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Did you know that the modern check comes from the Arabic saqq, a written vow to pay for goods when they were delivered, to avoid money having to be transported across dangerous terrain? In the 9th century, a Muslim businessman could cash a check in China drawn on his bank in Baghdad. This innovative idea, and many other everyday modern conveniences originated in the Muslim world. Discover the forgotten history of this and many other inventions at 1001Inventions.com.

Source: article in The Independent about Muslim inventions.

Sharing a few beautiful pictures and some articles on this year’s annual pilgrimage to Makkah, known as “hajj”. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, and is a rite that is required of all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of it. The rituals of hajj bring together Muslims from around the world in worship of God, who is called “Allah” in Arabic. Through these actions we are also reminded of Abraham (known as “Ibrahim” in Arabic), who built the first house of worship to Allah, which is the Kaaba in Makkah. The Kaaba is a square stone structure covered with a black cloth. It is a direction point for Muslims worldwide when they pray, and to walk around this house of worship is part of the rituals of hajj. The rite of walking around the Kaaba is one of the well-known images of hajj.

• View the Boston Globe’s gallery of hajj images
• Read an article about one couple’s hajj journey
• Watch a news clip about hajj