A view of Haram, where the Kaaba is located, in the holy city of Mecca,
during sunset February 18, 2002 as about two million Muslim pilgrims
gather for their haj pilgrimage which climaxes on Thursday. The Haj is
one of a Muslim's duties, as described in the five pillars of Islam, to
go on a haj at least once during his or her lifetime, if affordable.
Prophet Muhammad had said that a person who performs haj properly will
return as a newly born baby, free of all sins. REUTERS/Bazuki Muhammad

BM/WS