Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is a religious duty for Muslims to perform once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) provided a comprehensive guide on performing Hajj, and it is essential for every Muslim to follow the steps and etiquettes meticulously.
The Importance of Hajj
Performing Hajj clears a person of all previous sins, making them spiritually purified. It is crucial to approach Hajj with sincerity, devotion, and respect for the prescribed rituals.
For more on the spiritual significance of Hajj, read:
Preparation for Hajj
Before embarking on Hajj, every pilgrim must prepare physically and spiritually. Purification is a key aspect that begins before the journey. Pilgrims must clean themselves and seek forgiveness for their sins.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Hajj
Day 1: 8th Zil Hijjah – The Start of Hajj
- Purification Preparations:
The evening of 7th Zil Hijjah marks the beginning of the Hajj journey. Pilgrims perform purification rituals like trimming nails, removing body hair, and taking a bath or wudu (ablution). This purification is both physical and spiritual. - Ihram:
Pilgrims don the Ihram, a special white garment symbolizing unity and purity.- Men: Wear two unstitched sheets (lower and upper body).
- Women: Wear regular modest clothing.
- Prohibitions During Ihram:
- Men should not cover their heads; women should avoid covering their faces.
- No cutting nails, shaving hair, or engaging in marital relations.
- Recitation of Talbiyah:
Pilgrims recite the Talbiyah:
“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk” (Here I am, O Allah, Here I am).
Day 2: 9th Zil Hijjah – Reaching Arafah
- Reaching Mina:
Pilgrims travel from Makkah to Mina, where they perform the Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha prayers and spend the night. - Arrival at Arafah:
After Fajr prayer, pilgrims travel to Arafah.- Prayers: Zuhur and Asr are combined and performed at Masjid-e-Namrah.
- Pilgrims stand in prayer and repentance, seeking Allah’s forgiveness until sunset.
- Travel to Muzdalifah:
After sunset, pilgrims head to Muzdalifah for a night of prayer and zikr. - Collecting Pebbles:
Pilgrims collect 49 or 70 pebbles for the Rami ritual.
Day 3: 10th Zil Hijjah – The Stoning and Sacrifice
- Performing Rami:
Pilgrims throw 7 pebbles at Jamrah Aqabah while reciting Takbeer. - Qurbani (Animal Sacrifice):
Performed between 10th and 12th Zil Hijjah. - Halq/Qasr (Shaving/Trimming Hair):
- Men: Shave their heads or trim their hair.
- Women: Trim their hair by one inch.
Day 4: 11th Zil Hijjah – The Stoning at Jamrah
Pilgrims throw 7 pebbles at each of the three Jamrah:
- Jamrah Oolah (First Jamrah)
- Jamrah Wustah (Middle Jamrah)
- Jamrah Aqabah (Last Jamrah)
Day 5: 12th Zil Hijjah – The Final Day of Rami
Pilgrims repeat the stoning ritual at the three Jamrah.
Day 6: 13th Zil Hijjah – Final Stoning
Pilgrims perform the final stoning at Jamrah Aqabah.
Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’yi
- Tawaf al-Ifadah:
Pilgrims walk around the Ka’bah seven times in a counter-clockwise direction. - Sa’yi:
Walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times, reciting dua.
Tawaf al-Wida (Farewell Tawaf)
Before leaving Makkah, pilgrims perform the Tawaf al-Wida, marking the end of the Hajj pilgrimage. This final Tawaf is a way to thank Allah for the opportunity to perform Hajj.
Conclusion: The Spiritual Significance of Hajj
The Hajj pilgrimage is a powerful spiritual experience that purifies the soul and strengthens the bond with Allah. By following the steps of Hajj with sincerity, a pilgrim attains forgiveness and spiritual fulfillment.
Stay informed about Hajj guidelines and updates through the Hajj Committee of India website.
For more resources on preparation and travel, explore: