Meer Hassan Ali, B.: Observations on the Mussulmauns of India: descriptive of their manners, customs, habits, and religious opinions ; made during a twelve years residence in their immediate Society (Band 1) (London, 1832)

206 THE PILGRIMAGE TO MECCA.

LETTER IX.

The Hadje (Pilgrimage to Mecca).—Commanded to be
performed by Mahumud.—Eagerness of both sexes to
visit the Prophet's tomb.—Qualifications requisite for the
undertaking.—Different routes from India to Mecca.'—■
Duties of the pilgrims at the Holy House.—Mecca and
its environs.—Place of Abraham.—The Bedouins.—■
Anecdote of a devotee and two pilgrims.—A Bedouin
Arab, and the travellers to Mecca.—The Kaabah (Holy
House).—Superstitious regard to a chain suspended
there.—Account of the gold water-spout.—Tax levied
on pilgrims visiting the tomb of Mahumud by the Sheruff
of Mecca.—Sacred visit to the tombs of Ali, Hasan, and

, Hosein.—The importance attached to this duty.—-Travel-
lers annoyed by the Arabs.—An instance recorded.—The
Nudghiff Usheruff.—Anecdotes of Syaad Harshim.

" The Pilgrimage to Mecca " is commanded
by Mahumud to his followers at least once
during their lifetime, provided the obstacles are
not insurmountable. Indulgences are made
for the sick, or individual poverty. All who