Hajj is the fifth and final Pillar of Islam, and it is a deeply spiritual journey that every Muslim who is physically and financially able must undertake at least once in their lifetime. Hajj is an act of worship, a way to seek closeness to Allah, and a manifestation of unity among Muslims, as people from all over the world come together in Mecca (Makkah) for this sacred journey.

The Purpose of Hajj

Hajj is a spiritual journey that purifies the soul, strengthens faith, and brings one closer to Allah. It is an opportunity to seek forgiveness, make supplications, and renew one’s commitment to Islam. It is a profound act of worship that allows Muslims to reflect on their relationship with Allah, humble themselves, and gain a deeper sense of gratitude and submission to Him.

Allah says in the Qur’an:

“And [Hajj is] a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who are able to undertake it.” (Surah Al-Imran, 3:97)

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

“Whoever performs Hajj for the sake of Allah and does not commit any obscenity or wrongdoing will return (free from sin) as on the day his mother bore him.” (Sahih Bukhari)

This Hadith highlights the immense spiritual benefit of Hajj – a complete purification from past sins.

Additional Resources:

Aljazeera: What is Hajj

Who Must Perform Hajj?

Hajj is an obligatory pilgrimage for all Muslims who meet the following conditions:

1. Muslim: Only Muslims are required to perform Hajj.
2. Adult: A person must be an adult (have reached the age of maturity).
3. Mentally and Physically Capable: A person must be in good health and physically capable of performing the rituals of Hajj, which can be physically demanding.
4. Financially Able: The person must have enough financial resources to cover the costs of the pilgrimage and the needs of their family during their absence. This includes travel, accommodation, food, and other related expenses.
5. No Restrictions: There should be no legal, physical, or other restrictions preventing a person from performing Hajj.

When does it happen?

Hajj is the annual pilgrimage to Mecca and occurs during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, which is the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Specifically, Hajj takes place between the 8th and 12th days of Dhul-Hijjah.

The exact dates vary each year since the Islamic calendar is lunar, so the timing shifts about 10-12 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.

The Steps of Hajj

Hajj consists of several essential rituals that take place over five days. Each step has deep spiritual significance, and performing them with devotion brings immense reward. Here is an outline of the key rituals involved in Hajj:

1. Ihram: The journey begins with entering the state of Ihram, which is a state of spiritual purity and devotion. Pilgrims wear simple white garments, free from any stitching or adornment, to symbolize equality before Allah. During this state, certain actions are prohibited, such as cutting hair or nails, engaging in marital relations, and hunting.
2. Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba): Upon arriving in Mecca, the first ritual is to perform Tawaf, which involves walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. This symbolizes the unity of the believers in the worship of the One God. It is a deeply spiritual act, where Muslims reflect on their purpose in life and renew their commitment to Allah.
3. Sa’i (Walking between Safa and Marwah): After Tawaf, pilgrims perform Sa’i, walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This commemorates the actions of Hagar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim, who ran between these two hills in search of water for her son Ismail.
4. Standing at Arafat (Wuquf): On the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims travel to the plain of Arafat, where they stand in prayer, making supplications and seeking forgiveness from Allah. This is the most important part of Hajj, and it is often referred to as the “Day of Forgiveness.” The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Hajj is Arafat.” (Sunan Ibn Majah) This day represents the ultimate opportunity for spiritual renewal.
5. Muzdalifah: After Arafat, pilgrims spend the night at Muzdalifah, a vast open area between Arafat and Mina. Pilgrims gather pebbles here for the next ritual, reflecting on their journey and making further supplications.
6. Ramy al-Jamarat (Stoning of the Devil): Pilgrims throw pebbles at three stone pillars in Mina, symbolizing the rejection of Satan’s temptation, as Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) did when he was tested by Allah. This ritual is a reminder to reject evil and stay firm in one’s faith.
7. Sacrifice (Qurbani): After the stoning, pilgrims offer a sacrifice (usually a goat, sheep, or cow) as an act of devotion and gratitude to Allah. This commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to Allah, before Allah provided a ram as a substitute.
8. Tawaf al-Ifadah: Pilgrims then return to Mecca to perform another Tawaf around the Kaaba. This Tawaf is called Tawaf al-Ifadah, and it signifies the completion of the major rituals of Hajj. It is a moment of joy and celebration.
9. Shaving or Cutting Hair: After the Tawaf al-Ifadah, male pilgrims shave their heads or cut a portion of their hair, while female pilgrims cut a small portion of their hair. This symbolizes purification and humility.
10. Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf): Before leaving Mecca, pilgrims perform the final Tawaf to say farewell to the sacred mosque and the Kaaba. This ritual serves as a reminder of the spiritual journey they have completed.

So how do you actually get there?

It can seem overwhelming at first, especially if you’re new to the religion or have never been to Mecca before. Don’t worry! There are plenty of travel organisations that will plan the whole trip and you can go in a group of Muslims and perform Hajj together.

There will be travel organisations all over the world that offer this service, so make sure you check within your local area/country. They will also guide you through the process of acquiring Visa and meeting all the travel requirements for going to Saudi Arabia. It’s best to opt for your local travel organisations as they’ll be better equip to assist you with travel requirements for your specific passport/country.

The Spiritual Significance of Hajj

• Forgiveness of Sins: Hajj is an opportunity for Muslims to seek forgiveness from Allah. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “Whoever performs Hajj and does not engage in foul speech or acts of disobedience will return free from sin as on the day his mother bore him.” (Sahih Bukhari) Hajj serves as a complete purification for those who perform it with sincerity and devotion.
• Unity of the Muslim Ummah: Hajj brings together Muslims from all over the world, regardless of their race, ethnicity, or social status. This unity reflects the equality of all believers before Allah and fosters a sense of brotherhood and global community.
• A Deep Reflection on Faith: The rituals of Hajj are a time for deep reflection on one’s life, faith, and submission to Allah. Pilgrims are reminded of the sacrifices of the Prophets, especially Ibrahim, and of their own devotion to Allah.

Encouragement to Perform Hajj

Hajj is not just a physical journey; it is a spiritual journey that brings immense reward. It is a chance to start anew, free from sin, and to strengthen your relationship with Allah. If you are able to perform Hajj, it is a blessing and a great privilege. Even if you are not yet able to undertake the journey, continue to pray for the opportunity and prepare yourself spiritually for the day when you can.

Remember, as Allah says in the Quran:

“And [due] to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House – for whoever is able to find thereto a way.” (Surah Al-Imran, 3:97)

May Allah grant you the opportunity to perform Hajj, purify your heart, and reward you with immense blessings in this world and the Hereafter.