Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. Muslims who are able, physically and financially, should make that journey once in a lifetime. Hajj can be a symbolic representation of what awaits us on the Day of Judgment when all creatures shall be gathered together. Watch this video for more reflections by Sheikh Waleed `Abdul-Kareem.
Allah is All-Merciful and Oft-Forgiving. Indeed, He may forgive all sins except for one: associating partners with Him. If a person dies in a state of polytheism, every hope for his or her salvation is surely dashed. However, Almighty Allah may forgive every sin, without exception, from a sincere penitent.