Many times we have read about Muslim religious events in what they call “Mecca.” However, not many of us have info 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.
Mecca is located in the Hijaz region of western Saudi Arabia. The city lies inland 73 kilometers east of Jiddah, in the narrow, sandy Valley of Abraham. The Holy City is 277 meters (909 feet) above sea level. Each year, thousands of Muslims from around the world join in a pilgrimage to Mecca (the hajj), in fulfillment of one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The importance of Mecca for Muslims is inestimable. All Muslims, wherever they are on Earth, pray five times a day in the direction of the Kaaba in Mecca (located at 21° 25′ 24″ N and 39° 49′ 24″ E in DMS notation). The direction of prayer is known as the qibla.
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 places. 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 additional info at 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. They then proceed to an open plain near Mecca, often a highlight of the journey for many pilgrims. Muslims believe that the spirit of God comes closer to Earth in this place at the time of the pilgrimage. As a scholar of global Islam, during my fieldwork I have interviewed those who have gone on the hajj. They have described to me their personal experiences.
Where to stay in Mecca ? Swissotel Makkah: Overlooking the entire Masjid and a 5-minute walk in the Abraj Al bait complex is the Swissotel Makkah featuring modern accommodation and a great selection of sumptuous local and international cuisine. It was renovated in 2012, and the hotel now houses a beauty salon, a wellness area, and a barbershop. All rooms are completed with a flat-screen TV, working desk, and a spacious bathroom with toiletries. Some of the restaurants to check out are the Al Ruwad and the Cafe Swiss. The hotel is mostly the top choice of some business travelers, because of its fully equipped business center with high-speed internet access.
Mecca pilgrimage fact of the day : There is no gender segregation while at the Grand Mosque during the hajj, unlike during many other Muslim rites. Men and women stand side by side in what some have said is meant to show everyone’s equality before God. However, after the hajj the gender segregation is again recognized. Muslims can visit Mecca and surrounding holy sites any time of the year, but the hajj falls during the eighth and the 12th of the month of Dhul Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. The ritual at any other time of the year is called “umrah” Umrah means “to visit a populated place.” You can find many more information, facts and details on meccamedina.net Visit: https://meccamedina.net/.