What are the Pillars of Hajj?

Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, stands as a profound testament to the unity, equality, and devotion of the Muslim ummah. At its essence, Hajj is a spiritual endeavor undertaken by millions annually, marking a significant milestone in a Muslim’s lifetime. Each ritual within Hajj holds a deep spiritual significance and historical context. Understanding the foundational pillars of Hajj is not just a matter of religious education—it is a means of reinforcing the heart of Islam and upholding the legacy of the Prophet Ibrahim.

This comprehensive guide aims to unveil the intricacies and beauty of these essential pillars of Hajj, guiding you through the acts that are foundational to completing your Hajj. From understanding the core of Hajj, Fard (obligatory), Wajib (required), and Sunnah (traditionally followed) acts, to grasp its profound impact on your spiritual journey, we’ll explore the essence of what makes Hajj the unparalleled pilgrimage it is today.

Basic Pillars of Hajj

We categorized rituals of this pilgrimage into 3 foundational pillars of Hajj; fard, wajib, and sunnah acts of Hajj; as most to least important in fulfilling this sacred obligation. Read also the right way to perform Hajj.

Fard Acts of Hajj

There are 3 fard of Hajj that are obligatory for every pilgrim. They form the core of the pilgrimage and are undeniably one of the most significant pillars of Hajj. Failure to comply with these 3 obligations of Hajj results in the Hajj not being fulfilled.

1. Ihram

The first Fard act begins with the donning of the Ihram before entering Miqat, intending to perform Hajj. This is a special state of sanctity wherein the pilgrim puts on two unstitched white clothes, signifying simplicity and equality before Allah. Entering into Ihram and reading Talbiyyah involves a formal declaration of intention. Muhrim has to follow the Ihram prohibitions strictly.

2. Wuquf at Arafat

The second Fard of Hajj is standing at Arafat till sunset, which occurs on the 9th day of Dhul Hijjah. This is the climax of Hajj and a time when pilgrims gather on the plain of Arafat to pray, and seek forgiveness, and blessings from Allah. Prophet Muhammad PBUH said:

“Hajj is defined by the standing at Arafat. Whoever arrives at the field of Arafat before the dawn of the Day of Muzdalifah, has performed the Hajj.” [Tirmidhi: 889, Nasai: 3016, Ibn Majah: 3015]

3. Tawaf al-Ziyarah

The third Fard act, Tawaf al-Ziyarah, takes place after taking off the Ihram and wearing regular clothes on the 10^th of Dhul Hijjah. It is also known as Tawaf al-Afadah. Pilgrims return to Makkah to perform the Tawaf around the Kaaba, after sacrificing the animal and shaving the head. It reinforces one’s commitment to the faith and serves as a deep devotion to the Creator as commanded by Allah:

“And let them perform the Tawaf of the Ancient House.” (Surah Al-Hajj: 29)

Read the seven types of Tawwaf and its historical context

6 Wajib Acts of Hajj

Beyond the Fard acts, there are 6 wajib of hajj that are required to be fulfilled while performing the Hajj. Failure to comply with them will result in sacrificing an animal as a penalty. These Wajib of Hajj, the unavoidable pillars of Hajj, are as follows:

1. Staying in Muzdalifah

Pilgrims gather at Muzdalifah on the evening of the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, following the day at Arafat. This night is a time for introspection. Pilgrims collect the small stones for Jamarat from here.

2. Rami al-Jamarat

The stoning of the Jamarat al-Aqabah on the morning of the 10^th of Dhul Hijjah and the three devils on the 11^th and 12^th of Dhul Hijjah is called Rami. It represents the temptations of the devil as a symbolic act of rejecting evil and enduring the test of faith

3. Sacrificing the Animal

Upon the completion of stoning the Jamarat al-Aqabah on the 10^th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims performing Hajj-e-Qiran and Hajj-e-Tamattu are required to sacrifice an animal in Mina. This act symbolizes the act of Prophet Ibrahim (may peace and blessings upon him) when He sacrificed His son upon the commandment of Allah Almighty.

4. Shaving or Cutting the Hair

After sacrificing pilgrims are required to shave or shorten their hair. This act symbolizes the pilgrim’s release from the state of Ihram and serves as a mark of submission to Allah’s will, acknowledging the completion of the rituals of Hajj.

5. Sa’i

The Sa’i commemorates the frantic search by the wife of the Prophet Ibrahim, for water for her son Isma’il. It encompasses seven circuits between the hills of Safa and Marwah.

6. Tawaf al-Wida

Before leaving Makkah, pilgrims residing outside the Miqat, are required to undertake the Tawaf al-Wida, the farewell circumambulation. This act signifies a parting from the holy city and concludes the rites of Hajj

The Sunnah Acts of Hajj

One of the pillars of Hajj is the sunnah. The performance of the Sunnah acts during Hajj is highly recommended. However, it is not a sin if one fails to comply with them unintentionally or with a legitimate reason. Rituals of Hajj are deemed to be fulfilled without these sunnah. Some salient sunnah of Hajj are mentioned here:

1. Performing Tawaf al-Qudum.
2. Performing Ramal and Iztiba’.
3. Departing for Mina on the morning of 8^th Dhul-Hijjah and performing all prayers there.
4. Departing for Arafat after sunrise on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah.
5. Spending the Night after Arafat at Muzdalifah.
6. Performing ghusl (ritual purification) in Arafat.
7. Not Leaving Arafat before the Imam of Hajj.
8. Staying overnight in Mina during the Days of the 8^th, 10^th, 11^th, and 12^th of Dhul Hijjah.

A Message for Future Pilgrims

In conclusion, as you gear up for your Hajj, remember that every action you undertake, from the sunnah to the wajib and fard acts, brings you closer to Allah and exemplifies the spirit of the Muslim community—unity, equality, and devotion. These actions are the pillar of Hajj, enhancing a multilayered experience that pushes the pilgrim to their spiritual and physical limits. It is a testament to the living legacy of Islam. May your pilgrimage be accepted, and may you return with your spirit rejuvenated and your faith strengthened.

Join us as we traverse the spiritual contours of this divine commandment, ensuring the fulfillment of one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Whether you’re preparing for this sacred journey or simply wish to deepen your understanding, these pillars of Hajj will assist not just in compliance but in connecting more intimately with the profound spirituality of Hajj.

Ready to elevate your Hajj experience? Connect with us for personalized Hajj support, shaping your pilgrimage with knowledge, devotion, and clarity.