Research On The Hajj Ritual And The Change Of The Social Role

As a religious ritual, Hajj is a special cultural phenomenon in Muslim society. This article portrays the overall process of Hajj based on a Muslim society example; analyzes the social transformation of Muslims during the three stages of the pilgrimage, the Separation, the Edge and the polymerization by deploying Arnold van Gennep’s Rites de Passage Theory; and interprets Muslims’ realization and practice of their new roles after the social transformation brought by Hajj under the frame of Social Role Theory. This study finds out that pilgrimage is a holy experience both physically and spiritually for every Muslim and is also a crucial path for them to complete the transformation of social roles. Pilgrimage brings Muslims changes in social identities and status, making them transform from a Muslim to a Hajj. Through study and practice of their new roles, Hajj will better play their roles in Muslim societies and play an active part in promoting group cohesion, maintaining social steadiness and social integration, which is significant for spreading Muslim culture and civilization.