Importance of Hajj

•   Hajj is a rewarding experience, it is believed all sins can be wiped from a Muslim’s book of deeds which will help them on the Day of Judgement.
• “Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit sin, nor disputes unjustly (during Hajj), then he returns from Hajj as pure and free from sins as on the day on which his mother gave birth to him”
• Before the pilgrims enter the vicinity of the Kabah, they have to perform wudu and wear two unsewn pieces of white cloth called the ‘Ihram’.  They are unsewn as this means there is no distinction between wealth and it represents equality amongst the ummah if everyone wears the same.
• “… and do not shave your heads until the Hady [sacrificial animal] reaches the place of sacrifice”
• “O you who believe! Kill not the game while you are in a state of Ihraam”
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  After passing the miqat (markers that identify you are entering into the holy city), Muslism are expected to recite the Talbiyyah as they approach the Ka’ba.  It is a prayer to show Allah that they are fulfilling their dutry and it begins:

   

  “Here I am O God, Here I am”
• • It is a pillar of Islam, which means it is fard (obligatory)- as long as you are fit and can afford it.

  • It displays a Muslim’s dedication to Allah and is a practical manifestation of their iman (faith).

  • It is following the rituals as taught by Prophet Muhammed* (sunnah) and the other prophets connected with Hajj i.e. walking in the prophets’ footsteps helps a Muslim to feel connected to them.

  • All sins are forgiven when wuquf is made on Mt Arafat.

  • Has the abilty to renew/strengthen a Muslim’s faith once they return to ‘normal’ life.
• • The Hajj displays equality amongst all human beings, the Ihram clothing ensures that there are no distractions between the rich and poor as there is no way to decipher a prince from a pauper.

  • Muslims are given a special title Hajji/Hajjah (someone who has completed Hajj).

  • It shows great discipline. It is both physically and mentally demanding. Not all are able to complete the full journey.

  • Shows unity of Muslims being one Ummah and it strengthens the feeling of the Ummah (brotherhood/sisterhood) as everyone is completing the Hajj together.
• • It reminds Muslims of the continual journey to Allah and the same message from the first prophet Adam to the last Prophet,  Muhammad*.

  • It reminds Muslims of the ultimate sacrificethat Ibrahim made to Allah and it is a way Muslims commemorate and show respect to Ibrahim and his family.

  • It can produce inner peace and can make Muslims act for justice, be more honest, respectful, kind, merciful and forgiving.

  • It may have the affect of a deep spiritual transformation- becoming more aware of God (Taqwa) so that they are aware that He is always watching them.