Introduction: Understanding the Significance of the 3rd Day of Hajj
The 10th of Dhul Hijjah marks the 3rd day of Hajj and holds profound significance for Muslims around the world. This day coincides with Eid al-Adha, a festival of sacrifice and gratitude. On this day, pilgrims perform key rituals, including Rami (stoning of the Jamarat), Qurbani (animal sacrifice), and Tawaf al-Ziyarah (the visiting Tawaf). These acts commemorate the sacrifices made by the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family. The 10th of Dhul Hijjah symbolizes submission to Allah’s will and is a day of immense spiritual reflection and devotion for every Muslim performing Hajj.
Rituals on the 3rd Day of Hajj in Mina
Rami of Jamarat al-Aqaba (Stoning of the Jamarat)
What is Rami?
Rami is the symbolic act of stoning the Jamarat, representing the rejection of evil and the temptations of Satan. Pilgrims throw pebbles at three pillars, which symbolize the devil’s temptation of Prophet Ibrahim.
Walking to the Jamarat
Pilgrims walk from Mina to the Jamarat site, preparing for the important ritual of stoning.
Pelting the Jamarat
The stoning ritual involves throwing seven pebbles at the largest pillar, Jamarat al-Aqaba. It’s done while reciting “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” before each throw.
What Happens After Pelting the Jamarat?
1. Return to Mina
After performing the stoning, pilgrims return to their tents in Mina for rest.
2. Go to Makkah
Some pilgrims may visit Makkah to perform additional rituals after the stoning.
Qurbani (Animal Sacrifice)
The Importance of Qurbani
Qurbani, or animal sacrifice, is a key ritual performed on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, symbolizing the willingness to sacrifice for Allah, just as Prophet Ibrahim was willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to God’s command.
Where and How to Perform Qurbani
Qurbani is performed after the Rami of Jamarat and involves slaughtering an animal, typically a sheep, goat, cow, or camel. The sacrifice is done either in Mina or through authorized services that ensure it meets Islamic requirements.
The Significance of Qurbani in Relation to Eid al-Adha
Qurbani is deeply tied to Eid al-Adha, as it commemorates Ibrahim’s devotion and Allah’s mercy, marking the festival’s spirit of sacrifice and charity.
Halq or Taqsir (Shaving the Head or Trimming the Hair)
Halq vs Taqsir: Which One Should You Perform and Why?
On the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, after completing the Rami and Qurbani, pilgrims must either perform Halq (shaving the head) or Taqsir (trimming the hair). Men typically choose Halq for a complete spiritual renewal, while women perform Taqsir, trimming a small portion of their hair. Halq is highly recommended for men, as it symbolizes purification, humility, and a fresh start in devotion to Allah.
The Spiritual Significance of This Ritual
This ritual marks the physical manifestation of spiritual purification, signifying a pilgrim’s submission to Allah’s will and the beginning of a new chapter in their faith.
Tawaf al-Ziyarah (Tawaf of Visiting)
Travelling to Makkah for Tawaf al-Ziyarah
After completing the Rami and Qurbani, pilgrims travel to Makkah to perform Tawaf al-Ziyarah, which is a key ritual on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah.
Performing Tawaf al-Ziyarah: What Does This Ritual Involve?
Tawaf al-Ziyarah involves walking seven times around the Kaaba, starting from the Black Stone, while reciting prayers. This act of devotion symbolizes a pilgrim’s closeness to Allah.
Sa’i of Tawaf al-Ziyarah: The Walking Between Safa and Marwah
After Tawaf, pilgrims perform the Sa’i, walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, emulating Hagar’s search for water. This completes the Tawaf al-Ziyarah ritual.
Returning to Mina
Why Return to Mina?
After performing the Tawaf al-Ziyarah and Sa’i, pilgrims return to Mina to spend the night. This is an important part of the Hajj journey, as it allows pilgrims to reflect on the rituals they’ve completed and rest before continuing with the remaining Hajj rites.
The Significance of Spending the Night in Mina
Spending the night in Mina is a symbolic act of devotion and humility. It commemorates the Prophet Ibrahim’s time in Mina and signifies a pilgrim’s commitment to worship and submission to Allah. It also helps create a sense of unity among pilgrims.
Remaining in Makkah
What to Do if You Choose to Stay in Makkah After Completing the Rituals
After completing the main rituals of Hajj, some pilgrims may choose to stay in Makkah for additional worship. While in Makkah, pilgrims can visit the Masjid al-Haram to perform Tawaf and engage in extra prayers. Many also seek to make supplications (du’a) and reflect on the spiritual journey they’ve completed. Staying longer in Makkah allows for more time in the sacred city, deepening one’s connection to Allah and gaining further blessings. However, it’s important to ensure that all remaining obligations are fulfilled before leaving for home.
The Prophet ﷺ on Yawm al-Nahr (10th Dhul Hijjah)
Insights from the Prophet’s ﷺ Actions on This Day
On Yawm al-Nahr, the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, the Prophet ﷺ performed several key rituals that every pilgrim seeks to emulate, offering profound lessons in devotion and submission to Allah.
Key Actions on Yawm al-Nahr
Rami of Jamrat al-Aqaba
The Prophet ﷺ stoned the Jamrat al-Aqaba as an act of rejecting Satan, teaching pilgrims the importance of standing firm against evil.
Sermon at Mina
After the stoning, the Prophet ﷺ delivered a sermon at Mina, emphasizing the significance of Hajj and reminding pilgrims of the importance of unity and obedience to Allah.
Animal Sacrifice
The Prophet ﷺ performed Qurbani, sacrificing an animal, which teaches the value of sacrifice in Allah’s name and acts as an opportunity for charity.
Shaving the Head
The Prophet ﷺ shaved his head after the rituals, symbolizing a physical and spiritual renewal.
Tawaf al-Ziyarah
Performing Tawaf al-Ziyarah, the Prophet ﷺ highlighted the act of visiting the Kaaba as a key component of Hajj.
Zamzam
The Prophet ﷺ drank from the Zamzam water, reinforcing the significance of this sacred well and its connection to the Prophet Ibrahim’s family.
Dhuhr Salah
The Dhuhr Salah was performed on this day, marking a time for reflection and prayer.
Returning to Mina: A Final Reflection
Before returning to Mina, pilgrims are encouraged to reflect on their Hajj journey, the lessons learned, and their renewed commitment to Allah.
Common Questions about the 3rd Day of Hajj
What Time is Throwing the Stones Allowed During Hajj?
The ritual of throwing stones at the Jamarat is allowed starting from after sunrise on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. Pilgrims must complete the Rami of Jamrat al-Aqaba during this time, as it is one of the key rituals of Hajj.
What Are the Three Jamarahs Called?
The three Jamarahs (stone pillars) are known as Jamrat al-Aqaba, Jamrat al-Wusta, and Jamrat al-Sughra. Pilgrims perform the Rami (stoning) at these pillars to symbolize rejecting Satan’s temptations.
What Do You Do After Fulfilling Your Qurbani and Rami Obligations on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah?
After completing the Qurbani (animal sacrifice) and Rami (stoning of the Jamarat) on the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims can perform other rituals such as Halq or Taqsir (shaving or trimming hair), followed by Tawaf al-Ziyarah and Sa’i. Pilgrims then return to Mina or choose to stay in Makkah to further engage in worship.
