مجلة السراج في التربية وقضايا المجتمع
Volume 9, Numéro 1, Pages 103-116
2025-03-31

When Rituals Leave Their Place: Anthropology Of The Transition From Traditional Pilgrimage To Virtual Pilgrimage.

Authors : Sahli Salim .

Abstract

This article seeks to approach virtual Hajj as a new ritual where physical presence is absent, and virtual presence takes center stage. Our analysis and reflections are framed within our field of study (anthropology), aiming to observe the ritualistic transformations of Hajj. With the current phenomenon known as the "digital revolution," it has become possible to simulate the rituals and practices of Hajj through the metaversal reality. Thanks to augmented reality, Technology has allowed Muslims—and even non-Muslims—to explore these rituals without physically traveling to Mecca. This virtual experience offers an alternative for those unable to perform the pilgrimage due to various obstacles, most notably health and financial constraints. This transformation raises questions about the authenticity and spirituality of the traditional Hajj experience, its impact on religious practices, and how it reshapes our understanding of modern rituals and worship.

Keywords

Virtual Pilgrimage, Digital Religious Rituals,Technology and Worship,Virtual Reality, Spiritual Digital Experience.