The Ultimate Guide to Performing Hajj: A Step-by-Step Process

Hajj, the sacred pilgrimage to Makkah, is a journey that transforms the hearts and souls of millions of Muslims each year. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for those who are physically and financially able to undertake it. While the spiritual significance of Hajj is immense, the practical process can be overwhelming for first-time pilgrims. This guide breaks down the essential steps of Hajj in a clear and structured manner.

Disclaimer

This guide follows the Hanafi school of thought in Islamic jurisprudence. While the fundamental rites of Hajj remain the same across all four Sunni schools of Fiqh (Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi’i, and Hanbali), there may be slight variations in rulings and practices. Pilgrims are encouraged to consult their scholars or follow their respective schools of thought where applicable.

Preparing for Hajj

Before embarking on this blessed journey, preparation is key. This includes both spiritual and logistical readiness:

• Sincere Intention: Hajj should be performed solely for the pleasure of Allah, not for social recognition.

• Repentance: Seek forgiveness for past sins and resolve disputes before setting off.

• Financial and Physical Readiness: Ensure your funds for Hajj come from a halal source and start physical training as there will be extensive walking.

• Learning About Hajj: Study the rites and rituals of Hajj thoroughly to avoid confusion upon arrival.

Step 1: Entering Ihram

Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim enters before beginning Hajj. This involves:

• Wearing the Garments: Men wear two unstitched white sheets, while women wear modest, loose-fitting attire.

• Performing Ghusl (Purification Bath): Recommended before donning the Ihram.

• Making the Intention: Declare your intention for either:

  • Tamattu’ Hajj: Performing Umrah first, exiting Ihram, then re-entering Ihram for Hajj.

  • Qiran Hajj: Performing Umrah and Hajj together without exiting Ihram.

  • Ifrad Hajj: Performing only Hajj without Umrah.

• Reciting the Talbiyah: “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk…” is continuously recited as a declaration of devotion.

Step 2: Performing Umrah (For Tamattu’ Hajj)

For those performing Tamattu’, Umrah is completed before starting Hajj:

1. Tawaf (Circumambulation): Seven counterclockwise rounds around the Kaaba.

2. Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah): Seven trips between the two hills, commemorating Hajar’s search for water.

3. Shaving or Trimming Hair: Men shave their heads or trim at least an inch of hair; women trim a fingertip’s length.

4. Exiting Ihram: The restrictions of Ihram are lifted until re-entering it for Hajj.

Step 3: The Days of Hajj

Hajj officially begins on the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah (Yawm al-Tarwiyah) and lasts until the 12th or 13th of Dhul-Hijjah.

Day 1: Arrival in Mina (8th Dhul-Hijjah)

• Re-enter Ihram from Makkah with the intention of Hajj.

• Travel to Mina, about 8 km from Makkah.

• Perform the five daily prayers in shortened form, spending the night there.

Day 2: Arafah – The Pinnacle of Hajj (9th Dhul-Hijjah)

• After Fajr in Mina, travel to Arafah.

• Stand in Wuquf at Arafah, making intense dua (supplication) until sunset. This is the most crucial part of Hajj.

• Listen to the Khutbah (sermon) at Masjid Namirah.

• After sunset, travel to Muzdalifah without praying Maghrib.

Night in Muzdalifah (9th-10th Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pray Maghrib and Isha together.

• Collect 49 or 70 pebbles for the next day's ritual.

• Rest under the open sky.

Day 3: Eid Day - The Most Active Day (10th Dhul-Hijjah)

• At dawn, pray Fajr in Muzdalifah.

• Travel to Mina to perform Jamarat al-Aqabah (stoning the largest pillar, representing Shaytan) using 7 pebbles.

• Offer Qurbani (sacrificial animal).

• Shave or trim hair (Men shave; women trim a fingertip’s length).

• Exit Ihram, normal clothing is now allowed, except for marital relations.

• Perform Tawaf al-Ifadah and Sa’i in Makkah.

Days 4 & 5: Stoning in Mina (11th-12th Dhul-Hijjah)

• Each day, stone all three Jamarat (small, medium, and large) using 7 pebbles per pillar.

• Spend the nights in Mina.

• On the 12th, pilgrims can leave Mina before sunset, or stay for an optional extra day.

Final Step: Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf)

• Before leaving Makkah, perform Tawaf al-Wada, a farewell circumambulation around the Kaaba.

Conclusion: Completing Your Spiritual Journey

Hajj is a physically demanding and spiritually enriching experience. The key to a successful Hajj is patience, sincerity, and preparation. May Allah accept the Hajj of all pilgrims and allow those who have not yet performed it the opportunity to do so. Ameen.