Pilgrimage to Mecca in 21st Century: NY Times Clip

Here’s an excellent clip, along with a terrific story from the New York Times about the Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca during umrah, a minor pilgrimage that can be made anytime during the year.

A New York Times photographer got permission from the Saudi government to film the pilgrimage and write about it.  The clip shows how consumerism and religion exist side by side in the 21st century.

The story  reviews the transformation of the pilgrimage since the 1970’s  and includes a great slideshow with over 20 images.

The biggest change in Mecca includes the expansion of the Grand Mosque so that it can accommodate more people.  According to the New York Times, the Saudis will spend over $26 billion on the expansion.

The short clip and the New York Times slide show might be a good review for students studying Islam and the significance of pilgrimage.

Thanks to Dave Stuart for tweeting the link.