Learn how to perform Hajj correctly with this detailed guide. Follow the rituals, from Ihram to Tawaf, and avoid common mistakes.
Perform Hajj with Sohail Waqas Travels for best packages
How to Perform Hajj: A Complete Step-by-Step Guide
Hajj, the fifth pillar of Islam, is a sacred pilgrimage to Makkah that every physically and financially capable Muslim must perform at least once in their lifetime. Performed during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, Hajj commemorates the sacrifices of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family. Below is a comprehensive, Islamically validated guide on how to perform Hajj, including its rituals, prerequisites, and essential tips.
1. Understanding the Types of Hajj
There are three types of Hajj, differentiated by how Umrah is combined with Hajj rituals:
- Hajj al-Tamattu’ (Most Common): Perform Umrah first (during Hajj months), exit Ihram, then re-enter Ihram for Hajj.
- Hajj al-Qiran: Combine Umrah and Hajj under a single Ihram.
- Hajj al-Ifrad: Perform Hajj only without Umrah.
Most pilgrims follow Hajj al-Tamattu’ as instructed by the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
2. Preparation for Hajj
A. Spiritual and Physical Readiness
- Repent sincerely (Tawbah) and clear debts.
- Study Hajj rituals thoroughly.
- Ensure physical fitness; Hajj involves walking long distances.
B. Logistics
- Secure a Hajj visa through Saudi Arabia’s Motawif portal or approved agencies.
- Pack essentials: Ihram clothing, comfortable shoes, unscented toiletries, and medications.
3. Step-by-Step Rituals of Hajj
Day 1: 8th Dhul-Hijjah – Entering Ihram and Departing to Mina
- Enter Ihram at the Miqat (designated boundary):
- Bathe (Ghusl), trim nails, and remove body hair.
- Men wear two white, seamless cloths; women wear modest, loose clothing.
- Recite the Talbiyah: “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik…”
- Travel to Mina:
- Spend the day in prayer and reflection.
- Perform Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha prayers (shortened but not combined).
Day 2: 9th Dhul-Hijjah – Wuquf (Standing) at Arafat
- Depart to Arafat after Fajr prayer:
- The pinnacle of Hajj: “Hajj is Arafat” (Hadith, Tirmidhi).
- Spend the day in dua, repentance, and Quranic recitation.
- Perform Dhuhr and Asr prayers (combined and shortened at Dhuhr time).
- Leave for Muzdalifah after sunset:
- Collect pebbles (70 total) for Rami (stoning of Jamarat).
- Spend the night under the sky; perform Maghrib and Isha (combined).
Day 3: 10th Dhul-Hijjah – Rami, Sacrifice, and Halq/Taqsir
- Return to Mina before sunrise:
- Perform Rami al-Jamarat al-Kubra (stoning the largest pillar) with 7 pebbles.
- Animal Sacrifice (Nahr):
- Slaughter a sheep, goat, or cow (or purchase a voucher through the Hady app).
- Shave or Trim Hair (Halq/Taqsir):
- Men shave their heads (Halq); women trim a fingertip’s length (Taqsir).
- Exit Ihram (First Tahallul):
- Regular clothing is permitted, but marital relations remain forbidden.
- Proceed to Makkah for Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i:
- Perform Tawaf (circumambulate the Kaaba 7 times).
- Perform Sa’i (walk between Safa and Marwah 7 times).
Day 4–6: 11th–13th Dhul-Hijjah – Rami and Farewell Tawaf
- Stone All Three Jamarat (small, medium, large) each afternoon with 21 pebbles daily.
- Return to Makkah for Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wida):
- Perform a final Tawaf before leaving Makkah.
4. Pillars of Hajj (Arkan)
- Ihram (Intention).
- Wuquf at Arafat.
- Tawaf al-Ifadah.
- Sa’i.
Missing a pillar invalidates Hajj.
5. Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Delaying Wuquf at Arafat.
- Incorrect pebble counts during Rami.
- Neglecting dua during Arafat.
- Using scented products in Ihram.
6. Post-Hajj Etiquette
- Thank Allah for enabling your pilgrimage.
- Maintain the spiritual momentum of Hajj.
- Share knowledge and gifts with loved ones.
7. Hajj 2024–2025 Dates
- Hajj 2024: Expected 14–19 June (8–13 Dhul-Hijjah 1445).
- Hajj 2025: Expected 4–9 June (8–13 Dhul-Hijjah 1446).
Dates depend on the lunar calendar.
Conclusion
Performing Hajj is a profound spiritual journey that requires meticulous preparation and sincere intention. By following the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) and avoiding innovations, pilgrims can fulfill this sacred duty correctly. May Allah accept the Hajj of all believers and grant them forgiveness.
Dua for Hajj Acceptance:
“Allahumma Taqabbal Minna, Innaka Antas-Sami’ul-Alim.”
(O Allah, accept [this] from us. Indeed, You are the All-Hearing, All-Knowing.)
This guide aligns with the Hanbali school of thought, the dominant madhab in Saudi Arabia. Always consult a qualified scholar for personalized advice.
