Are you going to perform Hajj? So, you must be looking for the steps of the Hajj guide. It is needed to learn about the obligations and requirements of Hajj. Let us walk you through the steps of Hajj for your preparation.
What is Hajj?
Hajj is the spiritual journey for Muslims. Millions of Muslims embark on this journey annually. It is among the most significant Islamic tenets. For Muslims who are financially secure, doing the Hajj is a once-in-a-lifetime duty. The Islamic period of Dhu al-Hijjah is when the Hajj is done. It connects all the pilgrims to the roots and history of Islam. There are several rituals and steps of Hajj.
Steps of Hajj: A Step-by-Step Guide
Let us discuss the steps of Hajj in detail.
1. Ihram: The State of Purity
Ihram is compulsory before entering Mecca. The state of purity is known as Ihram.
Steps to Enter Ihram:
- Muslims should wear the prescribed attire. It includes Two white sheets for men, while women wear regular modest clothing.
- Perform a cleansing ritual with a shower or ablution.
- Make the intention (niyyah) of Hajj by reciting “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik.”
- You need to avoid certain actions such as cutting hair or using perfumes while in Ihram.
2. Arrival at Mecca and Tawaf al-Qudum (The Arrival Tawaf)
The next step in the steps of Hajj is Tawaf. It involves circling the Khana-e-Kabah.
Performing Tawaf:
- You have to do seven rotational circles around the Kaaba.
- At the black stone, begin each round. Try to give it an affectionate kiss or a touch.
- Now, you can conclude your Tawaf with two units (rakat) of prayers behind Maqam Ibrahim (if possible).
3. Sa’i: Journey Between Safa and Marwah
The very next step is Sai. It honors her son Hazrat Ismail’s (A.S.) Hajars’ quest for water.
How to Execute Sa’i:
You ought to do seven walks between the Safa and Marwah hills. They are located in the Grand Mosque.
- End each round at Marwah, before healing back to Safa.
4. Mina: The Journey Begins
Now you have to stay in Mina (a small town near Mecca) on the 8th Dhu al-Hijjah.
- What is Possible in Mina: Recite the Quran and spend time in prayer.
- Prepare yourself mentally and spiritually for the following days of Hajj.
5. Arafat: The Day of Forgiveness
It is known as the peak of Hajj. The believers stand in prayer and contemplation on the day of Arafat in order to ask for forgiveness.
Performing Wuquf (Standing) at Arafat:
- You need to spend the afternoon in prayers seeking forgiveness on the plain of Arafat.
- This day is believed to be the one when Allah (S.W.T.) grants you forgiveness. So, make heartfelt supplications and pray more.
6. Muzdalifah: The Night Under the Stars
The pilgrims move to Muzdalifah after sunset, to spend the night.
Key Activities:
- Perform your maghrib and Isa prayers combined.
- You need to collect 49 or 70 small pebbles for the upcoming ritual (stone-throwing).
- Rest under the open sky, as part of collective experience.
7. Stoning the Devil in Mina: Rami al-Jamarat
The moment has come to hurl stones at Satan.It is done at Mina, three stone pillars. It is the symbol to reject Satan’s temptations.
How to Perform Rami:
- You should throw 7 pebbles at Jamrat al-Aqabah (the largest pillar) on 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah.
- You need to continue stoning each of three pillars over the next two to three days.
8. Sacrifice (Qurbani)
The next step is Qurbani (Sacrifice). It is provided on Eid-ul-Adha to commemorate the Prophet Abraham’s readiness to lay down his son in submission to Allah.
What to Expect:
- You should sacrifice a sheep, goat, or a share in a large animal like a cow, or camel.
- Make sure that it adheres to Islamic guidelines. You can also take help of modern facilities.
9. Tawaf al-Ifadah: The Main Tawaf
To finish the Hajj, this is the most crucial Tawaf.
How to Do It:
- You must make all seven of the Kaaba’s circuits.
- Praying behind Maqam Ibram followed by Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.
10. Return to Mina
Now, it’s time for pilgrims to return to Mina for another 2-3 days. Complete the ritual of rami and then stone the three pillars. These final days allow pilgrims to reflect on the journey of Hajj and its deeper spiritual meaning.
11. Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada)
Now, it’s the last step among the steps of Hajj. It’s the farewell Tawaf around Kaba. it concludes your Hajj.
Conclusion
The journey of Hajj is a profound spiritual experience for every Muslim. There are many steps of Hajj. Each step symbolizes obedience, humility, and a commitment to Allah. Whether you intend to do Hajj or are merely acquiring knowledge about it.. The complete understanding of each step connects you more deeply with the roots of Islam and Allah. So, if you have any other questions regarding the steps of Hajj or others, just comment and clear your doubts now!
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