Lesson 2: Fundamental Teachings Of Quran
Pilgrimage (Hajj)
The last of the fundamental duties of a Muslim is the Hajj (Pilgrimage). It is obligatory for those Muslims who possess the means and material resources to undertake it. Those who are healthy and are not hampered by a tyrannical ruler or any other obstacle must perform the Hajj once in a lifetime. Quran says:
“Pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to Allah – those who can afford the journey.” (3:97)Historical Background:
The Holy Kaabah in Mekkah is the first sanctuary for man. It is the first house of worship constructed on earth. It is a place of safety and amnesty for everyone. About 4,500 years ago, Ibrahim and his son Ismael (AS) rebuilt the holy Kaabah on God’s command. While doing so, Ibrahim (AS) prayed to Allah, in these words mentioned in Quran:
“And remember, Ibrahim and Ismael raised the foundation of the House: “Our Lord, Accept (this service) from us and make of us Muslims, bowing to thy will and of our progeny a people Muslim, bowing to thy will. And show us our places for the celebration of due rites." (2:127-128)The supplication of Ibraham was answered as millions of believers from all around the world come here to pay homage and fulfill the Divine obligations which they owe to Allah.
What is the Hajj?
The literal meaning of “Hajj” is “to visit." It is a social as well as religious institution for Muslims all over the world during the month of Zilhaj (the last month of the lunar calendar). The Hajj is a form of worship which requires the entire being of a Muslim with his mind, soul, body, time and resources. It is associated with the sacrifice of all comforts to subjugate oneself to the will of God. Quran says :
“One is not allowed to indulge in obscene talks, foul language, sexual intercourse, cut one’s hair, pare one’s nails or hunt game for sport while on pilgrimage but one is allowed to trade.” (2:196-198)The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said,
“He who performs Hajj and commits no sinful deeds during it and does not disobey God, he will return from it as pure as he was at the time of his birth”.He once again said,
“The reward for a pure and untainted Hajj is Paradise itself and nothing short of it”.Formalities of the Hajj
The pilgrims must reach Mekkah before the 7th of Zilhuj. The garb for the Hajj is a two-piece seamless linen garment called “Ehram”. Men may be leaving their heads uncovered, but women must cover it. Additional rituals include:
- Tawaf or seven fold circum-ambulation of the Holy Kaabah is performed.
- Running seven times between Safa and Marwah Hills.
- Journey to Mina (four miles east of Mekkah). This is done on the eighth day of Zilhuj.
- On the ninth day of Zilhaj, pilgrims set out for Arfat (9 miles from Makkah).
- Overnight stay in Muzdalifah.
- Back to Mina for the traditional Stoning of devil.
- On the tenth day of Zilhuj, pilgrims offer sacrifices of livestock in the name of Allah, following the example of Ibrahim (AS) and Ismael (AS).
- The pilgrim (men) shave their heads whereas females may clip a lock of hair in lieu of a complete shave.
- Pilgrims take off “Ehram” and resume wearing their usual dress.
- Pilgrims once again circum-ambulate around Holy Kaabah.
- Finally the pilgrims pay a visit to the grave of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in Medina before returning home.
