What is Hajj?

Hajj (Ψ­Ψ¬) is the fifth and final Pillar of Islam β€” an obligatory once-in-a-lifetime pilgrimage to Mecca for every Muslim who is physically and financially able. It takes place in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah and is performed by millions of Muslims from every country on Earth.

Who Must Perform Hajj?

Hajj is obligatory (Fard) on every adult Muslim who is: (1) physically able, (2) financially able to afford the journey and leave provision for dependants, and (3) able to travel safely. It is required only once in a lifetime.

The Five Days of Hajj

  1. 8th Dhul Hijjah (Yawm al-Tarwiyah): Enter Ihram, travel to Mina, spend the day and night in prayer
  2. 9th Dhul Hijjah (Day of Arafah): The essential pillar of Hajj β€” stand at the plain of Arafah from Dhuhr to sunset in dua and remembrance. The Prophet ο·Ί said: Hajj is Arafah.
  3. Night of 9th-10th: Travel to Muzdalifah, pray Maghrib and Isha combined, collect pebbles, sleep under the stars
  4. 10th Dhul Hijjah (Eid al-Adha): Stone the Jamarat, sacrifice an animal, shave or cut hair, perform Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa'i
  5. 11th–13th Dhul Hijjah (Ayyam al-Tashreeq): Remain in Mina, stone the three Jamarat each day

The Four Pillars (Arkan) of Hajj

  1. Ihram β€” the intention and state of consecration
  2. Wuquf at Arafah β€” standing at Arafah on the 9th
  3. Tawaf al-Ifadah β€” circling the Kaaba seven times
  4. Sa'i β€” walking seven times between Safa and Marwa

Spiritual Preparation

  • Repent sincerely before leaving β€” Hajj wipes away all previous sins if accepted
  • Learn the rituals in detail before you travel
  • Go with the intention of Hajj Mabrur (accepted Hajj)
  • Make dua upon entering Mecca, the Haram, and at first sight of the Kaaba

Learn the rituals in detail: Open the Hajj Guide Tool β†’