Muslim religious events and Mecca guide
3 min readMany times we have heard about Muslim religious gatherings in what they call “Mecca.” However, not many of us have knowledge about what Mecca is. In this article we will talk about Mecca, the meaning , the history and many other details regarding this focal point of muslim religion.
The most sacred place in Islam is the Ka’ba in Mecca, Saudi Arabia. The Ka’ba is a mosque (built by Abraham according to Muslim tradition) constructed around a black stone. The prophet Muhammad designated Mecca as the holy city of Islam and the direction (qibla) in which all Muslims should offer their prayers. The Ka’ba is believed to be the first place that was created on earth and the place at which heavenly bliss and power touches the earth directly.
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. See more details on Pilgrimage to the 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. Afterwards, pilgrims move to Mina, also known as the Tent City, about five kilometers from the holy city of Mecca. Here, they reenact another part of the story of Ibrahim’s test of faith in the sacrifice of his son. They recall how Satan tried to tempt Ibrahim to disobey God’s call to sacrifice Ismail. Ibrahim, however, remained unmoved and informed Ismail, who was willing to be sacrificed. To reenact Ibrahim’s rebuff of Satan’s temptation, pilgrims throw small stones at a stone pillar.
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 : 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/.