Inner Peace
Hajj rituals fill a Muslim’s heart with inner peace and tranquilly. Inner peace is one of the significant blessings and fruits of hajj. Various rituals of hajj purify one’s body and soul. Hajj is all about the remembrance of Allah (dhikr), repentance, du`aa’, seeking Allah’s forgiveness, devotion, and acquiring refined morals and values, which all lead to inner peace.
From the very beginning of the hajj trip, a Muslim declares “labayka Allahumma hajjan (O Allah, I wholeheartedly resolve to offer hajj only for Your Sake)”. When a pilgrim departs his homeland, he leaves his family and money in Allah’s Trust. This implants in one’s heart true reliance on Allah. When the pilgrim puts off his normal clothes and wears the clothes of iharm, he then remembers that one day he will leave this world with nothing, and that what counts are only good deeds. Throughout the hajj trip, a Muslim engages himself in much dhikr and reflection on Allah’s creation. This meaning is clear in the following Qur’anic verses on hajj and its rituals:
"Hajj is (in) the well known months, and whoever is minded to perform hajj therein (let him remember that) there is (to be) no lewdness nor abuse nor angry conversation in hajj. And whatsoever good you do Allah knows it. So make provision for yourselves (here after); for the best provision is to ward off evil. Therefore keep your duty unto Me, O men of understanding. It is no sin for you that you seek the bounty of your Lord (by trading). But, when you press on in the multitude from `Arafat, remember Allah by the sacred monument. Remember Him as He has guided you, although before you were of those astray. Then hasten onward from the place whence the multitude hasten onward, and ask forgiveness of Allah. Lo! Allah is Forgiving, Merciful. And when ye have completed your devotions, then remember Allah as you remember your fathers or with a more lively remembrance." (Al-Baqarah 2: 197-200)
On carrying out hajj rituals, a Muslim hopes to have all his sins forgiven, and to return home as free of sins as a newly-born baby. Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Whoever performs Hajj and stays away from lewdness, wrangling, and obscenities will return home like a newborn." (Al-Bukhari) After hajj, a Muslim enjoys inner peace and looks forward to meeting Allah in Paradise. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, "(The performance of) `Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed (between it and the previous one). And the reward of Hajj mabrur (the one accepted by Allah) is nothing except Paradise." (Al-Bukhari)
Hajj mabrur leads to inner peace, which is manifested outwardly in the values of justice, honesty, respect, generosity, kindness, forgiveness, mercy, and empathy.
Peace Among Muslims
Millions of Muslims—with different backgrounds, languages, races, and juristic schools—offer hajj, facing a single qiblah (the Ka`bah), performing the same rituals, and wearing similar clothes. A pilgrim should not harm any living thing, and is not allowed to quarrel or fight with anything or anyone. The state of ihram teaches a Muslim to be peaceful and forgiving, in spite of being inevitably pushed and shoved by some of the millions of people around him.
A wonderful message of hajj is that a Muslim should live in peace with his brothers in humanity, even if they are of different faiths.
Hajj teaches a Muslim to live in peace with his fellow Muslim brothers and sisters irrespective of their different views or races. In his farewell hajj, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) declared a Muslim’s life, money, and honor are as inviolable. `Ikrimah reported: Ibn `Abbas said: "Allah's Messenger delivered a sermon on the Day of Nahr (`Eid Al-Adha), and said, 'O people! (Tell me) what is the day today?' The people replied, 'It is the forbidden (sacred) day.' He asked again, 'What town is this?' They replied, 'It is the forbidden (Sacred) town.' He asked, 'Which month is this?' They replied, 'It is the forbidden (Sacred) month.' He said, 'No doubt! Your blood, your properties, and your honor are sacred to one another like the sanctity of this day of yours, in this (sacred) town (Makkah) of yours, in this month of yours.' The Prophet repeated his statement again and again. After that he raised his head and said, 'O Allah! Haven't I conveyed (Your Message) to them'. Haven't I conveyed Your Message to them?' "Ibn `Abbas added, "By Him in Whose Hand my soul is, the following was his will (the Prophet's will) to his followers: "It is incumbent upon those who are present to convey this information to those who are absent Beware don't renegade (as) disbelievers (turn into infidels) after me, striking the necks (cutting the throats) of one another.'" (Al-Bukhari)
The Prophet’s words “O Allah! Haven't I conveyed (Your Message) to them” clearly indicate that the Prophet’s message he conveyed in his farewell hajj, which is still followed today in the rituals of hajj, promote peace.
During the hajj rituals, a Muslim respects and accepts the opinions of different juristic schools. He should never fight or quarrel with anyone, even those who are different from him in stances and conduct. He lives in peace, leaves others enjoy peace, and trains himself to be peaceful and forgiving. Thus, respect, mercy, kindness, and tolerance prevail and dominate the hajj rituals.
On returning back home, a Muslim will be well trained on how to live in peace with members of his community who may differ with him in juristic opinions, language, race, etc. A Muslim will be peaceful towards all his neighbors, friends, co-workers, and members of the community.
Peaceful Co-Existence with Non-Muslims
A wonderful message of hajj is that a Muslim should live in peace with his brothers in humanity, even if they are of different faiths. In his farewell sermon in hajj, Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) maintained that all humans are brothers in humanity. He (peace be on him) said, “O people! Verily, your Lord is one and your father is one. There is no superiority for an Arab over a non-Arab and for a non-Arab over an Arab; nor for red over the black nor for the black over the red except in piety. Verily, the noblest among you is he who is the most pious.” (Al-Bayhaqi, Shu`ab Al-Iman)
In hajj, a pilgrim meets and peacefully deals with people from different languages, ethnicities, cultural backgrounds, and schools; so he trains himself to accept plurality and diversity. He will be open to live in peace and co-exist with people of different faiths and cooperate with them for the betterment of their community and the whole world. He will adhere to the Qur’anic instructions, “ …But help you one another unto righteousness and pious duty. Help not one another unto sin and transgression, but keep your duty to Allah. Lo! Allah is severe in punishment." (Al-Ma’idah 5: 2)
Peace with the Environment
In hajj, it is prohibited for a Muslim, while in the state of ihram, to hunt, hurt, injure or kill a free animal, including domesticated animals, whether in the Haram (Sacred masjid) area or outside, and whether it is hunted for eating or not. It is absolutely prohibited to hunt in the Haram even if the hunter is not in the state of ihram. It is also impermissible for any person to cut or pull out from roots, trees, plants or other kinds of vegetation including thorny bushes, etc., growing in the sacred precincts of Makkah.
In the Qur’an, we read, “O ye who believe! Kill no wild game while ye are on the pilgrimage.” (Al-Ma’idah 5: 95) Ibn `Abbas reported: Prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) said, “Allah made Makkah a sanctuary and it was neither permitted for anyone before, nor will it be permitted for anyone after me (to fight in it). . . . None is allowed to uproot its thorny shrubs or to cut down its trees or to chase its game or to pick up its luqata (lost objects) except by a person who would announce it publicly." (Al-Bukhari)
This way, a Muslim is trained on how to preserve the environment and natural resources. Islam does not only care about humans, but it also cares about the environment and natural resources. A Muslim cannot pollute the environment, destroy natural resources, or harm any creature including animals, birds, plants, etc.
Given the above, it becomes crystal clear that “peace” for all is one of the significant universal messages of hajj. If people grasp and apply this message, the world will enjoy real peace, security, wellbeing, and prosperity.
Showing posts with label Muhammed. Show all posts
Showing posts with label Muhammed. Show all posts
October 18, 2011
The Best Type of Hajj
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
The types of Hajj are as follows:
Tamattu`: At or before reaching the miqat, the person enters into Ihram for `Umrah only. He performs `Umrah first, then goes out of Ihram until 8 Dhul-Hijjah, when he enters into Ihram again for Hajj. This is the most common type for people from outside ofSaudiArabia.
Qiran: The person enters into Ihram for both `Umrah and Hajj, and does not go out of Ihram until the Day of Sacrifice (`Eid al-Ad-ha) at Mina. In this type of Hajj, one has to stick to the restrictions of Ihram for a longer period of time.
Ifrad: The person enters into Ihram only for the Hajj and takes it off only on the Day of Sacrifice.
In response to your question, Dr. Rif`at Fawzi, professor of Shari`ah at Cairo University , states:
In the first place, it should be noted that you have already performed the obligatory `Umrah [other scholars view `Umrah as non-obligatory], meaning that what is due on you now is only Hajj. If you do another `Umrah with this Hajj, it will be a voluntary, not an obligatory one.
As for which is the best type of Hajj (Ifrad, Tamattu` or Qiran), there is a difference of opinion among scholars in this regard. Some say that Tamattu` and Qiran are better since they require more efforts than the Ifrad, while other scholars say that Ifrad is better since the person will be free to perform Hajj with concentration.
Nevertheless, since the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was in favor of the three, all of them are virtuous and the person will be given great reward of Hajj mabrur, in sha’ Allah, once he purifies his intention and dedicates it for the Sake of Allah. Keep in mind that some scholars say that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) offered Ifrad Hajj, while others say that he offered Tamattu` Hajj.
Allah Almighty knows best.
The types of Hajj are as follows:
Tamattu`: At or before reaching the miqat, the person enters into Ihram for `Umrah only. He performs `Umrah first, then goes out of Ihram until 8 Dhul-Hijjah, when he enters into Ihram again for Hajj. This is the most common type for people from outside ofSaudiArabia.
Qiran: The person enters into Ihram for both `Umrah and Hajj, and does not go out of Ihram until the Day of Sacrifice (`Eid al-Ad-ha) at Mina. In this type of Hajj, one has to stick to the restrictions of Ihram for a longer period of time.
Ifrad: The person enters into Ihram only for the Hajj and takes it off only on the Day of Sacrifice.
In response to your question, Dr. Rif`at Fawzi, professor of Shari`ah at Cairo University , states:
In the first place, it should be noted that you have already performed the obligatory `Umrah [other scholars view `Umrah as non-obligatory], meaning that what is due on you now is only Hajj. If you do another `Umrah with this Hajj, it will be a voluntary, not an obligatory one.
As for which is the best type of Hajj (Ifrad, Tamattu` or Qiran), there is a difference of opinion among scholars in this regard. Some say that Tamattu` and Qiran are better since they require more efforts than the Ifrad, while other scholars say that Ifrad is better since the person will be free to perform Hajj with concentration.
Nevertheless, since the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) was in favor of the three, all of them are virtuous and the person will be given great reward of Hajj mabrur, in sha’ Allah, once he purifies his intention and dedicates it for the Sake of Allah. Keep in mind that some scholars say that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) offered Ifrad Hajj, while others say that he offered Tamattu` Hajj.
Allah Almighty knows best.
Tips to Maximize Hajj Benefits
Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states,
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. It is the peak and culmination of the acts of worship. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whoever performs the rites of Hajj, while having refrained from acts of lewdness, obscenity and wrangling, will return home like a new born (i.e., free from all sins).” He (peace and blessings be upon him) also said, “A virtuous Hajj entails no other reward than Paradise.”
The question, however, remains: What is meant by a virtuous Hajj?
The answer is not hard to find when we closely peruse the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) as well as the wise instructions of the scholars and imams.
First of all, a virtuous Hajj is that which fulfills two important conditions:
One, it must be done in accordance with the prescribed way, and
Two,it must be done with a sincere intention to please Allah, the most Exalted and Glorious.
In order to fulfill the first condition, while performing Hajj, the Muslim must take care to conform to the form and manner of Hajj as taught by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) who reminded us during his farewell Hajj, “Learn your Hajj rites from me.”
It is not difficult to learn the correct form of Hajj: It can be done either by following the teachings of any of the acceptable Schools of Jurisprudence, or by close study of the Qur’an and Sunnah under a qualified teacher. By failing to do so, the person will not fulfill the Hajj rites as prescribed by Almighty Allah and His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), for it is important to remember that in acts of worship, we must never mix our personal opinions with religion.
Once a person has learned the basics of Hajj, it is also important for him—whenever he/she faces issues that are not clear—to seek the opinion of those who have been endowed with knowledge. The Muslim must never act based solely on his/her own personal opinions, without sufficient knowledge.
Coming to the issue of sound intention, it is important to know that while the form of Hajj is important, equally, if not more important is the spirit of Hajj. If a person is not keen to guard the spirit of Hajj, it becomes nothing more than empty rituals devoid of any deep meaning. It is only by diligently preserving the spirit of Hajj that the Muslim can hope to gain the maximum benefits from performing it.
With this purpose in mind, let us list some of the most important points to keep in mind before embarking on the Hajj journey as well as during the course of Hajj.
1) The Muslim who is planning to undertake Hajj should make sure that the fare and expenses of Hajj have been earned through lawful sources of income, free from all taints of haram.A Hajj funded through unlawful means merits no reward.
2) It is equally important to make sure that he undertakes the journey in as clean a state as possible. In order to achieve this, the Muslim should pay off his debts, seek forgiveness from those whom he may have offended or hurt, and reconcile with those who have strained relations. While it is important to reconcile with everyone, it is even more crucial to reconcile with his own close blood relations such as parents, brothers, sisters, uncles and aunts, from both the paternal and maternal sides of the family. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “One who severs blood relations cannot hope to enter Paradise.” Therefore, by failing to make up with his blood relations prior to performing Hajj, he is depriving himself of the true rewards of Hajj.
3) The Muslim who is leaving behind dependents must ensure that they are provided for and taken care of, during his absence.
4) The Muslim should leave a will stating his obligations and liabilities towards others and how to discharge of them in case of being unable to return.
5) It is a true sign of piety to advise his family members who are left behind to be mindful of Almighty Allah and to observe the path of righteousness.
6) The Muslim should also try as much as possible to travel in the company of those who are knowledgeable and pious. This is because the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said that a Muslim should take care of the company he keeps as they have either a beneficial or harmful influence on him. By keeping the company of the righteous, the Muslim can hope to be inspired and enlightened both spiritually and morally, thus, hoping to reap the full benefits of Hajj.
7) The Muslim should also be diligent in the performance of dhikr (remembrance of Allah) before, during and after returning from Hajj. There are prescribed du`aa’ to be recited before and during the journey as well as while performing the various rites of Hajj. Moreover, the Muslim should also try to make his tongue and heart always supple with dhikr. He may be inspired to do this by remembering that dhikr of Allah is the true spirit of Hajj.
8) The Muslim can never exaggerate the importance of nurturing patience and tolerance both during the journey as well as while performing the rites of Hajj. Doing everything he can to help others, or at least sparing others of his harm should be the consistent policy to follow.
9) Finally, the Muslim should fill his heart with true love for Almighty Allah and His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) and perform all the rites of Hajj while being attentive to their inner meanings, with a sense of awe and reverence. Also, he should always remember the Prophetic saying, “Show mercy to others if you wish to receive Allah’s mercy.”
May Allah accept our acts of worship, and may He grace us with His vision on the Day Resurrection, amen.
Allah Almighty knows best.
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. It is the peak and culmination of the acts of worship. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whoever performs the rites of Hajj, while having refrained from acts of lewdness, obscenity and wrangling, will return home like a new born (i.e., free from all sins).” He (peace and blessings be upon him) also said, “A virtuous Hajj entails no other reward than Paradise.”
The question, however, remains: What is meant by a virtuous Hajj?
The answer is not hard to find when we closely peruse the teachings of the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) as well as the wise instructions of the scholars and imams.
First of all, a virtuous Hajj is that which fulfills two important conditions:
One, it must be done in accordance with the prescribed way, and
Two,it must be done with a sincere intention to please Allah, the most Exalted and Glorious.
In order to fulfill the first condition, while performing Hajj, the Muslim must take care to conform to the form and manner of Hajj as taught by the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) who reminded us during his farewell Hajj, “Learn your Hajj rites from me.”
It is not difficult to learn the correct form of Hajj: It can be done either by following the teachings of any of the acceptable Schools of Jurisprudence, or by close study of the Qur’an and Sunnah under a qualified teacher. By failing to do so, the person will not fulfill the Hajj rites as prescribed by Almighty Allah and His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him), for it is important to remember that in acts of worship, we must never mix our personal opinions with religion.
Once a person has learned the basics of Hajj, it is also important for him—whenever he/she faces issues that are not clear—to seek the opinion of those who have been endowed with knowledge. The Muslim must never act based solely on his/her own personal opinions, without sufficient knowledge.
Coming to the issue of sound intention, it is important to know that while the form of Hajj is important, equally, if not more important is the spirit of Hajj. If a person is not keen to guard the spirit of Hajj, it becomes nothing more than empty rituals devoid of any deep meaning. It is only by diligently preserving the spirit of Hajj that the Muslim can hope to gain the maximum benefits from performing it.
With this purpose in mind, let us list some of the most important points to keep in mind before embarking on the Hajj journey as well as during the course of Hajj.
1) The Muslim who is planning to undertake Hajj should make sure that the fare and expenses of Hajj have been earned through lawful sources of income, free from all taints of haram.A Hajj funded through unlawful means merits no reward.
2) It is equally important to make sure that he undertakes the journey in as clean a state as possible. In order to achieve this, the Muslim should pay off his debts, seek forgiveness from those whom he may have offended or hurt, and reconcile with those who have strained relations. While it is important to reconcile with everyone, it is even more crucial to reconcile with his own close blood relations such as parents, brothers, sisters, uncles and aunts, from both the paternal and maternal sides of the family. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “One who severs blood relations cannot hope to enter Paradise.” Therefore, by failing to make up with his blood relations prior to performing Hajj, he is depriving himself of the true rewards of Hajj.
3) The Muslim who is leaving behind dependents must ensure that they are provided for and taken care of, during his absence.
4) The Muslim should leave a will stating his obligations and liabilities towards others and how to discharge of them in case of being unable to return.
5) It is a true sign of piety to advise his family members who are left behind to be mindful of Almighty Allah and to observe the path of righteousness.
6) The Muslim should also try as much as possible to travel in the company of those who are knowledgeable and pious. This is because the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said that a Muslim should take care of the company he keeps as they have either a beneficial or harmful influence on him. By keeping the company of the righteous, the Muslim can hope to be inspired and enlightened both spiritually and morally, thus, hoping to reap the full benefits of Hajj.
7) The Muslim should also be diligent in the performance of dhikr (remembrance of Allah) before, during and after returning from Hajj. There are prescribed du`aa’ to be recited before and during the journey as well as while performing the various rites of Hajj. Moreover, the Muslim should also try to make his tongue and heart always supple with dhikr. He may be inspired to do this by remembering that dhikr of Allah is the true spirit of Hajj.
8) The Muslim can never exaggerate the importance of nurturing patience and tolerance both during the journey as well as while performing the rites of Hajj. Doing everything he can to help others, or at least sparing others of his harm should be the consistent policy to follow.
9) Finally, the Muslim should fill his heart with true love for Almighty Allah and His Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) and perform all the rites of Hajj while being attentive to their inner meanings, with a sense of awe and reverence. Also, he should always remember the Prophetic saying, “Show mercy to others if you wish to receive Allah’s mercy.”
May Allah accept our acts of worship, and may He grace us with His vision on the Day Resurrection, amen.
Allah Almighty knows best.
Fulfilling the Rights of Others Before Performing Hajj
In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon His Messenger.
Elaborating more on this, Dr. Husam al-Din Ibn Musa `Afana, professor of Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence at Al-Quds University, Palestine, states:
Almighty Allah says: (And eat not up your property among yourselves in vanity, nor seek by it to gain the hearing of the judges that ye may knowingly devour a portion of the property of others wrongfully. ) (Al-Baqarah 2: 188) Almighty Allah also says: (O ye who believe! Fulfill your undertakings…) (Al-Ma’idah 5: 1) In addition, Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The claimants would get their claims on the Day of Judgment so justly that the hornless sheep would get its claim from the horned sheep." Abu Hurayrah also narrated: "Whoever takes the money of the people with the intention of repaying it, Allah will repay it on his behalf, and whoever takes it in order to spoil it, then Allah will spoil him." (Al-Bukhari)
Moreover, Abu Hurayrah narrated: "The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, 'Do you know who the insolvent is? They (the Companions) said, 'An insolvent man amongst us is one who has neither dirham (a unit of money) with him nor wealth.' He (the Prophet) said, 'The insolvent of my nation would be the one who would come on the Day of Judgment with prayers and fasts and Zakah (alms) but (he would find himself bankrupt on that Day as he would have exhausted his funds of virtues since) he hurled abuses upon others, spoke slander against others, unlawfully consumed the wealth of others, shed the blood of others and beat others. Thus, every one of them would be given of his virtues (i.e., his virtues would be credited to the account of those who suffered at his hands). And if his good deeds fall short to clear the account, then their sins would be given to his account and he would be thrown into the Hell-Fire'." (Muslim) There are many other hadiths indicating that the Muslim should return the rights he had usurped to their rightful owners.
Furthermore, Muslim scholars confirm that whoever wants to perform Hajj should first absolve himself of the rights of others by returning them to their rightful owners. Imam An-Nawawi said: "If a Muslim makes up his mind to travel to perform Hajj or to fight in the Cause of Allah or the like, he should first repent from all sins and evil deeds, return any usurped rights to their owners, settle as many debts as he can, return trusts to their owners, settle whatever dealings or partnership he has with others, write his will and have it witnessed, depute someone to settle the debts he could not settle, and leave his family and whomever he supports sufficient money until he comes back." (See Al-Majmu` Vol. 4, P. 385)
On the other hand, in his response to a similar question, Sheikh Abdul-`Aziz ibn Baz, the late Mufti of Saudi Arabia stated:
If a Muslim determines to travel to perform Hajj or `Umrah (Lesser Pilgrimage), it is desirable for him to advise his family and friends to fear Almighty Allah by observing His ordinances and avoiding all that He has forbidden. He should also write down what others owe him and what he owes others and have this witnessed. In addition, he should hurry to sincerely repent from all sins, as Almighty Allah says: (… And turn unto Allah together, O believers, in order that ye may succeed. ) (An-Nur 24:31) True repentance is represented in giving up the sins, regretting having done them and being determined never to commit them again. A fourth condition is that if the concerned person owes people any usurped rights, related to soul, property, or honor, he should settle them or seek their forgiveness before he travels. This is because it is authentically narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Whoever owes his (Muslim) brother a usurped right of property or honor should settle it today, before a Day on which a dinar or a dirham (units of money) will be of no avail. (On that Day, to clear his account) if he has virtues, they will be given to the other (i.e., the creditor) and if he has not, sins of the other will be taken and added to his account'."
Accordingly, one should first settle any rights he has usurped before setting out for Hajj.
Allah Almighty knows best.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon His Messenger.
Elaborating more on this, Dr. Husam al-Din Ibn Musa `Afana, professor of Principles of Islamic Jurisprudence at Al-Quds University, Palestine, states:
Almighty Allah says: (And eat not up your property among yourselves in vanity, nor seek by it to gain the hearing of the judges that ye may knowingly devour a portion of the property of others wrongfully. ) (Al-Baqarah 2: 188) Almighty Allah also says: (O ye who believe! Fulfill your undertakings…) (Al-Ma’idah 5: 1) In addition, Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The claimants would get their claims on the Day of Judgment so justly that the hornless sheep would get its claim from the horned sheep." Abu Hurayrah also narrated: "Whoever takes the money of the people with the intention of repaying it, Allah will repay it on his behalf, and whoever takes it in order to spoil it, then Allah will spoil him." (Al-Bukhari)
Moreover, Abu Hurayrah narrated: "The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said, 'Do you know who the insolvent is? They (the Companions) said, 'An insolvent man amongst us is one who has neither dirham (a unit of money) with him nor wealth.' He (the Prophet) said, 'The insolvent of my nation would be the one who would come on the Day of Judgment with prayers and fasts and Zakah (alms) but (he would find himself bankrupt on that Day as he would have exhausted his funds of virtues since) he hurled abuses upon others, spoke slander against others, unlawfully consumed the wealth of others, shed the blood of others and beat others. Thus, every one of them would be given of his virtues (i.e., his virtues would be credited to the account of those who suffered at his hands). And if his good deeds fall short to clear the account, then their sins would be given to his account and he would be thrown into the Hell-Fire'." (Muslim) There are many other hadiths indicating that the Muslim should return the rights he had usurped to their rightful owners.
Furthermore, Muslim scholars confirm that whoever wants to perform Hajj should first absolve himself of the rights of others by returning them to their rightful owners. Imam An-Nawawi said: "If a Muslim makes up his mind to travel to perform Hajj or to fight in the Cause of Allah or the like, he should first repent from all sins and evil deeds, return any usurped rights to their owners, settle as many debts as he can, return trusts to their owners, settle whatever dealings or partnership he has with others, write his will and have it witnessed, depute someone to settle the debts he could not settle, and leave his family and whomever he supports sufficient money until he comes back." (See Al-Majmu` Vol. 4, P. 385)
On the other hand, in his response to a similar question, Sheikh Abdul-`Aziz ibn Baz, the late Mufti of Saudi Arabia stated:
If a Muslim determines to travel to perform Hajj or `Umrah (Lesser Pilgrimage), it is desirable for him to advise his family and friends to fear Almighty Allah by observing His ordinances and avoiding all that He has forbidden. He should also write down what others owe him and what he owes others and have this witnessed. In addition, he should hurry to sincerely repent from all sins, as Almighty Allah says: (… And turn unto Allah together, O believers, in order that ye may succeed. ) (An-Nur 24:31) True repentance is represented in giving up the sins, regretting having done them and being determined never to commit them again. A fourth condition is that if the concerned person owes people any usurped rights, related to soul, property, or honor, he should settle them or seek their forgiveness before he travels. This is because it is authentically narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: 'Whoever owes his (Muslim) brother a usurped right of property or honor should settle it today, before a Day on which a dinar or a dirham (units of money) will be of no avail. (On that Day, to clear his account) if he has virtues, they will be given to the other (i.e., the creditor) and if he has not, sins of the other will be taken and added to his account'."
Accordingly, one should first settle any rights he has usurped before setting out for Hajj.
Allah Almighty knows best.
Difference between Hajj Types
In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
The types of Hajj are as follows:
Tamattu`: At or before reaching the miqat (the place where one must enter ihram), the person enters into ihram for `Umrah only. He performs `Umrah first, then goes out of ihram until 8 Dhul-Hijjah, when he or she enters into ihram again for Hajj. This is the most common type for people from outside ofSaudiArabia.
Qiran: The person enters into ihram for both `Umrah and Hajj, and does not go out of ihram until the Day of Sacrifice (`Eid Al-Adha) at Mina. In this type of Hajj, the pilgrim has to stick to the restrictions of ihram for a longer period of time.
Ifrad: The person enters into ihram only for the Hajj and takes it off only on the Day of Sacrifice.
In his response to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:
Tamattu`Hajj and qiran Hajj are two valid forms of Hajj; there is also a third one known as ifrad.
Let me explain: Hajj can be performed in any one of the three forms, namely tamattu` or qiran or ifrad.
1. Tamattu` means to resort to ease and comfort. Tamattu` Hajj is so called because in this form of Hajj, the pilgrim, while intending to perform both `Umrah and Hajj in one trip, does so by releasing himself or herself from ihram after performing the rites of `Umrah and thus taking a little rest and comfort before embarking on Hajj by resuming ihram for Hajj again on 8 Dhul-Hijjah.
2. Qiran means conjoining. Qiran Hajj is so called because in this form of Hajj, a pilgrim joins Hajj and `Umrah in a single ihram, thus forgoing the comforts of tamattu`.
3. Ifrad means isolation. Ifrad Hajj is so called because in this version a pilgrim has isolated Hajj from `Umrah as he or she does Hajj exclusively.
In the case of both tamattu` and qiran, one must perform sacrifice. If, however, one cannot afford to do so, then one must fast ten days, three days during Hajj and seven after returning home.
Sacrifice is not essential for those who perform ifrad form of Hajj.
Each of the above three forms of Hajj is valid and acceptable; a person may choose any one of them. Scholars, however, have differed in regards to which of the three forms is the most excellent. Some consider tamattu` as the most excellent and preferable, while others consider qiran as the most excellent, and still others consider ifrad as the most excellent.
For those who set out for Hajj way before the Day of Tarwiyah (8 Dhul Hijjah), tamattu` is the most practical form of Hajj to perform; while for those who reach Makkah close to the Day of Tarwiyah, both qiran and ifrad are fine.
Finally, let it be remembered that it is not so much the form of the Hajj one chooses to perform, it is rather the spirit and intention, one has while performing the rites of Hajj that truly matters in the sight of Allah.
The types of Hajj are as follows:
Tamattu`: At or before reaching the miqat (the place where one must enter ihram), the person enters into ihram for `Umrah only. He performs `Umrah first, then goes out of ihram until 8 Dhul-Hijjah, when he or she enters into ihram again for Hajj. This is the most common type for people from outside ofSaudiArabia.
Qiran: The person enters into ihram for both `Umrah and Hajj, and does not go out of ihram until the Day of Sacrifice (`Eid Al-Adha) at Mina. In this type of Hajj, the pilgrim has to stick to the restrictions of ihram for a longer period of time.
Ifrad: The person enters into ihram only for the Hajj and takes it off only on the Day of Sacrifice.
In his response to your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:
Tamattu`Hajj and qiran Hajj are two valid forms of Hajj; there is also a third one known as ifrad.
Let me explain: Hajj can be performed in any one of the three forms, namely tamattu` or qiran or ifrad.
1. Tamattu` means to resort to ease and comfort. Tamattu` Hajj is so called because in this form of Hajj, the pilgrim, while intending to perform both `Umrah and Hajj in one trip, does so by releasing himself or herself from ihram after performing the rites of `Umrah and thus taking a little rest and comfort before embarking on Hajj by resuming ihram for Hajj again on 8 Dhul-Hijjah.
2. Qiran means conjoining. Qiran Hajj is so called because in this form of Hajj, a pilgrim joins Hajj and `Umrah in a single ihram, thus forgoing the comforts of tamattu`.
3. Ifrad means isolation. Ifrad Hajj is so called because in this version a pilgrim has isolated Hajj from `Umrah as he or she does Hajj exclusively.
In the case of both tamattu` and qiran, one must perform sacrifice. If, however, one cannot afford to do so, then one must fast ten days, three days during Hajj and seven after returning home.
Sacrifice is not essential for those who perform ifrad form of Hajj.
Each of the above three forms of Hajj is valid and acceptable; a person may choose any one of them. Scholars, however, have differed in regards to which of the three forms is the most excellent. Some consider tamattu` as the most excellent and preferable, while others consider qiran as the most excellent, and still others consider ifrad as the most excellent.
For those who set out for Hajj way before the Day of Tarwiyah (8 Dhul Hijjah), tamattu` is the most practical form of Hajj to perform; while for those who reach Makkah close to the Day of Tarwiyah, both qiran and ifrad are fine.
Finally, let it be remembered that it is not so much the form of the Hajj one chooses to perform, it is rather the spirit and intention, one has while performing the rites of Hajj that truly matters in the sight of Allah.
Hajj Pilgrimage to Mecca
The fifth pillar of Islam is to make a pilgrimage (Hajj) to Makkah, in Saudi Arabia, at least once in one's lifetime. This pillar is obligatory for every Muslim, male or female, provided that he/she is physically and financially able to do so.
Prerequisites for performing the Hajj are to be a Muslim, to be free, to be an adult or mature enough, to be of sound mind, and to have the ability to afford the journey and maintain one's dependents back home for the duration. The reward for the Hajj is nothing less than Paradise.
The Hajj is the ultimate form of worship, as it involves the spirit of all the other rituals and demands of the believer great sacrifice. On this unique occasion, nearly two million Muslims from all over the globe meet one another in a given year. Regardless of the season, pilgrims wear special clothes (Ihram) - two, very simple, unsewn white garments - which strips away all distinctions of wealth, status, class and culture; all stand together and equal before Allah (God).
The rites of Hajj, which go back to the time of Prophet Abraham who built the Ka'bah, are observed over five or six days, beginning on the eighth day of the last month of the year, named Dhul-Hijjah (pilgrimage). These rites include circumambulating the Ka'bah (Tawwaf), and going between the mountains of Safa and Marwah, as Hajjar (Abraham's wife) did during her search for water for her son Isma'il. Then the pilgrims stand together on the wide plain of Arafah and join in prayers for God's forgiveness, in what is often thought of as a preview of the Last Judgment. The pilgrims also cast stones at a stone pillar which represents Satan. The pilgrimage ends with a festival, called 'Id al-Adha, which is celebrated with prayers, the sacrifice of an animal, and the exchange of greetings and gifts in Muslim communities everywhere.
The Rites of Pilgrimage
After sunrise on the ninth of the Islamic month of Dhu Al-Hajjah, this vast crowd of nearly two million begins to walk some eight miles to the Plain of Arafat, passing Muzdalifah on the way. Many perform the noon and afternoon prayers at the Nimerah Mosque, a tradition set by the Prophet.
Approaching Arafat by midmorning, the pilgrim is amazed to find the vast plain covered by what appears to be a thick fog, even though the temperature hovers around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This optical illusion is created by thousands of sprinklers placed atop 30-foot poles and spaced some 50 feet apart, which spread a fine mist of water to provide coolness. Millions of containers of chilled water are distributed from refrigerated trucks located along the pilgrim route.
Despite these precautions, the wail of sirens is ever present as hundreds of ambulances pick up pilgrims suffering from heat exhaustion and transport them to special clinics for treatment. The more serious cases are evacuated by helicopter to hospitals.
Pilgrims are required to spend the day in the plain, performing what is called the Standing at Arafat. Here they also visit the Mount of Mercy and ask for God's forgiveness for any sins committed and for blessings. Facilities have also been set up here to feed the pilgrims and meet any requirement they may have.
After the sun has set this river of humanity retraces its steps back toward Makkah, but stops at Muzdalifah until the brightness of day appears on the eastern horizon. Here the pilgrims collect seven pebbles and carry them to Mina. As they arrive in the valley, they trek along a two-level pedestrian walkway some 100-yards wide toward the three stone pillars called the Jamarat, which are meant to represent Satan. The pilgrims are required to cast the pebbles they have collected at the Stone Pillar of Aqabah while praising God, in a symbolic rejection of Satan. As the pilgrims approach along the walkway, they join those already at the pillar and, after hurling their pebbles circle toward the exit ramp in the direction of Makkah. Signs in various major languages direct the crowds along the route.
The pilgrims then walk some four miles along pedestrian walkways to reach Makkah, where they perform the tawaf, circling the Ka'abah in the Holy Mosque seven times counter clockwise. They then perform sa'ay, the running between Safa and Marwa in an enclosed, air-conditioned structure. Male pilgrims are then required to shave their heads, although cutting a lock of hair is acceptable for both men and women. At this point the pilgrims sacrifice an animal, donating its meat to the needy. Each year, over 600,000 animals are sacrificed, in modern abattoirs that complete the processing of the meat over the three days of the Eid. Distribution of this sacrificial meat goes to those in need in some 30 countries.
The rites of the pilgrimage are now completed. Pilgrims come out of Ihram and wear their normal clothes, but remain at Mina for the Eid Al-Adha, the festival that signals the culmination of the Hajj. Over the next two days, they stone the three pillars in the Jamarat, before performing the Tawaf Al-Wida', the Farewell Circumambulation of the Ka'abah before their departure from the city.
While not required as part of the Hajj, most pilgrims visit the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah during their visit to the Kingdom.
Approaching Arafat by midmorning, the pilgrim is amazed to find the vast plain covered by what appears to be a thick fog, even though the temperature hovers around 90 degrees Fahrenheit. This optical illusion is created by thousands of sprinklers placed atop 30-foot poles and spaced some 50 feet apart, which spread a fine mist of water to provide coolness. Millions of containers of chilled water are distributed from refrigerated trucks located along the pilgrim route.
Despite these precautions, the wail of sirens is ever present as hundreds of ambulances pick up pilgrims suffering from heat exhaustion and transport them to special clinics for treatment. The more serious cases are evacuated by helicopter to hospitals.
Pilgrims are required to spend the day in the plain, performing what is called the Standing at Arafat. Here they also visit the Mount of Mercy and ask for God's forgiveness for any sins committed and for blessings. Facilities have also been set up here to feed the pilgrims and meet any requirement they may have.
After the sun has set this river of humanity retraces its steps back toward Makkah, but stops at Muzdalifah until the brightness of day appears on the eastern horizon. Here the pilgrims collect seven pebbles and carry them to Mina. As they arrive in the valley, they trek along a two-level pedestrian walkway some 100-yards wide toward the three stone pillars called the Jamarat, which are meant to represent Satan. The pilgrims are required to cast the pebbles they have collected at the Stone Pillar of Aqabah while praising God, in a symbolic rejection of Satan. As the pilgrims approach along the walkway, they join those already at the pillar and, after hurling their pebbles circle toward the exit ramp in the direction of Makkah. Signs in various major languages direct the crowds along the route.
The pilgrims then walk some four miles along pedestrian walkways to reach Makkah, where they perform the tawaf, circling the Ka'abah in the Holy Mosque seven times counter clockwise. They then perform sa'ay, the running between Safa and Marwa in an enclosed, air-conditioned structure. Male pilgrims are then required to shave their heads, although cutting a lock of hair is acceptable for both men and women. At this point the pilgrims sacrifice an animal, donating its meat to the needy. Each year, over 600,000 animals are sacrificed, in modern abattoirs that complete the processing of the meat over the three days of the Eid. Distribution of this sacrificial meat goes to those in need in some 30 countries.
The rites of the pilgrimage are now completed. Pilgrims come out of Ihram and wear their normal clothes, but remain at Mina for the Eid Al-Adha, the festival that signals the culmination of the Hajj. Over the next two days, they stone the three pillars in the Jamarat, before performing the Tawaf Al-Wida', the Farewell Circumambulation of the Ka'abah before their departure from the city.
While not required as part of the Hajj, most pilgrims visit the Prophet's Mosque in Madinah during their visit to the Kingdom.
The Rituals & Stages of the Hajj
Here in this section we describe the Three Ways of Performing Hajj and then give an account of the rituals and stages for each way of performing Hajj. You can also see a summary of the stages of the Hajj by clicking on the "Hajj, Day by Day" button on the top menu bar. We also provide the text, in English, of Prayers during Hajj commonly used at the different stages of the Hajj.
October 16, 2011
Places Outside of Mecca
A. Mina
There is an open ground three miles to the east of Mecca called Mina. There are three stone pillars in this ground that are called Jumrat representing Satan. These stones are called Jumrah-tul-Oola, Jumrah-tul-Wusta, and Jumrah-tul-Aqbah. During the last day of Hajj, the 10th Dul-Hajj and three Tashriq days, pilgrims are required to cast stones at these Jumrah. This act of casting stones at Jumrah is called Ramy al-jimar (throwing small stones). Thousands of animals are sacrificed on this ground to commemorate the great sacrifice of Hadrat Ibrahim and Hadrat Ishmael.
B. Arafat
On the 9th day of Dul Hajj pilgrims gather in a great ground that is located about 9 miles to the southeast Mecca. This ground is called Arafat. Pilgrims stay at this place from the time of Duhr prayer until Maghrib. Jabalu-Rahmat is a small hill that also stands on this ground. A pilgrim is required to stay at this ground for his/her pilgrimage to be acceptable.
C. Muzdalifah
This ground is located roughly three miles from Arafat towards Mina. A small hill Mash’ar-al-Haraam is present in this field. Pilgrims spend the night of 9ht Dul Hajj in this field on their way back from Arafat. They offer Maghrib and Isha prayers combined and then Fajr prayer on the morning of the 10th day of Dul Hajj at this place. Pilgrims are commanded to remember Allah after the Fajr prayer near the mountains of Mash’ar-ul-Haraam.
D. Muwaqiat
Muwaqiat is the plural of Miqat. This is the place where pilgrims enter into the state of Ihram. It is forbidden to go any further from this place without entering the state of Ihram. Ihram is not only wearing specific clothing but it is also a sincere intention to perform the pilgrimage. There are several placed to enter into the state of Ihram that are marked as Miqat depending upon the route taken towards Mecca. Following are the well-known places where the Pilgrims enter into the state of Ihram.
a. Mecca
Pilgrims who live in and around Mecca enter into the state of Ihram in their homes. People can enter into the state of Ihram before leaving their homes. It is not absolutely necessary for “local” pilgrims to enter into the state of Ihram at the Mawaqit, however, it is forbidden to proceed any further from these place without being in the state of Ihram for the people coming from other locations.
b. Dul-Hulaifah:
Five miles from Madina towards Mecca is a small village. Pilgrims arriving from Madina and from its surrounding areas are required to replace their usual clothes with Ihram at this place
c. Juhfah
This place located about forty miles to the south of Mecca. Pilgrims arriving from Egypt, Syria and Southern Africa are required to enter into the state of Ihram at this place.
d. Zaat-ul-Irq
Located about thirty miles from Mecca, the pilgrims coming from Iraq and by land from the eastern side enter into the state of Ihram at this place.
e. Qarn-al-Manazil
Located about 40 miles to the east of Mecca, the Pilgrims arriving from Yemen and by sea enter into the state of Ihram at this place.
f. Taneem
This place is near Mecca and acts as Miqat for people living in Mecca. If someone is living in Mecca and wants to perform Umra then he should go to this place, enter into the state of Ihram and then return to Mecca so that the condition of traveling for the pilgrims is also fulfilled. The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) has said: “Part of the worship of Hajj and Umra is to travel in the way of Allah and to go out of the city.”
E. Haram
Mecca and its surrounding areas are called Haram. Haram has different boundaries. These boundaries extend to three miles on one side, seven on the other and nine miles towards Jedda. Within these boundaries of Haram it is forbidden to hunt, bother any animal, or to cut grass or trees. One is permitted to kill dangerous animals like snakes, scorpions, rats or animals with rabies (dogs, etc.)
There is an open ground three miles to the east of Mecca called Mina. There are three stone pillars in this ground that are called Jumrat representing Satan. These stones are called Jumrah-tul-Oola, Jumrah-tul-Wusta, and Jumrah-tul-Aqbah. During the last day of Hajj, the 10th Dul-Hajj and three Tashriq days, pilgrims are required to cast stones at these Jumrah. This act of casting stones at Jumrah is called Ramy al-jimar (throwing small stones). Thousands of animals are sacrificed on this ground to commemorate the great sacrifice of Hadrat Ibrahim and Hadrat Ishmael.
B. Arafat
On the 9th day of Dul Hajj pilgrims gather in a great ground that is located about 9 miles to the southeast Mecca. This ground is called Arafat. Pilgrims stay at this place from the time of Duhr prayer until Maghrib. Jabalu-Rahmat is a small hill that also stands on this ground. A pilgrim is required to stay at this ground for his/her pilgrimage to be acceptable.
C. Muzdalifah
This ground is located roughly three miles from Arafat towards Mina. A small hill Mash’ar-al-Haraam is present in this field. Pilgrims spend the night of 9ht Dul Hajj in this field on their way back from Arafat. They offer Maghrib and Isha prayers combined and then Fajr prayer on the morning of the 10th day of Dul Hajj at this place. Pilgrims are commanded to remember Allah after the Fajr prayer near the mountains of Mash’ar-ul-Haraam.
D. Muwaqiat
Muwaqiat is the plural of Miqat. This is the place where pilgrims enter into the state of Ihram. It is forbidden to go any further from this place without entering the state of Ihram. Ihram is not only wearing specific clothing but it is also a sincere intention to perform the pilgrimage. There are several placed to enter into the state of Ihram that are marked as Miqat depending upon the route taken towards Mecca. Following are the well-known places where the Pilgrims enter into the state of Ihram.
a. Mecca
Pilgrims who live in and around Mecca enter into the state of Ihram in their homes. People can enter into the state of Ihram before leaving their homes. It is not absolutely necessary for “local” pilgrims to enter into the state of Ihram at the Mawaqit, however, it is forbidden to proceed any further from these place without being in the state of Ihram for the people coming from other locations.
b. Dul-Hulaifah:
Five miles from Madina towards Mecca is a small village. Pilgrims arriving from Madina and from its surrounding areas are required to replace their usual clothes with Ihram at this place
c. Juhfah
This place located about forty miles to the south of Mecca. Pilgrims arriving from Egypt, Syria and Southern Africa are required to enter into the state of Ihram at this place.
d. Zaat-ul-Irq
Located about thirty miles from Mecca, the pilgrims coming from Iraq and by land from the eastern side enter into the state of Ihram at this place.
e. Qarn-al-Manazil
Located about 40 miles to the east of Mecca, the Pilgrims arriving from Yemen and by sea enter into the state of Ihram at this place.
f. Taneem
This place is near Mecca and acts as Miqat for people living in Mecca. If someone is living in Mecca and wants to perform Umra then he should go to this place, enter into the state of Ihram and then return to Mecca so that the condition of traveling for the pilgrims is also fulfilled. The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) has said: “Part of the worship of Hajj and Umra is to travel in the way of Allah and to go out of the city.”
E. Haram
Mecca and its surrounding areas are called Haram. Haram has different boundaries. These boundaries extend to three miles on one side, seven on the other and nine miles towards Jedda. Within these boundaries of Haram it is forbidden to hunt, bother any animal, or to cut grass or trees. One is permitted to kill dangerous animals like snakes, scorpions, rats or animals with rabies (dogs, etc.)
Places of Hajj inside Mecca
A. Ka'aba:
The focus of the pilgrimage is Ka’ba which was rebuilt by Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) some 4000 years ago. Today, Ka’ba stands in the middle of a large courtyard of Masjid-el-Haram or the sacred Mosque. The courtyard of Masjid-el-Haram contains, besides Ka’ba, the Muqam-e-Ibrahim (place of Ibrahim) and the fountain of Zumzum.
Ka’ba is the first house ever that was built for the worship of One and Only God, Allah. It is also called “Bait-Ullah” (House of Allah), “Bait-ul-Ateeq” (the Oldest House), and Baitul Ma’amoor (Inhabited House).
Muslims, all over the world, face towards Ka’ba to offer their prayers. This house and the places around it have several signs that have been manifested by Allah. Every inch of this land testifies to the fact that Allah never destroys those who offer sacrifices. To commemorate Allah’s signs and to enhance their faith that Allah truly fulfils His promise, Muslims have been ordered to pay homage to the Ka’ba and these other Signs of Allah. Allah the Exalted, says in the Holy Quran:
“Surely, the first House founded for mankind is that at Becca (the valley of Mecca), abounding in blessings and a guidance for all peoples. In it are manifest signs; it is the place of Abraham; and whoso enters it, enters peace” (3:96-97)
Hadrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) laid a foundation stone for a community in a deserted place by the order of All-Mighty Allah. The he settled his wife, Hajira, and his son, Ishmael, at this place. There was no water at this place and it was not a part of any thoroughfare. The ultimate goal of this unparalleled sacrifice was that his place should serve as a center of universal guidance; that from the progeny of Hadrat Ishmael living in this area would come the greatest prophet whose advent marked the sole cause for the creation of this universe and who would be a mercy for all mankind. The teaching that he brought down would be for the entire world and for all times. In spite of having no sign of any provisions at this place, Hadrat Ibrahim’s (peace be upon him) expectations were superceded. Allah made provisions for water at that place. Slowly the place became populated and was called Becca or Mecca. This was the place where Hadrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) found lost signs of the first House of Allah that was built for His worship and re-built this house with the help of his son. He fervently prayed to Allah to make this house the “Place for Humanity”.
B. Hajr-e-Aswad (The Black Stone)
There is a black stone in the north-eastern corner of the Ka’ba. This stone is called Hajr-e-Aswad (Black Stone). This stone was probably part of a meteoroid that fell near Mecca on a mountain called Abu Qubais. At the time of construction of Ka’ba, Hadrat Ibrahim brought it down and placed in the corner of the Ka’ba as a great sign and a monument. Anyone who performs pilgrimage is expected to kiss this memorial stone. This stone is part of Allah’s mark and is a sign of Him being the Supreme Being. One loves things that belong to one’s beloved. The same philosophy exists behind kissing the stone. This stone has no power and it provides neither benefit nor harm to anyone.
C. Hateem
A short distance away from Ka’ba towards North there is an open space.The place has small walls around it but there is no ceiling.There is a tradition of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) that suggests that this place was left without a roof because not enough wood was available to cover the entire building.A pilgrim should keep this place inside the Tawaaf but it is not right to face towards this place when offering prayers.
D. Multazam (kaaba door multazam)
The southern part of the wall between the door of the Ka’ba and the black stone is called Multazam. At the completion of the pilgrimage the pilgrims embrace this part of the wall. This is one way of saying good-bye and a way of expression of extreme love for the House of Allah.
E. Rukun-e-Yemeni
The north-western corner of the Ka’ba faces towards Yemen and this is why it is called Rukun-e-Yemeni (Yemen’s Pillar). It is not appropriate to touch or kiss this part during making a circuit of the Holy Ka’ba.
F. Mutaaf
There is a circle of white stone around the Ka’ba. This is the place where the circuit of the Holy Ka’ba is performed during the pilgrimage. The circuit of the Holy Ka’ba is an integral part of the worship offered seven times during Hajj.
G. Muqam-e-Ibrahim (Place of Ibrahim)
There is a small round-shaped building in front of the door of the Ka’ba and the Multazam. This building has a stone that was used by Hadrat Ibrahim to stand on to complete the walls of the Ka’ba. This is called Muqam-Ibrahim (Place of Ibrahim). After completing the seventh circuit during the pilgrimage, two Raka’t of prayer are offered. One gets more blessings if these Raka’ts are offered at the Place of Ibrahim.
H. Zumzum
A small well is present on the left side of the Place of Ibrahim and to the east of the Ka’ba. This well appeared as a sign when the child Ishmael rubbed his heels on the ground due to his thirst. One drinks water from this well facing the Ka’ba to get blessings.
I. Masjid-el-Haram
Around the Ka’ba is a mosque that has a rectangular shape with rounded corners. Pilgrims offer prayers in this mosque by making circular rows and face towards the Ka’ba.
J. Al-Safa and Al-Marwa
Two small hills in Mecca were located in the north of Masjid-el-Haram. Now these hills have been flattened. Hadrat Hajirah ran seven times between these two hills in search of food and water. Pilgrims are ordained to follow her footsteps and go to these hills seven times.
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The focus of the pilgrimage is Ka’ba which was rebuilt by Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) some 4000 years ago. Today, Ka’ba stands in the middle of a large courtyard of Masjid-el-Haram or the sacred Mosque. The courtyard of Masjid-el-Haram contains, besides Ka’ba, the Muqam-e-Ibrahim (place of Ibrahim) and the fountain of Zumzum.
Ka’ba is the first house ever that was built for the worship of One and Only God, Allah. It is also called “Bait-Ullah” (House of Allah), “Bait-ul-Ateeq” (the Oldest House), and Baitul Ma’amoor (Inhabited House).
Muslims, all over the world, face towards Ka’ba to offer their prayers. This house and the places around it have several signs that have been manifested by Allah. Every inch of this land testifies to the fact that Allah never destroys those who offer sacrifices. To commemorate Allah’s signs and to enhance their faith that Allah truly fulfils His promise, Muslims have been ordered to pay homage to the Ka’ba and these other Signs of Allah. Allah the Exalted, says in the Holy Quran:
“Surely, the first House founded for mankind is that at Becca (the valley of Mecca), abounding in blessings and a guidance for all peoples. In it are manifest signs; it is the place of Abraham; and whoso enters it, enters peace” (3:96-97)
Hadrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) laid a foundation stone for a community in a deserted place by the order of All-Mighty Allah. The he settled his wife, Hajira, and his son, Ishmael, at this place. There was no water at this place and it was not a part of any thoroughfare. The ultimate goal of this unparalleled sacrifice was that his place should serve as a center of universal guidance; that from the progeny of Hadrat Ishmael living in this area would come the greatest prophet whose advent marked the sole cause for the creation of this universe and who would be a mercy for all mankind. The teaching that he brought down would be for the entire world and for all times. In spite of having no sign of any provisions at this place, Hadrat Ibrahim’s (peace be upon him) expectations were superceded. Allah made provisions for water at that place. Slowly the place became populated and was called Becca or Mecca. This was the place where Hadrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) found lost signs of the first House of Allah that was built for His worship and re-built this house with the help of his son. He fervently prayed to Allah to make this house the “Place for Humanity”.
B. Hajr-e-Aswad (The Black Stone)
There is a black stone in the north-eastern corner of the Ka’ba. This stone is called Hajr-e-Aswad (Black Stone). This stone was probably part of a meteoroid that fell near Mecca on a mountain called Abu Qubais. At the time of construction of Ka’ba, Hadrat Ibrahim brought it down and placed in the corner of the Ka’ba as a great sign and a monument. Anyone who performs pilgrimage is expected to kiss this memorial stone. This stone is part of Allah’s mark and is a sign of Him being the Supreme Being. One loves things that belong to one’s beloved. The same philosophy exists behind kissing the stone. This stone has no power and it provides neither benefit nor harm to anyone.
C. Hateem
A short distance away from Ka’ba towards North there is an open space.The place has small walls around it but there is no ceiling.There is a tradition of the Holy Prophet (peace be upon him) that suggests that this place was left without a roof because not enough wood was available to cover the entire building.A pilgrim should keep this place inside the Tawaaf but it is not right to face towards this place when offering prayers.
D. Multazam (kaaba door multazam)
The southern part of the wall between the door of the Ka’ba and the black stone is called Multazam. At the completion of the pilgrimage the pilgrims embrace this part of the wall. This is one way of saying good-bye and a way of expression of extreme love for the House of Allah.
E. Rukun-e-Yemeni
The north-western corner of the Ka’ba faces towards Yemen and this is why it is called Rukun-e-Yemeni (Yemen’s Pillar). It is not appropriate to touch or kiss this part during making a circuit of the Holy Ka’ba.
F. Mutaaf
There is a circle of white stone around the Ka’ba. This is the place where the circuit of the Holy Ka’ba is performed during the pilgrimage. The circuit of the Holy Ka’ba is an integral part of the worship offered seven times during Hajj.
G. Muqam-e-Ibrahim (Place of Ibrahim)
There is a small round-shaped building in front of the door of the Ka’ba and the Multazam. This building has a stone that was used by Hadrat Ibrahim to stand on to complete the walls of the Ka’ba. This is called Muqam-Ibrahim (Place of Ibrahim). After completing the seventh circuit during the pilgrimage, two Raka’t of prayer are offered. One gets more blessings if these Raka’ts are offered at the Place of Ibrahim.
H. Zumzum
A small well is present on the left side of the Place of Ibrahim and to the east of the Ka’ba. This well appeared as a sign when the child Ishmael rubbed his heels on the ground due to his thirst. One drinks water from this well facing the Ka’ba to get blessings.
I. Masjid-el-Haram
Around the Ka’ba is a mosque that has a rectangular shape with rounded corners. Pilgrims offer prayers in this mosque by making circular rows and face towards the Ka’ba.
J. Al-Safa and Al-Marwa
Two small hills in Mecca were located in the north of Masjid-el-Haram. Now these hills have been flattened. Hadrat Hajirah ran seven times between these two hills in search of food and water. Pilgrims are ordained to follow her footsteps and go to these hills seven times.
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Types Of Hajj
There are three types of Hajj:
1.Hajj Mufrad:
All conditions of the Hajj Mufrad are same as described above. One enters into the state of Ihram for Hajj only and no Umra is performed before Hajj.
2.Hajj Tamattu :
This is Hajj when Umra is performed before the Hajj. The pilgrim removes Ihram for Umra on the 8th of Dul Hajj and re-enters into the state of Ihram again for Hajj.
Hajj Qiran:
In this Hajj, the pilgrim enters into the state of Ihram for both Umra and the Hajj at one time.
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1.Hajj Mufrad:
All conditions of the Hajj Mufrad are same as described above. One enters into the state of Ihram for Hajj only and no Umra is performed before Hajj.
2.Hajj Tamattu :
This is Hajj when Umra is performed before the Hajj. The pilgrim removes Ihram for Umra on the 8th of Dul Hajj and re-enters into the state of Ihram again for Hajj.
Hajj Qiran:
In this Hajj, the pilgrim enters into the state of Ihram for both Umra and the Hajj at one time.
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Sequence of Rites and Actions for performing Hajj
Departure From Home
A Muslim must be mindful of his/her duties towards family and fellow human beings. A Muslim who intends to perform Hajj must make sure, before departing for Hajj that his family is provided for during the period he is away for the Hajj. He should pay up his debt and seek forgiveness from fellow human being whom he might have caused harm in the past. He should be diligent in observing Salat (five daily prayers) and Sawm (fasting) in the month of Ramadhan as well as carrying out other religious obligations. He must shun all arrogance and exhibit a character of modesty and humbleness. He must not use unlawfully acquired money or unlawful means to perform Hajj. He should seek sincere repentance from Allah of all his past sins. In short, one should depart for Hajj just like one would wish to depart from this world.
One should spend some money in charity as well. A woman is not allowed to perform Hajj alone and must be accompanied by an adult Muslim Mahram (father, husband, son or brother etc.)
One should say two Rakat Nafl (supererogatory) prayer before leaving home for Hajj.
Ihram at Miqat
When one reaches “Miqat” (any one of the appointed places in Mecca where pilgrims make a vow of pilgrimage) one must perform ablution or take a bath, use perfume, and put on two clean, unstitched, preferably white, pieces of cloth. This pair of clothing is called Ihram. One sheet should be wrapped around the lower part of the body and the other sheet around the upper body; the head should not be covered. Women can perform pilgrimage in the cloths they are wearing. Under normal circumstances a woman’s face should not be covered unless she comes face to face with a stranger and she has to conceal herself. During the five days of Hajj, all Muslims engaged in this worship must remain in this same simple dress. As soon as a pilgrim puts on Ihram and declares his intention to perform Hajj, he/she enters into the state of Ihram and his/her Hajj begins.
Talbiyah
After putting on the Ihram, men and women offer two Raka’ts of Nafl (supererogatory) prayer followed by recitation of their “intention” and saying the following words:
“Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik; La Shareeka-laka Labbaik; Innalhamda wan-na’mata-laka wal-mulka Lashreeka-laka"
Translation:
“Here I am, O Allah! Here I am in Thy August presence; there is no associate with Thee, here am I; surely all praise is Thine and all favors are Thine and the kingdom is Thine, there is no associate with Thee.”
These words are recited in Arabic and called “Talbiyah”. These words are an essential part of the state of Ihram and Ihram will not complete without reciting these words. After saying Talbiyah pilgrim is ready to fulfill his obligation of Hajj and is required to fulfill all the conditions laid down for Hajj. While one is in the state of Ihram it is strictly forbidden to engage in foul talk, sexual conduct, arguments, or enter into a war. Allah says in the Holy Quran: “ …so whoever determines to perform the Pilgrimage in these months, should remember that there is to be no foul talk, nor any transgression, nor any quarreling during Pilgrimage. …” (2:198)
Entering Masjid-el-Haram
After reaching Mecca, one should head straight to Ka’aba that is situated in bounds of Masjid-el-Haram and perform Tawaaf. It is said that when one has his/her first glance at Ka’aba, whatever prayers one makes is granted.
Istlam (Kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad)
The act of kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad (Black Stone) is called Istlam. While kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad, ones hands should be on the wall of the Ka’ba in the same position as when one performs a Sajdah (prostration) during a prayer. If it is not possible to kiss the Hajr-e-Aswad, it is permissible just touch it with a hand and if that is not possible the just point to the Hajr-e-Aswad and blow a kiss to it.
Tawaaf (Circling of ka’ba)
After performing Istlam (kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad) as described above, a pilgrim should perform Tawaaf of Ka’ba. Tawaaf is performed by going around Ka’ba seven times keeping the Ka’ba on left hand side (counter clock-wise). Istlam should be performed during each circle. It is also permitted to perform Istlam of Rukun-e-Yemeni (Pillar of Yemen). The seventh circle ends at the Hajr-e-Aswad.
Nawafal at Muqam-e-Ibrahim
After completing the Tawaaf, the pilgrim should move to the Muqam-e-Ibrahim (Place of Ibrahim. At this place one should offer two Rakats of prayer while facing Ka’ba.
Sa’ee (Running between Safa’ and Marwah)
Allah the Exalted has said the Holy Quran:
“Surely, Al-Safa and Al-Marwah are among the Signs of Allah. It is, therefore, no sin for him who is on pilgrimage to the House, or performs Umra, to go round the two. And whoso does good beyond what is obligatory, surely then, Allah is Appreciating, All-Knowing.” (2:159)
After praying two Rakats of prayer at Muqam-e-Ibrahim, the pilgrim then moves to “Safa”. At this place, he should face towards Ka’ba and recite Durood, Takbir and Talbiyah. The he should walk briskly towards Marwah and recite the same at Marwah. This counts as one circuit. Now one should move to Safa’ and repeat the prayers. One should complete seven circuits between Safa’ and Marwah. These circuits are called Sa’ee.
After performing the circuits between Safa’ and Marwah, one is free to move about and go to a resting place.
Arriving at Mina
On 8th day of Dul-Hajj the pilgrims reach at Mina early in the morning after performing Tawaaf-Qudoom. A pilgrim offers Duhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha’ prayers at Mina and camp there for the night.
Arriving at Arafat
On 9th day of Dul-Hajj, after offering Fajr prayer, a pilgrim should move to Arafat. Stay at Arafat is called Waqoof and is the most important part of Hajj. Without this, Hajj cannot be considered complete. If someone misses Waqoof, he should perform Hajj the following year. One listens to the sermon at the plane of Arafat and offers combined Zuhr and Asr prayers. One should stay at Arafat till sunset (Maghrib).
Arriving at Muzdalifah
One leaves Arafat after sunset and reaches Muzdalifah in the evening of 9th Dul-Hajj. Combined Maghrib and Isha’ prayers are offered at Muzdalifah. The pilgrims spend the night at Muzdalifah.
Departure from Muzdalifah
On the 10th day of Dul-Hajj the pilgrims offer their Fajr prayer as early in the morning as possible. After the Fajr prayer a pilgrim leaves Muzdalifah and arrive at Mina. On the way to Mina one should pick up seventy small stones. As soon as he reaches Mina, he should cast seven stones at Jumrah-tul-Aqba. This act of throwing stones is called Rami. With the throwing of the first stone the requirement to repeatedly recite Talbiyah is lifted. If the pilgrim intends to sacrifice an animal then he should do that after casting stones ad Jumrah-tul-Aqba. After offering the sacrifices a male pilgrim should have his head shaven and female pilgrims are required to cut a small part of her hair. Femle pilgrims are not permitted to have their heads shaven. After the hair cut one can remove the Ihram and may now wear regular cloths.
Return to Mecca after sacrifice and hair cut. Perform Taawaf-e-Afaza
After the removal of Ihram the pilgrim is required to return to Mecca to perform another circuit of the Ka’ba. This particular circuit is called Tawaaf-e-Afaza (additional circuit) and is an essential part of the pilgrimage. After this circuit a pilgrim is permitted to return to normal life and all those lawful things that were forbidden are now allowed again.
Return to Mina after Tawaf-e-Afaza
After this additional circuit, the pilgrim should return to Mina and stay there for three days. During the stay at Mina on 11th, 12th and 13th day of Dul-Hajj the pilgrim cast seven stones on each of the Jumrah in the following order: Jumrah-tul-Oola, Jamrah-tul-Wusta, and Juramh-tul-Aqba. It is permitted not to cast stones on the third day.
Return to Ka’ba and Farewell
On the 12th or the 13th day of Dul-Hajj, the pilgrim returns to the Ka’ba and perform a final circuit. This circuit is called Tawaf-al-Sadr or Tawaf-al-Wida (parting or farewell circuit). After this last circuit, the pilgrim should drink water from Zumzum, kiss the threshold of the door of the Ka’ba, and pray to Allah for forgiveness. He should leave the Ka’ba walking backwards, looking at it the last time, and saying farewell.
A Muslim must be mindful of his/her duties towards family and fellow human beings. A Muslim who intends to perform Hajj must make sure, before departing for Hajj that his family is provided for during the period he is away for the Hajj. He should pay up his debt and seek forgiveness from fellow human being whom he might have caused harm in the past. He should be diligent in observing Salat (five daily prayers) and Sawm (fasting) in the month of Ramadhan as well as carrying out other religious obligations. He must shun all arrogance and exhibit a character of modesty and humbleness. He must not use unlawfully acquired money or unlawful means to perform Hajj. He should seek sincere repentance from Allah of all his past sins. In short, one should depart for Hajj just like one would wish to depart from this world.
One should spend some money in charity as well. A woman is not allowed to perform Hajj alone and must be accompanied by an adult Muslim Mahram (father, husband, son or brother etc.)
One should say two Rakat Nafl (supererogatory) prayer before leaving home for Hajj.
Ihram at Miqat
When one reaches “Miqat” (any one of the appointed places in Mecca where pilgrims make a vow of pilgrimage) one must perform ablution or take a bath, use perfume, and put on two clean, unstitched, preferably white, pieces of cloth. This pair of clothing is called Ihram. One sheet should be wrapped around the lower part of the body and the other sheet around the upper body; the head should not be covered. Women can perform pilgrimage in the cloths they are wearing. Under normal circumstances a woman’s face should not be covered unless she comes face to face with a stranger and she has to conceal herself. During the five days of Hajj, all Muslims engaged in this worship must remain in this same simple dress. As soon as a pilgrim puts on Ihram and declares his intention to perform Hajj, he/she enters into the state of Ihram and his/her Hajj begins.
Talbiyah
After putting on the Ihram, men and women offer two Raka’ts of Nafl (supererogatory) prayer followed by recitation of their “intention” and saying the following words:
“Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik; La Shareeka-laka Labbaik; Innalhamda wan-na’mata-laka wal-mulka Lashreeka-laka"
Translation:
“Here I am, O Allah! Here I am in Thy August presence; there is no associate with Thee, here am I; surely all praise is Thine and all favors are Thine and the kingdom is Thine, there is no associate with Thee.”
These words are recited in Arabic and called “Talbiyah”. These words are an essential part of the state of Ihram and Ihram will not complete without reciting these words. After saying Talbiyah pilgrim is ready to fulfill his obligation of Hajj and is required to fulfill all the conditions laid down for Hajj. While one is in the state of Ihram it is strictly forbidden to engage in foul talk, sexual conduct, arguments, or enter into a war. Allah says in the Holy Quran: “ …so whoever determines to perform the Pilgrimage in these months, should remember that there is to be no foul talk, nor any transgression, nor any quarreling during Pilgrimage. …” (2:198)
Entering Masjid-el-Haram
After reaching Mecca, one should head straight to Ka’aba that is situated in bounds of Masjid-el-Haram and perform Tawaaf. It is said that when one has his/her first glance at Ka’aba, whatever prayers one makes is granted.
Istlam (Kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad)
The act of kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad (Black Stone) is called Istlam. While kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad, ones hands should be on the wall of the Ka’ba in the same position as when one performs a Sajdah (prostration) during a prayer. If it is not possible to kiss the Hajr-e-Aswad, it is permissible just touch it with a hand and if that is not possible the just point to the Hajr-e-Aswad and blow a kiss to it.
Tawaaf (Circling of ka’ba)
After performing Istlam (kissing the Hajr-e-Aswad) as described above, a pilgrim should perform Tawaaf of Ka’ba. Tawaaf is performed by going around Ka’ba seven times keeping the Ka’ba on left hand side (counter clock-wise). Istlam should be performed during each circle. It is also permitted to perform Istlam of Rukun-e-Yemeni (Pillar of Yemen). The seventh circle ends at the Hajr-e-Aswad.
Nawafal at Muqam-e-Ibrahim
After completing the Tawaaf, the pilgrim should move to the Muqam-e-Ibrahim (Place of Ibrahim. At this place one should offer two Rakats of prayer while facing Ka’ba.
Sa’ee (Running between Safa’ and Marwah)
Allah the Exalted has said the Holy Quran:
“Surely, Al-Safa and Al-Marwah are among the Signs of Allah. It is, therefore, no sin for him who is on pilgrimage to the House, or performs Umra, to go round the two. And whoso does good beyond what is obligatory, surely then, Allah is Appreciating, All-Knowing.” (2:159)
After praying two Rakats of prayer at Muqam-e-Ibrahim, the pilgrim then moves to “Safa”. At this place, he should face towards Ka’ba and recite Durood, Takbir and Talbiyah. The he should walk briskly towards Marwah and recite the same at Marwah. This counts as one circuit. Now one should move to Safa’ and repeat the prayers. One should complete seven circuits between Safa’ and Marwah. These circuits are called Sa’ee.
After performing the circuits between Safa’ and Marwah, one is free to move about and go to a resting place.
Arriving at Mina
On 8th day of Dul-Hajj the pilgrims reach at Mina early in the morning after performing Tawaaf-Qudoom. A pilgrim offers Duhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha’ prayers at Mina and camp there for the night.
Arriving at Arafat
On 9th day of Dul-Hajj, after offering Fajr prayer, a pilgrim should move to Arafat. Stay at Arafat is called Waqoof and is the most important part of Hajj. Without this, Hajj cannot be considered complete. If someone misses Waqoof, he should perform Hajj the following year. One listens to the sermon at the plane of Arafat and offers combined Zuhr and Asr prayers. One should stay at Arafat till sunset (Maghrib).
Arriving at Muzdalifah
One leaves Arafat after sunset and reaches Muzdalifah in the evening of 9th Dul-Hajj. Combined Maghrib and Isha’ prayers are offered at Muzdalifah. The pilgrims spend the night at Muzdalifah.
Departure from Muzdalifah
On the 10th day of Dul-Hajj the pilgrims offer their Fajr prayer as early in the morning as possible. After the Fajr prayer a pilgrim leaves Muzdalifah and arrive at Mina. On the way to Mina one should pick up seventy small stones. As soon as he reaches Mina, he should cast seven stones at Jumrah-tul-Aqba. This act of throwing stones is called Rami. With the throwing of the first stone the requirement to repeatedly recite Talbiyah is lifted. If the pilgrim intends to sacrifice an animal then he should do that after casting stones ad Jumrah-tul-Aqba. After offering the sacrifices a male pilgrim should have his head shaven and female pilgrims are required to cut a small part of her hair. Femle pilgrims are not permitted to have their heads shaven. After the hair cut one can remove the Ihram and may now wear regular cloths.
Return to Mecca after sacrifice and hair cut. Perform Taawaf-e-Afaza
After the removal of Ihram the pilgrim is required to return to Mecca to perform another circuit of the Ka’ba. This particular circuit is called Tawaaf-e-Afaza (additional circuit) and is an essential part of the pilgrimage. After this circuit a pilgrim is permitted to return to normal life and all those lawful things that were forbidden are now allowed again.
Return to Mina after Tawaf-e-Afaza
After this additional circuit, the pilgrim should return to Mina and stay there for three days. During the stay at Mina on 11th, 12th and 13th day of Dul-Hajj the pilgrim cast seven stones on each of the Jumrah in the following order: Jumrah-tul-Oola, Jamrah-tul-Wusta, and Juramh-tul-Aqba. It is permitted not to cast stones on the third day.
Return to Ka’ba and Farewell
On the 12th or the 13th day of Dul-Hajj, the pilgrim returns to the Ka’ba and perform a final circuit. This circuit is called Tawaf-al-Sadr or Tawaf-al-Wida (parting or farewell circuit). After this last circuit, the pilgrim should drink water from Zumzum, kiss the threshold of the door of the Ka’ba, and pray to Allah for forgiveness. He should leave the Ka’ba walking backwards, looking at it the last time, and saying farewell.
Hajj Exemplifies Equality Before Allah
Every year, Muslims from all over the world take part in the largest gathering on Earth, the Hajj, or pilgrimage to Mecca. The Hajj is a religious obligation that every Muslim must fulfill, if financially and physically able, at least once in his or her lifetime.
During these historic days, white, brown and black people, rich and poor, kings and peasants, men and women, old and young will all stand before God, all brothers and sisters, at the holiest of shrines in the center of the Muslim world, where all will call upon God to accept their good deeds. These days represent the zenith of every Muslim's lifetime.
The Hajj resembles the re-enactment of the experiences of the Prophet Abraham, whose selfless sacrifice has no parallel in the history of humankind.
The Hajj symbolizes the lessons taught by the final prophet, Muhammad, who stood on the plain of Arafat, proclaimed the completion of his mission and announced the proclamation of God: "This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed my favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam, or submission to God, as your religion" (Quran 5:3).
This great annual convention of faith demonstrates the concept of equality of mankind, the most profound message of Islam, which allows no superiority on the basis of race, gender or social status. The only preference in the eyes of God is piety as stated in the Quran: "The best amongst you in the eyes of God is most righteous."
During the days of the Hajj, Muslims dress in the same simple way, observe the same regulations and say the same prayers at the same time in the same manner, for the same end. There is no royalty and aristocracy, but humility and devotion. These times confirm the commitment of Muslims, all Muslims, to God. It affirms their readiness to leave the material interest for his sake.
The Hajj is a reminder of the Grand Assembly on the Day of Judgment when people will stand equal before God waiting for their final destiny, and as the Prophet Muhammad said, "God does not judge according to your bodies and appearances, but he scans your hearts and looks into your deeds."
The Quran states these ideals really nicely (49:13): "O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise (each other)). Verily the most honored of you in the sight of God is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And God has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things)."
While Malcolm X was in Mecca performing his pilgrimage, he wrote to his assistants: "They asked me what about the Hajj had impressed me the most. . . . I said, `The brotherhood! The people of all races, colors, from all over the world coming together as one! It has proved to me the power of the One God.' . . . All ate as one, and slept as one. Everything about the pilgrimage atmosphere accented the oneness of man under one God."
This is what the Hajj is all about.
During these historic days, white, brown and black people, rich and poor, kings and peasants, men and women, old and young will all stand before God, all brothers and sisters, at the holiest of shrines in the center of the Muslim world, where all will call upon God to accept their good deeds. These days represent the zenith of every Muslim's lifetime.
The Hajj resembles the re-enactment of the experiences of the Prophet Abraham, whose selfless sacrifice has no parallel in the history of humankind.
The Hajj symbolizes the lessons taught by the final prophet, Muhammad, who stood on the plain of Arafat, proclaimed the completion of his mission and announced the proclamation of God: "This day have I perfected your religion for you, completed my favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam, or submission to God, as your religion" (Quran 5:3).
This great annual convention of faith demonstrates the concept of equality of mankind, the most profound message of Islam, which allows no superiority on the basis of race, gender or social status. The only preference in the eyes of God is piety as stated in the Quran: "The best amongst you in the eyes of God is most righteous."
During the days of the Hajj, Muslims dress in the same simple way, observe the same regulations and say the same prayers at the same time in the same manner, for the same end. There is no royalty and aristocracy, but humility and devotion. These times confirm the commitment of Muslims, all Muslims, to God. It affirms their readiness to leave the material interest for his sake.
The Hajj is a reminder of the Grand Assembly on the Day of Judgment when people will stand equal before God waiting for their final destiny, and as the Prophet Muhammad said, "God does not judge according to your bodies and appearances, but he scans your hearts and looks into your deeds."
The Quran states these ideals really nicely (49:13): "O mankind! We created you from a single (pair) of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that ye may know each other (not that ye may despise (each other)). Verily the most honored of you in the sight of God is (he who is) the most righteous of you. And God has full knowledge and is well acquainted (with all things)."
While Malcolm X was in Mecca performing his pilgrimage, he wrote to his assistants: "They asked me what about the Hajj had impressed me the most. . . . I said, `The brotherhood! The people of all races, colors, from all over the world coming together as one! It has proved to me the power of the One God.' . . . All ate as one, and slept as one. Everything about the pilgrimage atmosphere accented the oneness of man under one God."
This is what the Hajj is all about.
The Hajj Through History
Each year, over 2.5 million Muslims descend in Mecca, Saudi Arabia for the annual Muslim pilgrimage, or Hajj. The largest gathering of humanity in any one time or place is the culminating spiritual experience for a Muslim, as well as a logistical challenge for the government of Saudi Arabia.
The Hajj has been performed by Muslims every year for the past 14 centuries. In earlier times, the Hajj was literally the journey of a lifetime, a dream for which a person spent an entire lifetime saving up the funds. The trip itself was an arduous and difficult one, often taking months or even years on horseback or on foot, through mountain terrain and desert. Gangs of bandits often attacked the routes to Mecca to extort money from the pilgrims.
"And proclaim the Pilgrimage among men. They will come to thee on foot and (mounted) on every kind of camel, lean on account of journeys through deep and distant mountain highways..." (Qur'an 22:27)
According to the Saudi Press Agency, as recently as 1950 the number of pilgrims during Hajj was less than 100,000. That number doubled by 1955, and in 1972 it had reached 645,000.
In 1983, the number of pilgrims coming from abroad exceeded one million for the first time. Due to the rapidly increasing numbers, in 1988 the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC) passed a resolution to specify a pilgrims' quota for each country according to its population.
In recent years, Saudi Arabia has hosted over 1 million pilgrims from abroad as well as another million from within the Kingdom. The vast majority arrive by air (through the gateway city of Jeddah), with a small percentage arriving by land or sea.
Today, pilgrims come from all corners of the earth. Their organized groups are met by air-conditioned buses, travel with experienced guides, and stay in the many 5-star hotels around Mecca. Even the rites of the pilgrimage are more comfortable, with courtyards sheltered from the sun, air-conditioned walkways, escalators to the roof of the mosque, and cool marble floors on which to pray.
The Saudi government has spent nearly $25 billion on renovating and expanding the facilities for pilgrims. The worshippers fill all three levels, including the roof of the Mosque, and still spill onto the terraces, plazas, and streets in the surrounding area.
One might wonder if all the modernity has changed the Hajj experience, and made it less spiritual. Of course, those who travel today do not have the benefit of knowing what things were like before. Perhaps one type of hardship (traveling by foot in the desert heat) has been replaced by another (keeping safe and patient in the mass of people). But unanimously, those who have gone for Hajj come back speechless, unable to find the words to describe their experience.
"You just have to be there to understand" is the common response to questions. While the facilities and terrain may have changed in modern times, the rites of pilgrimage and the bonds of brotherhood among the pilgrims have remained the same throughout history. Where else on earth can you find millions of people, different in language, race, color, gender, culture - but united in faith and purpose, acting with complete goodwill, discipline, generosity and brotherhood. That is the unique Hajj experience.
Authorized U.S. Travel Agents for Hajj & Umrah Trips
This list of authorized licensed agents in the United States is up-to-date as of 2011 (1432 H.), according to the website of the Ministry of Hajj. This list is alphabetical and implies no endorsement of any individual travel agency. Pilgrims are advised to contact several different agencies to compare services and prices before making a decision. Reservations should be made well ahead of the Hajj season in order to ensure availability, as agents have a limited number of spaces in each group.
Abu Muaaz Hajj & Umrah Tours Tel. 1-718-805-3503
Adam Travel Services Inc. Tel. 1-617-367-7155
Airlink Tours and Travel Inc. Tel. 1-561-416-2033
Al Salam Tours Tel: 1-619-208-2964
Al Ansar Travel Inc. Tel. 1-646-243-7946
Al-Aqsa Hajj Services Tel. 1-718-833-4963
Aleman Groups Inc. Tel. 1-212-967-9679
Al Haramain Hajj, Umrah and Travel Services Tel. 1-832-618-3373
Al Hoda Hajj Group USA Tel. 1-925-901-1425
Al Madeena Travels Tel. 1-646-610-0740
American Hajj Union Tel. 1-202-737-1115
Arafa Travel And Tour Tel. 1-718-777-8744
Assabeel Inc. Tel. 1-734-223-9495
Assafa Travel and Tours Tel. 1-718-863-1663
Barakah Hajj & Umrah Tel. 1-630-600-4677
Caravan Travel Inc. Tel. 1-732-225-4050
Dar Alsalam Hajj And Umrah Tel. 1-313-945-5777
Dar Elsalam Import Export Travel Tel. 1-212-725-2022
Eagle Travel and Trade Tel. 1-313-581-783
Elmadina Travel Corp Tel: 1-718-956-2000
Elsafa Travel Corp Tel. 1-718-956-2000
EZ Hajj Groups Tel. 1-201-960-7980
Flying Angel Tel. 1-973-624-9111
Grand Travel And Tours Inc Tel. 1-703-532-0444
Hamza Travel and Tours Tel. 1-718-507-4949
Heaven Tours Tel. 1-323-931-2184
Hermain Tours and Travel Tel. 1-773-267-2000
Hilal Hajj and Umrah Travel Tel. 1-630-893-4254
Makkah Tours And Travel Inc. Tel. 1-773-338-0720
Manasik Tickets Corp. Tel. 1-201-420-7111
Maram Tours and Travel Tel. 1-347-575-7971
Miraj Travel And Tours Tel. 1-703-534-0002
Mohajerin Tel. 1-718-651-5888
Parvaz E Noor Tours and Travel Tel. 1-310-477-9400
Relief Box Of The Poor Tel. 1-951-662-1010
Salama for Hajj and Umrah Tel. 1-206-762-3146
Sama Tours For Hajj and Omrah Tel. 1-510-701-1003
Sara International Travel Tel. 1-718-848-1222
Smart Travel USA Tel. 1-313-938-9300
Zamzam Travel and Tours Tel. 1-202-631-1505
Abu Muaaz Hajj & Umrah Tours Tel. 1-718-805-3503
Adam Travel Services Inc. Tel. 1-617-367-7155
Airlink Tours and Travel Inc. Tel. 1-561-416-2033
Al Salam Tours Tel: 1-619-208-2964
Al Ansar Travel Inc. Tel. 1-646-243-7946
Al-Aqsa Hajj Services Tel. 1-718-833-4963
Aleman Groups Inc. Tel. 1-212-967-9679
Al Haramain Hajj, Umrah and Travel Services Tel. 1-832-618-3373
Al Hoda Hajj Group USA Tel. 1-925-901-1425
Al Madeena Travels Tel. 1-646-610-0740
American Hajj Union Tel. 1-202-737-1115
Arafa Travel And Tour Tel. 1-718-777-8744
Assabeel Inc. Tel. 1-734-223-9495
Assafa Travel and Tours Tel. 1-718-863-1663
Barakah Hajj & Umrah Tel. 1-630-600-4677
Caravan Travel Inc. Tel. 1-732-225-4050
Dar Alsalam Hajj And Umrah Tel. 1-313-945-5777
Dar Elsalam Import Export Travel Tel. 1-212-725-2022
Eagle Travel and Trade Tel. 1-313-581-783
Elmadina Travel Corp Tel: 1-718-956-2000
Elsafa Travel Corp Tel. 1-718-956-2000
EZ Hajj Groups Tel. 1-201-960-7980
Flying Angel Tel. 1-973-624-9111
Grand Travel And Tours Inc Tel. 1-703-532-0444
Hamza Travel and Tours Tel. 1-718-507-4949
Heaven Tours Tel. 1-323-931-2184
Hermain Tours and Travel Tel. 1-773-267-2000
Hilal Hajj and Umrah Travel Tel. 1-630-893-4254
Makkah Tours And Travel Inc. Tel. 1-773-338-0720
Manasik Tickets Corp. Tel. 1-201-420-7111
Maram Tours and Travel Tel. 1-347-575-7971
Miraj Travel And Tours Tel. 1-703-534-0002
Mohajerin Tel. 1-718-651-5888
Parvaz E Noor Tours and Travel Tel. 1-310-477-9400
Relief Box Of The Poor Tel. 1-951-662-1010
Salama for Hajj and Umrah Tel. 1-206-762-3146
Sama Tours For Hajj and Omrah Tel. 1-510-701-1003
Sara International Travel Tel. 1-718-848-1222
Smart Travel USA Tel. 1-313-938-9300
Zamzam Travel and Tours Tel. 1-202-631-1505
My Hajj With Children
My Hajj Assalam Alaikum,
I am just back from Hajj and I must say I just feel exhausted but at the same time very nostalgic already. When I think of my experience there I am in awe. I feel very serene and content like I have not felt for a while; I still pray to Allah that my Hajj has been accepted. (Amin)
Hajj was hard. It was hot. I went with my three kids (including an infant and a toddler). During my Hajj I constantly reminded myself of the great purpose of being there, just to keep me focused to get the maximum benefit of Hajj (du'a, meditating, remembering Allah).
The Trip We had to rent a room from a resident of Makkah. To make a long story short; the room was very expensive, in bad shape with very poor accommodation. The only good thing is that it was very close to Masjid el Haram. People who come with a travel agency should not meet this issue and get a room in a hotel. Since we went on our own we could not find a room in a hotel because they were all already booked by companies.
Lessons Learned
My tips are to be ready spiritually and physically ..literally.
I mean try to make peace with yourself and your friends and relatives even if there is any discords or personal issues in your life; send a note or email telling how much they matter, etc...
Read books about Hajj such as the rulings, the fiq etc... get some knowledge about the subject so you don't need to count on a guide! Islamonline has great resources about the matter, as well as questions and answers.
Also a good diet is a must. Forget about sugar and fatty foods before going and while being there; dates, nuts and water are excellent foods for Hajj.
Most Memorable Moments My most memorable moment was when my family and I found ourselves sandwiched in the crowd; I was panicked worrying for my kids then with Allah's grace a haji came to help my husband carrying my child.
I am just back from Hajj and I must say I just feel exhausted but at the same time very nostalgic already. When I think of my experience there I am in awe. I feel very serene and content like I have not felt for a while; I still pray to Allah that my Hajj has been accepted. (Amin)
Hajj was hard. It was hot. I went with my three kids (including an infant and a toddler). During my Hajj I constantly reminded myself of the great purpose of being there, just to keep me focused to get the maximum benefit of Hajj (du'a, meditating, remembering Allah).
The Trip We had to rent a room from a resident of Makkah. To make a long story short; the room was very expensive, in bad shape with very poor accommodation. The only good thing is that it was very close to Masjid el Haram. People who come with a travel agency should not meet this issue and get a room in a hotel. Since we went on our own we could not find a room in a hotel because they were all already booked by companies.
Lessons Learned
My tips are to be ready spiritually and physically ..literally.
I mean try to make peace with yourself and your friends and relatives even if there is any discords or personal issues in your life; send a note or email telling how much they matter, etc...
Read books about Hajj such as the rulings, the fiq etc... get some knowledge about the subject so you don't need to count on a guide! Islamonline has great resources about the matter, as well as questions and answers.
Also a good diet is a must. Forget about sugar and fatty foods before going and while being there; dates, nuts and water are excellent foods for Hajj.
Most Memorable Moments My most memorable moment was when my family and I found ourselves sandwiched in the crowd; I was panicked worrying for my kids then with Allah's grace a haji came to help my husband carrying my child.
Before Hajj
The pilgrims begin arriving by air, sea, and land during the weeks prior to the pilgrimage period. They usually arrive into Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, the major port city nearest to Mecca (45 miles distance). From there they travel with their Hajj group to Mecca. As they approach Mecca, they stop at one of the designated areas to shower and change clothing, entering into a state of devotion and purity for the pilgrimage.
They then begin reciting an invocation:
Here I am, Oh God, at Your command!
Here I am at Your command!
You are without associate!
Here I am at Your command!
To You are all praise, grace and dominion!
You are without associate!
The sound of this chant (said in Arabic) echoes over the land, as the pilgrims begin arriving in Mecca by the thousands for the sacred rites.
They then begin reciting an invocation:
Here I am, Oh God, at Your command!
Here I am at Your command!
You are without associate!
Here I am at Your command!
To You are all praise, grace and dominion!
You are without associate!
The sound of this chant (said in Arabic) echoes over the land, as the pilgrims begin arriving in Mecca by the thousands for the sacred rites.
When is the Hajj
Every year, millions of Muslims gather in Mecca, Saudi Arabia for the annual pilgrimage, called Hajj. Arriving from every corner of the globe, pilgrims of all nationalities, ages, and colors come together for the largest religious gathering in the world. One of the five "pillars of faith," pilgrimage is a duty upon every Muslim adult who is financially and physically able to make the journey. Every Muslim, male or female, strives to make the trip at least once in a lifetime.
During the days of the Hajj, millions of pilgrims will gather in Mecca, Saudi Arabia to pray together, eat together, remember historical events, and celebrate the glory of Allah.
The pilgrimage occurs during the last month of the Islamic year, called "Dhul-Hijjah" (i.e. "The Month of Hajj"). The pilgrimage rites occur during a 5-day period, between the 8th - 12th days of this lunar month. The event is also marked by the Islamic holiday "Eid al-Adha," which falls on the 10th day of the lunar month.
During the days of the Hajj, millions of pilgrims will gather in Mecca, Saudi Arabia to pray together, eat together, remember historical events, and celebrate the glory of Allah.
The pilgrimage occurs during the last month of the Islamic year, called "Dhul-Hijjah" (i.e. "The Month of Hajj"). The pilgrimage rites occur during a 5-day period, between the 8th - 12th days of this lunar month. The event is also marked by the Islamic holiday "Eid al-Adha," which falls on the 10th day of the lunar month.
October 7, 2011
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Introduction: Holy Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him and his progeny) has said: "Those people from amongst my ummah, ...
