Life and Teachings of the Prophet Muhammad
3. The Concept of Worship in Islam
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those who have received their wealth from God—to help the less
weaker members of the community:
“...the poor, orphans, and widows, to free slaves and
debtors, and to support those working for the cause of
God.” (9:60).
(For further details see the chapter on social welfare).
THE SPIRIT OF HAJJ
The root meaning of the word, “Hajj” is to set out or to make a
pilgrimage. Canonically it has come to refer to the act of worship
performed annually in the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month
of the Islamic calendar.
At least once in his or her lifetime, every adult Muslim who is
physically and financially able is required to make the sacrifice of
time, money, comforts, becoming a pilgrim totally at God’s service.
The pilgrims wear simple garments, two seamless white clothes
for men and a dress that entirely covers the body, except the face
and hands, for women. These coverings symbolise purity as well as
the unity and equality of all believers.
Some important rituals to be performed during the Hajj are as
follows:
—
Tawaf
(circumambulation), i.e. going round the Kabah
seven times.
