Wahhabism
Wahhabism is a rigorist interpretation of Sunni Islam with its roots in Saudi Arabia. Founded in the 18th century by the preacher Muhammad ibn Abd al-Wahhab, this religious movement advocates a return to the original practices of Islam. The alliance between ibn Abd al-Wahhab and Muhammad ibn Saud, the founder of the Saudi dynasty, was crucial in establishing Wahhabism as the dominant religious doctrine.
Wahhabism is characterized by strict adherence to Sharia (Islamic law) and rigorous implementation of Islamic rituals and practices.
In Saudi Arabia, Wahhabism has profoundly influenced the legal, educational and social system. The ulama, or religious scholars, who adhere to this doctrine, play a key role in Saudi society, advising the government on religious affairs and overseeing public religious practices.
Wahhabism evolves in a context of modernization and reform, seeking to strike a balance between tradition and progress.
Daily Religious Practices
Life in Saudi Arabia is punctuated by the five daily prayers, known as adhan, which ring out from the minarets of mosques. During these times, stores close temporarily and public life grinds to a halt to allow the faithful to pray. Friday, Islam's holy day, is marked by the Friday prayer, or Salat al-Jumu'ah, a collective prayer obligatory for Muslim men.
Islamic law
The legal system in Saudi Arabia is based on Sharia law, the Islamic law derived from the Koran and hadith (the sayings and deeds of the Prophet Muhammad). Sharia influences not only criminal and civil laws, but also aspects of family, marriage and inheritance law.
Influence on Society and Culture
Religion plays a central role in education and the media. Schools teach the Koran and Islamic jurisprudence, and television programs include religious broadcasts and sermons. Religious holidays, such as Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, are celebrated with great fervor and mark important moments in community life. Religious traditions and practices shape culture and society, offering visitors a deep immersion in one of the world's most influential religions.
Openness and Reform
Under the reign of King Salman and his son, Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, reforms have been undertaken as part of Vision 2030 to modernize the country while respecting Islamic traditions. This includes changes to women's guardianship laws and opening up the country to international tourism, while maintaining religious values.
The Hajj: compulsory pilgrimage
The Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is an obligation for any Muslim with the necessary physical and financial means. This sacred pilgrimage takes place every year between 8 and 12 Dhu al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar, and represents a crucial step in the spiritual life of believers. The rites of Hajj begin with entry into a state of Ihram, where pilgrims dress in two pieces of white cloth, symbolizing purity and equality before God. This is followed by a number of rituals, including the Tawaf, which consists in circling the Kaaba seven times, and the Sa'i, a journey of seven round trips between the hills of Safa and Marwa, recalling Hajar's desperate quest for water for her son Ishmael. The day of 9 Dhu al-Hijjah is marked by the station at Arafat, a time of intense prayer and supplication. Pilgrims then pass through Mina for the stoning of the steles, a symbolic act of rejection of evil, and conclude with the sacrifice of an animal, in commemoration of Abraham's sacrifice. The pilgrimage concludes with a final tour around the Kaaba, before the faithful leave Mecca.
For those wishing to undertake the Hajj, it is imperative to be well prepared. Reservations must be made several months in advance. Physical preparation is also essential, as the Hajj involves long walks in often high temperatures.
The Umrah: a voluntary pilgrimage
The Umrah, although not obligatory like the Hajj, is a recommended pilgrimage for Muslims and can be performed at any time of the year. Shorter and simpler than the Hajj, this pilgrimage nevertheless offers significant spiritual blessings. Umrah begins with entry into a state of Ihram, where pilgrims don special garments symbolizing their purity and devotion. Once in Mecca, the faithful perform the Tawaf, circling around the Kaaba, followed by the Sa'i, covering the distance between the hills of Safa and Marwa, in remembrance of the Hajar water quest. The ritual ends with the cutting or shaving of the hair, marking the end of the Umrah and symbolizing a new stage of purification for the believer.
To get the most out of this spiritual experience, take the time to meditate and pray at each stage, and avoid rushing, in order to maximize the spiritual benefits of Umrah. It's also a good idea to take advantage of the trip to visit other holy sites, such as Medina and the Prophet's Mosque, to further enrich the religious experience.
General advice for pilgrimages
- Vaccinations and health: Make sure you are up to date with all required vaccinations, especially against meningitis.
Bring a first-aid kit with basic medicines.
- Luggage: Travel light. Choose clothes suited to the warm climate and comfortable shoes for walking.
- Language: Learn a few Arabic words or use translation apps to communicate easily.
- Respect for customs: Dress modestly and respect local traditions. Saudi Arabia has strict rules regarding public behavior.
- Safety: Follow the instructions of the Saudi authorities, especially during mass gatherings during the Hajj.
- Connection: Keep your loved ones informed of your itinerary and whereabouts, especially in case of emergency.
