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pilgrimage is a journey to a sacred place for the purpose of receiving some spirit
ual value. The nature of that value varies widely and might include increasing one’
s sense of identification with a particular faith, gaining a sense of mystical contact
with supernatural reality, cultivating spiritual merit or understanding, or receiving
a particular benefit, such as the forgiveness of sin.
The greatest emphases on pilgrimages in the contemporary world are found in Isl
am and Roman Catholicism. Among the five pillars of Islam, making the pilgrimage
to Mecca, the Hajj, is demanded of physically capable believers at least once in th
eir lifetime. The Hajj occurs each year on five days during Dhu al-Hijjah, the twelft
h month of the Muslim lunar calendar. On the Common Era (CE) calendar, the Hajj
takes place at a different month each year. In the modern world, the pilgrimage h
as become highly ritualized. It begins in Mecca, Saudi Arabia, and over several day
s visits nearby locations before arriving at the Kaaba, the most sacred site acknow
ledged by Muslims.
Pilgrimages within Christianity began around the sites associated with Christ’s dea
th and resurrection in Jerusalem, but also extended to the various places he was s
aid to have visited during his life. With the geographical spread of Christianity, the
sites associated with the 12 Apostles, especially their martyrdom, attained sacred
status.