Hajj (The Pilgrimage)

 

 

1-Al-Hajj is a journey to 'Al-Ka'bah (the Sacred House of Allah) in Makkah (Mecca) with the intention of obeying Allah's command and performing certain prescribed rites there. (For the details of performing Al-Hajj, you may consult any Islamic reference book on the subject).
2-Performing  Al-Hajj is obligatory, once in a lifetime, upon every mature Muslim provided he is able (physically and financially).
3-The whole journey of Al-Hajj and its rites confirm an a unique form, the principles of Islam and commemorate Islamic milestones related to Prophets Ibrahim (Abraham), Ismael and Muhammad 'Alayhimu s-Salam.
4-The rites of Al-Hajj are performed, in general, in the first ten days of Dhu L-Hijjah (the last month of the Islamic Year).
5-On the 9th of Dhu L-Hijjah the culminating rite is performed at Mount 'Arafat' where all pilgrims, sometimes about two millions, gather.
6-Pilgrims' standing at 'Arafat' is to declare their supplications to Allah and their repentance and need of His Mercy and Forgiveness.
7-This reminds us of the Grand Assembly on the Day of Judgment.
8-The next day (the tenth) is the great 'Idu l-'Adha (The Feast of Sacrifice) when pilgrims offer their sacrifices.After slaughtering their sacrifices, pilgrims go to Makkah and make Tawaf seven times around Al-Ka'bah.
9-Muslims every where slaughter their sacrifices (of camels, cows or sheep) after performing 'Id Prayer.
10-These sacrifices were prescribed in commemoration of the great Sacrifice of Prophet Abraham ('Alayhi s-Salam) when he was about to slaughter his only son, Ismael, whom he loved much, when Allah ordered him to do so to test his loyalty and obedience to Him.
11-After completing the acts of Al-Hajj, you can enjoy visiting The Mosque of Prophet Muhammad -'Alayhi s-Salam- in Al-Madinah Al-Munawarah (the enlighted town) and attend some Prayers there.The reward for praying at that Mosque is great.
12-When in Al-Madinah Al-Munawwarah, pay a greeting visit to Prophet's tomb and to his noble Companions tombs, in the Islamically accepted form.
13-Also visiting the Holy Al-Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem is recommendable in Islam. May Allah help Muslims to rescue it from the sinful hands of the aggressive jews!