The hajj journey
Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, is a sacred obligation for every able adult Muslim. It is a profound spiritual journey to the holy city of Makkah, filled with meaningful rituals that must be followed diligently.
01
Ihram
Start your Hajj journey with a sincere intention (Niyyah) to enter the state of Ihram and dedicate yourself to the rituals of Hajj. Recite the Talbiyah with devotion, saying:
“Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk. Labbayk La Shareeka Laka Labbayk. Innal Hamda Wan-Ni’mata Laka Wal-Mulk, La Shareeka Lak.”
After making the intention and reciting the Talbiyah, put on the Ihram garments to officially enter the sacred state of Ihram.
02
Tawaf Al-Qudum
Upon entering Makkah, begin your pilgrimage by performing Tawaf Al-Qudum. Circumambulate the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction, starting from the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad). After completing the Tawaf, pray two Rak’ahs of Tawaf behind Maqam Ibrahim, if possible.
03
Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah
After completing the Tawaf, perform Sa’i between Safa and Marwah. Walk back and forth seven times, starting at Safa and ending at Marwah. This act commemorates the journey of Hagar (Hajrah) in search of water for her son, Ismail (peace be upon them).
04
Mina (The Day of Tarwiyah)
On the morning of the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah, proceed to Mina. Spend the day and night in Mina, engaging in supplication, prayer, and remembrance of Allah. Prepare your heart and mind for the significant rituals to come. Remain in Mina until the morning of the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, the Day of Arafah.
05
Arafah (Day of the Greater Hajj)
On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, proceed to Arafat and spend the day in earnest worship, supplication, and remembrance of Allah. This is the most important day of Hajj. Stay within the boundaries of Arafat, standing or sitting in devotion, seeking forgiveness, and making heartfelt prayers until sunset.
06
Muzdalifah
After sunset on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, leave Arafat and proceed to Muzdalifah. Upon arrival, offer Maghrib and Isha prayers combined, shortening the Isha prayer to two Rak’ahs. Spend the night under the open sky in worship, reflection, and rest. Before leaving, collect at least seven small pebbles to use for the upcoming Jamarat ritual.
07
Pelt Jamrat Al-Aqabah
On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, the Day of Eid, return to Mina and perform the ritual of Rami by pelting Jamrat Al-Aqabah (the largest pillar) with seven pebbles. With each throw, recite “Allahu Akbar” (Takbeer) as an act of devotion and defiance against evil. This ritual symbolizes rejecting temptation and affirming obedience to Allah.
08
Adhahi
On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, perform the Adhahi (sacrificial offering) to draw closer to Allah. This act commemorates the willingness of Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) to sacrifice for Allah’s sake. Share the meat of the sacrifice with family, friends, and those in need, ensuring that the less fortunate also benefit from this blessed occasion.
09
Shave Hair or Trim
After performing the Adhahi (sacrifice), either shave your head (for men) or trim a portion of your hair (for women). This act symbolizes purification and humility. Once this is done, remove your Ihram and change into your regular clothes, signaling the completion of the major rituals of Hajj and the return to normalcy.
10
Ihram
When starting your journey for Hajj, make the intention in your heart that you are entering the state of Ihram and will perform all the rituals of Hajj. Recite the Talbiyah and then wear the Ihram garments.
11
Tawaf Al-Ifada
After returning to Makkah, perform Tawaf Al-Ifada by circumambulating the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction. This is a key ritual of Hajj, symbolizing the pilgrim’s submission to Allah. After completing the Tawaf, pray two Rak’ahs behind Maqam Ibrahim, if possible. This act signifies the pilgrim’s renewal of faith and closeness to Allah.
12
Tawaf Al-Wadaa
Before leaving Makkah, perform Tawaf Al-Wadaa, the farewell Tawaf. Circumambulate the Kaaba seven times, offering your final prayers and supplications in the sacred mosque. This act marks the end of your Hajj journey, and it is a time to seek forgiveness, blessings, and express gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to perform this sacred pilgrimage.