Facts About the Sacred Kaaba – Baitullah

The Kaaba, or Baitullah (House of Allah), is the focal point of the Islamic world, constructed centuries ago by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son, Prophet Ismail (AS). It is the first house of worship dedicated to Allah and has undergone numerous renovations due to natural disasters and changes over time, with a notable renovation occurring during Prophet Muhammad’s (pbuh) lifetime.

The pilgrimage involves physically demanding rituals that require perseverance and commitment, allowing pilgrims to seek forgiveness from Allah. Participating in Hajj fosters a deep sense of trust and love for the Creator, Allah (SWT), and His Messenger (pbuh). It serves as a powerful reminder of a believer’s responsibilities toward Allah and emphasizes the importance of relying on His divine plan with a devoted heart, mind, and soul.

The historical roots of Hajj trace back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), when Allah commanded him to leave his wife, Hajira (RA), and son, Ismail (AS), in the arid desert of Makkah. In a desperate search for water for her son, Hajira (RA) ran between the mountains of Safa and Marwa but found nothing. Upon returning to Ismail, she discovered her baby scratching the ground, from which a miraculous water fountain sprang forth. Later, Allah (SWT) commanded Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to build the Kaabah in this very location and to invite people to the pilgrimage.

The Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) himself performed Hajj with his companions in 630 CE, traveling from Medina to Mecca for this significant annual pilgrimage, setting an enduring example for all Muslims.

Meeqats – Ihram Places for Hujjaj

Meeqats are designated stations for Ihram, established by Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) around Makkah. These locations serve as starting points for pilgrims intending to perform Hajj or Umrah. The five primary Meeqats are:

• Al-Juhfah (Rabegh): For pilgrims coming from Egypt, Syria, and the western regions.
• Dhul-Hulaifah (Abyar Ali): For those arriving from Madinah.
• Dhatul-Irq: For pilgrims coming from Iraq.
• Qarn-Al-Manazel: For those traveling from Najd and Taif.
• Yalumlum: For pilgrims from India, Pakistan, and Yemen traveling by sea.

Pilgrims by Air Transport: From the UK/Europe

For Muslims traveling from the UK, the nearest Meeqat is Rabegh. Pilgrims flying from the UK must enter Ihram before reaching the Meeqat, but they should only express their intention (Niyyah) and recite the “Talbiyah” upon arriving at the Meeqat, as announced by Saudi Airlines. For other airlines, the Meeqat zone is typically reached approximately one hour before arrival at Jeddah Airport.

Important Note: It is essential for pilgrims to don Ihram before passing through these designated Meeqats, regardless of their mode of transport (road, air, or sea).

Ihram: Rules and Regulations

Ihram signifies the declaration of certain lawful actions as haram (unlawful) for the duration of the pilgrimage. After making the intention (niyyah) and reciting the Talbiyah, certain permissible activities become prohibited, including wearing stitched garments, using perfume, and cutting hair. The combination of niyyah and Talbiyah is known as Ihram.

Typically, men wear two white, unstitched sheets when entering the state of Ihram. The essence of Ihram lies in the intention and Talbiyah, rather than the clothing itself. Women, on the other hand, can wear their regular clothing, provided it meets the Islamic guidelines for modesty. While women do not wear the same Ihram attire as men, they are required to perform all Hajj rituals in the same manner.

Pilgrims must assume Ihram from the designated Meeqat, which for those traveling from the UK is Rabegh.

It is a common misconception that once the Ihram garments are donned, they cannot be removed. Changing or removing the Ihram clothing does not nullify Ihram. A pilgrim remains in the state of Ihram until all essential rites of Hajj are completed and they either shave their head or cut their hair.

Different Forms/Methods of Performing Hajj. Which is the most recommended method?

Ihram signifies the declaration of certain lawful actions as haram (unlawful) for the duration of the pilgrimage. After making the intention (niyyah) and reciting the Talbiyah, certain permissible activities become prohibited, including wearing stitched garments, using perfume, and cutting hair. The combination of niyyah and Talbiyah is known as Ihram.

• Hajj-ul-Ifrad
• Hajj-ul-Qiran
• Hajj-ul-Tamattu

What is Hajj-ul-Ifrad?

It is the simplest form of Hajj. A pilgrim enters into the state of Ihram with the intention of performing Hajj only before passing through the Meeqat (place for assuming ihram). The pilgrim does not combine Hajj with Umrah and makes sure not to perform umrah in the months of Hajj. The person performing Hajj-ul-Ifrad is called Mufrid.

What is Hajj-ul-Qiran?

During this kind of Hajj, a pilgrim who performs Hajj-ul-Qiran combines Hajj and Umrah. He assumes Ihram with the intention to accomplish both. The pilgrim who performs this kind of Hajj is called a Qarin.

Qarin wears Ihram first for Umrah and then for Hajj making his intentions for Hajj just before performing Tawaf for Hajj. The obligations on one performing Hajj-ul-Qiran are the same as the one performing Ifrad, except that the former must slaughter whereas the latter is not obligated to do so.

How to Perform Hajj: A Step-by-Step Guide for First-Timers

Day 1: 8th Dhul Hijjah (Yawm at-Tarwiyah)

• Preparation:
• After the Maghrib prayer on the 7th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims should prepare for Hajj as they would for Umrah: take Ghusl (purification), declare intention, wear Ihram, and recite Talbiyah.
• Complete all preparations during the night.
• Enter Ihram:
• Enter into the state of Ihram from the Miqat or your place of stay in Makkah.
• After the Fajr prayer, begin your journey to Mina while reciting Talbiyah frequently.
• Prayers in Mina:
• Upon reaching Mina, offer the Zuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha prayers.
• Spend the night in Mina engaging in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) and ibadah (worship).

Day 2: 9th Dhul Hijjah (Yawm Arafat)

• Morning Prayer:
• Offer the Fajr prayer in Mina.
• Travel to Arafat:
• After Fajr, set out for Arafat, continuing to recite Takbir and Talbiyah.
• Aim to reach Arafat by midday (Zawal).
• Waquf-e-Arafat:
• Spend the time at Arafat in sincere repentance, seeking forgiveness, and making supplications. Standing is preferred, but sitting is also acceptable.
• Perform the combined prayers of Zuhr and Asr in congregation (Jama’at) at Arafat.

Obligatory Duties of Hajj

Ihram signifies the declaration of certain lawful actions as haram (unlawful) for the duration of the pilgrimage. After making the intention (niyyah) and reciting the Talbiyah, certain permissible activities become prohibited, including wearing stitched garments, using perfume, and cutting hair. The combination of niyyah and Talbiyah is known as Ihram.

• Ihram from Meeqat:

Assume Ihram and intend to perform Hajj at the designated Meeqat (Rabegh for UK pilgrims). Those flying must enter Ihram before reaching it.

• Wuquf at Arafat:

Stop at Arafat from Zawal on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah until dawn on the 10th. This is essential; omitting it invalidates the Hajj.

• Tawafuz Ziyarah (Tawaf-ul-Ifadah):

Perform this Tawaf from the 10th to dawn of the 12th Dhul Hijjah after shaving or cutting hair. It must be completed before returning to Mina for stoning. Delays require an animal sacrifice (Dam).

Important Acts During Hajj

• Overnight stay in Muzdalifah
• Stay in Mina during Tashriq nights
• Ramy al-Jamarat (stoning)
• Qurbani (sacrifice) for Qarin or Mutamatti
• Shaving or hair cutting
• Tawaf-ul-Wada (Farewell Tawaf)

Tawaf and Its Rules

Tawaf is the act of circumambulating around the Kaaba (Baitullah) seven times. It is a crucial ritual in both Hajj and Umrah.

Types of Tawaf

• Tawaf al-Qudum:

Performed upon entering Masjid-ul-Haram in Ihram by those doing Hajj al-Qiran or Hajj al-Ifrad.

• Tawafuz Ziyarah (Tawaf al-Ifadhah):

Done between the dawn of 10th Dhul Hijjah and sunset of 12th Dhul Hijjah, after leaving Ihram and before returning to Mina. Delaying this Tawaf requires a Dam (sacrifice).

• Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf):

The final Tawaf performed at the end of Hajj.

• Tawaf al-Umrah:

Mandatory for Umrah.

• Tawaf al-Nadhr:

Required when someone has made a vow to Allah.

• Tawaf al-Tahiyya:

Recommended upon entering Masjid-ul-Haram; it can substitute for any other Tawaf.

• Tawaf al-Nafl:

Optional Tawaf that can be performed anytime. It requires the intention (niyyah) for nafl.

Are there special supplications for Tawaf, Saa’ee, and other rites?

There are no specific duas for Hajj rituals; individuals are encouraged to recite any dua they remember or wish to make. However, it is important to perform the rituals of Hajj and Umrah as closely as possible to how the Prophet (pbuh) performed them. Here are some recommended basic Hajj duas and supplications for your journey:

• Dua for entering the Haram
• Dua to recite at the first glance of the Kaab

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Hajj

• Mistake 1: Changing the Intention of Hajj

The intention is crucial in Hajj, as the reward depends on it. You can change your intention about the type of Hajj before assuming Ihram. However, if you wish to change it afterward, you may switch from Tamattu to Qiran, but not from Tamattu to Ifrad.

• Mistake 2: Not Changing Ihram Clothes

Some mistakenly believe that changing the Ihram clothes will invalidate their state of Ihram. In reality, you are allowed to change your Ihram as needed. You remain in Ihram until you complete all essential rites of Hajj and shave or clip your hair.

• Mistake 3: Touching or Wiping Over the Kaaba

Many people try to touch or wipe parts of the Kaaba or Maqam-e-Ibrahim, thinking it brings blessings. This practice is a common misconception with no basis in Hadith or Sunnah. The Prophet (pbuh) only touched the Black Stone and the Yemeni corner. Innovations in religious practice during Hajj should be avoided.

Important Tips for Your Hajj Journey

Here are essential tips for a successful and healthy Hajj pilgrimage:

• Maintain Patience and Positivity: The extreme weather, large crowds, and physical demands of Hajj can test your patience. Stay understanding and compassionate to avoid unnecessary conflicts. Focus on your spiritual mission.
• Avoid Unproductive Discussions: Refrain from engaging in religious debates with fellow pilgrims. You may encounter differing practices; it’s best to remain patient and move away from contentious situations.
• Surround Yourself with Positive Company: You will meet a variety of personalities within your group. If distractions arise, focus on your own journey and share any concerns constructively with the organizers.
• Be Punctual: Timeliness is crucial. Make it a priority to perform Salah on time and with the congregation.
• Stay Cool in the Heat: Don’t let the hot weather deter you. Utilize the air-conditioned areas in the Haram, particularly on the first and second floors, by entering through the King Fahad entrance and staying left. This is especially helpful during the hottest part of the day.