Hajj is the major pilgrimage and is regarded as the 5th pillar of Islam. It is one of the best forms of worship that Muslims are obliged to perform at least once in their lifetime – given that they have the means and health to do so.
The Hajj is the journey to the holy city of Makkah, which takes place during the Islamic month of Dhū al-Ḥijjah. Muslims carry out a series of rituals of worship from the 7th day of Dhū al-Ḥijjah and end on the 12th day. Over 2 million Muslims from across the globe gather at the time of the Hajj.
As Muslims, we should know the spiritual importance of Hajj, its benefits, and what it involves.
ENTERING THE STATE OF IHRAM
The journey begins with the pilgrims entering the state of Ihram. This includes wearing a specific garment and complying with certain restrictions and actions such as refraining from using perfume, clipping nails, engaging in disputes with others, marital relations and more.
RITUALS OF THE HAJJ
The rituals of the Hajj that span over five to six days include Tawaf around the Kaaba, the hills of Safa and Marwa, spending a day in Mina on the eighth of Dhul-Hajj before arriving at the mount of Arafah. From Arafah, travellers go to Muzdalifah, where they spend the night before returning to Mina.
BENEFITS OF HAJJ
Being the major pilgrimage in Islam and a highly rewarded act of worship, Hajj is a source of many benefits for a Muslim, such as:
- It acts as a spiritual purification of the soul
- Asking for the forgiveness of sins
- It teaches us self-restraint and patience
- It is a great way to strengthen our faith as Muslims
- Abundant blessings of Allah
- It is one of the best ways to get closer to Allah