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Flame of Faith

Hajj: Journey to the heart  of Islam
Ed Venetia Porter. Lustre.
Pages 288. Rs 2,975.00

It is a sacred duty for Muslims, wherever they may reside, to go for Hajj at least once in their lives to Mecca, the heartland of Islam where the Prophet Muhammad received the revelation in the early seventh century. 

From earliest Islamic times those rulers of Muslim dynasties whose territories encompassed Mecca and Medina looked after and refurbished the two holy sites. They provided shelter along the routes and organised the great annual caravans that took place.

Before modern travel, the journey was long and hazardous. Pilgrims came from far and their journeys are evocatively documented in the form of manuscripts, photographs and wall paintings.

Today the holy sites are under the care of the King of Saudi Arabia. With contributions from leading experts, this fascinating and important book tells the history of Hajj until the present day, focusing on the rituals, the main routes to Mecca, and the experience of the pilgrims themselves.

The spirit of Hajj is evoked through a wealth of illustrations, including personal objects carried by the pilgrims; souvenirs collected at Mecca and Medina; early photographs, maps; manuscripts, wall paintings; compasses and astrolabes; textiles; and stunning artworks.

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