Islam - Its Meaning for Modern Man — Page 203
203 The pilgrimage thus begun through Abraham became a well-organized religious institution. In course of time, the original object was obscured, though the outward ceremonial remained. The pure worship of God degenerated into the worship of idols, whom the Arabs regarded as minor deities who could serve as intermediaries or intercessors between them and God (39:4). By the time of the Prophet as many as three hundred and sixty idols had been installed inside the Sacred House itself. These were demolished and the Ka’aba was restored to its original purpose ⎯ the worship of the One True God ⎯ on the day when Mecca opened its gates to the Prophet. The pilgrimage has since then continued as one of the obligations incumbent upon every Muslim adult who can afford the journey (3:98). Like the month of fasting, the time appointed for the pilgrimage, ten weeks after the Festival of the breaking of the fast, is fixed according to the lunar calendar, and rotates through the year. The pilgrimage thus falls in all seasons of the year. The ceremonies and acts of worship connected with it are performed both around the Ka’aba inside Mecca and in a neighbouring valley. The principal ceremonies in connection with the Ka’aba are the circuit of the House, at various times during the days of the pilgrimage, and running between Safa and Marwah, two hillocks situated close to the Ka’aba, in the