Hajj – The Fifth Pillar of Islam
What Is Hajj in Islam? – The Fifth Pillar of Islam
Introduction
Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, is a sacred pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah that takes place every year in the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah. It begins on the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah and continues until the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah. This profound journey is obligatory for every Muslim who is financially and physically capable of undertaking it, as commanded by Allah عَزَّوَجَلَّ.
Through the rituals of Hajj, Muslims demonstrate humility, devotion, and unity, transcending differences in wealth, race, or nationality. Those who complete this sacred pilgrimage earn the honorable title of Haji, signifying their spiritual accomplishment.
Hajj of Kaaba – A Sacred Muslim Pilgrimage
Hajj holds immense importance as the 5th pillar of Islam. Every year, millions of Muslims gather in Masjid al-Haram, dressed in simple Ihram clothing, symbolizing equality and humility before Allah عَزَّوَجَلَّ.
This gathering of believers is a powerful symbol of unity, showing that all are equal in the sight of Allah regardless of worldly status. The spiritual benefits of Hajj include forgiveness of sins, purification of the soul, and renewal of faith.
Importance of Hajj in Quran and Hadith
The Quran and Hadith emphasize the immense significance of Hajj. Allah عَزَّوَجَلَّ says in the Quran:
“And Hajj to the House is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, for those who can afford the expenses.” (Surah Aal-e-Imran 3:97)
Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى اللهُ تَعَالٰى عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم stated:
“Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any obscenity or wrongdoing will return free from sins as on the day his mother gave birth to him.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
Thus, Hajj is not just a physical journey but a transformative act of worship that brings believers closer to Allah.
How Many Types of Hajj in Islam?
There are three types of Hajj in Islam:
1. Hajj Qiran
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Pilgrim (Qarin) makes intention for both Hajj and Umrah together.
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Rituals of Umrah are performed, but Ihram remains until the completion of Hajj.
2. Hajj Tamattu
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Pilgrim (Mutamatte) performs Umrah first during Hajj months, exits Ihram, and then re-enters Ihram for Hajj on the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah.
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Most common among international pilgrims.
3. Hajj Ifrad
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Pilgrim (Mufrid) makes intention for Hajj only without combining it with Umrah.
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Common among residents of Makkah or nearby areas.
Difference Between Hajj and Umrah
While both Hajj and Umrah involve traveling to Makkah and performing rituals, they differ in significance and requirements:
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Hajj is obligatory (once in a lifetime if able) and performed only during Dhul-Hijjah.
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Umrah is optional and can be performed anytime throughout the year except on Hajj days.
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Hajj rituals are more comprehensive, including Arafat, Muzdalifah, Mina, and sacrifice (Qurbani), whereas Umrah is shorter with only Ihram, Tawaf, and Sa’i.
Preparing for Hajj – Spiritual & Practical Steps
Performing Hajj requires physical, financial, and spiritual preparation.
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Learn the rituals: Study authentic Islamic books or attend Hajj workshops.
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Financial planning: Save for travel, accommodation, and expenses.
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Physical health: Build stamina through exercise and consult a doctor before traveling.
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Spiritual preparation: Increase prayers, recite Quran, and seek forgiveness before departure.
Major Hajj Rituals – Step by Step
The main steps of Hajj rituals include:
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Intention & Ihram
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Tawaf (circumambulation of Kaaba)
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Sa’i (running between Safa & Marwa)
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Stay at Mina
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Day of Arafat (Wuquf at Arafah)
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Night at Muzdalifah
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Ramy al-Jamarat (stoning the devil)
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Qurbani (animal sacrifice)
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Halq or Taqsir (shaving or trimming hair)
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Tawaf al-Ifadah
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Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wida)
Signs of an Accepted Hajj (Hajj-e-Mabroor)
Scholars mention several indicators of an accepted Hajj:
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Pilgrim avoids sins and bad company after returning.
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Increases in prayers, charity, and remembrance of Allah.
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Displays humility, sincerity, and good character.
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Does not boast about Hajj, but becomes spiritually improved.
Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى اللهُ تَعَالٰى عَلَيْهِ وَاٰلِهٖ وَسَلَّم said:
“The reward of an accepted Hajj is nothing but Paradise.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
Rewards & Blessings of Performing Hajj
The virtues of Hajj are numerous:
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Forgiveness of past sins.
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Renewal of faith and purification of the heart.
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Attaining the title of Haji.
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Eternal reward in the Hereafter – Paradise for Hajj-e-Mabroor.
Conclusion
Hajj is not merely a ritual—it is the ultimate journey of faith, sacrifice, and devotion. As the fifth pillar of Islam, it is a means of spiritual rebirth, forgiveness, and closeness to Allah. By performing Hajj with sincerity and obedience, a Muslim fulfills one of the greatest obligations of Islam and secures immense blessings in both this world and the Hereafter.
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What Is Hajj in Islam? | Types, Rituals & Importance of Hajj
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Discover what Hajj is in Islam – the fifth pillar of Islam. Learn about its types, rituals, significance in Quran & Hadith, difference between Hajj & Umrah, and rewards of Hajj-e-Mabroor.
FAQs About Hajj
Q1: What is the meaning of Hajj in Islam?
Hajj is the annual pilgrimage to Makkah, the fifth pillar of Islam, obligatory for financially and physically able Muslims.
Q2: How many days does Hajj last?
Hajj begins on the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah and ends on the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah (5–6 days).
Q3: What are the 3 types of Hajj?
The three types are Hajj Qiran, Hajj Tamattu, and Hajj Ifrad.
Q4: What is the difference between Hajj and Umrah?
Hajj is obligatory and performed on fixed dates in Dhul-Hijjah, while Umrah is voluntary and can be performed any time of the year.
Q5: What is the reward of an accepted Hajj (Hajj-e-Mabroor)?
The Prophet Muhammad صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّم stated that the reward for an accepted Hajj is Paradise.
