The Influence of Animism on Islam

A black and white photograph depicting the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. The central focus is the Kaaba, a large cubic building draped in the dark Kiswah cloth. Around it, the open courtyard (Mataf) is filled with a vast number of pilgrims. In the lower foreground, dozens of long white cloths are spread out across the pavement. The architectural perimeter of the mosque, including its arched arcades and several tall minarets, frames the scene, with steep, barren hills visible in the far background under a clear sky.

THE CENTER OF THE MOSLEM FAITH

Pilgrims worshipping around the Kaaba: In the forefront of the picture may be seen white shrouds which are brought to Mecca, washed in zem-zem water and then dried to be taken back for the burial of the dead