Introduction to the 4th Day of Hajj
The Hajj pilgrimage, one of the five pillars of Islam, is a profound journey of spiritual growth and devotion. Pilgrims travel to Mecca to perform a series of rituals, with each day carrying deep significance. The 4th day of Hajj, observed on the 11th of Dhul Hijjah, marks a critical point in the pilgrimage. It is part of Ayyam al-Tashreeq (the Days of Tashreeq), which are the 11th, 12th, and 13th days of Dhul Hijjah. During this time, pilgrims continue their worship and reflection, including the important ritual of Rami al-Jamarat, symbolizing the rejection of evil.
Rituals of the 4th Day of Hajj: The Stoning (Rami al-Jamarat)
The Importance of Stoning the Jamarat
The ritual of Rami al-Jamarat involves throwing pebbles at three pillars in Mina, symbolizing the rejection of Shaytan (Satan). This act recalls the story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who was commanded by Allah to sacrifice his son, Isma’il, and resisted Shaytan’s temptation to disobey. The stoning is a powerful reminder for Muslims to reject evil and stay true to their faith.
Timing and Procedure of the Stoning (Rami)
On the 4th day of Hajj, pilgrims perform the stoning after midday. The process involves throwing seven small pebbles at each of the three pillars, one at a time. This continues until all three Jamarat have been pelted, marking a significant ritual in the pilgrimage.
Key Events of the 4th Day: Reflections and Worship
Salah on the 4th Day
On the 4th day of Hajj, prayer (Salah) holds great significance, as pilgrims continue their worship during Ayyam al-Tashreeq. Offering the prescribed prayers, including Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha, is an essential part of the day. Pilgrims are encouraged to perform these prayers with sincerity and focus, seeking spiritual growth and closeness to Allah.
Additional Acts of Worship
Apart from obligatory prayers, pilgrims can engage in voluntary acts of worship such as fasting, Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), and Dua (supplication). These acts help deepen the spiritual connection and reflect the pilgrim’s devotion to Allah during this sacred period.
Understanding the Broader Context: Ayyam al-Tashreeq
Connection to the Last Days of Hajj
Ayyam al-Tashreeq refers to the last three days of Hajj, the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul Hijjah. These days are significant as they mark the final phase of the pilgrimage. Pilgrims continue their rituals in Mina, reflecting on the journey’s spiritual lessons. The 4th day (11th Dhul Hijjah) serves as a starting point for these important rituals, which continue throughout the following days.
Rituals such as Rami al-Jamarat (stoning the pillars) are repeated during the next two days, reinforcing the theme of resisting evil and seeking Allah’s forgiveness.
The 4th Day of Hajj and Its Connection to Prophet Muhammad ﷺ
The Prophet’s Practices on Ayyam al-Tashreeq
On the 4th day of Hajj, the 11th Dhul Hijjah, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ followed the ritual of Rami al-Jamarat (stoning the Jamarat). He demonstrated the importance of rejecting evil by throwing pebbles at the three pillars in Mina, symbolizing the rejection of Shaytan’s temptations. His actions serve as a guide for Muslims to perform this ritual with devotion and reflection.
The Prophet’s Sermons and Teachings
During Ayyam al-Tashreeq, the Prophet ﷺ delivered powerful sermons, emphasizing the unity of the Muslim Ummah and the importance of Tawheed (the oneness of Allah). His teachings remind pilgrims to stay focused on worship, maintain patience, and reflect on their spiritual journey during these final days of Hajj.
Preparing for the Next Stages of Hajj
The Transition from Mina to Makkah
After the 4th day of Hajj, pilgrims begin their journey from Mina back to Makkah. This marks the transition from the rituals at Mina to the final stages of the pilgrimage. Pilgrims leave Mina after completing the stoning at the Jamarat and head towards Makkah to perform the Tawaf al-Wida (farewell Tawaf).
Wadi al-Muhassab: A Significant Stop for Pilgrims
Before reaching Makkah, pilgrims often stop at Wadi al-Muhassab, a historically significant site. Here, they reflect and make supplications, preparing spiritually for the final stages of Hajj, including the Tawaf and concluding rituals.
Conclusion: The Spiritual Significance of the 4th Day of Hajj
The 4th day of Hajj is a pivotal moment in a pilgrim’s journey, marking both a physical and spiritual transition. As pilgrims complete the Rami al-Jamarat and engage in acts of worship, they reflect on their journey’s deeper meanings. This day encourages them to focus on resisting evil, seeking forgiveness, and drawing closer to Allah.
As the pilgrimage nears its end, pilgrims are reminded to continue their devotion, striving for spiritual growth and reflection in the remaining days. The final days of Hajj offer an opportunity to solidify the lessons learned and enhance their faith.
