Performing Hajj is a significant pilgrimage for Muslims around the world. It is essential to understand the step-by-step process of this sacred journey. In this article, we will provide a detailed guide to performing Hajj.
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Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Hajj
Entering the state of Ihram: Before starting Hajj, pilgrims must enter the state of Ihram. This involves wearing the Ihram garments, consisting of two white, seamless cloths. It is important to make the intention to enter Ihram sincerely.
Arrival in Mecca: Upon reaching Mecca, the pilgrim proceeds to the Masjid al-Haram, the sacred mosque housing the Kaaba. This is the focal point of the Hajj pilgrimage.
Tawaf: The first ritual in Hajj is Tawaf, which involves circumambulating the Kaaba. Begin at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad) and walk around the Kaaba counterclockwise seven times. Recite prayers and supplications during this ritual.
Sa'i: After completing Tawaf, proceed to Safa and Marwah hills within the Masjid al-Haram complex. Perform Sa'i, which entails walking back and forth between Safa and Marwah seven times, following the footsteps of Hajar (Hagar) during her search for water.
Optional prayers and rest: After completing Sa'i, it is recommended to perform optional prayers and take some rest in Mecca to regain strength for the next stages of Hajj.
Day of Tarwiyah: On the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims move to Mina, a tent city located a few miles east of Mecca. This day is known as the Day of Tarwiyah, and pilgrims spend the night in Mina to prepare for the upcoming rituals.
Day of Arafah: On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims proceed to the plain of Arafah, the most crucial day of Hajj. Spend the entire day engaged in worship, supplication, and reflection. Stand at Mount Arafah, seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah.
Departure from Arafah: After sunset on the Day of Arafah, pilgrims leave for Muzdalifah, a short distance away. Collect pebbles here for the stoning ritual (Ramy al-Jamarat).
Overnight stay in Muzdalifah: Spend the night in Muzdalifah, offering the evening prayer (Maghrib) and the night prayer (Isha).
Read More: 16 Spiritual Rituals in the Virtuous First Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah
Use this time to reflect on the journey and gather strength for the next stages.
Stoning of the Jamarat: After the Fajr prayer on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims proceed to the Jamarat in Mina. Perform the stoning ritual by throwing seven pebbles at the largest pillar (Jamrat al-Aqaba), followed by the other pillars. Recite prayers during the stoning.
Animal Sacrifice: Following the stoning, pilgrims may choose to perform an animal sacrifice. This ritual symbolizes the story of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his willingness to sacrifice his son. A trusted agent or organization usually carries out the sacrifice.
Shaving or trimming the hair: After completing the stoning ritual, men should either shave their heads completely or trim their hair. Women are recommended to cut a small portion of their hair.
Tawaf al-Ifadah: Return to the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca and perform Tawaf al-Ifadah, also known as Tawaf al-Ziyarah. This is similar to the initial Tawaf, but Sa'i has not performed afterward.
Return to Mina: After Tawaf al-Ifadah, pilgrims return to Mina to spend the remaining days of Hajj. They continue performing the stoning ritual (Ramy al-Jamarat) for three consecutive days (11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah).
Farewell Tawaf: Before leaving Mecca, it is customary to perform a farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wida). This Tawaf marks the end of the Hajj pilgrimage and bidding farewell to the Kaaba.
watch this video:A Step By Step Guide To The Hajj
Performing Hajj is a spiritual and physically demanding journey. It is important to follow the steps carefully while maintaining a state of purity and focus on the worship of Allah. May Allah accept the Hajj of all pilgrims and grant them blessings and forgiveness.