"This publication accompanies the exhibition Hajj: journey to the heart of Islam at the British Museum from 26 January to 15 April 2012."--T.p. verso.

Includes bibliographical references and index.

Pilgrimage: why do they do it? / Karen Armstrong -- The importance of Hajj: spirit and rituals / M.A.S. Abdel Haleem -- Journey to Mecca: a history / Hugh Kennedy -- Journey to Mecca: a history (Part 2) / Robert Irwin -- Hajj after 1950 / Ziauddin Sardar -- The modern art of Hajj / Venetia Porter -- Textiles of the Mecca and Medina / Venetia Porter -- Hajj travel narratives.

The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam is the largest pilgrimage in the world today and a scared duty for all Muslims. Each year millions of the faithful from around the world make the pilgrimage to Mecca, the birthplace of Islam where the Prophet Muhammad received his revelation. This book pulls together many strands of Hajj, its rituals, history, and modern manifestations. Travel was once a hazardous gamble, yet devoted Muslims undertook the journey to Makkah, documenting their experiences in manuscripts, wall paintings, and early photographs, many of which are presented here. Through the many illustrations including pilgrims' personal objects, souvenirs, and maps, this book provides a glimpse into this important holy rite for Muslims already grounded in the tradition and non-Muslims who cannot otherwise participate. The book does not merely trace pilgrimages of the past. The Hajj is a living tradition and its practice in modern times is influenced by new conveniences and obstacles. This book opens out onto the full sweep of the Hajj: a sacred path walked by early Islamic devotees and pre-Islamic Arabians to Muslims of today; a site of worship under the care of sultans, and an expression of faith in the modern world.

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