Glencoe World History © 2010

The Hajj

Introduction
The hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. It is not a single ritual, but a defined set of rituals that are observed at a set time each year in and around Makkah (Mecca). Each able-bodied Muslim is expected to participate in the hajj at least once in his or her life. In this activity, you will explore the hajj in detail and gain a greater appreciation for how the hajj reinforces values and stories that are central to Islam.

Destination Title: Virtual Hajj

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Directions

• Click on "Step 1" through "Step 5" of the virtual hajj.
• Read the descriptions and take notes as you scan the text.

Use the information you found to answer the following questions.

1			According to Islam, what are the origins of the city of Mecca (Makkah)?
2			What is "the Stoning"?
3			What is a tawaf?
4			Why do participants in the hajj dress in white?
5			Write a paragraph or two explaining how the hajj reinforces values and stories that are central to Islam.