Significance of Hajj:
Hajj, an extraordinary journey of faith, holds immense religious significance for Muslims. The fifth pillar of Islam, Hajj is performed during the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, Dhul Hijja and begins two days before Eid ul-Adha. It is a five-day process of worship which must be performed at least once in a lifetime by all the Muslims who can afford it. Hajj is a profound spiritual experience that embodies numerous virtues and benefits and in this blog, we will explore the virtues of Hajj while emphasizing the impact it has on our lives.
The significance and reward of Hajj are great if performed with pure intention and according to the prescribed manner. According to the Prophet (SAW), the greater merits of Hajj Mabrur are purification from sins and a guaranteed place in Paradise.
Hajj fosters a sense of spiritual growth, unity, equality, humility, sacrifice and forgiveness.
During Hajj, pilgrims leave behind their material possessions and don the humble attire called Ihram. This act of simplicity reflects the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (SAW), emphasizing the importance of humility before God and detachment from worldly pleasures. Hajj instils a profound sense of gratitude, as pilgrims are reminded of the blessings they have and the essence of their faith, fostering a sense of contentment and gratitude.
The first day of the Hajj begins with the circumambulation of Kabaah and walking between the mountains of Safa and Marwa. On the second day, pilgrims head towards Mount Arafat where they spend the afternoon. Hereafter, they move to Jabal al-Rahman, which is where the Prophet Muhammad (SAW) delivered his final sermon, calling for equality and unity of Muslims. It is pertinent to mention that it is obligatory for every Muslim to attend the sermon at Arafat and stay there till sunset. Later in the day, as the sun sets, pilgrims head to Muzdalifah to collect the stones for Jamarat.
Hereafter Over the course of the final three days of Hajj, coinciding with Eid ul-Adha, pilgrims perform Jamarat by spending a night in Mina. Pilgrims also perform the ritual sacrificial slaughter of animals, circumambulate the Kaaba one final time and thereafter men shave their heads while women cut their hair up to the length of one fingertip as a sign of submission towards Allah and then remove Ihram.
The act of offering an animal sacrifice symbolizes Prophet Ibrahim’s(AS) willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail (AS), as an act of obedience to Allah. This act teaches us the Prophet Ibrahim’s(AS) devotion and willingness to make sacrifices in the path of God. This virtue of sacrifice extends beyond the ritual, encouraging individuals to reflect on their own lives and make sacrifices for the betterment of themselves and their communities.
The rituals of Hajj demand patience, perseverance and resilience. Pilgrims often face physical challenges, such as long journeys, crowded spaces and extreme weather conditions. All these things teach us about the importance of self-control and patience during times of adversity and conflicts in the course of life. Hajj teaches individuals to endure hardships with grace and steadfastness, thereby developing qualities that are essential in navigating the challenges of everyday life.
It is indeed hardwork and being in a constant state of purity, taking almost every ounce of physical energy arranging and managing things while being able to supplicate as well.
This is where we come in. MG Tours and Travels has established itself as a renowned travel agency in South Kashmir that has been tirelessly providing the Hajj and Umrah services for the last two decades.
At MG Tours at Travels, we take care of everything, from visa to tickets, transportation to hotel accommodation, food, and laundry. All you need to do is pray, supplicate and make the most of your journey of a lifetime.
We regularly post testimonials of people, who have made the blessed journey with us, on our Facebook page. Do have a look to get an idea on how seamlessly and effortlessly we make your Hajj as well as Umrah hassle free and comfortable!