A lot of times we have read about Muslim religious gatherings in what they call “Mecca.” However, not many of us have knowledge 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.
The Masjid al Haram (Sacred Mosque) is for Muslims the holiest mosque on Earth. Both the mosque and the city itself are strictly off limits to non-Muslims. Mecca or Makkah? For most English speakers, “Mecca” has long been the accepted transliteration of the original Arabic for the holy city. The word Mecca in English has gone on to refer to any center of activity sought by a group of people with a common interest. Las Vegas, for example, is considered the “gambling Mecca” (even though gambling is strictly prohibited by Islamic law). Many Muslims find these out-of-context uses offensive. In an effort to distinguish between the metaphorical and official references to the holy site, the Saudi Arabian government began promoting a new transliteration, Makkah al-Mukkaramah, in the 1980s. Many English-speaking Muslims now consider this the preferred spelling, and closer to the original Arabic. While this new usage has been officially adopted by the U.S. Department of State, its spread is still incipient among anglophones at large.
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 at Definition 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. Pilgrims start by circling the “Holy Kaaba,” the black, cube-shaped house of God (at the center of the most sacred mosque in Mecca), seven times. The Kaaba occupies a central place in the lives of Muslims. In all parts of the world, Muslims are expected to turn toward the Kaaba when performing their daily prayers.
Where to stay in Mecca ? Pullman ZamZam Makkah: Located about 100km away from King Abdulaziz International Airport lies Pullman ZamZam Makkah, housing two elegant restaurants, luxurious studios, and suites. It is one of the best hotels in Mecca which is located just a few meters away from the Holy Mosque. All their units air-conditioned, equipped with a satellite TV and work desk. They also have a mini-fridge and a safety deposit box. There is also the main restaurant called Al Zahra serving international, Arabian and Asian cuisines. Other restaurants to check out inside are the Al Safa Breakfast Lounge, Al Marwa Dining Room, and the tea lounge for downtime.
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 Visit: https://meccamedina.net/.
