Every religion has its own tradition that unites its community. Christianity celebrates its masses every Sunday with the whole congregation. Judaism has Hanukkah and other holidays. But Muslims must perform an obligatory pilgrimage called Hajj. The Hajj is a trip to the Ka'ba that Muslims must make at least once in their lifetime. It occurs from the 8th to the 12th day of the last month of the Islamic calendar. Millions leave every year from around the world. The Hajj creates a sense of community because many people with the same beliefs are all on the same faith journey. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, a pilgrimage once required of the able-bodied. The ritual begins by circling the Ka'ba seven times, then walking between two hills seven times. The next day, pilgrims walk, bike or take a bus to Mina. They stay in the tents and prepare for the next day. The next day they get up and pray to 'Arafat and stone the pillars on the way back to Mina after sunset. On their return they purchase a goat or sheep to sacrifice and donate to the poor. Finally, pilgrims circle the Ka'ba again seven times. At the beginning of the Hajj, hundreds of thousands of people circle the Ka'bah at the same time. This mixing of people of different races creates a sense of community because people are not seen as different, but all people are one who performs acts for their faith. Many people would never have been able to see or meet people from other parts of the world if it were not for the travel required by Islam. When everyone takes the same actions to demonstrate their faith, it shows people that they are not alone in their journey through life and that they have a great community that will help them through difficult times. The stoning of Satan through the pillars also shows the community because everyone is committed to keeping the devil away and that they could use each other's help to do so. Hajj not only strengthens faith but also unites the community. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Other religions have rituals to try to make the community more united, but people always argue about race or gender, and they don't always have to participate in the rituals. In Islam, the Hajj is a necessary journey that also brings together the congregation as a whole. They see that they are the same as many others from all over the world. They see that their faith is what unites them and celebrate it with those around them.