How to Perform Hajj A Step-by-Step Guide

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, a sacred pilgrimage to Makkah that every Muslim who is physically and financially able must undertake at least once in their lifetime. It is a journey of spiritual purification, devotion, and unity among Muslims worldwide. If you are planning to perform Hajj, here is a step-by-step guide to help you understand the rituals and significance of each stage.

Step 1: Preparation and Intention (Ihram)

Before beginning Hajj, pilgrims must enter a state of spiritual purity called Ihram. This involves:

Wearing simple white garments (for men) and modest clothing (for women).
Making the intention (Niyyah) for Hajj.
Refraining from certain activities like cutting hair, applying perfume, or engaging in disputes.

Step 2: Arriving in Makkah and Performing Tawaf

Upon reaching Makkah, pilgrims go to the Masjid al-Haram and perform Tawaf:

Walk seven times counterclockwise around the Kaaba.
Recite prayers and supplications while circumambulating.
Perform two Rak’ahs of Salah near Maqam Ibrahim.

Step 3: Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah

Walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah to commemorate Hajar’s search for water.
This act symbolizes patience, faith, and reliance on Allah.

Step 4: Traveling to Mina

On the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims travel to Mina, a tent city, where they spend the night in prayer and preparation for the next day’s rites.

Step 5: Standing at Arafat (Wuquf-e-Arafah)

On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat to pray and seek forgiveness.
This is the most important part of Hajj, as Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his last sermon here.
Pilgrims engage in supplication until sunset.

Step 6: Muzdalifah – Collecting Pebbles

After sunset, pilgrims move to Muzdalifah to spend the night under the open sky.
They collect pebbles for the next ritual.

Step 7: Stoning the Devil (Ramy al-Jamarat)

On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims return to Mina to perform Ramy, where they throw seven pebbles at the largest pillar (Jamarat al-Aqaba), symbolizing the rejection of evil.

Step 8: Sacrifice (Qurbani) and Haircut (Halq or Taqsir)

A sacrificial animal is offered, symbolizing Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son.
Men shave their heads (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqsir), while women cut a small portion.
Pilgrims can now exit Ihram partially and wear normal clothes.

Step 9: Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i

Pilgrims return to Masjid al-Haram for Tawaf al-Ifadah.
This marks the completion of the essential Hajj rites.
Another Sa’i between Safa and Marwah is performed.

Step 10: Final Days in Mina and Farewell Tawaf

Pilgrims stay in Mina for two to three days, performing Ramy by stoning all three pillars daily.
Before leaving Makkah, pilgrims perform the Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada’), bidding farewell to the sacred city.

Hajj is a deeply spiritual and transformative journey that strengthens faith and devotion. By following these steps and preparing adequately, pilgrims can complete their Hajj successfully and seek Allah’s mercy and blessings. May Allah accept the Hajj of all those who embark on this sacred pilgrimage. Ameen!

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