This is a beautiful representation of the Hajj with pictures, calligraphy, maps and accompanying explanatory text. The presentation is simple but elegant. Viewers are able to click through slides sequentially and find maps and text, which help to explain the significance of the journey and its main rites.

Judicious use of Qur'anic verses and Prophetic traditions add to the sense of enjoyment. Furthermore, there are useful links to other religious sections on the site including a presentation on Ramadan.

The Guardian's initiative is very welcome and one leaves the site with a recognition that positive effort is being made from at least sections of the media to understand and engage with Britain's faith communities.

But this is in itself insufficient and we, as a community, need to do much more to share the central tenants and rites of our faith. Perhaps one approach would be for a publishing house to produce a comprehensive and authentic guide to Hajj on DVD which could act as a valuable information resource and will also address very practical issues facing prospective pilgrims such as making appropriate travel and accommodation arrangements and the importance of obtaining preventative medical care.

Well done, The Guardian!

Tahseen Sheikh

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