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Hajj (pilgrimage to Mecca)
literally means to set out for a place. However,
islamically it refers to the annual pilgrimage that
Muslims make to Mecca, Saudi Arabia with the intention
of performing certain rites in accordance with method
prescribed by God (Chap. 2 Verse 28).
This Islamic tradition has
entirely to do with Prophet Abraham (pbuh), who is the
Patriarch of all 3 monotheistic religions. Therefore,
it is important to understand this tradition and benefit
from its teaching. Details of these events are included
in the Qur’an (2; 125-140)
About 3 million people travel to
perform the Hajj every year. Hajj is not only the fifth
pillar of Islam, it is duty mankind owes to Allah. In
order to qualify a Muslim must be sane, and wise enough
to understand the meaning of every step as well as
resources to travel to perform the Hajj. Before
departing for Hajj, all your debt must be paid off.
Your hates and angers toward relatives or friends must
disappear. A will must be drawn.
The Pillars of Hajj are five:
1.
The donning of 2 pieces of white cloth (Ihram)
for men, and removal of old cloths means removal of bad
habits and practices; women wear their usual clothes.
2.
Circumbulation of Kaaba – 7 times.
3.
Running between 2 hills of safa and Marwa to
symbolize the Hagar’s frantic search for water and
safety of the baby Ismael, when they were left in the
desert on order of God who had guaranteed their safety.
4.
Praying at plain field of Arafat – on the 9th
of Zil-hijja (12th month of lunar calendar)–
called Essence of the Hajj.
5.
Trimming of hair.
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