Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, a mandatory religious duty for Muslims who are physically and financially able to undertake it. This pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca is performed annually during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. Hajj in Islam symbolizes the submission to Allah (SWT) and commemorates the actions of the Prophet Ibrahim (PBUH) and his family.
Allah (SWT) has commanded Muslims to perform the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj, as stated in the Holy Qur’an:
“You will enter the Sacred Masjid, God willing, perfectly secure, and you will cut your hair or shorten it (as you fulfil the pilgrimage rituals) there. You will not have any fear. Since He knew what you did not know, He has coupled this with an immediate victory.”
Qur’an | Surah Al-Fath | 48:27
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Purpose of Hajj in Islam
The main goal of Hajj is to seek forgiveness for sins, with the pilgrims performing this journey in humble attire, seeking closeness to Allah (SWT). The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that those who perform Hajj properly return free of sin, like a newborn.
Hajj also symbolizes the unity and equality of Muslims from all backgrounds. Dressed in the same simple white garment, pilgrims gather to worship, emphasizing that all are equal in the eyes of Allah Almighty.
The rituals commemorate the story of Prophet Abraham (PBUH) and his family. Pilgrims walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa, retracing the steps of Hagar in her search for water for her son Ishmael. Hajj also honors Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son, which is remembered through the tradition of sacrificing an animal, with the meat given to those in need.
The Timing of Hajj
Hajj occurs during the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar, Dhul-Hijjah, lasting for five days. Pilgrims often arrive a week early to prepare and may stay longer to visit Prophet Muhammad’s mosque in Medina.
Hajj in Islam: Steps to Perform
1. Ihram (State of Purity)
Before entering Mecca, pilgrims assume the state of Ihram, which includes specific clothing (white garments for men and modest dress for women) and abstaining from certain activities like anger and disputes. Pilgrims also declare their intention (niyyah) to perform Hajj.
2. Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba)
Upon reaching the Masjid al-Haram, pilgrims perform Tawaf by circling the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction, starting at the Black Stone. This act signifies the unity of believers worshiping the one God.
3. Sa’i (Running between Safa and Marwah)
After Tawaf, pilgrims perform Sa’i, walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, retracing the steps of Hagar (Ibrahim’s wife) as she searched for water for her son Ismail.
4. Day of Arafat
On the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, pilgrims travel to the plain of Arafat and spend the day in prayer and reflection, seeking Allah’s mercy. Standing on the Mount of Mercy (Jabal al-Rahmah) is the most significant part of Hajj.
5. Muzdalifah
After sunset on the day of Arafat, pilgrims travel to Muzdalifah, where they collect pebbles and spend the night in prayer under the open sky.
6. Ramy al-Jamarat (Stoning of the Devil)
On the 10th, 11th, and 12th day of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims throw seven stones at the largest of three pillars (Jamarat), symbolizing the rejection of evil, as Ibrahim did when tempted by Satan.
7. Sacrifice/ Nahr (Qurbani)
Following the stoning ritual, on 12th Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims offer a sacrifice of an animal (usually a sheep or goat), symbolizing Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah’s command.
8. Tawaf al-Ifadah
Pilgrims return to the Kaaba to perform another Tawaf, called Tawaf al-Ifadah, which is an essential part of Hajj. It can be done on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah or in the following days.
9. Shaving/ Cutting Hair
Male pilgrims shave their heads, while female pilgrims cut a small portion of their hair to symbolize purification and the end of the state of Ihram.
10. Final Days at Mina and Stoning
Pilgrims spend the next two or three days in Mina, repeating the stoning of the three pillars (Jamarat al-Aqaba) each day, before returning to Mecca.
11. Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf)
Before leaving Mecca, pilgrims perform the farewell Tawaf, circling the Kaaba one final time, marking the end of their pilgrimage.
These are the basic rituals involved in completing Hajj.
Conclusion: Hajj in Islam
Hajj is a profound spiritual journey that unites Muslims from around the world in worship and reflection. By retracing the steps of Prophet Abraham (PBUH) and his family, pilgrims seek closeness to God, forgiveness for sins, and a deeper understanding of their faith.
The simplicity of the rituals, the humility of the Ihram, and the unity of believers during this sacred time highlight the core values of Islam—equality, devotion, and compassion. For those blessed with the opportunity to perform Hajj, it is a life-changing experience that strengthens their connection to God and their global Muslim community.
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