The word "hadj" is commonly spelled as "hajj" or "haj", which refers to the pilgrimage to Mecca. The spelling "hadj" is less common but is still considered an acceptable variant. The pronunciation of the word is [hædʒ] in IPA phonetic transcription, with the "j" representing the sound /dʒ/. The spelling of the word may vary depending on the language used, with some using Arabic script or transliteration. Regardless of the spelling, the significance of the pilgrimage remains unchanged.
Hadj, also spelled Hajj, is a noun and term that originates from Arabic and is primarily associated with the Islamic faith. It refers to one of the Five Pillars of Islam, specifically the pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca that every adult Muslim is required to undertake at least once in their lifetime, provided they are physically and financially capable of doing so. The term "hadj" is used in English to describe this pilgrimage.
The hadj is a significant and sacred journey for Muslims, with its origins traced back to the Prophet Muhammad. Undertaking the hadj involves traveling to Mecca during the prescribed time of the Islamic lunar month called Dhu al-Hijjah. It involves various rituals and acts of worship, culminating in circling the Kaaba, Islam's holiest site located within the grand mosque in Mecca.
The hadj is considered a deeply spiritual experience that allows Muslims to cleanse themselves of sins and seek closeness to Allah. It fosters unity among Muslims from diverse backgrounds and symbolizes the equality of all believers in the eyes of their Creator. The pilgrimage also serves as a reminder of the transient nature of life and the importance of devotion and submission to God.
In summary, hadj refers to the obligatory Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, intended to be undertaken by financially and physically capable Muslims at least once in their lifetime. It is a journey of spiritual significance, symbolizing unity, and the pursuit of spiritual purification and closeness to Allah.
The pilgrimage to Mecca or Medina by a Mohammedan.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "hadj" or "hajj" has its origins in Arabic. It comes from the Arabic word "ḥajj" (حَجّ), which means pilgrimage. The term is specifically used to refer to the annual pilgrimage to Mecca, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially capable of making the journey. The word "hadj" has been borrowed into various languages, including English, to refer to this specific pilgrimage.