Why is the fifth pillar of Islam important?

Answer 1

The pilgrimage to Makkah (the hajj) is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to do so. Nevertheless, over two million people go to Makkah each year from every corner of the globe providing a unique opportunity for those of different nations to meet one another. The annual hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that hajj and Ramada-n fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments that strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God. The rites of the hajj, which are of Abrahamic origin, include going around the Ka'bah seven times, and going seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa as did Hagar (Hajir, Abraham's wife) during her search for water. The pilgrims later stand together on the wide plains of 'Arafat (a large expanse of desert outside Makkah) and join in prayer for God's forgiveness, in what is often thought as a preview of the Day of Judgment. The close of the hajj is marked by a festival, the 'Id al Adha, which is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts in Muslim communities everywhere. This and the 'Id al Fitr, a festive day celebrating the end of Ramada-n, are the two holidays of the Islamic calendar.

Answer 2

The fifth pillar of Islam is hajj (or pilgrimage) to Mecca (or Makkah) in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. Is obligatory to every adult Muslim, regardless the Gender, to go for hajj at least once in life if he/she can afford it physically, financially, and safely.

Hajj (pilgrimage) is a great annual event for Muslims. There are many reasons why Muslims perform hajj which translate into the following numerous benefits of Hajj:

• It teaches us that Muslims are brothers and are equal.
• It teaches us that no differences among people due to race, tribe, color, home country, or tongue language.
• It teaches us, practically, the real human rights when you find people equal during praying, worshiping, and during performing the rituals.
• Hajj learns us that we are belonging to God (Allah) alone and that we all need his mercy and forgiveness.
• Hajj is biggest world gathering in the world. It is a demonstration of Islam unity and Islam universality.
• Muslims get acquainted with the spiritual and historical environment of the prophet Muhammad which strengthen their faith.
• It is a reminder of the Grand Assembly of the Day of Judgment when people will stand equal before Allah waiting for their final destiny.
• It confirms commitment of Muslims to Allah.
• On top of the above, Muslims on Hajj are rewarded, per God will, with forgiveness of all their sins and they return back as pure and innocent as the new the born.