A lot of times we have read about Muslim religious gatherings in what they call “Mecca.” However, not many of us have info about what Mecca is. In this post 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. Discover additional details at What is 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. It is believed that a proper performance of the hajj can absolve Muslim pilgrims of any previous sins. However, Muslims also believe that just undertaking the pilgrimage is not enough: It is up to God to judge the pilgrimage as acceptable or not.
Where to stay in Mecca ? InterContinental Dar Al Tawhid: This 5- star hotel holds to its promise of luxury and lavish accommodation. It’s located in front of Al Masjid Al-Haram, with an overlooking of the Grand Mosque. They have spacious rooms ranging from classic, executive rooms, and suite, with modern amenities and necessities. Guests are free to choose from their three restaurants serving a wide array of international cuisine, one of which is the Al Rehab Restaurant. If guests are traveling with their kids, the hotel has a mini club and a playroom for free of use. A private limousine is also available for rent.
Mecca pilgrimage fact of the day : The height of the hajj falls during the Islamic festival of Eid al-Adha, a time when Muslims commemorate the Prophet Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Nine percent of Muslims around the world said they made the pilgrimage to Mecca, according to a Pew poll. Those living closer to Mecca are more likely to have performed the hajj. 20% of Egyptian Muslims say they have completed the pilgrimage, while just 3% of Indonesian Muslims say they have. You can find many more information, facts and details on meccamedina.net Source: https://meccamedina.net/.
