Step-by-step guide to performing Hajj

Hajj is a physically and spiritually demanding journey. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to its major rites:

Hajj is a physically and spiritually demanding journey. Here’s a simplified step-by-step guide to its major rites:

Preparation and Intention (Niyyah):

1. Make a pure intention (Niyyah) to perform Hajj before starting your travel. This signifies your dedication to the pilgrimage.

Entering Ihram:

2. Cross the designated boundary (Miqat) near Mecca. Here, pilgrims cleanse themselves, change into simple Ihram garments, and abstain from certain activities like marital relations and arguing. Men wear two unstitched white cloths, while women wear loose-fitting clothing.
3. Recite the Talbiyah, a declaration of devotion to Allah.

Actions in Mecca:

4. Perform Tawaf, circumambulating the Kaaba seven times counterclockwise. Focus on prayer and supplication during each circuit.
5. Perform Sa’i, walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa. This commemorates the desperate search for water by Hagar, wife of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), for her son Ismail.

Day of Arafah:

6. Travel to the plains of Arafah on the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah (Islamic calendar month). This is the most significant day of Hajj, dedicated to prayer, repentance, and supplication.

Muzdalifah and Mina:

7. Spend the night at Muzdalifah under the sky. Collect pebbles here for the stoning ritual.
8. Travel to Mina on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah.

Rites of Mina:

9. Perform Rami al-Jamarat, the symbolic stoning of the devil at Jamarat. Throw seven pebbles at the largest pillar, representing the rejection of temptation.
10. Offer a sacrifice (Qurbani) on the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah or later. This commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s (Abraham’s) willingness to sacrifice his son. Meat is distributed to the poor and pilgrims.

Completion Rites:

11. Shave your head or trim your hair (men) or slightly shorten your hair (women). This signifies the end of certain Ihram restrictions.
12. Perform Tawaf al-Ifadah, another circumambulation of the Kaaba.
13. Repeat Rami al-Jamarat for the next three days.

Farewell Tawaf:

14. Perform Tawaf al-Wida, the farewell circumambulation, before leaving Mecca. This signifies the completion of Hajj rituals.

Important Notes:

• This is a simplified guide. Each rite involves specific steps and prayers.
• It’s highly recommended to consult a qualified Islamic scholar or travel with an experienced Hajj guide for proper guidance.
• Hajj requires physical fitness. Ensure you’re in good health before undertaking the pilgrimage.