If you plan on traveling for Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca) in the near future, these books and multimedia presentations are handy guides. The rituals of Hajj are complex, the schedule very demanding, and easy-to-read guides in English difficult to find. We've done the searching for you -- here are our picks for the best Hajj manuals in English.
1. A Manual of Hajj and Umrah, by Riaz Ahmed Akhtar
This Hajj manual, published in 2003, guides the reader step-by-step with numerous photographs, illustrations, and practical tips for various possible scenarios often encountered during the Hajj. The author is a medical doctor in Illinois who has accompanied and guided Hajj travel groups for several years.2. Handbook for Hajj and Umrah, by Sarwar Raz Alam
This practical and helpful guide covers a complex subject in a straightforward, concise and comprehensive manner. The book includes charts, maps, and diagrams to help you prepare for both your stay in Saudi Arabia and the pilgrimage itself. The rites of Hajj and Umrah are clearly explained, and relevant prayers and supplications are provided in both Arabic and English.3. Hajj & Umrah From A to Z, by Mamdouh N. Mohamed
Easy-to-navigate guide to Hajj includes glossary, descriptions of rituals, and many illustrations.
4. Hajj & Umra How-To CD Rom
A comprehensive CD-Rom teaching all about the Hajj and Umra pilgrimages. Includes interactive presentations of the steps of Hajj and Umra, pilgrimage timetables, maps, pictures, film clips, and animation. Multilingual interfaces (English, Malay, Indonesian, Turkish, and Arabic).5. Staying Healthy On Hajj & Umrah, by A. H. Luqman
This unique guide gives pilgrims advice on avoiding illness and aggravation of chronic medical problems while on the pilgrimage to Makkah and Madinah. Written by a travel medicine physician and family nurse practitioner who have themselves performed the Hajj, the guide includes photographs, lists of what to bring, and prevention strategies.6. Makkah and Madinah PopOut Map
Once you arrive in Saudi Arabia, most street maps (when you *can* find them) will be written in Arabic. This compact street map for the cities of Makkah and Madinah offers Arabic and English throughout (map, legend, and index). Cover photography is by renowned Muslim photographer Peter Sanders.What are your favorite Hajj manuals?
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