Q&A

How to Perform Hajj: A Complete Guide

Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, is a sacred spiritual journey longed for by every capable Muslim. Performing Hajj requires physical, spiritual, and mental preparation, as well as knowledge of all rituals. Here is a step-by-step guide:

1. Ihram

• Intention and Purity: Pilgrims start Hajj with the intention (niyyah) of entering Ihram at designated Miqat points (e.g., Dhul-Hulaifah, Al-Juhfa, Qarn al-Manazil, Yalamlam, Dhat Irq).
• Ghusl and Perfume: Recommended for men before donning Ihram.
• Ihram Clothing: Men wear two white unstitched cloths; women wear modest clothing covering the body and hair.
• Talbiyah: Pilgrims recite: “Labbayk Allahumma labbayk…” until stoning of Jamrat al-Aqabah.

2. Tawaf (Circumambulation)

• Tawaf al-Qudum (Arrival Tawaf): 7 rounds around the Kaaba upon arrival in Mecca.
• Men: Raml (fast walking) in first three rounds, Izbiba (right shoulder exposed).
• Dua & Dhikr: Recommended throughout Tawaf.
• Two Rakats at Maqam Ibrahim: Sunnah prayer after Tawaf.

3. Sa’y (Walking Between Safa & Marwah)

• Starting at Safa: After Tawaf, pilgrims start seven trips between Safa and Marwah.
• Running: Men jog between the two green markers.
• Dua & Dhikr: Continue while performing Sa’y.

4. Tarwiyah Day (8 Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pilgrims move to Mina, spend the day and night there.
• Shortened prayers are performed, no combining.

5. Day of Arafah (9 Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pilgrims go to Arafah after sunrise.
• Standing at Arafah (Wuquf) from noon until sunset.
• Combined and shortened Zuhr and Asr prayers.

6. Muzdalifah (Night Before 10 Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pilgrims proceed to Muzdalifah after sunset.
• Maghrib and Isha prayers combined and shortened.
• Stay overnight and collect small pebbles for stoning.

7. Eid al-Adha / 10 Dhul-Hijjah

• Stone Jamrat al-Aqabah (7 stones with Takbir each).
• Sacrifice (Hadi) for Tamattu’ and Qiran pilgrims.
• Men shave or trim hair, women cut a small portion. Minor release from Ihram.

8. Days of Tashreeq (11-13 Dhul-Hijjah)

• Each day pilgrims stone three Jamrat (small, medium, large).
• Early pilgrims may leave on 12th day, others finish on 13th.

9. Farewell Tawaf

• Final Tawaf before leaving Mecca.
• Women menstruating or postpartum are exempt.

Important Hajj Tips

• Preparation: Physical, spiritual, and financial readiness is essential.
• Knowledge: Learn all rituals and rules of Hajj.
• Patience: Be prepared for difficulties.
• Good Conduct: Help and respect fellow pilgrims.
• Supplication: Hajj is a unique opportunity for prayer and supplication.

May Allah accept all Hajj and Umrah and grant every Muslim the opportunity to visit the Holy Kaaba.