forbes.com
Hajj 2024 Begins: Over a Million Muslims Gather in Mecca
Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, started May 30th and concludes June 9th, with over one million participants; its date is determined by lunar cycles, shifting yearly.
- What is the significance of Hajj's moon-based calendar and its impact on the global Muslim community?
- Hajj, the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, began on May 30th and will last until June 9th. Over a million Muslims are participating in this significant religious event, one of the five pillars of Islam. The timing of Hajj is determined by lunar cycles, causing its date to shift yearly.
- How does the astronomical alignment of the sun with the Kaaba influence the daily practices of Muslims during Hajj?
- The lunar Islamic calendar, unlike the Gregorian calendar, is moon-based, resulting in Hajj dates varying annually. This year's pilgrimage started on May 30th because the new crescent moon was sighted on May 28th in Saudi Arabia. The 11-day difference between lunar and solar years causes the Hajj date to shift earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.
- What are the long-term implications of the lunar calendar on the scheduling of Hajj, and how might this affect future participation?
- Mecca's location near the Tropic of Cancer creates unique astronomical phenomena. Twice yearly, around May 27/28 and July 15/16, the sun is directly overhead the Kaaba at noon, eliminating its shadow. This alignment aids in the precise orientation of Muslims worldwide during their daily prayers towards the Kaaba.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The framing emphasizes the astronomical alignments and calculations related to Hajj, rather than the religious and cultural significance. The headline and introduction immediately focus on the astronomical aspects, potentially shaping reader interpretation towards a scientific rather than a spiritual understanding of the event.
Language Bias
The language used is largely neutral and informative. However, phrases such as "helpful astronomical alignments" might subtly imply a sense of human agency or intervention in a naturally occurring phenomenon.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses heavily on the astronomical aspects of Hajj, potentially omitting other relevant information such as the spiritual significance, historical context, or social impact of the pilgrimage for Muslims. While the astronomical details are interesting, a more balanced approach would include a broader perspective.