Brief wisdoms learnt from Hajj

Imam Shamsi Ali*

Millions of Muslims are flocking to the holy land of Mecca to perform the Hajj (pilgrimage), a fundamental obligation in Islam. This pilgrimage is not only a duty but also one of the five pillars of Islam.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Islam is built on five pillars: the declaration of faith, prayer, zakat, fasting in Ramadan, and Hajj to the House of Allah for those who are able." (Bukhari-Muslim)

Hajj is obligatory once in a lifetime for those who meet the necessary conditions, including physical and financial ability. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized that Hajj should be performed as soon as possible after meeting these conditions.

All scholars agree that Hajj should be performed immediately after meeting the conditions, except for Imam Shafi'i, who allows delay with the condition that one is certain not to die before the next Hajj season.

Hajj includes all aspects of Islamic worship, such as prayer, zakat, and fasting. By performing Hajj, a Muslim demonstrates their commitment to fulfilling all their obligations to Allah.

When starting Ihram, the first declaration is "Labbaik Allahumma labbaik...," which summarizes the essence of Islamic worship. During hajj solat or prayers are included. For years Muslims pray facing towards the Ka’bah. Now they are in the place where Ka’bah is situated. Hajj also signifies the ability to pay zakat, as one who cannot pay zakat is not eligible for Hajj.

The rituals of Hajj also symbolize the journey of human life, from birth to death. The pilgrimage represents the struggles and challenges faced by humans, as well as the importance of devotion and submission to Allah.

Tawaf represents the constant movement and change in life, while Sa'i (between Safa and Marwa) symbolizes the effort and struggle in life. Wuquf (standing) in Arafah represents refocusing and rediscovering oneself as a human being.

Also the Hajj represents the universality of the religion of Islam. 
The Quran uses the term "an-naas" (mankind) when referring to Hajj, emphasizing the universal nature of Islam. Hajj is a global gathering of Muslims from all backgrounds and nationalities, demonstrating equality and unity.

The Farewell Sermon (Khutbatul Wada') delivered by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) in Arafah emphasizes the importance of human equality and brotherhood.

Finally performing Hajj is a commitment to becoming a better Muslim and striving for spiritual perfection. The word "Hajj" itself implies a journey to a distant place and is also related to the concept of proof or evidence.

The relationship between Hajj and Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) demonstrates the importance of commitment and obedience to Allah's commands. A successful Hajj (Hajj Mabrur) is rewarded with Paradise, emphasizing the significance of true devotion and submission to Allah.

May Allah facilitate the performance of Hajj for those who intend to do so and accept their Hajj as Hajj Mabrur.

"Allahumma ij'alhu hajjan mabruran wa sa'yana mashkuran wa dzamban maghfuran wa tijaaratan lan tabur."

Amin ya Mujiib!

Jamaica Hills, May 12, 2025

*Director of Jamaica Muslim Center & President of Nusantara Foundation