Hajj: The Annual Pilgrimage

Maryam Yasmin

Introduction

Hajj, a sacred pilgrimage ordained by Allah ﷻ, draws millions of devoted believers to the holy city of Makkah each year, embarking on a journey of purification, unity, and zeal. The fifth pillar of Islam, Hajj, is more than just a ceremonial duty; it is a transforming event that includes rituals going back to Prophet Ibrahim (a.s).

The Holy Quran states:

"And proclaim to the people the Hajj; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass" (The Holy Quran 22:27). 

Thus, Hajj emerges not just as a religious duty, but also as a vivid tapestry made from strands of faith, history, and the unending yearning for spiritual fulfilment. Within the spectrum of Hajj, three unique types emerge, each with its own rituals and spiritual essence: Ifraad, Qiraan, and Tamattu'. Guided by the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, Hajj is a monument to the muslim ummah's solidarity and the eternal message of obedience to Allah's ﷻ will. We will delve into the rituals of each Hajj type, exploring their unique aspects.

Hajj Ifraad

Hajj Ifraad is characterized by performing Hajj ONLY, without combining it with Umrah. Pilgrims undertaking Ifraad enter into the state of Ihram specifically for the purpose of Hajj. 

The rituals of Hajj Ifraad include:

1. Ihram: The journey of Hajj begins with the pilgrim entering into the state of Ihram, a state of ritual consecration marked by specific clothing and intentions. Donning the two white cloths, pilgrims declare their readiness to embark on the sacred journey, focusing their minds solely on the worship of Allah. 

2. Tawaf and Sa'i: Upon reaching the Kaaba in Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf, circumambulating the Ka’bah seven times in a counter clockwise direction as an act of devotion and submission.

At the end of each round of tawaf, the pilgrim will recite the following du’a:

 رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَة حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ

“Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.” 

Following Tawaf, pilgrims undertake Sa'i, walking briskly seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, commemorating Hajar a.s search for water.

3. Wuquf at Arafat: The pinnacle of Hajj, Wuquf at Arafat, symbolizes the Day of Judgment, where pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafat, seeking forgiveness and supplicating to Allah ﷻ. Standing in earnest prayer and reflection, pilgrims experience a profound sense of humility and connection to the divine. 

Du’a to recited at Arafat is as follows: 

لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيكَ لَهُ لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيرٍ

“None has the right to be worshiped except Allah, alone, without partner. To Him belongs sovereignty and all praise and He is over all things omnipotent.”

4. Stoning of the Devil: After Wuquf at Arafat, pilgrims proceed to Muzdalifah, where they collect pebbles for the ritual of Stoning of the Devil. This symbolic act represents the rejection of temptation and the triumph of faith over evil. 

5. Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa'i: Pilgrims return to Makkah to perform Tawaf al-Ifadah, another circumambulation of the Ka’bah, followed by Sa'i, completing the rituals of Hajj.

Hajj Qiraan: 

Hajj Qiraan involves combining both Hajj and Umrah with a single Ihram. Pilgrims undertaking Qiraan perform Umrah first, followed by Hajj, without exiting the state of Ihram between the two.

The rituals of Hajj Qiraan include: 

1. Ihram and Umrah: Pilgrims enter into Ihram at the designated miqat and proceed to Makkah to perform Umrah, including Tawaf, Sa'i, and shaving or trimming the hair.

2. Remaining in Ihram: Unlike Ifraad, pilgrims in Qiraan maintain their state of Ihram after completing Umrah, preparing for the subsequent rituals of Hajj without exiting the consecrated state.

3. Wuquf at Arafat and Stoning of the Devil: The rituals of Wuquf at Arafat and Stoning of the Devil are performed similar to Hajj Ifraad, with pilgrims experiencing the spiritual climax of Hajj at Arafat. 

4. Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa'i: After completing the rituals of Hajj, pilgrims perform Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa'i, thereby fulfilling the requirements of both Hajj and Umrah within a single Ihram.

Hajj Tamattu’:

Hajj Tamattu' involves performing Umrah during the months of Hajj, followed by Hajj with a separate Ihram. Unlike Qiraan, pilgrims in Tamattu' exit the state of Ihram after completing Umrah and enter into a new Ihram for Hajj. 

The rituals of Hajj Tamattu' include: 

1. Ihram and Umrah: Pilgrims enter into Ihram at the miqat and perform Umrah first, including Tawaf, Sa'i, and shaving or trimming the hair. 

2. Exiting Ihram: After completing Umrah, pilgrims exit the state of Ihram, engaging in normal activities until the commencement of Hajj. 

3. Ihram for Hajj: Prior to the commencement of Hajj, pilgrims enter into a new state of Ihram at the designated miqat, with the intention of performing Hajj.

4. Rituals of Hajj: The rituals of Hajj, including Wuquf at Arafat, Stoning of the Devil, Tawaf al-Ifadah, and Sa'i, are performed as in the previous types of Hajj.

What are the Faraidh and Wajibat of Hajj?

Faraidh (Obligatory Acts):

• To adorn ihram/intention

• To reside in Arafat

• To perform tawaf ziyarah

Wajibat (Necessary Acts):

• To reside in Muzdalifa

• Pelting the Jamarat

• Sacrifice animal

• Shave or trim the hair

• Running between Safa and Marwa.

• Perform farewell tawaf

Adab of Makkah:

When visiting Makkah, it's essential to observe certain etiquettes and behaviours to show respect for the sacredness of the city and its religious significance. 

Respect for the sacred sites: Show reverence and respect for the holy sites, such as the Ka’bah, Masjid al-Haram, Mount Arafat, and Mount Thawr. Refrain from any disrespectful behaviour and avoid engaging in any activities that may disturb others.

Maintain purity: Maintain taharah by performing wudhu before prayers and Tawaf. Ensure that clothing is clean and modest, adhering to the dress code guidelines set for the sacred sites.

Humility and Submission: Cultivate a sense of humility and submission to the will of Allah ﷻ. Approach prayers and acts of worship with sincerity and devotion, understanding the significance of the rituals being performed.

Kindness and Consideration: Show kindness, compassion, and consideration towards fellow pilgrims and residents of Makkah. Exercise patience and tolerance, especially in crowded areas and during busy times, avoiding conflicts or arguments.

Preservation of Sanctity: Preserve the sanctity of Makkah by refraining from any behavior that may defile its sacredness. Avoid littering, damaging property, or engaging in any activities that disrespect the religious and blessed city.

By adhering to these guidelines, pilgrims and visitors can demonstrate their respect for the sanctity of Makkah and its significance in Islam, fostering an environment of reverence, piety, and mutual respect among all those who visit the holy city.

Virtues of Makkah:

• Makkah is revered as the location of the first house of worship established for humanity, the Ka’bah.

The Holy Quran states:

"Verily, the first House (of worship) appointed for mankind was that at Bakkah (i.e., Makkah), full of blessing and guidance for all worlds." (The Holy Quran 3:96)

• Makkah is considered a sanctuary (Haram), where bloodshed, violence, and harm are prohibited.

• Makkah is considered a source of mercy and blessings for believers. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, "Allah, the Exalted, has made this city (Makkah) sacred, and it was not made sacred by the people. So, it is not lawful for anyone who believes in Allah and the Last Day to shed blood in it or to cut down (or uproot) any tree in it. If anyone argues that fighting is allowed in Makkah as Allah's Apostle did fight in Makkah, say to him, 'Allah allowed His Apostle and did not allow you.' Allah allowed me only for a few hours on that day (of the Conquest), and today its sanctity has become the same as it was before (on that day). So, it is a sanctuary by the decree of Allah until the Day of Resurrection. Its thorns should not be uprooted, and its game should not be chased, and its fallen things should not be picked up except by one who would announce it publicly." (Sahih Bukhari 104)

• “The prayer in this Masjid of mine [in Madinah] is more excellent than a 1000 prayers in any other place except for the Masjid al-Haraam [in Makkah], for the prayer in the Masjid al-Haraam is 100,000 times more excellent.” (Musnad Imam Ahmad 14694).

• Allah, the Mighty and Majestic, connected the Sacred House in Makkah to Himself specifically: 

وَطَهِّرْ بَيْتِيَ لِلطَّائِفِينَ وَالْقَائِمِينَ وَالرُّكَّعِ السُّجُودِ  

• “And purify My House for those who perform Tawaaf…” (The Holy Quran 22:26)

• This connection is particular and specific due to the sacredness that Allah ﷻ has endowed the Ka`bah with, the honour He has given to Makkah, and His love for it. This singularly is sufficient honour for this city and the Grand Mosque.

What does The Holy Quran say about Hajj?

Surah Aal-Imran (3:97): "In it are clear signs [such as] the standing place of Ibrahim. And whoever enters it shall be safe. And [due] to Allah ﷻ from the people is a pilgrimage to the House – for whoever is able to find to there a way. But whoever disbelieves – then indeed, Allah ﷻ is free from need of the worlds." 

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:196): "And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah ﷻ . But if you are prevented, then [offer] what can be obtained with ease of sacrificial animals. And do not shave your heads until the sacrificial animal has reached its place of slaughter. And whoever among you is ill or has an ailment of the head [making shaving necessary must offer] a ransom of fasting [three days] or charity or sacrifice. And when you are secure, then whoever performs 'Umrah [during the Hajj months] followed by Hajj [offers] what can be obtained with ease of sacrificial animals. And whoever cannot find [or afford such an animal] – then a fast of three days during Hajj and of seven when you have returned [home]. Those are ten complete [days]. This is for those whose family is not in the area of al-Masjid al-Haram. And fear Allah and know that Allah is severe in penalty." 

Surah Al-Baqarah (2:158): "Indeed, as-Safa and al-Marwah are among the symbols of Allahﷻ. So whoever makes Hajj to the House or performs 'umrah - there is no blame upon him for walking between them. And whoever volunteers good - then indeed, Allah ﷻ is appreciative and Knowing."

What does the Hadith say about Hajj?

Sahih Bukhari 595: Narrated Abu Huraira: "Allah's Messenger ﷺ said, 'Whoever performs Hajj for Allah's pleasure and does not have sexual relations with his wife, and does not do evil or sins then he will return (after Hajj free from all sins) as if he were born anew.'" 

Sahih Muslim 2808: It was narrated that Ibn 'Abbas said: "The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: 'One 'Umrah to the next is an expiation for what comes between them, and Hajj Al-Mabrur brings no less a reward than Paradise.'" 

Sahih Muslim 2803: It was narrated that Abu Hurairah said: "The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said: 'Whoever performs Hajj for the sake of Allah and does not utter any obscene speech or do any evil deed, will go back (free of sin) as his mother bore him.'"

Sahih Muslim 309: It was narrated from Jabir bin 'Abdullah that the Messenger of Allah ﷺ stood at Arafat and said: "O people, Hajj has been prescribed for you, so perform Hajj." A man said: "O Messenger of Allah, is it every year?" But he remained silent. Then he said: "If I were to say yes, it would become obligatory, and you would not be able to do it." Then he said: "Leave me alone so long as I leave you alone. Those who were before you were destroyed because of their many questions and their going against their Prophets. If I tell you to do something, do as much of it as you can, and if I tell you to avoid something, avoid it."

Sunan ibn Majah 2894: Abdullah ibn Umar asked the Prophet ﷺ for permission to perform Umrah, and he ﷺ gave him permission and said to him: "O younger brother, give us a share of your supplication, and do not forget us."

Some Virtues of Hajj:

Unity and Brotherhood: Hajj promotes solidarity and brotherhood among Muslims from all origins and cultures. Pilgrims assemble at Makkah, wrapped in basic clothing and equal before Allah ﷻ, to emphasise Islam's inclusiveness and the links of religion that transcend differences.

Testimony of Faith: Through the rituals of Hajj, believers bear witness to the Oneness of Allah ﷻ and the finality of Prophethood. The Tawaf around the Ka’bah, the symbolic stoning of the Devil, and other rituals reaffirm one's faith and commitment to Islam.

Elevation of Status: Scholars mention that performing Hajj elevates one's status in the sight of Allah ﷻ. Prophet ﷺ said,

"The performers of Hajj and Umrah are deputations of Allah. If they call on Him, He answers them, and if they ask Him for forgiveness, He forgives them." (Sunan Ibn Majah 2892)

Virtues and procedure of visiting Madinah and conveying Salat and Salam to the Rawdah:

Visiting Madinah, especially Masjid an-Nabawi, holds immense significance in Islam. It is source of spiritual blessings, and conveying salat and salam upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in Madinah is highly virtuous.

Virtues of Visiting Madinah:

• Blessed City : Madinah is known as the City of the Prophet ﷺ and is second in sanctity only to Makkah. It holds a special place in the hearts of Muslims worldwide due to its association with Prophet Muhammad ﷺ and early Islamic history.

• Rewards and Blessings: Visiting Madinah and offering prayers in the Prophet's ﷺ masjid will bring immense spiritual rewards and blessings. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, "One prayer in my masjid is better than a thousand prayers in any other masjid, except al-Masjid al-Haram (in Makkah)." (Sahih Muslim 1394)

• Intercession on Judgment Day: Prophet Muhammad ﷺ will intercede for those who visit his grave and convey Salat and Salam upon him. This act is considered a means of seeking his intercession on the Day of Judgment.

Procedure for Conveying Salat and Salam to the Rawdah:

1. Approach with Humility: When entering the prophet's ﷺ masjid, maintain a state of humility and reverence. Remember that you are entering a sacred space associated with the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ.

2. Identify the Rawdah: The Rawdah is a section of the Prophet's ﷺ masjid which is part of Paradise. It is located between the Prophet's ﷺ pulpit (minbar) and his grave (Rawdah).

3. Offer Two Rak'ahs: It is recommended to offer two voluntary rak'ahs upon entering the Rawdah, if possible. However, if the area is crowded, you may offer them elsewhere in the mosque.

4. Facing the Prophet's ﷺ Grave: While standing in the Rawdah, face the Prophet's ﷺ grave and send Salat and Salam upon him. You can do this silently or audibly, reciting phrases such as "Allahumma salli 'ala Muhammadin wa 'ala ali Muhammadin kama sallaita 'ala Ibrahim wa 'ala ali Ibrahim, innaka Hamidun Majid" 

(O Allah, send blessings upon Muhammad and upon the family of Muhammad, as You sent blessings upon Ibrahim and upon the family of Ibrahim; You are indeed Worthy of Praise, Full of Glory).

5. Supplication and Du'a: After conveying Salat and Salam, you may also make personal dua’s to Allah ﷻ , seeking His forgiveness, guidance, and blessings for yourself, your loved ones, and the entire Muslim Ummah.

By following these procedures and conveying Salat and Salam upon Prophet Muhammad ﷺ in Madinah, muslims seek to honor his noble legacy, gain spiritual rewards, and draw closer to the teachings of Islam.

Conclusion 

As the pilgrims return from the sacred precincts of Makkah, their hearts are filled with gratitude, humility, and a renewed sense of purpose. They carry with them not only the memories of their journey but also the blessings of forgiveness, mercy, and divine favour. For those who have been blessed with the opportunity to perform Hajj, it becomes a lifelong reservoir of spiritual nourishment, guiding them through the trials and tribulations of life.

Hajj is indeed a journey of rebirth, a journey of transformation, and a journey of profound significance. May Allah ﷻ accept the Hajj of all pilgrims and grant them the strength to carry its lessons into their daily lives, embodying the spirit of submission, devotion, and unity that defines this sacred pilgrimage.

Maryam Yasmin

University graduate and Alimiyyah student

of Shaykh Faizulhaq Abdulaziz حفظه الله