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Hajj:The Fifth Pillar of Islam – Purpose, Rituals, and Benefits

Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, a spiritual journey that every Muslim must undertake at least once in their lifetime, provided they are physically and financially able. This sacred pilgrimage to Mecca takes place every year during the month of Dhul-Hijjah, the last Islamic month of the Islamic calendar.

Hajj is not just a physical journey but also a deeply spiritual one, wherein Muslims come together to worship Allah, seek His forgiveness, and renew their commitment to Him. The pilgrimage serves as a reminder of the devotion of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), his willingness to sacrifice for Allah, and the significance of unity and equality among Muslims.

Table of Contents

Hajj: The Fifth Pillar of Islam – A Guide to its Purpose, Rituals, and Benefits

What is the Purpose of Hajj?

Fulfillment of a Pillar of Islam: Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, an essential act of worship. Performing Hajj signifies a Muslim’s devotion and submission to Allah (SWT).

Spiritual Cleansing: Hajj offers Muslims the opportunity to purify themselves, seeking forgiveness for past sins. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Whoever performs Hajj for Allah’s pleasure and does not engage in sinful behavior, will return free of sins as if he were born a new” (Sahih Bukhari 1521).

Unity and Equality: The pilgrimage is a powerful demonstration of the unity of the global Muslim Ummah. Regardless of race, nationality, or social status, all pilgrims wear the same simple white garments, signifying that all are equal before Allah.

Renewal of Faith: It is a time for spiritual reflection, seeking nearness to Allah and striving for personal growth. Hajj provides an opportunity to purify one’s heart and soul.

Emulation of Prophets: By performing the rituals of Hajj, Muslims follow in the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), exemplifying their faith and obedience to Allah.

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Rites and Rituals of Hajj

The pilgrimage to Mecca consists of a series of important rites, which each pilgrim must complete. These rites not only symbolize physical devotion but also serve as reminders of the sacrifice, patience, and obedience required of a believer.

Preparation and Intention (Niyyah): The first step of Hajj is to set the intention for the pilgrimage with sincerity, seeking Allah’s pleasure.

Ihram: Before entering the sacred boundary of Mecca, pilgrims must enter a state of spiritual purity known as Ihram. Men wear two unstitched pieces of cloth, and women wear simple clothing, ensuring that all are spiritually equal before Allah.

Tawaf: Upon reaching Mecca, pilgrims perform Tawaf, which involves walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. This act signifies the believer’s devotion and submission to the One true God.

Safa and Marwa: Pilgrims walk between the hills of Safa and Marwa, remembering the search of Hajar (the wife of Ibrahim) for water for her son, Isma’il.

Sacrifice (Qurbani): A key act of devotion is the sacrifice of an animal, typically a goat, sheep, or cow, to commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son Isma’il in obedience to Allah.

Ramy al-Jamarat (Stoning of the Devil): Pilgrims throw small pebbles at three pillars, symbolizing the rejection of evil, as Prophet Ibrahim did when Satan attempted to dissuade him from sacrificing his son.

Arafat: The culmination of Hajj occurs on the plains of Arafat, where pilgrims stand in prayer, seeking Allah’s mercy and forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, The hajj, the hajj is on the day of Arafah. If anyone comes over there before the dawn prayer on the night of al-Muzdalifah, his hajj will be complete. The period of halting at Mina is three days. Then whoever hastens (his departure) by two days, it is no sin for him, and whoever delays it there is no sin for him. (Sunan Abu Dawood 1949).

Farewell Tawaf: After completing the required rituals, pilgrims perform a final Tawaf around the Kaaba as a farewell before leaving Mecca.

These rituals are filled with deep meaning and are rooted in the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), commemorating the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family.

What is the importance of Hajj? Hadith Reference

Several hadiths emphasize the significance of Hajj and its rewards:

Narrated Abu Huraira:

The Prophet (p.b.u.h) 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 Bukhari 1521).

Narrated Ibn ‘Umar:

Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) said: Islam is based on (the following) five (principles):

1. To testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ).

2. To offer the (compulsory congregational) prayers dutifully and perfectly.

3. To pay Zakat (i.e. obligatory charity) .

4. To perform Hajj. (i.e. Pilgrimage to Mecca)

5. To observe fast during the month of Ramadan.

Sahih al-Bukhari 8

It was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbas that Fadl said – or vice verse:

“The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: ‘Whoever intends to perform Hajj, let him hasten to do so, for he may fall sick, lose his mount, or be faced with some need.’”

Sunan Ibn Majah 2883

The Spiritual and Social Benefits of Hajj

Peace and Forgiveness: Pilgrims often experience a deep sense of peace and serenity, especially when they stand at Arafat and seek Allah’s forgiveness.
Spiritual Healing: Hajj provides an opportunity for emotional healing, helping Muslims to reconnect with their faith and reflect on their life’s purpose.
Unity in the Ummah: Muslims from every corner of the world gather together, fostering a sense of brotherhood and global unity.
Humility and Gratitude: The simple Ihram clothing reminds pilgrims of their equality before Allah, and many feel a renewed sense of humility and gratitude for the blessings in their lives.
Strengthened Faith: Many return from Hajj with a renewed sense of purpose, committed to living their lives according to the teachings of Islam.

Eligibility for Hajj

Hajj is obligatory for every Muslim who is:

Physically Able: Must be in good health to endure the physical demands of the pilgrimage.
Financially Able: Must have the financial means to afford the journey, including expenses for travel, accommodation, and other necessary provisions.
Adult and Sane: The individual must be an adult and mentally capable of understanding the significance of the pilgrimage.

Not Eligible for Hajj:

Non-Muslims
Children
Those who are physically unfit
Those unable to afford the journey

Conclusion: The Spiritual Significance of Hajj

Hajj is more than just a physical journey; it is a spiritual transformation. The pilgrimage brings Muslims closer to Allah, purifies their soul, and strengthens their faith. By performing the rites of Hajj, Muslims reaffirm their submission to Allah and reflect on the legacy of the prophets. It is an act of worship that offers immense spiritual rewards, and for those who complete it sincerely, it is a means of forgiveness and the promise of Paradise.

Hajj:The Fifth Pillar of Islam – Purpose, Rituals, and Benefits