n.
In Islam , the pilgrimage to Mecca required of all Muslims at least once in their lifetime, provided they are physically and financially able.
It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam . By tradition the pilgrimage is undertaken between the 7th and 12th days of the last month of the Islamic year. At Mecca, the pilgrims are obliged to perform several rituals, including walking seven times around the Kabah shrine. They must also visit holy places outside Mecca and sacrifice an animal in honor of Abraham 's near-sacrifice of Isaac. In conclusion, they return to Mecca and perform a farewell circling of the shrine.