In class we discussed the term axis mundi. The axis mundi is the center of the world according to a particular religion. Discussing this, the first thing that popped in my mind was Mecca for Muslims. When they pray, they must always be facing in the direction of Mecca, which quite literally makes it a center of their world. It is also a tradition and Muslim custom to make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. Once at Mecca, there are numerous rituals to be completed, which ties into the axioms of sacred place. It is a significant place in Islamic culture, which pertains to the first axiom: it is not chosen, it chooses. It is ritualized by the people who view it as a sacred place which pertains to the second axiom. It can be tred upon without being "entered" because not everyone views Mecca as a sacred place which pertains to the third axiom. Finally, it is both a local and universal focal point for Muslims which is pertaining to the fourth axiom. One of my close friends is Muslim and he has told me of how him and his family practice the Muslim faith. I always find stories of Mecca very interesting.
04. 22.12
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