<P> In November 2017, Saudi authorities banned selfies at the two holy sites </P> <P> To the Muslims, Hajj is associated with religious as well as social significance . Nevertheless, it should be noted that the obligation for performing this pilgrimage is only fulfilled if it is done on the eighth to twelfth day of the last month of the Islamic calendar . If in a given year, an adult Muslim is in good health and his life and wealth is safe, they must perform the Hajj in the same year . Delaying it is considered sinful unless the delay is caused by reasons beyond his / her control . </P> <P> Apart from being an obligatory religious duty, the Hajj is seen to have a spiritual merit that provides the Muslims with an opportunity of self - renewal . Hajj serves as a reminder of the Day of Judgment when Muslims believe people will stand before God . Hadith literature (sayings of Muhammad) articulates various merits a pilgrim achieves upon successful completion of their Hajj . After successful pilgrimage, pilgrims can prefix their names with the title' Al - Hajji', and are held with respect in Muslim society . However, Islamic scholars suggest Hajj should signify a Muslim's religious commitment, and should not be a measurement of their social status . Hajj brings together and unites the Muslims from different parts of the world irrespective of their race, colour, and culture, which acts as a symbol of equality . </P> <P> A 2008 study on the impact of participating in the Islamic pilgrimage found that Muslim communities become more positive and tolerant after Hajj experience . Titled Estimating the Impact of the Hajj: Religion and Tolerance in Islam's Global Gathering and conducted in conjunction with Harvard University's John F. Kennedy School of Government, the study noted that the Hajj "increases belief in equality and harmony among ethnic groups and Islamic sects and leads to more favorable attitudes toward women, including greater acceptance of female education and employment" and that "Hajjis show increased belief in peace, and in equality and harmony among adherents of different religions ." </P>

What was the importance of the hajj (pilgrimage) to mecca
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