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Palestinian schoolchildren simulate the annual Muslim pilgrimage of Hajj, at their school in Nablus
Palestinian schoolchildren simulate the annual Muslim pilgrimage of Hajj, at their school in Nablus Reuters

With the hajj under way, Muslims from around the world reflect on their religion and beliefs, and while Muslims performing the Hajj are mostly adults, the pilgrimage is often explained from a young age.

Hajj is an annual pilgrimage that Muslims must fulfil at least once in their life if financially and physically able.

It is a time for Muslims from different countries, nationalities, cultures, traditions to unite, stand together before their god and leave and economic and social divisions behind.

Most faithful see the Hajj as a way to reaffirm the lessons taught by the prophet Muhammad, who according to Islamic precepts stood on the plain Arafat and announced the proclamation of God: : "This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed my favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam, or submission to God, as your religion" (Quran 5:3).

The Hajj also resembles the re-enactment of the experiences of the Prophet Abraham and one of the most prominent principles during Hajj is the concept of equality.

During the days of the Hajj, Muslims dress in the same simple way, observe the same regulations and say the same prayers at the same time in the same manner and have to show humility and devotion.

Hajj is an event which is widely talked about in the Muslim world, and Muslim children are often told about it from a young age and involved in different ways.