| − | The term Mecca has become synonomous with any large gathering for a specific purpose, common cause, or interest, such as "Oshkosh has become the Mecca of aviation enthusiasts." However, Christians and American political conservatives usually refrain from such terminology so as to not legitimize the ancient Islamic tradition. | + | The term Mecca has become synonymous with any large gathering for a specific purpose, common cause, or interest, such as "Oshkosh has become the Mecca of aviation enthusiasts." However, Christians and American political conservatives usually refrain from such terminology so as to not legitimize the ancient Islamic tradition. |