Between piety and consumerism
Hotels and shopping malls in Mecca are a temptation at a time Muslims are expected to forgo life’s luxuries.
From all corners of the world, Muslims gather annually to perform the Hajj pilgrimage in Mecca wearing simple white cloth, leaving behind the comforts of their homes for a brief period.
By forgoing their lifestyles, their only focus is to pray to God as his humble servant and ask for his forgiveness and mercy.
However, with the change of times the surroundings of the Grand Mosque have changed with the appearance of five-star luxury hotels and shopping malls.
These malls offer the material items people crave to have at a time when Muslims are expected to forgo life’s luxuries and pleasures.
But in the modern 21st century, few can ignore the need for consumer items, regardless of the location.
Sohail Rahman reports from Mecca.