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