This book reframes pilgrimage as a fundamental aspect of modern cultural mobility, extending beyond traditional religious travel. The contributors explore the multifaceted meanings of pilgrimage across Christian, Mormon, Hindu, Islamic, and Sufi traditions, as well as in secular contexts. They propose a new theoretical framework for understanding pilgrimage as voluntary displacement, a concept crucial for constructing cultural meaning in an increasingly mobile world. The work posits pilgrimage as a potent force, operating on both global economic and individual levels, deeply intertwined with economic and cultural systems.

The book is presented as a significant academic contribution, offering a novel theoretical perspective on pilgrimage. It aims to broaden the understanding of sacred travel by integrating it into broader discussions of cultural mobility and voluntary displacement in the 21st century. The collection of essays suggests a comprehensive approach, covering diverse religious and secular traditions. The work is positioned to be of interest to scholars and students in religious studies, sociology, and cultural anthropology.