For Muslims, Mecca is the most important city in the world. It is the birthplace of their prophet. They face it five times daily in prayer. To journey there is the dream of a lifetime. The hajj is required of every able-bodied Muslim who can afford to go.

Those who cannot go can send someone in their place – someone who has already been on the journey. The hajj, theoretically, unifies and brings equity to the worldwide community of Muslims, whether prince or pauper. Non-Muslims are never allowed into Mecca.

Not only do they believe a sincere Muslim leaves Mecca with a new status and title (hajji for men and hajja for women), they leave like a newborn baby: sinless and with a fresh start in life

Each year around two million Muslims perform the hajj during the 12th month of the lunar calendar. Some very wealthy people stay in five-star hotels; others sleep on the side of the road. Women must be accompanied by husbands or guardians. Everyone prepares for the journey by washing, cutting their hair and nails, and donning the same simple, special clothing.

The ritual starts by circling the Ka’aba seven times and kissing the Black Stone. Then, while reciting prayers along the way, the pilgrim runs between two small hills, meant to symbolize Hagar’s frantic search for water in the desert. Next, after a sermon and prayers in the Great Mosque at Mecca, Muslims travel to Arafat, about 12 miles away. There they stand and pray: “Here I am, O Allah, here I am, here I am. You have no partner. Here I am.” After their vigil at Arafat, they visit Mina, where they throw stones at a pillar symbolizing Satan.

When this is complete, a sacrifice is offered and the Eid al-Adha begins (Festival of Sacrifice, which all Muslims celebrate, not just the pilgrims). Afterward, people return to Mecca for one more pass around the Ka’aba and perhaps even return to Mina or visit the grave of Muhammad at Medina