One of the Five Pillars of Islam

Hajj, the annual pilgrimage to Makkah, is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is a religious duty that every Muslim who is physically and financially able must undertake at least once in their lifetime. The Holy Quran emphasizes the importance of this pilgrimage, requiring pilgrims to perform Tawaf, the act of circumambulating the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction.

A Gathering of Millions

During the Hajj, millions of Muslims from around the globe converge on Makkah to participate in this profound spiritual journey. This massive gathering occurs over a five-day period, creating a unique and powerful sense of unity and devotion among the pilgrims.

Quranic Guidance

The significance of Hajj is beautifully captured in the Holy Quran, Surat Al-Hajj, 22:26-27:

“And proclaim to the people the Hajj [pilgrimage]; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass. That they may witness benefits for themselves and mention the name of Allah on known days over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals. So eat of them and feed the miserable and poor. Then let them end their untidiness and fulfill their vows and perform Tawaf around the ancient House.”

Umrah: The Lesser Pilgrimage

In addition to Hajj, Muslims can also perform Umrah, the lesser pilgrimage, which is not obligatory but highly recommended. Unlike Hajj, Umrah can be undertaken at any time of the year.

The Rituals of Hajj

Hajj is performed annually from the 8th to the 12th of Dhu Al-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic calendar. The pilgrimage involves several key rituals:

  1. Ihram: Upon reaching the boundary of Makkah, pilgrims enter a state of purity known as ihram. Men wear two white, seamless sheets, while women dress in white with only their faces and hands uncovered.

  2. 8th of Dhu Al-Hijjah: Pilgrims spend the day in Mina, engaging in prayers.

  3. 9th of Dhu Al-Hijjah: At Arafat, pilgrims offer supplications, repent for their sins, and seek Allah’s mercy. They then perform the Maghrib and Isha prayers jointly at Muzdalifa.

  4. 10th of Dhu Al-Hijjah: Back in Mina, pilgrims perform the symbolic stoning of the devil (Ramy al-Jamarat). After sacrificing an animal, they shave their heads or trim their hair (Halak).

  5. Tawaf: Pilgrims revisit the Masjid al-Haram mosque in Makkah for another Tawaf, symbolizing their eagerness to respond to God and show love for Him.

  6. 11th and 12th of Dhu Al-Hijjah: Pilgrims continue the stoning ritual at Mina.

  7. 13th of Dhu Al-Hijjah: If pilgrims stay until the 13th, they perform the stoning ritual once more before returning to Makkah. Before leaving, they perform the Tawaf al-Wadaa, the “farewell” Tawaf.

Modern Sacrifices and Eid Al-Adha

Today, the sacrifice of animals is often carried out by professionals on behalf of the pilgrims. The meat is then distributed to the poor around the world. This act of charity coincides with the global celebration of Eid Al-Adha, a three-day festival where Muslims worldwide perform similar sacrifices.

Hajj is not just a physical journey but a profound spiritual experience that reinforces the principles of faith, unity, and charity in Islam. It is a testament to the enduring power of religious devotion and the shared values that bind the global Muslim community.

 

Application to Hajj and Umrah

Eligibility

Each year, millions of Muslims around the world request a Hajj permit. To manage the high demand, Saudi authorities have implemented a rule allowing each believer to perform Hajj once every five years. Eligibility checks can be done on the Abshir website of the Ministry of Interior, where applicants can also handle other administrative tasks and requests for information. Applicants must create a profile to submit and follow up on their Hajj permit application.

Visas

The application form for a Hajj visa is available from all Saudi Consulates. However, it is advisable to appoint a licensed travel agent who can arrange the visa, travel, accommodation, and other necessities for performing Hajj. The travel agent will send the application form to the Saudi Consulate. Lists of approved travel agents are available online for countries like the United Arab Emirates, the United Kingdom, and France. Hajj visas are issued from mid-Shawwal until the 25th of Dhu al-Qa’dah each year.

Main Requirements for Hajj Visa

  1. Passport: Must be valid for at least six more months and acceptable for entry to Saudi Arabia and the next destination.
  2. Roundtrip Ticket: A non-refundable roundtrip ticket with confirmed reservations is required.
  3. Vaccinations:
    • Adults over 15 must submit proof of vaccination for meningitis (ACYW135).
    • Infants and children up to 15 years of age need a vaccination report for polio and meningitis.

Specific Requirements

  • Women: Must travel with a Mahram (male guardian). Proof of kinship must be submitted with the application form.
  • Non-Nationals: Applicants who are not nationals of the country they are applying from must submit documented proof of legal residence status.
  • Converts to Islam: Must present an Islamic certificate notarized by an Islamic Center.
  • Minors: No applicant under the age of 18 will be granted a Hajj visa unless accompanied by family.

Costs

While Umrah and Hajj visas are free, pilgrims must submit two certified checks or cashier checks payable to the “Agents Office” in Jeddah for pilgrimage services. These services include guides, Zamzam water agents, tent accommodation in Mina and Arafat, and transportation. Children between the ages of seven and fifteen pay half the amount, while children under seven do not need to pay.

Ministry of Hajj

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia has established the Ministry of Hajj, dedicated to facilitating the pilgrimage. The ministry coordinates with government and local authorities to ensure the smooth observance of pilgrimage, regulates services, develops systems, uses technology, and enhances staff effectiveness. The ministry’s core focus is on offering religious hospitality in compliance with international standards.

For more detailed information, you can refer to resources like WikiHow on performing Hajj and the Saudi Airlines Visa Hajj page.