Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
This is the building which, to this day, Muslims are enjoined to circle while performing
the
tawaf
(circumnavigation of the Kaaba).
Hajj & the Founding of Islam
'Our Lord! Send amongst them a messenger of their own, who shall recite unto them your
aayaat
(verses) and instruct them in the topic and the Wisdom and sanctify them.' (sura
Al-Baqarah 2:129)
Despite the early religious origins of hajj, the pilgrimage to Mecca over time became
corrupted by idolatry as the Kaaba became the focus of pagan worship. After the death of
his father, Ismail tried to defend the spirit of hajj in an annual visit to Mecca. He recog-
nised, however, that it would take more than his example to recharge people's faith and
died with a prayer on his lips appealing for Allah's help.
