Hajj

Q. What acts do pilgrims (hajjis) perform on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijja and how does the rest of the
Muslim community (umma) celebrate this day? – N-15
Q. Give an account of the significance of the following: - J-22
a. Day of ‘Arafah b. Eid-ul Adha.
Day of ‘Arafah
The day of Arafah is on the 9th day of Dhul Hijja and is the climax of Hajj and hence significant in Islam
and to Muslims. Arafah is a vast empty plain. When the sun rises, the pilgrims go to the plain of Arafat
and pray Zuhr and Asr combined at the time of Zuhar making each one, two Rakaat, with one Azaan and
two iqamas and listen to the Khutba. They remain in the boundaries of Arafat until sunset. There they
supplicate as much as possible while standing facing the Kaabah. This is called Wuqoof-e-Arafat. It is
considered the greatest part of the pilgrimage without which Hajj is considered incomplete. The Holy
Prophet PBUH is reported to have said:’
“Hajj is Arafat” – Tirmizi
There, at the bottom of a hill the Jabal-Ar-Rahmat (mount of mercy) the Holy Prophet PBUH delivered
his farewell sermon. The Wuqoof-e-Arafat commemorates this event. On the day of Arafat, Allah
revealed the following verse:
“This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My favour upon
you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion...” – Surah al-Ma’idah
It is an emotional day, when Muslims, clad in white Ihram, gather from all corners of the world shows
that social origin, race, ethnic orientation, wealth and profession have no bearing on the basic spiritual
and human qualities. They seek Allah’s forgiveness and affirm their faith in His unity. At Arafat, the
pilgrims may sit, stand or lie down anywhere. A number of prayers are recited here till the sun sets. This
scene is also a reminder of the Day of Judgment where all humanity will assemble to account for their
deeds before God, and where the final judgment will take place.
Eid-ul Adha.
Eid-ul-Adha is celebrated all over the Muslim world on the 10th of Dhul Hijja to mark the completion
of Hajj and to remember the sacrifice Hazrat Ibrahim was willing to take at the command of God. His
son, Ismail, was also ready to submit to the will of God. On this day, Muslim sacrifice a sheep, goat,
cow or camel in the name of Allah. To mark the significance of Eid-ul-Adha special Salat ul Eid is
offered and Muslims celebrate this day with joy and festivities.
Muslims sacrifice animal in God’s name to show their obedience to Him. It is not the blood or flesh of
the sacrificed animal that reaches God, but the piety (taqwa) of the believer that reaches him. It
symbolizes the rejection of idolatrous sacrifice and is a way of offering thanks to Allah. It reinforces in
the Muslims the pledge of sharing their fortune with those who are less privileged. Muslims throughout
the world perform the same ritual of Qurbani on this day spiritually standing in unity with the pilgrims
in Mina. It is a bond of unity between them.
Q. The Holy Prophet (pbuh) performed pilgrimage (hajj) only once in his lifetime. What do you think
this tells Muslims today? – J-22
Hajj is the 5th pillar of Islam. It is obligatory on every Muslim male and female who can afford to
perform it, at least once in his or her lifetime. The Quran says:
“And complete the Hajj and Umrah in the service of Allah”– Surah Al-Baqarah.
The Prophet (pbuh) performed Hajj in 10 AH, in the last year of his life. The Prophet (pbuh) performed
Hajj just once in his lifetime. Knowing that it would be his last pilgrimage, Prophet Muhammad
(PBUH) set forth a model of Hajj, which has been followed and performed since then.
Hajj is a great spiritual experience. It is experience of coming close to Allah and brings spiritual
maturity. Muslims try to follow his Sunna with the performance of this Pillar as it is expensive to
perform Hajj and requires the pilgrim to be in good health to perform all the rituals involved.
Q. Write about rituals that take place on the first three days of the annual pilgrimage (hajj). – N-20
8th Zil Hajj is the first day of Hajj. After offering Fajr prayer, the pilgrims put on the Ihram again, do the
Niyat of Hajj and proceed to Mina while chanting the Talbiyah on the way. They observe all the
remaining prayers (Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib and Isha) at Mina. The prayers though shortened are not
combined. They spend the night there and spend all the available time in worship and supplication. The
next morning, they offer Fajr prayer and leave for Arafat.
On the 9th Zil Hajj when the sun rises, the pilgrims go to the plain of Arafat and pray Zuhr and Asr
combined at the time of Zuhar making each one, two Rakaat, with one Azaan and two iqamas and listen
to the Khutba. They remain in the boundaries of Arafat until sunset. There they supplicate as much as
possible while standing facing the Kaabah. This is called Wuqoof-e-Arafat. It is considered the greatest
part of the pilgrimage without which Hajj is considered incomplete. The Holy Prophet PBUH is
reported to have said:’
“Hajj is Arafat” – Tirmizi
There, at the bottom of a hill the Jabal-Ar-Rahmat (mount of mercy) the Holy Prophet PBUH delivered
his farewell sermon. The Wuqoof-e-Arafat commemorates this event. Pilgrims pray for the forgiveness of
their sins and remain here till sunset and then proceed to Muzdalifa, Which is about halfway between
Mina and Arafat, once again reciting the talbiya. This place is also known as Mash’ar -ul – Haram. At
Muzdalifa, the pilgrims say the combined Maghrib and Isha prayers, shortening Isha to two rakaats and
spend the whole night praying. They also collect 50 to 70 pebbles for Rami (stoning the three
Jamaraat). These pebbles should be slightly bigger than beans but smaller than the peanuts. However, it
is permissible for women and weak individuals to proceed to Mina at any time after midnight.
On the third day, 10th Dhul Hijja (Yawm- an- Nahr) after Fajr prayers, pilgrims wait until the brightness
of the morning is widespread and following the Sunna of the Prophet (pbuh) make dua facing the qibla.
Then they leave Muzdalifa and depart for Mina to perform Rami.
At Mina there are three rectangular masonry pillars the Jamraat, which symbolize Shaitan. On reaching
the Jamraat the Talbiyah stops as each pilgrim throws his set of seven pebbles one at a time at Jamraat ul
Aqabah, the farthest pillar. Rami of three pillars represents stoning the Shaitan, who tried thrice to
persuade Prophet Hazrat Ibrahim to disobey Allah’s command to sacrifice his son, Ismaeel. While
throwing the pebbles, the pilgrim keeps the Masjid-e-Kheef on his left, faces to Qibla and recites
‘Bismillah Allahu Akbar’ every time they throw a pebble.
At the end of Rami, the pilgrims return to their tents in Mina where they celebrate Eid-ul Azha to mark
the occasion. Yawm-an-Nahr means the Day of Sacrifice. To slaughter a sacrificial animal is obligatory
on pilgrims performing Hajj-al-Qiran and Hajj-al-Tamattu. Muslim sacrifice a sheep, goat, cow or camel
in the name of Allah. After this, pilgrims shave or trim their hair, they can now change into their normal
clothes. They may not have intimate relations with their spouses. Then pilgrims proceed to Makka and
perform a mandatory Tawaf-al-Ziyara (or Tawaf-al-Ifadah) to seal the pilgrimage. Then they offer two
Rakaat Nafil at Maqam-e-Ibrahim and perform Sa’i. They are now allowed to return to their normal life.
If possible, they pray Zuhr in Makka and return to spend the remaining nights in Mina.
Q. In your opinion should hajj be performed as many times as possible in a Muslim’s life? – N-20
Hajj is the 5th pillar of Islam. It is obligatory on every Muslim male and female who can afford to
perform it, at least once in his or her lifetime. The Quran says:
“And complete the Hajj and Umrah in the service of Allah”– Surah Al-Baqarah.
The Holy Prophet (pbuh) performed hajj once in his lifetime. However, Muslims are allowed to perform
Hajj more than once to be able to repent for their sins and to seek God’s forgiveness. Muslims can also
perform a hajj e badal for a deceased loved one who had not performed hajj in their lifetime.
However, a Muslim who has performed hajj once could sponsor the hajj of one who cannot afford the
journey so they can experience it and fulfil this pillar.
Q. Describe any three of the following elements of pilgrimage (hajj): N-19

• ihram (garments worn for pilgrimage)

• sa’i (running between the hills of Safa and Marwa)
• rami (stoning the Jamarrat)
• Qurbani (sacrifice).
Ihram: It is the dress worn by the male with the intention to perform either Hajj or Umrah or
both. It is one of the Faraiz of Hajj and Umrah, along with the Niyat (and Talbiyah) which is an
important element of both. To be in ihram is to be in a state of ritual purity. Removing unwanted hair,
bathing, wudu is done before donning the ihram which is two pieces of seamless garments for men
whose ankles should remain uncovered as well as their heads. One piece is wrapped over the chest and
other is wrapped round the lower part of the body.
For women it is their ordinary clothes not displaying their adornments. They need to be completely
covered with just their hands, faces and feet showing. Women who observe Hijab must make sure that
the veil should not touch their face.
When a pilgrim is in state of Ihram, he or she must be care to avoid following act:
1. Shaving or cutting of hair
2. Trimming the nails
3. Wearing perfume or applying perfumed hair oil.
4. Wearing stitched clothes (for men)
5. Wearing socks (for men)
6. Cover the head (for men.)
7. Wearing shoes over the ankles (for men)
8. Cover the face.
8. Swearing, quarreling or using abusive language.
9. Carrying weapons.
10. Marrying or having marital relations.
11. Uprooting or damaging plants.
12. Harming, hunting or killing wild animals.
Sa’i: Sai is done in the commemoration of Hazrat Hajra’s running between the hills of Safa and
Marwah seven times. The pilgrim enters from the Bab-al-Safa and ascends the Mount Safa making the
Niyat for the Sa’i. The pilgrim faces the Kaabah, reciting the Quranic verse. Sa’i starts from Safa and
ends at Marwa. Safa to Marwa is one round and Marwa to Safa the second. During each round men
should run the distance between the two green pillars. Dhikr of God should be continued during the
seven rounds. The end of Sa’i marks the end of the Umrah.
Rami: It is the stoning of the Jamarat carried out on three consecutive days starting from 10 till
the 12 of Dhu al-Hijja. Pilgrim collects 50 to 70 pebbles for Rami at Muzdalifa. These pebbles should be
slightly bigger than beans but smaller than the peanuts. On the first day 7 pebbles are thrown at the
Jamart ul Aqaba by calling Bismillah Allahu Akbar every time a pebble is thrown. On the 11th all 3
jamarat are stoned starting from the smallest, after stoning du’a is made facing the qibla. On the 12th
again all three Jamarat are stoned starting with Jamarat ul Sughra then Wusta after which du’a is made
following which Jamarat ul Aqaba is stoned after which pilgrim leaves without making any further du’a.
Rami of three pillars represents stoning the Shaitan, who tried thrice to persuade Prophet Hazrat Ibrahim
to disobey Allah’s command to sacrifice his son, Ismaeel. The pilgrim may nominate anyone else to do
Rami on his or her behalf if he or she has a reasonable cause such as weakness due to old age, a
wounded arm or sickness.
Qurbani: At the end of Rami on 10th Zil Hajj, pilgrim return to Mina and sacrifice a sheep, goat,
cow or camel in the name of Allah. This is also known as Yawm-an-Nahr meaning the Day of Sacrifice.
To slaughter a sacrificial animal is obligatory on pilgrims performing Hajj-al-Qiran and Hajj-al-Tamattu.
The animals are sacrificed to remember the sacrifice Hazrat Ibrahim was willing to take at the command
of God. His son, Ismail, was also ready to submit to the will of God. It also shows the pilgrim’s
readiness to sacrifice in God’s way and to offer thanksgiving. Quran says:
“The flesh and their blood reach not Allah, but the devotion from your reacheth HIM.” – Surah Al-Hajj
Q. Why do you think pilgrims strive so hard to touch the Black Stone (Hajr al Aswad)? – N-19
During Tawaf whenever the pilgrims approach the Hajr-e-Aswad, they are required to do Istilam i.e.,
raise their hands towards it and say “Allah o Akbar”. If it is possible, it is also desirable to kiss or touch
the Hajr-e-Aswad, as did the Holy Prophet PBUH. However, if it is not possible, they can just raise both
hands in salutation, directed towards it while doing Istilam.
Pilgrims strive hard to touch the Hajr e Aswad as it is sunnah of Holy Prophet PBUH. Hajr al Aswad is
the only part remaining from the original structure that was built by prophet Ibrahim. When a Muslim
touches the Hajr al Aswad he is identifying with the prophet Ibrahim, the spiritual father of monotheism
and following the Sunna of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). By touching the stone one feels part
of the community of believers that descended throughout history.
Q. Write a detailed account of the following: - N-18
● ihram;
● tawaf
● sa’i
Ihram – same as above.
Sa’i – Same as above.
Tawaf: Tawaf means going around the Ka’ba anti clockwise seven times. It starts and finishes at
Hajr al Aswad. Pilgrim walks keeping the Ka’ba to his/her left. Before beginning the Tawaf, the male
pilgrim holds part of the Ihram under the right arm and the other part over the left shoulder, called
Idtiba. The first three rounds of Tawaf around the Kaabah are made at a jogging pace (Ramal) and the
last four at a walking pace while reciting the following dua “Rabbana atina fid duniya ....”
During Tawaf whenever the pilgrims approach the Hajr-e-Aswad, they are required to do Istilam i.e.,
raise their hands towards it and say “Allah o Akbar”. If it is possible, it is also desirable to kiss or touch
the Hajr-e-Aswad, as did the Holy Prophet PBUH. However, if it is not possible, they can just raise both
hands in salutation, directed towards it while doing Istilam. During tawaf one should be engaged in the
dhikr of God, to recite the third kalima is recommended. After the Tawaf around the Kaabah is
completed, two rakaat Nafil are offered near Maqam-e-Ibrahim.

Q. What is the significance of the Black Stone (Hajr al Aswad) to Muslims? – N-18
Some believe it’s a meteor that fell from the sky, whilst others believe that an angel brought the stone to
Hazrat Ibrahim when he was building the Ka’ba. Throughout history because of natural disasters the
Ka’ba has been destroyed and rebuilt many times but the Hajr al Aswad has always remained as a
reminder of the origin of the Ka’ba.
Pilgrims strive hard to touch the Hajr e Aswad as it is sunnah of Holy Prophet PBUH. Hajr al Aswad is
the only part remaining from the original structure that was built by prophet Ibrahim. When a Muslim
touches the Hajr al Aswad he is identifying with the prophet Ibrahim, the spiritual father of monotheism
and following the Sunna of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (pbuh). By touching the stone one feels part of
the community of believers that descended throughout history.
Q. Outline the various kinds of circumambulations (tawaf) around the Ka’ba required during the
annual pilgrimage (hajj) and describe the conditions for performing them. – N-17
Tawaf means going around the Ka’ba anti clockwise seven times. It starts and finishes at Hajr al Aswad.
Pilgrim walks keeping the Ka’ba to his/her left. There are different kinds of tawaf which are performed
during hajj i.e.:
1. Tawaf-e-Qudoom: is the tawaf of arrival for hajj. It is performed on entering the sacred mosque.
Tawaf al-Qudum is performed by non-resident pilgrims who travel to the city of Makkah, with the
intention to perform Hajj. According to most Islamic scholars, performing the ‘Tawaf of Arrival’ is a
Sunnah. The time to perform Tawaf al-Qudum begins the moment you enter the sacred city of Makkah.
2. Tawaf-e-Ziara (Tawaf Ifadah) After sacrifice, the pilgrims go to Makkah and perform a is
mandatory tawaf of the Kaabah, known as Tawaf-al-Ifadah, to seal the pilgrimage. If it is not performed
the pilgrimage becomes void. It takes place after the first stoning of the jamarat and it is permissible to
perform it from 10th and 12th Zil Hajj.
3. Tawaf-e-Wida (the farewell tawaf), This tawaf is wajib and is performed before the pilgrims
depart for their homes. It is done after completing the actions of hajj and when one has decided to leave
Mecca. It is obligatory for all pilgrims except women who are menstruating or bleeding following
childbirth, and the one who fails to do it must sacrifice an animal of the type that is valid as an udhiyah.
4. Tawaf-e-Nafla It is not required during annual pilgrimage but is however performed by pilgrims
to gain extra rewards. Tawaf-e-Nafla or 'Voluntary Tawaf' can be performed anytime by anyone, as
many times as they want
Each of these tawafs must include seven circuits. Before beginning the Tawaf, the male pilgrim holds
part of the Ihram under the right arm and the other part over the left shoulder, called Idtiba. The first
three rounds of Tawaf around the Kaabah are made at a jogging pace (Ramal) and the last four at a
walking pace while reciting the following dua “Rabbana atina fid duniya ....”
During Tawaf whenever the pilgrims approach the Hajr-e-Aswad, they are required to do Istilam i.e.,
raise their hands towards it and say “Allah o Akbar”. If it is possible, it is also desirable to kiss or
touch the Hajr-e-Aswad, as did the Holy Prophet PBUH. However, if it is not possible, they can just
raise both hands in salutation, directed towards it while doing Istilam. During tawaf one should be
engaged in the dhikr of God, to recite the third kalima is recommended. After the Tawaf around the
Kaabah is completed, two rakaat Nafil are offered near Maqam-e-Ibrahim if possible; if the pilgrim
cannot do that then they may offer the prayer in any other part of the mosque.
Pilgrims should before starting their tawaf make intention (niyyat) and be in the state of wudu.
According to some scholars wudu is fard (compulsory) and it is mustahab (recommended) according to
other scholars. There are no specific or particular duas which one needs to recite during the tawaf. It is
sunna to recite following supplication during the last stretch of each tawaf:
‘O our Lord, give us the good in the world, and give us the good in the Hereafter,
and save us from the torment of the Hell Fire’. - Sura Baqarah
Q. Why in your opinion is it desirable that the pilgrims should visit Madina after the performance of
hajj or umra? – N-17
Before or after the splendid honor of Hajj, the pilgrims travel to the city of Madinah. Though it is not a
part of Hajj but the pilgrims like to go to Madinah to visit the Masjid-e-Nabawi to pay Salam and
respect at the grave of Holy prophet PBUH. A Hadith state that the Prophet (pbuh) said:
“Who makes pilgrimage and then visits my grave after my death is like one who
visits me in my life.”
Muslims offer Nawafil at Rawda-tul-Riaz-ul-Jannah (the garden of Paradise). This place has great
importance. It is narrated by Abu Hurairah that the The Holy Prophet (pbuh) said:
“There is a Rawda (garden) from the gardens of Paradise between my house
and my pulpit and my pulpit is on Al-Kauthar”. Sahih Bukhari.
Hence making it desirable for Muslims to visit it. They also visit the famous graveyard of Jannat-ul-bqi
in Madinah where the grave of the Companions, Ummuhat-ul- Momineen and the family of the Holy
Prophet PBUH are situated. Muslims also visit Masjid-e-Quba, Masjid-e-Qiblatain and Mount Uhud in
Madina.
Q. ‘And complete the hajj or umra in the service of God’ (al-Baqara 2:196). What observances does a
pilgrim complete in the performance of umra and how is umra different to hajj? – J-16
Q. Explain the main difference between Hajj and Umrah – J-11
Q. And complete the hajj or umra int eh service of God – Al Baqarah. What observation does a
pilgrim complete i n the performace of Umra and how is umra different to Hajj – J-16
Umrah means minor pilgrimage. It is commonly known as Hajj-e-Asghar. There are many acts of
Umrah which are similar to Hajj. In Umrah the pilgrim puts on the Ihram at Meeqat. It is the dress worn
by the male with the intention to perform either Hajj or Umrah or both. It is one of the Faraiz Umrah,
along with the Niyat (and Talbiyah) which is an important element. To be in ihram is to be in a state of
ritual purity. Removing unwanted hair, bathing, wudu is done before donning the ihram which is two
pieces of seamless garments for men whose ankles should remain uncovered as well as their heads. One
piece is wrapped over the chest and other is wrapped round the lower part of the body. For women it is
their ordinary clothes not displaying their adornments. They need to be completely covered with just
their hands, faces and feet showing. Women who observe Hijab must make sure that the veil should not
touch their face.
While in Ihram Muslims keep reciting Talbiyah. The Holy Prophet PBUH said:
“Gabriel came to me to convey Allah’s message that I should command my fellows to recite
Talbiyah in a loud voice.”
Muslims perform Tawaf-e-Qudum while entering the Masjid-ul-Haram. Tawaf means going around the
Ka’ba anti clockwise seven times. It starts and finishes at Hajr al Aswad. Pilgrim walks keeping the
Ka’ba to his/her left. Before beginning the Tawaf, the male pilgrim holds part of the Ihram under the
right arm and the other part over the left shoulder, called Idtiba. The first three rounds of Tawaf around
the Kaabah are made at a jogging pace (Ramal) and the last four at a walking pace while reciting the
following duaa “Rabbana atina fid duniya ....” During Tawaf whenever the pilgrims approach the Hajr-
e-Aswad, they are required to do Istilam i.e., raise their hands towards it and say “Allah o Akbar”. If it
is possible, it is also desirable to kiss or touch the Hajr-e-Aswad, as did the Holy Prophet PBUH.
However, if it is not possible, they can just raise both hands in salutation, directed towards it while
doing Istilam.
Then Sai is done in the commemoration of Hazrat Hajra’s running between the hills of Safa and
Marwah seven times. The pilgrim enters from the Bab-al-Safa and ascends the Mount Safa
making the Niyat for the Sa’i. The pilgrim faces the Kaabah, reciting the Quranic verse. Sa’i
starts from Safa and ends at Marwa. Safa to Marwa is one round and Marwa to Safa the second.
During each round men should run the distance between the two green pillars. Dhikr of God
should be continued during the seven rounds. The end of Sa’i marks the end of the Umrah. Men
can come out of state of Ihram by doing the Halq (shaving off the head) or Qasr (clipping the
hair). Women only cut a lock of their hair equal to the length of a finger-tip.
However, Umra is different to hajj in certain ways. Hajj is obligatory and umra is not. Hajj is performed
only during the prescribed month and dates and it is performed once in the lifetime. Whereas Umrah can
be performed at any time and there is no fixed number to perform Umrah.
There is no wuquf Arafah and no wuquf Muzdalifa in Umrah. Pilgrims have to stay in Mina to perform
Rami and there is no need to stay at Mina or to perform Rami in Umrah. When performing umra talbiya
is stopped upon arriving at the Haram, whilst on hajj talbiya is said till the rammi on 10th Dhu al-hijja.
Pilgrims have to sacrifice animals whereas there is no sacrifice of animal in Umrah.
Q. Explain how outward actions performed during umra improve a pilgrim’s inner spirituality. J-16
Fulfilling the different observances of umra helps a pilgrim to develop their inner spirituality in a
number of ways. Upon donning the ihram, a pilgrim is reminded of the equality of all men before God
and this makes them feel humbled. It is an emotional day, when Muslims, clad in white Ihram, gather
from all corners of the world shows that social origin, race, ethnic orientation, wealth and profession
have no bearing on the basic spiritual and human qualities. They seek Allah’s forgiveness and affirm
their faith in His unity. The recitation of the talbiya focusses the mind of the pilgrims on the fact that
they have come in response to the call of their Creator, that they are obedient to him and acknowledge
that no one is worthy of worship besides God. With the tawaf, each pilgrim is glorifying God, praising
him, seeking forgiveness and acknowledging his greatness and superiority. Just to look upon the Ka’ba
is a spiritual experience of immense magnitude for every Muslim. Offering two rakah at the station of
Ibrahim, the running for sa’i and the shaving /cutting of hair at the end of the umra improve the inner
spirituality of the pilgrim.
Q. What in your opinion are Muslims reminding themselves of when they celebrate Eid al- Adha? J-15

Eid-ul-Adha is celebrated all over the Muslim world on the 10th of Dhul Hijja to mark the completion of
Hajj and to remember the sacrifice Hazrat Ibrahim was willing to take at the command of God. His son,
Ismail, was also ready to submit to the will of God. On this day, Muslim sacrifice a sheep, goat, cow or
camel in the name of Allah.
Muslims sacrifice animal in God’s name to show their obedience to Him. It is not the blood or flesh of
the sacrificed animal that reaches God, but the piety (taqwa) of the believer that reaches him. It
symbolizes the rejection of idolatrous sacrifice and is a way of offering thanks to Allah. It reinforces in
the Muslims the pledge of sharing their fortune with those who are less privileged. By distributing the
meat of the sacrificed animal Muslims again remind themselves that charity and care are integral
components of Islam and need to be practiced in everyday life. Muslims throughout the world perform
the same ritual of Qurbani on this day spiritually standing in unity with the pilgrims in Mina. It is a
bond of unity between them.
Q. How do Muslim individuals and the Muslim community benefit from the annual pilgrimage (hajj )? – J-14
Hajj is the 5th pillar of Islam. It is obligatory on every Muslim male and female who is physically fit and
can afford to perform it, at least once in his or her lifetime. The Quran says:
“And complete the Hajj and Umrah in the service of Allah”– Surah Al-Baqarah.
Hajj is a form of ibadah which covers all aspects of human life. In its performance a Muslim sacrifices
his wealth, his time as well as his physical and mental energies. For every Muslim it is an incomparable
experience, one in which the pilgrim is showing his/her obedience to the almighty and confirming His
unity and fulfilling a pillar of their faith. At each and every step of Hajj, the pilgrim observes the Sunnah
of Both prophets Hazarat Ibrahim and his family and the Holy Prophet PBUH. He does not indulge in
any sinful activity nor tries to hurt anyone. Thus, there is forgiveness for the pilgrim as Hajj wipes off all
his past sins.
Hajj is the largest annually occurring pilgrimage in the world in which people having similar objectives
and similar religious thoughts put on the same clothing and perform all the rituals together, without any
discrimination of caste, colour, creed or status. The pilgrims are considered Allah’s guests as the Holy
Prophet PBUH said:
“Pilgrims and those performing Umrah are Allah’s guests; their prayers are answered and
their supplications for forgiveness are granted. – Sunan-an-Nasai, Sunan Ibn Majah.
Hajj is the one of the best deeds a person can perform in his life. Abu Hurairah narrated that the Holy
Prophet PBUH said:
“Hajj is the Jihad for the old, the weak and the women” – Sunan-an-Nasai.
People from all occupations come together and have the opportunity to discuss their economic problems
and find mutually beneficial solutions to them. Hajj demonstrates equality and promotes brotherhood.
As trade is allowed in pilgrimage it helps the economy to flourish which in turn is good for the
community. As people from different occupations come to perform Hajj, they learn and know different
ways of doing business with one another. Muslim world can discuss and solve their problems and
alliances can be formed amongst Muslim nations.
Hajj is not only a reminder of the fact that Makkah alone in the whole world was honored by Allah in
being the centre of monotheism and that it will continue to be the center of Islam. It also reminds of the
grand assembly on the Day of Judgement when people will stand before Allah waiting for their result.
Q. How does the talbiya sum up the relationship between the pilgrim (hajji) and God? – J-14
Talbiyah is a prayer which is recited repeatedly by the pilgrims during Hajj and before Umrah. It is a
conviction that they intend to perform the Hajj / Umrah only for the magnificence of Allah. It signifies a
response to the summons of Allah. Imam Malik reported that Holy Prophet PBUH made his Talbiyah in
these words:
“Here I am at your service, O Allah, you have no partner, Here I am at your service,
O Allah. Verily, all the praise and blessing belong to you, and all the sovereignty is
for you. You have no partner.”

Through Talbiyah, God’s oneness and His supremacy is being reaffirmed by the pilgrims repeatedly and
their pledge of obedience to Him is being promised. The talbiya sums up the relationship between the
pilgrim and God comprehensively and beautifully, that there is no God but Allah and that He has no
partners and He is the only sovereign and all power lies with Him and that the pilgrims are His obedient
servants.
Q. ‘Pilgrimage to the House is a duty people owe to Allah, those who can afford the journey.’ (Al ‘Imran )-N-14
i) For who is the annual pilgrimage (hajj ) compulsory, and which Muslims are exempt from it?
ii) ii) What things are forbidden to pilgrims while in the state of ihram ?
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. It involves travelling for the purpose of visiting Kaabah, the sacred house
of Allah to perform Manasik i.e., the actions and words reported in accounts of the Holy Prophet
PBUH’s Hajj. It is Farz on every adult, sane, free Muslim male and female who is physically fit and can
afford to perform it, at least once in his or her lifetime. The Quran says:
“And complete the Hajj and Umrah in the service of Allah”– Surah Al-Baqarah.
Hajj is compulsory for all those Muslims who can meet the travel expenses along with their expenses
whilst at hajj. They should also have enough funds to leave behind for their dependents and household
till the pilgrims return.
One also needs to be physically fit to undertake this journey. Danger to life owing to war in certain areas
in or around the Holy land or in one’s own country may free a person from the obligation of performing
hajj. Also a woman is not allowed to proceed to pilgrimage without a mahram male and if she can’t find
a mahram it is not obligatory for her to perform pilgrimage.
If a person is financially capable but too old, weak or is suffering from a disease which will make him
unable to perform hajj then he should assign someone else to perform Hajj on his behalf at his expense.
“A man of Banu Amir came to the Holy Prophet PBUH and said “My father is very old; he
cannot perform Hajj and Umrah himself nor can be ridden on a mount”. The Holy Prophet
PBUH said: “Perform Hajj and Umrah on behalf of your father”. – Sunan Abu Dawood.
As for a person who had died before performing the obligatory Hajj, then his or her heir must assign
someone to perform Hajj on behalf of the deceased. All the following expenses in this regard must be
paid from the property of the deceased person.
When a pilgrim is in state of Ihram, he or she must be care to avoid following act:
3. Shaving or cutting of hair
4. Trimming the nails
3. Wearing perfume or applying perfumed hair oil.
4. Wearing stitched clothes (for men)
5. Wearing socks (for men)
6. Cover the head (for men.)
7. Wearing shoes over the ankles (for men)
8. Cover the face.
8. Swearing, quarreling or using abusive language.
9. Carrying weapons.
10. Marrying or having marital relations.
11. Uprooting or damaging plants.
12. Harming, hunting or killing wild animals.
13. To use abusive or foul language
14. To indulge in marital relations
Q. Some Muslims are exempt from performing annual pilgrimage (hajj). Why do you think this is so? - N-14

Hajj is 5th pillar of Islam and is compulsory for all those Muslims who can meet the travel expenses
along with their expenses whilst at hajj. They should also have enough funds to leave behind for their
dependents and household till the pilgrims return.
God being Rahman and Raheem. Him being all knowing and all wise, does not want to burden his
creation with what is out of their scope of fulfilling, One needs to be physically fit to undertake this
journey. Those who have the resources but are physically unable to perform hajj there is the option of
Hajj e Badl i.e., you pay for someone’s hajj and both get the reward for it. This shows God’s
compassion.
Danger to life owing to war in certain areas in or around the Holy land or in one’s own country may
free a person from the obligation of performing hajj. Also a woman is not allowed to proceed to
pilgrimage without a mahram male and if she can’t find a mahram it is not obligatory for her to perform
pilgrimage.
If a person is financially capable but too old, weak or is suffering from a disease which will make him
unable to perform hajj then he should assign someone else to perform Hajj on his behalf at his expense.
“A man of Banu Amir came to the Holy Prophet PBUH and said “My father is very old; he
cannot perform Hajj and Umrah himself nor can be ridden on a mount”. The Holy Prophet
PBUH said: “Perform Hajj and Umrah on behalf of your father”. – Sunan Abu Dawood.
Hajj once again becomes obligatory when our agility is restored. As for a person who had died before
performing the obligatory Hajj, then his or her heir must assign someone to perform Hajj on behalf of
the deceased. All the following expenses in this regard must be paid from the property of the deceased
person.
Q. Outline the main observances of the annual pilgrimage (Hajj). – J-13
Q. Desribe the main events of the annual pilgrimage – J-09
Hajj is the 5th pillar of Islam. It is obligatory on every Muslim male and female who can afford to
perform it, at least once in his or her lifetime. The Quran says:
“And complete the Hajj and Umrah in the service of Allah”– Surah Al-Baqarah.
Ihram - Ihram is the dress worn by the male with the intention to perform either Hajj or Umrah or both.
It is one of the Faraiz of Hajj and Umrah. Removing unwanted hair, bathing, wudu is done before
donning the ihram which is two pieces of seamless garments for men whose ankles should remain
uncovered as well as their heads. For women it is their ordinary clothes not displaying their
adornments. They need to be completely covered with just their hands, faces and feet showing.
Intention and Talbiyah. After wearing Ihram, it is incumbent upon the pilgrims to make the intention of
Hajj loudly and repeat the Talbiyah thrice. Talbiyah is a prayer which is recited repeatedly by the
pilgrims during Hajj.
Umrah. Pilgrims who reach Makkah with the intention of Hajj-Tamatt’u or Hajj-e-Qiran first perform
Umrah by doing the Tawaf around the Ka’ba anti clockwise seven times. It starts and finishes at Hajr al
Aswad. Pilgrim walks keeping the Ka’ba to his/her left. After the Tawaf two Rakaat Nafil are offered
near maqam-e-Ibrahim.
Sai Then Sai is done running between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. The pilgrim enters from
the Bab-al-Safa and ascends the Mount Safa making the Niyat for the Sa’i. The pilgrim faces the
Kaabah, reciting the Quranic verse. Sa’i starts from Safa and ends at Marwa. Safa to Marwa is one
round and Marwa to Safa the second. Dhikr of God should be continued during the seven rounds.
On the 8th of Zil Hajj, after offering Fajr prayers, the pilgrims put on the Ihram again do the Niyat of
Hajj and proceed to Mina while chanting the Talbiyah on the way. They observe the remining prayers at
Mina and spend night there.
On the 9th of Zil Hajj, after Fajr prayer pilgrims leave for Arafat and pray Zuhr and Asr combined at the
time of Zuhr. They remain in the plain of Arafat till sunset. There, they supplicate as much as possible
while standing facing the Kaabah. This is called Wuqoof-e-Arafat.
Muzdalifa After sunset without offering Maghrib prayers, the pilgrims proceed to Muzdalifa, which is
about halfway between Mina and Arafat, once again reciting the talbiya. At Muzdalifa, the pilgrims say
the combined Maghrib and Isha prayers. They also collect 50 to 70 pebbles for Rami (stoning the three
Jamaraat). These pebbles should be slightly bigger than beans but smaller than the peanuts. However, it
is permissible for women and weak individuals to proceed to Mina at any time after midnight.
On the third day, 10th Dhul Hijja after Fajr prayers, pilgrims wait until the brightness of the morning is
widespread and following the Sunna of the Prophet (pbuh) make dua facing the qibla. Then they leave
Muzdalifa and depart for Mina to perform Rami.
Rami is the stoning of the Jamarat carried out on three consecutive days starting from 10 till the 12 of
Dhu al-Hijja. On the first day 7 pebbles are thrown at the Jamart ul Aqaba by calling Bismillah Allahu
Akbar every time a pebble is thrown.
Eid-ul- Azha At the end of Rami, the pilgrims return to their tents in Mina where they celebrate Eid-ul
Azha to mark the occasion. To slaughter a sacrificial animal is obligatory on pilgrims performing Hajj-
al-Qiran and Hajj-al-Tamattu. Muslim sacrifice a sheep, goat, cow or camel in the name of Allah. After
this, pilgrims shave or trim their hair, they can now change into their normal clothes.
Tawaf al-Ziyara Then pilgrims proceed to Makka and perform a mandatory Tawaf-al-Ziyara (or Tawaf-
al-Ifadah) to seal the pilgrimage. Then they offer two Rakaat Nafil at Maqam-e-Ibrahim and perform
Sa’i. They are now allowed to return to their normal life. If possible, they pray Zuhr in Makka and
return to spend the remaining nights in Mina.
On the 11th all 3 jamarat are stoned starting from the smallest, after stoning du’a is made facing the
qibla. On the 12th again all three Jamarat are stoned starting with Jamarat ul Sughra then Wusta after
which du’a is made following which Jamarat ul Aqaba is stoned after which pilgrim leaves without
making any further du’a.
Tawaf-a-Wida Finally, the pilgrims perform a farewell Tawaf called the Tawaf-a-Wida before leaving
Makkah. It is a Wajib ritual. Now all the ritual of Hajj are completed.
Q. How does Hajj encourage a sense of equality amongst Muslims? – J-13
Hajj is the largest annually occurring pilgrimage in the world in which people having similar objectives
and similar religious thoughts put on the same clothing and perform all the rituals together, without any
discrimination of caste, colour, creed or status. The pilgrims are considered Allah’s guests as the Holy
Prophet PBUH said:
“Pilgrims and those performing Umrah are Allah’s guests; their prayers are answered
and their supplications for forgiveness are granted. – Sunan-an-Nasai, Sunan Ibn
Majah.
People from all occupations come together and have the opportunity to discuss their economic problems
and find mutually beneficial solutions to them. Hajj demonstrates equality and promotes brotherhood.
As trade is allowed in pilgrimage it helps the economy to flourish which in turn is good for the
community. As people from different occupations come to perform Hajj, they learn and know different
ways of doing business with one another. Muslim world can discuss and solve their problems and
alliances can be formed amongst Muslim nations.
Q. Explain the significant of the Prophet Abraham in the observance of the pilgrim – J-09
Hazrat Ibrahim and his family are intimately linked with various rituals of Hajj. According to the history
of Islam and the Holy Quran, Ibrahim rebuilt the Kabbah together with his son, Prophet Ismail. The
Quran states;
“And remember Ibrahim and Ismail raised the foundations of the House (the Kabbah) 2:127
Hazrat Ibrahim lived in Makkah with his wife, Hajra, and their children. Later by the command of Allah,
he left Makkah, leaving behind his family. During this period, Hajar ran frantically in search of water for
Ismail. Allah immortalized her effort by making Sai (running between Safa and Marwa hills) as an
important observance of Hajj. Then, while Hajar was in search of water, Ismail an infant at that time,
began to rub his heels on the ground due to growing thirst. Result of this act was the miraculous ooze of
water from the ground – the well of Zamzam. Zamzam’s water is treated as holy drink by all Muslims.
Two more miraculous events associate Ibrahim with Hajj. Firstly, Ibrahim rejected Satan at three places
in Mina. This rejection is now commemorated by all pilgrims who spelt Satan with pebbles – the act of
Rami in Mina. Secondly, when Ibrahim had made all preparations to sacrifice Ismail in order to submit
to the divine will. Ismail was miraculously replaced by a goat. Pilgrims today, perform sacrifice at Mina
during the three prescribed days – 10th to 12th of Zil Hajj.
So, these are the different ways in which Ibrahim is closely related to the pilgrimage to Makkah.
Q. What are types of Hajj?
There are three forms of Hajj:
1. Hajj-e-Tamatt’u – A pilgrim wears Ihram for Umrah first during the month of Hajj which means
when he reaches Makkah, he makes tawaf and Saee for Umrah. He then does Halq (shaves off his head)
or Qasar (clips his hair). On the day of Tarwiyah, which is 8th of Zil hajj, he puts on his Ihram again for
Hajj only and performs all the Manasik of Hajj. The person who performs Hajj-e-Tamatt’u is called
Mutawatte.
2. Hajj-e-Qirann – A pilgrim wears Ihram for both umrah and Hajj or he wears Ihram first for Umrah,
then makes an intention for Hajj before his Tawaf for Hajj. He does not shave off his head or trim his
hair till after the Rami on 10th Zil Hajj.
3. Hajj-e-Ifrad – It is usually done by the residents of Makkah or by the people who arrive just in time
for Hajj and do not have time to perform Umrah. In this Hajj, a pilgrim wears Ihram only for Hajj only.
When he reaches Makkah, he performs Tawaf only. He does not shave off his head or clip his hear as he
does not disengage from Ihram. Instead, he remains in Ihram till after the stones Jamaat-Al Aqabah on
10th of Zil hajj. It is permissible for him to postpone his sa’i for Hajj until after tawaf for hajj. The
person who performs Hajj-e-Ifrad is called Mufrid. It is not obligatory for a Mufrid to slaughter an
animal for Hajj.
Q. What are Fraiz, Wajibat and Sunnah of Hajj.
Fraiz:
Hajj is the greatest of all Ibadah. If a person is careful in performing all the rites with sincerity and care,
all his sins are washed away. If even one of these obligatory acts is missed out, the Hajj become void.
1. Putting on the Ihram, making the Niyat of Hajj and reciting the Talbiyah.
2. Staying the plain of Arafat on the 9th of Hajj and doing the Wuqoof-e-Arafat which sincerity and
devotion.
3. Visiting the Kaabah for Tawaf-ul-Ifadah / Ziarah on the 10th, 11th or 12th of Zil hajj after doing Halq or
Qasr.
Wajibat:
If any of the following wajib acts is left out the Hajj does not become void but the pilgrim will have to
compensate by slaughtering an animal or by giving Sadaqa.
1. Stay at Muzdalifa
2. Sai between Safa and Marwa
3. Stoning of the three Jamraat.
4. Sacrifice
5. Halq (shaving of head) or Qasr (clipping of hair)
6. Tawaf -e- Wida.
Sunnah:
Some acts like Tawaf-e-Qudum, spending the whole night at Muzdalifa and staying at Mina on the 13th
of Zil Hajj are Sunnah acts. If they are not followed, there is no penalty on the pilgrim.