Why do Muslims need to travel to Mecca once in their lifetime?

Answer 1

To perform Holy pilgriamage, its part of our religion if we can afford to go there. Well, it is full of traditional rituals too as perfomed by Prophet Muhammed PBUH and ofcourse the journey brings us closer to God!

Answer 2

The fifth pillar is pilgrimage or Hajj to Makkah. After Muhammad destroyed the idols in Ka'abah and Makkah became a place for Muslims to come together as so many had done since Abraham built the Ka’abah. Once in a lifetime, if health and material means permit, a Muslim is expected to make a religious journey to Makkah. This journey, two months after Ramadan in the month of Dhu al-Hijja, requires for one to save sometimes for a lifetime, the pilgrim cannot borrow and go into debt to make the pilgrimage. A Hajj is invalid if one has to go into debt to make the trip. As people enter Mecca they must go threw the same routes that early Muslims did. The Hajj provides an opportunity to reenact the founding of Islam and renew link with Abraham, Hagar, Ishmael, and of course, Muhammad. It is a return to origins, to roots, to the prestige of the beginnings. As you enter Ka'abah everyone is equal; encouraging atonement. Clothing is removed and a white shroud, such as a burial cloth, is put on to remind us that we are all mortal. This shroud is often used to bury the person later. Muslims from around the world—of all classes, colors, nationality, and races—are there in the same dress, performing the same rituals. There is also no rank or privilege in this holy place because we are without rank before Allah. As pilgrims enter the Ka’abah they move in a counterclockwise direction, they circle the Ka’abah seven times. A major part of the pilgrimage is to visit the Plain of Arafat, from noon to sunset, the pilgrims stand before God in repentance, seeking His forgiveness for themselves and all Muslims throughout the world. It was there on the Mount of Mercy the Prophet gave last message. Once again, the preacher repeats Muhammad’s call for peace and harmony among the believers. On the tenth day of the month the feast of Id al-Adha, the Feast of Sacrifice, occurs. The feast consists of ceremony and prayer, if the family or person can afford it, sacrifice of an animal. The sacrifice is in remembrance of the sheep sent in place of Ishmael. Part of this sacrifice is to be given to the poor.

Answer 3

Hi

Good question.

In short, the pilgrimage to Mecca is a stage of purification of the soul of past sins and a stage that Muslims can strengthen their relationship with Allah.

If you want some more insight on this go to: http://www.islamreligion.com/articles/184/

I hope that answers your question.

Answer 4

Its one of the tenets of their religious beliefs.

Its actually quite logical.

Like the Biblical Hebrews that traveled to Jerusalem.

If a religious group has a common experience and a holy site it serves as a way to unify them in belief.

Catholics too are united though the Vatican, while Protestant congregations are often disjointed

Answer 5

It is one of the 5 pillars in Islam, to make Hajj or pilgrimage if one is healthy and they can afford it.

Answer 6

I found what Layla said very educational but, it was not Ishmael that Abraham was told to sacrifice; it was Isaac.

Answer 7

to look at the black box.

anyway, Mecca was once a place full of arabic idol worship. and one of the idols uncovered was actually the MOON GOD, named allah.

so now you see the crescent on mosques, and you hear the name of allah, you know where he came from.

Answer 8

So they can circle around a meteorite and chant nonsense.