Today starts the Day of Arafat [Arafah]! As the second day of the Hajj, Muslim pilgrims leave Mina and travel to Mount Arafat and the Plain of Arafat. This is where the Prophet Muhammad gave his farewell sermon during his last year.
For those who don’t know a lot about the Hajj or maybe are new to Islam here are five books for every age to learn more about the pilgrimage to Mecca. Happy Day of Arafat!
We’re off to Make ‘Umrah by Sana Munshey is a children’s book where a brother and sister travel to Mecca to perform the sacred ritual with their parents for the first time. It even comes with a poster and paper dolls to teach ‘Umrah traditions.
Yan’s Hajj: The Journey of a Lifetime by Fawzia Gilani is a children’s story about Yan who really wants to perform Hajj, but he must work on his farm and get money for the pilgrimage. Despite the unsuccessful trips to the Kaaba, Yan’s compassion, generosity, and helpful nature ensure his success in the end.
Hajj and Umrah from A to Z by Mamdouh N. Mohamed is a guidebook that explains the annual pilgrimage from A to Z. There is information about Muslim culture and beliefs creating an insightful book for multicultural education. The illustrations and design create a unique learning space for this book.
Pilgrimage (Hajj): The Fifth High Grade of Al-Taqwa by Mohammad Amin Sheikho answers many of your questions on the importance of the rituals Muslims perform while participating in the pilgrimage. Such as why dress in white and untailored cloth or what’s the significance of Mount Arafat.
Hajj and Umrah Made Easy by Taqi Fakhir Hashmi is a pocketbook made easy to carry while traveling on the Hajj. This step-by-step guide walks the reader through safety and health tips, travel information, and maps and diagrams.