Hajj is the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca and dates back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham in Judeo-Christian tradition). It is believed that Prophet Ibrahim, along with his son Prophet Isma'il (Ishmael), was instructed by Allah to build the Kaaba, the sacred black cube-shaped structure in Mecca. This act of devotion and submission to God laid the foundation for the Hajj pilgrimage.

Over the centuries, the pilgrimage evolved as a central religious practice in Islam, with the Kaaba as its focal point. The rituals of Hajj involve circling the Kaaba seven times, standing at the plain of Arafat, throwing pebbles at symbolic pillars representing Satan, and performing other prescribed acts of worship. These rituals symbolize the unity of the Muslim Ummah (community) and the submission to Allah's will.

Hajj became one of the Five Pillars of Islam, mandatory for every physically and financially capable Muslim to perform at least once in their lifetime. Its history is rich with cultural and spiritual significance, and it continues to be a profound expression of faith, unity, and devotion among Muslims worldwide.