What is the Arabic term for the pilgrimage to Makkah?

Answer Details

The Arabic term for the pilgrimage to Makkah is Hajj. It is the fifth pillar of Islam and is obligatory once in a lifetime for every Muslim who is physically and financially able to undertake it. The Hajj takes place annually during the month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic calendar.

The five pillars of Islam, each with its own Arabic term, are:

• Shahadah - the declaration of faith
• Salat - the five daily prayers
• Zakah - obligatory almsgiving
• Sawm - fasting during the month of Ramadan
• Hajj - the pilgrimage to Makkah

The other options in this question are themselves pillars of Islam but refer to different acts of worship. Salat is prayer, not pilgrimage. Zakah is the obligatory charity. Sawm is fasting. Being able to match each Arabic term to its correct pillar is essential for Islamic Studies examinations.