Final answer:
A Muslim who is able and resourced is expected to make the pilgrimage, known as the hajj, to Mecca once in their lifetime. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, involving ritual acts around the sacred Ka'aba in the Masjid al-Haram.
Step-by-step explanation:
Assuming one is physically and financially able, a Muslim is expected to make the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime. This pilgrimage, known as the hajj, is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a cornerstone of Muslim practice. During the hajj, participants engage in various rituals such as circling the Ka'aba, performing prayers, and partaking in other prescribed acts of faith. The Ka'aba represents the most sacred place in Islam and is located in the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca, Saudi Arabia.
The pilgrimage to Mecca is not only a journey but also a significant spiritual quest for Muslims, symbolizing unity and a person's devotion to Allah. While the primary event occurs during the last month of the Islamic calendar, Muslims can also undertake a lesser pilgrimage known as umra at other times, which is not equivalent to completing the hajj. Pilgrimages like the hajj have been a part of religious practices across cultures, marking the dedication of the faithful to their beliefs and sacred spaces.