HAJJ

 

Hajj Introduction:

Hajj is a very important pillar of Islam. There are five pillars in Islam. 05 pillars of Islam are as under:

1.            Shahada (Faith declaration)

2.            Salah (Prayer)

3.            Zakat (Charity)

4.            Fasting (Sawm)

5.            Hajj (Pilgrimage)

Hajj started back to the time of Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and his family. According to Islam, Ibrahim along with his wife and son Ismail played a vital role in the formation of Kaaba, the house of ALLAH in Mecca. All the events which are performed during the Hajj, shows the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim’s family towards worship of true ALLAH.

Rituals of Hajj:

Hajj performs in the Islamic month of Dhu al Hajj and there are series of rituals which pilgrims have to perform during the Hajj days. Following are the rituals with detail:

1.            Ihram:

To start Hajj, one has to wear special type of clothes which consist of two parts. This shows the equality of all Muslims, regardless of their culture and socio-economic status, as everyone appears in the same simple clothes.

2.            Tawaf:

After wearing Ahram, pilgrims perform tawaf, walk counterclockwise direction around the Kaaba seven times as a demonstration of devotion and unity to ALLAH.

3.            Sa’e:

Pilgrims walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times in memory of Prophet Ibrahim’s wife Hajar desperate search of water for her son Ismail. This ritual is a symbol of steadfastness and trust in the gift of Allah.

4.            Wuquf at Arafat:

Pilgrims then gathered at Arafat, they stand and pray to ALLAH for seeking mercy and forgiveness. This is considered as a peak point of Hajj.

5.            Stoning of the Jamarat:

Pilgrims throw 7 stones at three pillars representing Satan, indicating the rejection evil attraction and determination to resist sins.

6.            Eid al Adha:

At the end, pilgrims celebrated Eid ul Adha, the festival of Sacrifice, pilgrims sacrifice an animal like Goat, Sheep, cow or camel in memory of Ibrahim’s will to sacrifice his son.

Spiritual Significance:

Hajj is a changing journey that provides mental, spiritual and emotional benefits to the pilgrims. It is the time of seeking forgiveness, and reflection. Muslims from all over the world displayed unity during Hajj.

Moreover, Pilgrims leave the daily comfort from their lives behind and show their dedication and relation with the ALLAH. It’s like rebirth process and life sense of purpose increased.

Conclusion:

Hajj is more than a religious duty. It’s transformed the character of individual and strengthen the Muslims unity. Beyond the physical rituals, it is a spiritual endeavor that encourages self-reflection, humility, and a renewed commitment to living a righteous and virtuous life. The experience of Hajj is a testament to the power of faith to bring people together, transcending cultural, linguistic, and geographical barriers in the pursuit of a shared connection with the Divine.