The prayers are mind-numbingly repetitive. There is no room for the slightest variation. Every ceremonial motion and every word is specific and methodic, stripping the ummah (the community of Muslims) of any individuality. Get in line. Follow the herd. No distractions. During hajj, the holy pilgrimage to Mecca, everyone is actually stripped of their individual clothing, and all the hajjis dress alike in simple white cloth.
