Overview

The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is the largest pilgrimage in the world today and a sacred duty for all Muslims. Each year, millions of the faithful from around the world make the pilgrimage to Makkah, the birthplace of Islam where the Prophet Muhammad received his revelation. With contributions from renowned experts Muhammad Abdel Haleem, Hugh Kennedy, Robert Irwin, and Ziauddin Sardar, this fascinating book pulls together many strands of Hajj, its rituals, history, and modern manifestations. Travel was once a hazardous gamble, yet devoted Muslims undertook the journey to Makkah, documenting their experiences in manuscripts, wall paintings, and early photographs, many of which are presented here. Through a wealth of illustrations including pilgrims' personal objects, souvenirs, and maps, Hajj provides a glimpse into this important holy rite for Muslim readers already grounded in the tradition and non-Muslims who cannot otherwise participate. Hajj does not, however, merely trace pilgrimages of the past. The Hajj is a living tradition, influenced by new conveniences and obstacles. Graffiti, consumerism, and state lotteries all now play a role in this time-honored practice. This book opens out onto the full sweep of the Hajj: a sacred path walked by early Islamic devotees and pre-Islamic Arabians; a sumptuous site of worship under the care of sultans; and an expression of faith in the modern world.

Full Product Details

9780674062184

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Reviews

[An] immensely rich cultural and historical source. -- M. Swartz Choice 20120901

[An] immensely rich cultural and historical source. -- M. Swartz * Choice * Proactive spirituality is the propelling force beneath Hajj: Journey to the Heart of Islam...The subject is the great pilgrimage to Mecca that every Muslim is enjoined to make at least once and that millions embark on every year. The book takes you on every step of the route over centuries, through both extraordinary works of art dating from the eighth century to last year, and artifacts including mass-produced souvenirs--T-shirts emblazoned with 'Congratulations on your Hajj!'--created for the present-day pilgrimage industry. -- Holland Cotter * New York Times *

Author Information

Venetia Porter is a Curator in the Department of the Middle East at the British Museum.

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