Hajj: A Comprehensive Guide to the Sacred Pilgrimage

Hajj in Islam is an annual pilgrimage undertaken by Muslims to the holy city of Mecca, located in Saudi Arabia.

Every adult Muslim must try to undertake this journey at least once in their lifetime. It is the fifth of the Five Pillars of Islam, which are the core practices and principles of the faith.

The pilgrimage begins on the 7th of Dhu al-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic Month of lunar calendar, and ends on the 12th day. Hajj is obligatory for all Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey. 

Let's explore the history, significance, purpose, and steps to perform Hajj.

History of Hajj

The origins of Hajj trace back to the Kaaba, a sacred stone structure built by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS) at the site of the Zamzam well. Intended as a place for Muslims to gather and worship Allah (SWT) as the one true God, the Kaaba marked the center of monotheistic worship.

Over time, the city of Makkah flourished around the Kaaba and the well of Zamzam, attracting visitors and traders. Prophet Ibrahim (AS) would return annually for pilgrimage, and when his son Ismail (AS) was granted prophethood, he continued this sacred tradition.

Unfortunately, the Kaaba’s original purpose shifted over time as idol worshipers took control. The once-holy site turned into a center for trade and polytheistic worship, with the Kaaba housing numerous idols.

The Miracle of Zamzam

Prophet Ibrahim (AS), known as Khalilullah (the friend of Allah), demonstrated unwavering faith and sacrifice throughout his life.

Following Allah’s command, he left his wife Hajar and his young son Ismail (AS) in the desert of Makkah, with only a small supply of food and water. When their provisions ran out, Hajar, in desperation, ran between the hills of Safa and Marwah in search of water for her son.

In response to her faith and perseverance, Allah (SWT) blessed them with a miraculous spring—Zamzam. This water source provided Hajar and Ismail (AS) with sustenance and attracted others to the area, contributing to the settlement’s growth. When Ibrahim (AS) returned, he marveled at the divine miracle and saw the blessings that came from his family’s faith.

The Hajj in the Era of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

In 632 CE, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), born into the Quraysh tribe in Makkah, revived the original teachings of Ibrahim (AS). In a pivotal moment, he (PBUH) restored the Kaaba’s purpose as a place of monotheistic worship.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) removed the idols and rededicated the Kaaba as a symbol of devotion to Allah (SWT). He (PBUH) then established Hajj as a central practice in Islam, celebrated during the sacred month of Dhul al-Hijjah.

Interestingly, Dhul al-Hijjah was already considered a holy month by the Arabs, who would suspend fighting and make pilgrimages to the Kaaba (grand mosque). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) preserved this tradition, reshaping it around the worship of Allah alone.

Today, the Kaaba in Masjid al-Haram, known as Baitullah (‘the House of God’), stands as the heart of Hajj rites. This symbolizes the unity and devotion of Muslims worldwide as they perform this sacred pilgrimage each year.

Significance of Hajj

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, making it a religious obligation for every Muslim.

The Five Pillars of Islam are:

1. Profession of Faith (Shahada): The belief and declaration that “There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah, and Muhammad (PBUH) is the final Prophet sent by Allah.”
2. Prayer (Salah)
3. Alms (Zakat)
4. Fasting (Sawm)
5. Pilgrimage (Hajj)

Unlike prayer, alms, and fasting, Hajj is required only once in a Muslim’s lifetime, provided they are physically, emotionally, and financially able. However, Muslims are encouraged to perform it more than once if they have the means.

The Hajj pilgrimage tests patience and endurance, often posing spiritual, emotional, and physical challenges. Despite this, its sanctity offers a unique opportunity to grow closer to Allah (SWT), and for many Muslims worldwide.

Purpose of Hajj

The purpose of Hajj is to fulfill our spiritual obligations to Allah (SWT) and demonstrate our submission to Him.

Muslims believe that Hajj provides an opportunity to erase past sins and begin anew in the eyes of Allah. Moreover, performing Hajj with heightened God-consciousness (Taqwa) is highly encouraged. Striving for excellence in the rituals is rewarded with Paradise.

Steps of Performing Hajj

There are three types of Hajj: Tamattu, Ifraad, and Qiran, each with specific rituals and procedures.

For this guide, we will focus on the Tamattu form of Hajj, which the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommended. Before proceeding to the steps of Hajj let's check the eligibility criteria for Hajj. 

Conditions for Performing Hajj

There are specific conditions that must be met to perform Hajj:

1. Eligibility of Adults: Only adult Muslims, whether male or female, are required to perform Hajj. Children may accompany their parents, but it is not mandatory for them.
2. Exemption for the Physically Incapacitated: Muslims who are too weak, ill, elderly, or physically incapable are exempt from performing Hajj.
3. Financial Ability: A Muslim must be financially able to afford the pilgrimage. Those in debt are not required to perform Hajj until their debt is cleared and they can prioritize the payment. However, if one is in debt, they may still perform Hajj under the following conditions:
• The creditor grants permission.
• The debtor has sufficient time to pay off the debt.
• Performing Hajj does not hinder their ability to repay the debt.

Performing Hajj is one of the essential Sunnahs, especially emphasized during the first ten days of Dhul al-Hijjah.

Here are the 19 detailed steps to perform Hajj correctly, based on the Tamattu method for a complete pilgrimage.

1. Preparation and Intention

Before arriving in Makkah for Hajj, you must make a sincere intention (niyyah) in your heart to perform it. The intention should solely be for the sake of Allah, with a genuine desire for rewards in the hereafter. The intention must be free from any desire for worldly gain or to impress others.

2. Entering the State of Ihram

To begin, you will enter the state of Ihram, which is a spiritual state of ritual purity. Men must wear the designated white cloth, one piece wrapped around the waist and shoulder.

Women may wear any clothing they choose but must adhere to the rules of the Hijab, avoiding face coverings. Men and women must wear sandals; fully-covering shoes are prohibited during Ihram.

Ihram signifies the state of purity entered when you intend to go for Hajj. Over 2.5 million pilgrims gather in Makkah, and in Ihram, all are equal before Allah (SWT). Status, race, culture, and wealth hold no significance while in this sacred state. The clothing rules for Ihram are simple yet strict, and they must be followed precisely.

While in Ihram, avoid activities such as smoking, swearing, cutting nails, shaving, and using perfume or scented soap. This period requires mindfulness of your behavior and words to maintain your spiritual purity. When you arrive at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, you are fully prepared to begin your Hajj journey.

4. Tawaf x 7

Tawaf is a key rite of hajj, involving walking seven circuits around the Kaabah in an anti-clockwise direction. Each circuit of Tawaf starts and ends at the Black Stone, located within the Kaabah, marking completion.

Along with Tawaf, Muslims offer voluntary prayers to thank Allah (SWT) for a safe arrival and a blessed journey.

5. Safa and Marwa

After Tawaf, Muslims perform Sa’i, walking and running between the two hills of Safa and Marwa in Makkah. The Sa’i ritual begins at Safa, walking towards Marwa, running between green markers, and walking back to complete one lap.

A total of seven laps between Safa and Marwa completes the Sa’i, a key component of the Hajj pilgrimage. Sa’i commemorates the trials of Hajar, Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) wife, as she searches for water for her son Ismail.

6. Clip/Shave Hair (Umrah Ends)

After completing the Sa’i, men will either clip or shave their hair, while women will trim it to fingertip length. This marks the end of Umrah, allowing you to exit Ihram until the 8th of Dhul Hijjah.

7. Resting and Praying

After completing Umrah, you will stay in Makkah during this blessed month, preparing spiritually for the upcoming Hajj. Surrounded by fellow Muslims, use this time wisely for worship and reflection. Ensure you get plenty of rest to replenish your energy for Hajj, which begins on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah.

8. Resuming the Ihram Status (Day 1/8th Dhul Hijjah)

The beginning of Hajj on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah marks the start of your spiritual journey, Inshaa Allah. Enter the sacred state of Ihram again, purifying yourself for the most spiritually rewarding period of your life. This sacred time brings blessings and forgiveness from Allah (SWT).

Ihram Rules

When in a state of Ihram, you are prohibited from smoking, swearing, shaving, clipping nails, and engaging in sexual relations. Fighting, arguments, hunting, killing, or breaking things without justification are also forbidden during Ihram. Scented products like perfumes, moisturizers, makeup, and soaps are not allowed, but unscented toiletries can be used as substitutes.

You will then proceed to Mina, a neighborhood in Makkah. It is approximately eight kilometers from the city center, with your Hajj group.

9. Arrival at Mina

Upon arrival in Mina’s tent city, you will settle into your assigned tent and prepare for prayers. You will perform your obligatory prayers, including Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha, and Fajr, shortening four-unit prayers to two.

Spend the night in prayer, reading the Quran, and reflecting spiritually to prepare for the second day of Hajj. It’s essential to make the most of this special night, focusing on devotion and spiritual growth during this time.

Be patient, as the space inside the tents may be tight, with pilgrims close to one another. The weather may be hot, so ensure you stay hydrated by using the nearby cold water stations available throughout Mina.

Hajj authorities stock complimentary cold drinks in cooler boxes near tents, so use them to stay refreshed during your stay. Remember, while you benefit from these refreshments, the primary purpose is to focus on your spiritual journey during Hajj.

10. Day of Arafah (Day 2/9th Dhul Hijjah)

After sunrise in Mina, pilgrims proceed to the plains of Arafat, reciting Istaghfar and making heartfelt supplications, seeking forgiveness. Upon reaching the plains of Mount Arafah, pilgrims observe the shortened Dhuhr and Asr prayers, combining them for efficiency.

According to Abu Hanifa, the combined Dhuhr and Asr prayers are valid only when prayed behind the Imam in the Masjid. A sermon will be delivered from Masjid al-Nimra on Mount Arafah. Try to attend or listen to the Khutbah if possible.

The Day of Arafah holds immense importance, as Allah (SWT) perfected His religion and completed His blessings upon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). 

11. Arriving in Muzdalifah

After sunset, leave Arafah and head towards Muzdalifah, an open plain between Mina and Arafah for worship. Upon reaching Muzdalifah, perform the Maghrib and ‘Isha Salah together, shortening the ‘Isha Salah to two Rakat.

Abdullah ibn Umar (RA) narrates the Prophet (PBUH) offered both prayers at Muzdalifah without any optional prayers between them. After completing the prayers, you may choose to rest or worship, as the Prophet (PBUH) slept before Fajr.

Rest is important at Muzdalifah, as you will have a long day ahead. Avoid exhausting yourself unnecessarily before the next phase. During your stay at Muzdalifah, you can collect pebbles for Rami (stoning the devil) over the next three days.

Collect pebbles similar in size to date stones, with a total of 49 pebbles required for the pilgrims' casting stone ritual. As a precaution, it’s advised to gather 21 extra pebbles to ensure you have a total of 70 pebbles.

You might miss the target or some pebbles may fall, so it's best to collect extra to be prepared. Pebbles can be collected from anywhere in Mina, so there's flexibility in gathering them for the symbolic stoning of the devil ritual.

12. Rami and Hady (Day 3/10th Dhul Hijjah & Start of Eid al-Adha)

On the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, also known as Yawm al-Nahr, Muslims observe the Day of Sacrifice (Qurbani). After Fajr Salah, you will leave Muzdalifah and head towards Mina, continuously reciting the Talbiyah during the journey.

On this day, pilgrims perform the Hady sacrifice of an animal and begin the first of three days of the stoning ritual (Rami). Muslims globally offer Qurbani, marking the start of the four-day festival of Eid al-Adha during this significant occasion.

“And when you are safe, offer a sacrifice if able, or fast for ten days”

[Quran 2:196]

Origin of Rami (The Stoning of the Devil)

Rami, or the stoning of the devil, is a ritual where pilgrims throw pebbles at three stone pillars in Mina. The stoning begins on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. It coincides with Qurbani offerings and the celebration of Eid al-Adha.

Rami symbolizes Ibrahim (AS) resisting Satan’s temptation. This occurred when he was commanded by Allah (SWT) to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS).

Satan attempted to divert Ibrahim (AS) from obeying Allah (SWT). However, Ibrahim (AS) threw seven stones at Iblis to resist him. The three Jamarat represent the locations where Iblis tried to tempt Ibrahim (AS), but they do not contain Iblis.

How to Perform Rami (The Stoning of the Devil)

Rami is performed on the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhul Hijjah, using pebbles the size of date stones or seeds. A total of 49 pebbles are needed for the stoning ritual. They are distributed across the three days as follows: 7 for the 10th, 21 for the 11th, and 21 for the 12th.

It’s helpful to carry four small pouches, each containing the pebbles needed for each day’s stoning, such as in UK coin bags. When pilgrims arrive at the Jamarat, they begin at Jamarat al-Aqaba, the largest pillar, and throw the first seven pebbles on the first day.

Upon each throw, recite the Takbir: (Allahu Akbar), meaning "Allah is The Greatest."

13. Qurbani and Eid al-Adha

Muslims who are not performing Hajj celebrate Eid al-Adha on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah by offering Udhiya/Qurbani. This act commemorates Prophet Ibrahim's (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS) in obedience to Allah's command.

14. Shaving the Head (Day 4/11th Dhul Hijjah)

After offering Hady, male pilgrims should shave or trim their hair, following the example of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Female pilgrims should trim their hair to the length of a fingertip.

After this, you can leave Ihram and wear comfortable clothes. It is Sunnah to apply perfume, as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to wear musk after shaving.

15. Tawaf al-Ifadha and Saai' (Day 5/12th Dhul Hijjah)

After the Rami, Qurbani, and shaving (or trimming) of the head, you must perform Tawaf al-Ifadha and Saai'. Tawaf al-Ifadha and Saai' are essential rituals to complete. These are parts of your Hajj journey after the earlier rites.

Upon completing Tawaf al-Ifadha and Saai', you may return to normal activities allowed before Ihram, including marital relations. After this, you must return to your tents in Mina to continue performing the remaining rituals of the Hajj.

16. The Second Day of Rami

On 11th Dhul Hijjah, proceed to perform the second day of Rami, where you will stone the three pillars. Start with Jamarah al-Ula, the small pillar. Then move to Jamarah al-Wusta, the middle pillar, and end with Jamarah al-Aqaba.

Each pillar should be stoned with seven pebbles, accompanied by Takbir, and you must make Dua facing the qibla. Make sure to carry extra pebbles with you in case some are lost during the ritual of stoning.

17. Spend the Night in Mina

Once the second Rami is complete, return to your camp in Mina, where you’ll spend the rest of the day worshipping. Maximize your time in Mina by engaging in prayer and worship as you await the remaining steps of Hajj.

18. The Third Day of Rami

On the afternoon of the 12th Dhul Hijjah, prepare your final batch of 21 pebbles for the last day of Rami. Repeat the same steps as the previous days, stoning the three pillars with seven pebbles each while reciting Takbir.

19. Tawaf al-Wida (The Farewell Tawaf)

The final step before leaving Makkah is Tawaf al-Wida, which must be performed before departing the Haram boundary. This farewell Tawaf is obligatory according to Hanafis, Shafis, and Hanbalis, but Sunnah according to the Malikis. Omitting this Tawaf without a valid reason is considered unlawful in Islam.

For this Tawaf, you will complete seven rounds. Afterward, perform two Rakahs of Salah and drink Zam Zam water. There is no Sa'i or shaving/trimming of the head after this Tawaf.

In a nutshell, Hajj is more than a pilgrimage; it is a transformative journey. This sacred journey connects Muslims to the legacy of faith and unity embodied by Prophets Ibrahim (AS) and Muhammad (PBUH).

The sacred rituals, from Tawaf around the Kaaba to the symbolic stoning of the pillars, hold profound meaning. Each act reminds us deeply of submission and sacrifice in devotion to Allah. They also reflect our shared responsibility to seek Allah's guidance and mercy.

Through Hajj, Muslims experience a profound spiritual renewal. They strive to return home purified, with a deeper sense of purpose and a closer relationship with Allah (SWT).  For millions, the journey of Hajj represents a lifelong aspiration to attain both forgiveness and Paradise. 

May Allah accept the Hajj of all who embark on this path. May its teachings inspire us to lead lives marked by faith, humility, and compassion.

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