A socio-religious study of the impact of hajj on the Fulani Muslims in Kaporo-Rails, Conakry, Guinea: implications to Adventist mission

Abstract

This paper analyzes the social, religious, and cultural influence of the hajj among the Fulani Muslim community in Kaporo-Rails, Conakry, Guinea. Hajj is regarded as one of the five fundamental bases of Islam hence is an act of worship that alters individuals and groups in the manner of their experience. This study establishes how the Muslims in Kaporo-Rails among the Fulani people assimilate hajj knowledge in their day-to-day experiences and within the religious and social realms. This study employs a documentary search method, drawing information through library documents, as well as a literature review to obtain the narrative of the Hajj returnees and members of the community in which they reside. The work assesses the social–religious transformative factors in light of the pilgrimage; changes in individual spirituality, changes in leadership positions, and re-socialization to Islamic norms respectively. It also looks at the cultural impact including issues to do with the preservation of Fulani customs within the Islamic world the concern here being the way the Hajj as a transnational experience shapes Islamic practices. Furthermore, the research analyses the possible consequences of these changes for Christian-Muslim interactions and dialogue within Kaporo-Rails, which is known for its religious diverse society. It aims to establish how Hajj enhances cultural and religious tolerance, coexistence, and a conflict-free environment in a pluralistic world. From examining religious ties with culture as well as analyzing social relationships, this endeavor contributes relevant findings for topics related to religious pilgrimages and their impact on the cohesion of societies and interfaith relations. It also emphasizes the value for social progress of fulfilling the Hajj, as well as the problem of cultural conformity to globalization. It is believed that the results of this study will be useful for the Missionaries, religious leaders, and other development practitioners who wish to attach the spiritual and cultural capital of the Hajj for social benefits, improved inter-faith relations, and orderly and sustainable Kaporo-Rails and similar other communities’ development.