Salaam Saturday - Spiritual Importance of Hajj

Being one of the five mandatory pillars of Islam, the act of Hajj can be defined as the annual pilgrimage to the house of Allah SWT in Makkah, Saudia Arabia., Muslims are expected to perform it at least once in their life. 

Every year, around 2 million Muslims visit the Holy Kaaba to perform Hajj (Pilgrimage), a five-day event taking place in Dhul Hajj (the last Islamic month). Performed in the sacred state of Ihram, Muslims are strictly forbidden to engage in any type of sin. This includes arguments, violence, sexual activity, and even trimming or cutting their hair and nails. Muslims are advised to adopt a calm demeanor throughout the pilgrimage. 

According to Islamic rules and regulations, literally meaning “to intend a journey,” Hajj is mandatory for every Muslim who has a sound mind and is financially and physically capable of performing Hajj once in their lifetime.  When Muslims intend to perform Hajj, they are often reminded that the opportunity of pilgrimage is actually an invitation from Allah SWT to His house – the Holy Kaaba. Supporting the spirit of brotherhood, unity, and equality, the sacred event of Hajj brings together Muslims from all over the world. 

It is said that whoever performs Hajj with a pure heart returns home free from their life’s sins. Apart from symbolizing and kindness, Hajj being a re-enactment of obedience and sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to Allah SWT is the highest form of honour earned by a Muslim.