The cost of commercialisation

The recent series of calamities during Hajj serve to remind us that too much of commercialism in any sphere is never in anyone’s best interests. Bigger isn’t always better. The pitfalls of human arrogance are vast and people believe that by building monuments for their wealth and self-perceived greatness, they are showing the world their importance, but in truth they are just illustrating how far removed we have become from the true meaning of our religion.

The journey and struggle that were once a testament to religious devotion now, after decades of construction, renovation and upgrades, no longer seem a test of one’s faith. Instead, they have become a test of wealth for some. The wealthier you are, the more times you can perform Hajj. The wealthier you are, the easier it will be for you to perform Hajj.

By building five star hotels, we aren’t merely providing a comfortable environment to the wealthier followers of Islam, we’re creating a divide. The rich live in lavish opulence and have a security protocol at their disposal while visiting a place where every Muslim is meant to be equal.

Despite their differences in station, there is meant to be no difference between any two persons while performing Hajj. Everyone wears the same clothes and performs the same rituals. But in reality, people always find a way to create differences. We perform Hajj at what is meant to be a place of simplicity and worship, a place where Muslims can practice their faith in peace. However, the last month saw pilgrims being at risk of death by falling cranes, fires and stampedes. Muslims preach of the peaceful nature of Islam, so why don’t the Muslims performing Hajj also do so in a peaceful manner? Why, instead, do they resort to pushing and shoving? When I think of Hajj I think of peace and safety, but what I see on the news and hear from people who went for Hajj seem to contradict that. If we practice what we preach, we could bring that sense of calm serenity back.

Published in The Express Tribune, October 6^th, 2015.