wearing of the two pieces of plain white cloth wrapped around the body. The pilgrim or Hajji reveals his desire to shed adornment and adopt an austere and simple way of life -- as the unstitched and basic "Ihram" shows.

The journey to Mecca is a significant part of the ritual of Hajj. Embarking on the journey itself is reminiscent of the final journey for a Muslim when, according to religious belief, the soul leaves the body to meet the Maker. The pilgrim recites a constant stream of prayer on the journey, verses from the Holy Quran, to purify his thoughts and remain completely focused and supplicant to the will of the Maker towards whom this symbolic journey is directed.

Circling the Ka'aba -- the symbolic representation of the House of God in Muslim faith -- seven times on his feet and reciting verses praising the power of Allah has a humbling effect on the muslim pilgrim. It reaffirms the religious belief that everything belongs to Allah and that human beings are insignificant creatures dependent on the will and mercy of Allah. This repeated ritual further purifies the pilgrim's soul and removes all fears -- worldly or otherwise -- from his heart.

The ritual run between two stones and the pelting of the stones with pebbles is a symbolic battle and triumph against Satan. This is followed by prayer and the sacrifice of a goat, sheep, cow or camel which mimics the centuries old sacrifice of Abraham who -- to prove his love of God -- agreed to sacrifice his son. The Muslim pilgrim shows a similar devotion to God. The final shaving or trimming of hair completes the ritual of renewal. The Muslim Hajji emerges from the experience cleansed and renewed, as on the day of his birth.