Welcome to Ahmadiyyat, The True Islam — Page 155
− One finds the institution of pilgrimage in all religions of the world, but the sites for pilgrimage are scattered at different places in one or more countries. One does not find a single central place, which all the followers of a religion must visit at least once in a lifetime. In Islam, Mecca is such a − place, where Muslims from all over the world are expected to gather and spend about ten days entirely dedicated to the memory of God. The pilgrims come from all countries, all nations, all races and all ages. Men, women and children all gather once a year for , running into millions. Hajj ± (An Elementary Study of Islam, Hadrat Mirza Tahir Ahmad, p 37) − ± ± − ± − ± The Requirements of Hajj ± 1. is obligatory on a Muslim when the following Hajj ± requirements are met: i. The person is an adult. ii. The person is healthy. iii. Can afford traveling expenses to and the living Hajj ± expenses of the family left behind. iv. There is peace on the way to. Hajj ± v. A safe mode of travel is available. If any one of the above conditions cannot be met then Hajj ± is not obligatory. 2. One is required to perform at least once in his lifetime Hajj ± if economic and other conditions are favorable. 3. If a person cannot perform due to ill health, but has Hajj ± deep desire to perform the person can ask someone Hajj, ± else to perform on his behalf. This is called Hajj ± Hajj-i-Badl. ± 4. can be performed only on the fixed time, while Hajj ‘Umrah ± 155