What is Hajj

What is Hajj Etymology of the Word Hajj Before acquiring its specific meaning of "going to Makkah and perform Hajj rites" The word Hajj in Arabic meant "to go". The word lost its general meaning and got a new specific one, which is "to travel to Makkah and perform rites determined by Allaha and His Prophet". Now, the Word Hajj is rarely used with other meanings than that.  Hajj is the...

When was Hajj made obligatory?

Question: When was Hajj made obligatory? In which year following the Hijrah was Hajj made obligatory? The correct view is that Hajj was made obligatory in the ninth year AH and Allah did not make it obligatory before that, because making it obligatory before that would not have been wise, as Quraysh prevented the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) ...

The greatest day of Hajj

Question: What is the meaning of the greatest day of Hajj (yawm al-hajj al-akbar) and the greatest Haj (al-hajj al-akbar)? Do they mean the same thing? Or are they different from one another? Are both of them to be found in the Qur’aan and Sunnah?. The greatest day of Hajj is the Day of Sacrifice, which is the tenth day of Dhul-Hijjah. Abu Dawood narrated from Ibn ‘Umar...

Hajj is obligatory for women as it is for men

Hajj is fard ‘ayn (an individual obligation) which every Muslim who is accountable and is able to do it must do once in a lifetime. It is one of the pillars of Islam, an obligation which is proven to be so in the Qur’aan and Sunnah, and by scholarly consensus. In the Qur’aan, Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):  “And Hajj (pilgrimage to...

Can a pregnant woman perform Hajj?

Question : Is it halal for a pregnant woman to perform Umrah or Hajj? Does it depend on the stage of pregnancy she is at (e.g. 4 months pregnant compared to 8 months pregnant)? Is there a risk of falling and disease due the the crowds of pilgrims. 1 – There is no reason why a pregnant woman should not perform Hajj. A pregnant woman is taahir (pure), she has to pray and fast, and if she is...

How can your Hajj be accepted?

The things which the Muslim should do so that his Hajj will be accepted are: He should have the intention of performing Hajj for the sake of Allah. This is sincerity of intention (ikhlaas). In his Hajj he should follow the way the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) performed Hajj. This is following (the Sunnah). No righteous deed will be accepted unless it fulfils...

Is Hajj accepted from children?

Question: Can children be taken along on Hajj? Will Hajj be recorded for them if I perform the rituals on their behalf, or what?. Answer: The saheeh Sunnah indicates that a child may perform Hajj and be rewarded for it, but that does not count as the “Hajj of Islam” (obligatory Hajj). Muslim (2378) narrated tsaghhat Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allah be pleased with him) said: A woman...

Types of Tawaf around the holy Ka’abah

here are many types of Tawaf around the Ka’abah:  Tawaf Al-Ifaadah during Hajj, which is also called tawaaf al-ziyaarah (Tawaf of visiting). It takes place after the standing in ‘Arafah, on the day of al-Adha or after it. It is one of the pillars of the Hajj.    Tawaf Al-Qudoom: ( Tawaf of arrival) for Hajj. This is performed by the pilgrim who has...

Benefits of Hajj

 Allah, may He be exalted, in His wisdom has prescribed a variety of acts of worship for mankind in order to test them and show which among them are the best in deeds and most righteous. For people differ in their character and attitude. One of them may favour one type of worship because it suits him, but he may not favour another type because it does not suit him. The true believer is the...

Etiquette of Hajj and Umrah

Hajj satisfies the fifth and last pillar of Islam. Every Muslim who is healthy and sane and who can afford it must undertake the pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in his or her lifetime. The Almighty says: The Hajj (pilgrimage) is (in) the well-known (lunar year) months (i.e. the 10th month, the 11th month and the first ten days of the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, i.e. two months and ten...

A new life after Hajj

Undoubtedly, Hajj is best opportunity to wash one’s sins away and refine the soul. He / She who performs Hajj is supposed to be a model for others to be followed. In fact,  those whom the Almighty favored to perform Hajj should be thankful to Allah and incessantly keep imploring and beseeching Him to accept their good deeds. This is crucial, for it reflects their belief that being so...

After Hajj

Indeed, those who performed Hajj are really fortunate .They are born anew and their sins are washed away  if their Hajj is accepted. May Allah the Almighty grant all the pilgrim’s acceptance and grant them opportunity again and again to visit the holiest places of the earth. The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) himself said : "Whoever performs Hajj for the Pleasure...

How to enhance faith after the performance of Hajj

Those whom the Almighty has favored to perform Hajj and Umrah should be thankful to Him for he has chosen them among His servants to perform these acts of worship, and they should implore and make Dua'a (Supplications) so that their good deeds be accepted. Being able to perform Hajj and Umrah is a great favor that deserves gratitude. Moreover, Pilgrims who accomplished Hajj and...

Good Deeds After Hajj: A Sign of Acceptance

One of the most important things that Hajj pilgrims are to be concerned with after performing Hajj is whether it has been accepted or not.Performing Hajj is principally a great blessing in itself, but in order for this blessing to be complete it is to be coupled with a far greater blessing, that is, acceptance on part of Almighty Allah. This is clearly apparent in the case of performing Hajj.In...

The Eid Prayer

The Muslim scholars (Ulama) differed concerning the ruling on Eid prayers. There are three scholarly points of view as follows: Eid prayer is Sunnah mu’akkadah (a confirmed Sunnah). This is the view of Imam Malik and Imam al-Shafa’i.   Eid prayer is a communal obligation. This is the view of Imam Ahmad (may Allah have mercy on him).  Eid prayer is a...

Fatwas on Stoning the Jamarat

Fatwas on Stoning the Jamarat Ruling concerning perfroming ramee (stoning) on 11th Day of Dhul-Hijjah, then the tawaaf before travelling Question : What is the ruling concerning one who performs ramee (stoning) on the 11th day (of Dhul-Hijjah), then makes Tawaf al-Wadaa (Farewell Tawaf) around the House (Ka'bah) before travelling? Answer : If he performs ramee (stoning) on the 11th day...

The day of Al-Tarwiyah

The day of Al-Tarwiyah The day of Tarwiyah is the eighth day of Dhul-Hijja. That name ( the Day of Tarwiyah) is traced back to the fact that pilgrims used to drink water to fill their thirst in Mecca and then they proceed to Mina for at that time there was no water in Mina. Dr. Salih ben Ghanim Assadlan, the professor of higher Islamic studies at the Imam Muhammad bin. Saud ...

Fasting the day of Arafah

Fasting the day of Arafah  The ninth day of Dhul-Hijja is the day of 'Arafah. It is the day during which Hajj pilgrims stand on the plain of Arafah to pray and supplicate. On this day, It is preferable (Mustahhib) for us to fast. Abû Hafsah reported that the our beloved prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Fasting on the day of Arafah absolves the sins...

The importance and the virtues of the Day of Arafah

The Importance and the Virtues of the Day of Arafah The 9th day of Dhul-Hijja (the Month of Hajj) is called the Day of Arafah. It is the day during which Hajj pilgrims gather at the mount of Arafat praying and supplicating to the Almighty. Fasting on the day of Arafah is an expiation for two years: It is highly recommended (mustahabb) for non-pilgrims to fast during this day...

Fatwas on Udhiyah (Qurbani)

Fatwas on Udhiyah (Qurbani) Slaughtering the sacrifice is better than giving its price in charity If there are poor people in my country who need money, can I give them the price of the sacrifice in charity, or should I offer the sacrifice?. Answer: Slaughtering the sacrifice is better than giving its price in charity, because that was what the Prophet (peace and...

Rules of Udhiyah (Qurbani)

Rules of Udhiyah/Qurbani Udhiyah/Qurbani is a religious practice that we perform on Eid Al-Adha and the following two days. It is an essential religious rite in memory of the sacrifice performed by Prophet Abraham. It involves the slaughtering of an animal (a sheep, a goat, or a cow) and offering it as a sacrifice during the tenth or the two days that follow of...

Fatwas on the first ten days of Dhul-Hijja

Fatwas on the first ten days of Dhul-Hijja Is it preferable (mstahabb) to fast the first eight days of Dhu’l-Hijja for pilgrims and others? Question: What is the ruling on fasting on the first eight days of Dhu’l-Hijja for the pilgrims? I know that it is makrooh for them to fast on the Day of ‘Arafah. Answer: Fasting on the first eight days of Dhu’l-Hijjah is...

Common mistakes during the first ten days of Dhul-Hijja

Common Mistakes During The First Ten Days Of Dhul-Hijja The first ten days of Dhul-Hijja are the days of blessings and mercy. From their very beginning we should increase our worship and do our best to get closer to the Almighty. However, it is paramount to avoid falling in the following common mistakes during these days.   1 - Not to pay attention to the importance and blessings of...

Do's and Dont's for the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah

Do's and Dont's for the ten days of Dhul-Hijja The first ten days of Dhul-Hijja are a great blessing from Allah to us . It is our duty to appreciate this blessing and profit from the opportunity to devote our time during them to paying more attention and doing our best  in worship. Among His blessings to us, the Almighty has given us many ways through which we can do good deeds and ...

The virtues of the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah

Dhul-Hijjah  is the month of Hajj and it is the 12th month of the Islamic lunar year. It is during this month that the Hajj occurs. This month has got various virtues and particularly its first ten days."And remember Allah during the appointed Days. But whosoever hastens to leave in two days, there is no sin on him and whosoever stays on, there is no sin on him, if his aim is to do good and...

Fatwas on Mahram to Travel with Women

Fatwas on Mahram to Travel with Women Can a woman go from the hotel to the Haram and perform Tawaf without a mahram? Question: Is it permissible for a woman to go to Mecca by herself and perform Tawaf by herself, going from the hotel in which she is staying and which is ten minutes away from the Haram? Is it also permissible for her to go with a group of people, both men and women, to...

Fatwas of Hajj on behalf of others

Fatwas of Hajj on behalf of others Giving the reward of doing the Tawaaf to someone Question: A woman asks: When I was in Mecca Al-Mukarramah, I received news that a relative of mine had died; So I performed the Tawaf for her - seven times around the Ka'bah - and made the intention for her ( to receive the reward). Is this permissible? Answer: Yes, it is permissible for you to perform...

Fatwas of Hajj : Mina

Fatwas of Hajj : Mina In Mina until midnight then leaves for Makkah and does not return until after Fajr Question: What is the ruling regarding one who remains in Mina until midnight, then leaves for Makkah and does not return until after Fajr?   Answer : If the time is midnight, then that is the middle of the night in Mina and in that case there is no harm in leaving Minaa after...

Fatwas on Innovations of Hajj

  Fatwas on Innovations of Hajj Regarding entering al-Masjid al-Haraam through a particular door, and the supplication upon seeing the Ka'bah Question: What are the mistakes some pilgrims commit when entering al-Masjid al-Haraam? Answer: From amongst the mistakes that...

Fatwas on Women's Hajj

Fatwas on Women's  Hajj  A iwoman ntended to do Hajj Tamattu‘ then she got her period before doing ‘Umrah; what should she do? Question: I would like to know if a woman intends to perform Hajj Tamatt'u and leaves from her home and gets her monthly period and is not able to perform the Umrah first and the 8th of Dhul-Hijjah arrives. What should she do? will she still...

Fatwas on Standing In Arafah

Fatwas on Standing In Arafah   Departed from Arafah before sunset due to work commitments Question: What is the ruling regarding one who made the Hajj and then departed from 'Arafah before sunset due to his work commitments? Answer: According to a majority of the People of Knowledge, the one who departed from 'Arafah before sunset is required to make fidyah (ransom) except if he were...

Fatwas On Saa'y

Fatwas On Saa'y * The ruling of the menstruating Woman sitting at the place of Saa'y Question : Is it permissible for the woman who is menstruating to sit at the place of Saa'y?Answer : Yes, it is permissible for the woman who is menstruating to sit at the place of Saa'y, because the place of saa'y is not considered a part of the Sacred Mosque. For that reason, if the woman gets her menses...

Fatwas On Tawaf

Fatwas On Tawaf (circumblation) Performing Tawaf far away from the Ka'bah Question: What is the ruling of performing Tawaf behind the standing place (Maqam Abraham) or behind the well of Zamzam? Answer: There is no harm in that, even if the person performed the Tawaf in the areas with awnings in the Masjid that is sufficient for him, However, the closer he is to the Ka'bah, the...

The Hajj: the greatest trip

The Grandchild Ayoub Al-Hassani performing the Umrah Pieces of advice that are offered to would-be pilgrims before their departure toward the holy sites to perform Hajj or Umrah are of great importance. However, pieces of advice differ and stories and experiences told by those who had already performed Islam’s fifth pillar are ranked first in utility. They lived the experience and...

Women and Hajj

Despite the equality of men and women in the Islamic rulings, there are some rulings specified for women out of mercy towards them because of their different nature.   If a woman still in her Iddah (waiting period) when she is divorced and she wants to go for Hajj, she may go but she has to be accompanied by a Mahram . However, if  the waiting period is for the death of...

Fatwas On Ihram

Fatwas On Ihram   Forgetfulness Question: A pilgrim assumed Ihram for Umrah/Hajj and he/she has a habit of playing with his/her hair while he/she is thinking. He/she did that forgetfully while he/she was in Ihram and some of his/her hair came out.  Does he/she have to offer expiation? Answer: There is nothing due on him/her due to Allah’s statement concerning the...

Hajj of children (Hajj Al-Sagheer)

Muslim scholars have agreed upon the idea that Hajj and Umrah are not compulsory for those who have not yet reached adolescence. The main cause of this agreement is that the Pen is lifted from them as the prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said. He said: “The Pen is lifted from three (i.e., their deeds are not recorded): a child until he reaches adolescence; an insane...

Ihsar (Obstruction)

Ihsar means obstruction. It is the hindrances that the pilgrims may come across when he/she is on the way to perform Hajj or Umrah. It is a situation in which the pilgrim who is in a state of Ihram is obstructed to perform Hajj or Umrah . "When you make up your mind to perform Hajj or Umrah, accomplish these to please Allah. But if you are hemmed in somewhere, then offer to Allah whatever...

Hajj Prohibitions and Expiation Due

Expiation means atonement. It is a ritual alternative to the act a pilgrim is supposed to do. If he/she made a mistake in Hajj during Ihram then he/she needs expiation, He/she who commits a forbidden act during Ihram, whether by means of forgetfulness, ignorance or under compulsion, he/she is not a sinner and no expiation is required. However, he/she who founds himself/herself obliged to do...

Qurbani (Udhiya) and Hadi

Qurbani (Udhiya) is traced back to the performance of the father of prophets Abraham. it commemorates his  willingness to sacrifice his son, who was replaced by an animal at the time of sacrifice. It is a sacrifice offered at the time of Eid-Ul-Adha to express gratitude towards Allah and to feed the poor and needy. Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was...

Explanations and useful pieces of advice to Hajj pilgrims

 "Our Lord! Punish us not if we forget or fall into error” – (Surah:Al-Baqarah,286) Pilgrims may come across some ambiguous cases during their Hajj. They may fall in some mistakes too. These cases and situations should be dealt with adequately and the appropriate action must be taken to avoid falling into the forbidden and safely accomplish the rites. In what follows, we will...

Les bienfaits du pèlerinage

Le pèlerinage aux Lieux Saints de l'Islam (al-hajj) est considéré comme l'un des cinq piliers de l'Islam et le Coran le rend obligatoire pour toute personne responsable qui a la capacité financière et physique . Boukhari et Muslim ont rapporté que le Prophète (Salla Allahou Alaihi wa Salam) a dit :  « Celui qui accomplit le...

Devotion in Hajj

Hajj is a journey full of symbolism, for it represents the soul’s journey towards the Almighty. All its aspects are replete with profound meanings about life. when performing Hajj we decipher that each rite and stage reveals and embodies our strong devotion to Allah . " So whoever hopes for the Meeting with his Lord, let him work righteousness and associate none as a partner in the...

Hajj and its role in strengthening our faith

Hajj is a once-in-a-life time obligation upon us whose health and means permit it. It is an essential part of our faith and practice as it is the fifth pillar of Islam. It symbolises central concepts of Islam and commemorates the trials of the Prophet Abraham. Hajj provides us with the opportunity for a spiritual rebirth that gets us closer to the Almighty .We are united through...

The educational purposes of Hajj

Islam came to teach people the true human values and moralities by following the prescriptions of the Holy Quran and the Sunnah. Hajj like all any other Islamic practice is full of symbolic acts and codes. The Muslim sacrifices his/her time, health and wealth in order to gain the satisfaction of the Almighty.  Thus, this endurance and sacrifices have got a crucial impact in educating...

Effects and purposes of Hajj

The purposes of Hajj are too many to name. In what follows some of them:1 – Hajj recalls a sense of connection with the Prophets (peace be upon them): from the father Abraham of prophets who built the Ka’abah, to our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). As pilgrims visit the holy places and redo the prophets’ acts, they remember them. 2 – The white...

The procedures of travelling

Concerning the non-Arab pilgrims they have to be sure about the transparency of the travel agencies who organize Hajj and Umrah trips. As these travel agencies may hack or engage in fraud operations, they are asked to be cautious considering mediators and hackers.    Make sure that the travel agency is accredited to organize Hajj and Umrah Each agency has got a number...

Rites of Hajj: A brief summary

Intention (Niyyah and Ihram) Entering into a state of Ihram from Meeqat and wear unsewn clothes↓  Tawaf Al-Qudum (Arrival)  When the pilgrim arrives in Mecca he/she proceeds to perform Tawaf (7 rounds) starting from the Black stone and leaving the Qaa’bah on his left. Kissing the black stone is a sunnah , if one cannot kiss it; touching it will be enough. The pilgrim...

The Values of Hajj

Hajj is a collection of actions and recitations. These collections inspire the Muslim's soul with spiritual sublime feelings. Generally speaking, Hajj includes a number of prayers performed by the pilgrim during a definite period. Every action, word, and prayer is a symbol that inspires the soul with a vivid feeling and encompasses a secret and an objective.   Ihram,...

Differences between the different types of Hajj : Al-Ifrad, Al-Tamatt'u, Al-Qiran

Before performing the rites, the pilgrim should decide whether he/she will only perform Hajj (Al-Ifrad), (single), or he/she will make a combination between Hajj and Umrah (Hajj Al-Tamattu, Al-Qiran). Hajj Al-Ifrad means entering into Ihram only for the Hajj.   Hajj Al-Tamatt’u means entering into Ihram for the Umrah, taking Ihram off after performing the Umrah, and then entering into...

Conditions for the person performing Hajj Badal

There are conditions without which Hajj Badal might not be accepted:   The person appointed to perform Hajj Badal must be a sane Muslim. While entering into Ihram, he should make  intention on behalf of the person for whom he/she will perform Hajj Badal. Hajj Badal must be performed by the appointed person only unless he has been authorized to get it done by another person. In this...

The history of Hajj

Hajj is an act of worship. It is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is the fifth pillar of Islam. It has to be performed at least once during one’s lifetime. We may be excused from performing Hajj because of sickness, physical difficulties or financial hardships. Hajj and its rites were first ordained by Allah in the time of the Prophet Abraham and he was the one who was entrusted by...

Pilgrims Prevented from Completing Hajj

Narrated Nafi: That Ubaidullah bin 'Abdullah and Salim bin 'Abdullah informed him that they told Ibn 'Umar when Ibn Az-Zubair was attacked by the army, saying "There is no harm for you if you did not perform Hajj this year. We are afraid that you may be prevented from reaching the K’aaba." Ibn 'Umar said "We set out with Allah's Apostle and the non-believers of Quraish prevented us...

The virtues of Hajj

Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and it has to be performed by every Muslim once in his lifetime. It has got many virtues; the followings are some of these virtues. Performing Hajj is one of the best deeds that pleases Allah .This is known from the saying of the Prophet (Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) when his companions asked him about the absolute best deed in the eyes of...

HAJJ BADAL

HAJJ BADAL Hajj Badal means to perform Hajj on one’s own behalf and expense by anotherperson, provided that Hajj is incumbent and one cannot perform Hajj due to illness or some other disability. CONDITIONS FOR THE DISABLED PERSON Hajj should be incumbent upon the disabled person under the Shari’ah rules. If not, there is no need for sending somebody for Hajj Badal and...

Supplications of the day of arafat

 The followings are some quotations from the famous supplication made by Imam Zain Al-Abdeen  on the day of Arafat: "Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds" Praise be to You. 0 Creator of the heavens wad the earth. Possessor of Glory and Honor. Lord that is worshipped of lords, the Creator of every creature wad the heir to everything, There is nothing like Him. The knowledge of...

Hajj in Islam

 Hajj in Islam is of three kinds: Hajj Al-Tamattu Hajj Al-Qiran Hajj Al-Ifrad Hajj al-Tamatt'u means entering into ihram for the Umrah, taking off after performing the Umrah, and then entering into ihram again for the Hajj. People who come from other countries usually perform Hajj al-Tamatt'u.       Hajj al-Qiran means entering into ihram...

CONDITIONS UNDER WHICH HAJJ BECOMES COMPULSORY

Islam sets certain conditions under which it becomes compulsory for a Muslim to perform Hajj. One must possess: Physical and mental capability and can assure his family's...

HAJJ AS WORSHIP

Hajj is a bodily as well as a spiritual journey towards Allah's grace and pleasure Hajj is to of leave one's relatives, wealth, and all the secular comforts. It is to enduring difficulties and hardships for Allah’s sake."And proclaim among people the pilgrimage; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel, coming from every remote path.”Holy Qur'an (22:27)Hajj...

Pilgrimage Hadeeths

Narrated 'Abdullah bin Abbas : Al-Fadl (his brother) was riding behind Allah's Apostle and a woman from the tribe of Khath'am came and Al-Fadl started looking at her and she started looking at him. The Prophet turned Al-Fadl's face to the other side. The woman said, "O Allah's Apostle! The obligation of Hajj enjoined by Allah on His devotees has become due on my father and he is old and...

Supplications Of Hajj

The Talbiyah : When we are in a state of Ihram all along the pilgrimageLabbaïkal-lâhumma labbaïk, labbaïka lâ sharîka laka labbaïk,innal-hamda, wan-ni'imata, laka wal-mulk, lâ sharîka lak.Here I am, My lord, Here I am, You have no partner, Here I am.Praise, Grace and the kingdom is for you, You have no partner.The supplication to be recited...

THE-RITES-OF-HAJJ

  There are three manner to perform Hajj. Whatever we choose, the Hajj is valid. So, how to perform Hajj? First day: 8th Dhu Al Hijja Pronounce your intention to perform the pilgrimage by a ritual formula repeated three times (niya (نيّة) intention or will). This should be sincere, as it will engage you, as pilgrim, throughout the rites of Hajj. Enters into the sate of Ihram:...

A Practical Guide to Hajj

Practical guide Getting body and spirit ready: Prepare your Body: It is important to draw your attention towards the physical difficulties which, as pilgrims, you are going to face during your pilgrimage. We repetitively warn you about the necessity of performing this duty when you still young and healthy. It is a long and hard journey during which your should be patient. However, one thing...

Arafat, when is it?

  The day of Arafat corresponds to the ninth of Dhul-Hijjah. It is the day of perfection of religion.This year, it should fall near November 15th, 2010. Hajj is an immense and blessed gathering attend by millions of pilgrims. Muslims come from worldwide and gathe in one place to answer the call of the Almighty by reciting Talbiyah ,performing common rituals and begging the Meciful for...

Is it permissible to perform umrah repeatedly?

There is nothing wrong with repeating ‘umrah. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) encouraged us to perform umrah and he did not define the time period that should elapse between two umrahs. Ibn Qudaamah said in al-Mughni:  There is nothing wrong with doing ‘umrah several times in the year. That was narrated from ‘Ali, Ibn ‘Umar,...

Du’aa’s (Supplications) during Umrah

In the saheeh Sunnah are narrated du’aa’s and adhkaar which you can recite during the rituals of Umrah, and from which the Muslim can benefit by memorizing them, understanding them and acting upon them. These include the following :  A – At the Meeqaat when entering into a state of Ihram:  It is Sunnah for the Muslim to recite tasbeeh (saying “Subhaan-Allaah...

The meaning of Umrah in Ramadan being equivalent to Hajj

Umrah in the holy month of Ramadan is equivalent to Hajj in merit and excellence. The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) himself insisted on the importance of the performance of Umrah during the holy month of Ramadan for that month has got various virtues  Umrah in the holy month of Ramadan is equivalent to Hajj in merit and excellence. The prophet (peace and...

Ruling on Umrah

Is Umrah mandatory or a Sunnah? Muslim scholars are agreed that Umrah is prescribed in Islam and is an act of virtue.  They differed as to whether it is mandatory or not. Imam Abu Haneefah and Imam Maalik were of the view that it is a Sunnah and mustahabb (preferable) , but not obligatory; this was also the view favoured by Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah. They quoted as...

Minor Pilgrimage (Umrah) Hadeeths

Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle said, "(The performance of) 'Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed (between it and the previous one). And the reward of Hajj Mabrur (the one accepted by Allah) is nothing except Paradise."   Narrated Ibn Juraij: Ikrima bin Khalid asked Ibn 'Umar about performing 'Umrah before Hajj. Ibn 'Umar replied, "There is no harm in it." 'Ikrima...

THE-RITES-OF-Umrah

Umrah Umrah (the minor pilgrimage) etymologically is derived from " Al Îtimar " which means "a visit". The one who wants to perform Umrah, enters a state of Ihram since the Meeqat, perform Tawaf (circumbulation) of the Umrah, perform the Sâayi between Safa and Marwa and finally the pilgrim puts off his Ihram by cutting or shaving his hair..   The Meeqaat is...

Hajj and Umrah Tips - Money Matters

Traveller’s cheques are not recommended as they  are hard to cash since you won’t be carrying your passport, which will be taken from you just before boarding in Jeddah or at madinah airport.  You will receive your passport upon your return at Jeddah airport for the flight back to your home country. Carry US Dollars or Pounds or Euros larger bills of 100 or 50 dollar...

Required documents for Hajj visa Application in the USA

The applicant must have a passport with a validity of at least six (6) months and acceptable both for entry to Saudi Arabia and entry to the next destination; the passport should have at least two empty visa pages adjacent to each other. Each applicant must submit one (1) recent passport size color photograph with a white background. The photograph must be a full-face view in which the...

Accomodation Tips during Hajj and Umrah

 Hajj is a supreme religious experience. It is however, also physically rigorous and emotionally taxing. Pilgrims are therefore advised to prepare themselves physically and mentally so as to face the difficulties that are likely to confront.  Each pilgrim is entitled to only two baggages such as one suite case and one carry on bag. You are sharing accommodation with some one else...

Preparations For Hajj or Umrah - Travel Agent

Choose a travel agent who offers a wide selection of "packages" for Hajj. Not all of the products of travel agents are of equal quality and value. Choosing the right agent is of crucial importance. Hopefully, a representative of your travel agent will be your constant guide and trouble shooter during Hajj. Invest time and effort in this essential phase of your preparation Talk to...

What to bring and not to bring to Saudi Arabia?

ITEMS TO BRING Your Passport. Plane Ticket. Vaccination Card. Travel clothes - bring light woolen clothes. Medicine if you are taking. Madinah is expected to be cold and windy during the period of Hajj. NOTE: Pilgrims undergoing specific treatment could bring their prescribed medicines along with the prescription and diagnosis. Those with very weak eyesight may like...

How to choose one's Hajj or Umrah trip?

Pilgrims should choose whether they desire to be accomodated in single, double, triple or quadruple room in Makkah and Medina. This choice will determine the cost of the trip, as the cost of a single room is higher than the cost of a double one, and so on so forth. Those who prefer to be accomodated in triple rooms should be patient and cooperative. As for those who choose ...

Clothing and Weather

What kinds of clothing and bedding should I take with me to Saudi Arabia? The essential thing is two or three sets of Ihram. The Ihram consists of two pieces of white plain cloth, either 100% cotton or light terry-cloth. These are cool to wear and also provide for better absorption of the heavy perspiration you will inevitably experience during Hajj. Also take with you light and airy clothes...

Muzdalifah Tips

  Tips 1. Take a sleeping bag and warm blankets (if travelling in the December period), as the cold night air is harsh.    2. Find a place to sleep or lie down as soon as you get to Muzdalifah. We were lucky enough to get there at 7:30pm and had loads of spots to choose from. 3. Don’t eat or drink too much as you really don’t want to be using the toilets in...

Tips for Makkah (Tawaf)

 Tips for Makkah (Tawaf) 1. The best time of the day to perform Tawaf on the ground floor is midnight to 3am in the days leading up to Hajj. After Hajj, there is almost no chance of performing your Tawaf on the ground floor without getting crushed, pushed and shoved. It also takes longer on the ground floor then on the 2nd floor or roof level during Hajj days. 2. Don’t waste your...

Banks in Saudi Arabia

What is the Saudi currency? The Saudi riyal is the official currency of Saudi Arabia. Each riyal is composed of 100 hallalahs. The Saudi Arabian Monetary Agency (SAMA) issues banknotes in denominations of 1, 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 riyals and coins in denominations of 5, 10, 25, 50 and 100 hallalahs. The riyal has been fixed against the U.S. dollar since 1986. One riyal equals 0.2267...

The strengthening of faith

Muslims worldwide were instructed to strengthen their faith .They have to consistently remember Allah, recite the holy Quran...etc so that they can avoid the vices of the daily life and consolidate their faith.Without the right creed (Aqidah), the acts of worship that are performed by any Muslim are not accepted by Allah the Almighty. The right creed plays an important role in the foundation...

The Treaty of Hudaybiyya

When prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was on his way to Mecca to perform Umrah with his followers he was prevented from entering Mecca in the year 628 by the Quraysh tribe. Muslims stopped North Mecca in a place called Hudaybiyya and instead of fighting the prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) sent a message to the Quraysh that he wanted only to...

Masjid al-Qiblatain

Masjid al-Qiblatain is situated in Medina . It is the Mosque where Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) received a revelation to change the direction of prayer (qibla) from Jerusalem to Mecca when he was leading a prayer. The Mosque has got two unique prayer niches (mihrabs). Masjid al-Qiblatain was recently renewed to remove the old prayer niche which faced Jerusalem and leaving...

The cave of Hira (Ghar Hira)

The Cave of Hira is situated two miles away from the holy city of Mecca in Jabl al Nur. It is a small cave with about 3.5 meters long and 2 meters wide. The cave was Allah’s apostle (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) most adorable place for mediation. It was in this cave that the archangel Gabriel revealed the prophet's the first divine revelation. Prophet Muhammad (peace and...

Historical sites of Medina

The Prophet's Mosque:  It was first built in the year 622 A.D. The mosque is the second largest mosque in the world and it is considered as the second holiest site is Islam after Masjid al Haram.   Masjid Quba : It  is the first mosque in the history of Islam and it is situated about three kilometers away from Al Masjid Nabawi.   Masjid Jummah : It is located short...

The Cave of Thor (Ghar Thor)

The Cave of Thor (Ghar Thor) is the cave where the prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and Abu Bakr hid from the Kuraish tribe for 3days. It is located about 2.5 km away from Masjid Al-Haram in Mecca. The cave recorded  a miracle ; an acacia tree had sprung up in front of the cave, dove flow over, woved its nest and laid eggs and a spider spread its web over...

Historical Sites of Mecca

Al Taneem (Masjid-e-Ayesha)   It is located in “Al Hil about four miles away from the Holy Kabba between Mecca and Medina. Arafat   It is located about 25 kilometers away from Mecca. Pilgrims go to it on the 9th day of Zil-Hijjah until the sunset, and then they go to Muzdalifah. Mina It is a  valley situated between two mountains east of Mecca, about five kilometers...

Dua from the holy Quran

Our Lord ! Grant us good in this world and good in the life to come and keep us safe from the torment of the Fire .(2:201) Our Lord ! Bestow on us endurance and make our foothold sure and give us help against those who reject faith. (2:250) Our Lord ! Take us not to task if we forget or fall into error. (2:286) Our Lord ! Lay not upon us such a burden as You did lay upon those before us....

The Battle of Badr

The Battle of Badr Two years after the Hijra, Ghazouet Badr took place on the seventeenth of Ramadan. This was the first battle that the believers ever engaged in with the disbelievers, and it is, by far, the most famous and most renowned among the Islamic battles, for the occurrence of the extraordinary events during it. Allah’s apostle (peace and blessings of allah be upon him)...

The Battle of Uhud

The Battle of Uhud The Battle of Uhud took place near Medina and it was fought on 23 March, 625 between a force from the small Muslim community of Medina, and a force from Mecca. The Muslims encountered the worst hardships and lost some seventy-five men. But, the Meccans did not follow the Muslims into Medina.This fierce fight is generally considered as a victory for the Meccans and a...

Al-Baqi Cemetery

Al-Baqi Cemetery Origins of Jannat Al-Baqi Cemetery Literally "Al-Baqi" means a tree garden. It is also known as " Jannat Al-Baqi " (th garden of heaven)  sanctity, since in it are buried many of our Prophet Muhammad's relatives and companions. The first one who was buried in Al-Baqi was Uthman bin Madhoon. Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah...

The four Caliphs

The Era of The Four Caliphs The era that followed the death of Allah’s apostle Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is called the era of the Four Caliphs. During this period, Islam flourished and spread far beyond the limits of the Arabian Peninsula. These were the times when Muslims witnessed victories and lived in ease. The Period of Abu Bakr (632-634) Abu Bakr (ra) was...

Duas from the Holy Quran

Our Lord ! Grant us good in this world and good in the life to come and keep us safe from the t orment of the Fire. (2:201) Our Lord ! Bestow on us endurance and make our foothold sure and give us help against those who reject faith. (2:250) Our Lord ! Take us not to task if we forget or fall into error. (2:286) Our Lord ! Lay not upon us such a burden as You did lay upon those before ...

Hadeeth for Ramadan

Narrated `Abdullâh bin `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him): Allâh's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said, The month can be 29 nights (i.e. days), and do not observe Saum (fast) till you see the crescent, and if the sky is overcast, then complete the month of Sha`bân as 30 days. (Bukhari). Narrated Abû Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) : Allâh's Messenger...

Dua from the holy Quran

Our Lord ! Grant us good in this world and good in the life to come and keep us safe from the torment of the Fire. (2:201) Our Lord ! Bestow on us endurance and make our foothold sure and give us help against those who reject faith. (2:250) Our Lord ! Take us not to task if we forget or fall into error. (2:286). Our Lord ! Lay not upon us such a burden as You did lay upon those before us....

The messenger of Islam Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him)

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is Allah's last Messenger. Allah, the most Glorious tells mankind that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is more than a Messenger. He is ,then, the Seal of the Prophets and the true universal Messenger of Allah to the whole mankind. Allah's Apostle (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) has got an exalted character...

Remembrances

Morning Remembrances “We have reached the morning and at this very time unto Allah belongs all sovereignty, and all praise is for him. None has the right to be worshipped except Allah, alone, without partner, to Him belongs all sovereignty and praise and He is over all things omnipotent. My Lord, I ask You for the good of this day and the good of what follows it and I take...

Mecca

Mecca's history Mecca City is one of the deep-rooted cities in history .Its history can be traced back to more than two thousand years ago. Mecca had been called different names during  various periods. It has got more than thirty names. However,  its  known names are only  four, namely:  Albalad Alamine, Um Alkura, Baka, and Mecca. Mecca was known at...

Health During the Hajj

HEALTH DURING HAJJ The pilgrimage is a rite not only physically tiring but also risky. Huge gathering of pilgrims – often coming from tropical zones, intense crowding, compulsory local food (the bringing in of foodstuff is forbidden), as well as exhausting climatic conditions, are factors, among others, favorable to the direct or indirect transmission of infectious diseases. Hygiene...

Guide GO-Makkah Hajj 2010

Guide GO-Makkah Hajj 2010 - Arabic language

Guide GO-Makkah Hajj 2010

Guide GO-Makkah Hajj 2010 - German language

The Hajj Guide 2010

Guide GO-Makkah Hajj 2010 - English version