Muslim Structures and Pilgrimage

Please respond to the following, using sources under the Explore heading as the basis of your response.

Describe the main purpose of the Hajj in the Muslim faith, and identify two (2) specific aspects of the Hajj that you find fascinating or significant. Next, explain the association between Muhammad and the area of the Dome of the Rock in Jerusalem. Lastly, describe the sacred art of Islam’s key qualities, explain the fundamental reasons why Muslim artists of sacred works are reluctant to include images of humans(i.e, at least in sacred areas). Think of a place of worship (of any religion) today, and explain which type of artistic tradition would be more conductive to worship: Byzantine art (Chapter 8), Hindu art (Chapter 7), or Muslim art (Chapter 9).

Explore

National Geographic on the Hajj at http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iM81wroj MQ

Walking tour of Jerusalem’s Dome of the Rock and structures around it at http:??www.saudiaramcoworld.com/issue/200901/alharam/tour.htm. (Focus on what you what the entire tour is.

Answer preview…..

The Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to the Ka’ba in Mecca, which sits on the Western Mountains of Saudi Arabia and is the fifth pillar of Islam. It is considered the climax of each Muslim’s religious aspiration and duty. Each Muslim that is physically and financially able should make the pilgrimage to Mecca once in his or her lifetime (Long, 2011) and perform and participate in set religious rites at various specific sites in the holy city and its environs during the twelve months of the lunar calendar. The Hajj is an event of great moral, worldly, and spiritual importance where the person assumes the condition of a pilgrim for a few days, completely at God’s service and disposal. It is an opportunity for purification and strengthening the relationship with God. Carrying out the rites with a huge crowd is a….
APA 537 words