Ḥajj (حج)
Definition and Significance
The term “Ḥajj” (حج in Arabic) literally means “setting out” or “tending towards.” It refers to the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah (Mecca, in modern-day Saudi Arabia) that occurs during the month of Ẕū ʾl-Ḥijjah, the twelfth month of the Islamic lunar calendar. The Ḥajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and is an obligatory religious duty for every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able to undertake the journey at least once in their lifetime. The pilgrimage serves as an act of worship, symbolizing the unity of Muslims and their submission to Allah.
Etymology
- Arabic: حج (Ḥajj)
- Turkish: Hac
Qur’anic Authority
The Ḥajj is mandated in the Qur’an, with explicit instructions found primarily in the later Sūrahs, such as Sūrah Al-Ḥajj (22:28) and Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:153).
Key Verses
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Sūrah Al-Ḥajj (22:28):
<p>“And proclaim to the people the Ḥajj (pilgrimage); they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass.”</p>
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Sūrah Al-Baqarah (2:153):
<p>“And complete the Hajj and ‘umrah for Allah. But if you are prevented, then [offer] what can be obtained with ease of sacrificial animals. And do not shave your heads until the sacrificial animal has reached its place of slaughter.”</p>
Preconditions
The Ḥajj is obligatory for every Muslim adult who meets the following criteria:
- Adult: Must have reached puberty.
- Free: Cannot be a slave.
- Sane: Must possess sound mental health.
- Financial Capability: Must have sufficient funds for the pilgrimage and to provide for their family during their absence.
Itinerary and Rituals
The pilgrimage comprises several rituals performed over several days:
- Ihram: Pilgrims enter a state of spiritual purity and don specific white garments.
- Tawaf: Seven circumambulations around the Kaaba.
- Sa’i: Walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
- Standing at Arafat: A key ritual where pilgrims stand in worship at the Plain of Arafat.
- Muzdalifah: Collecting pebbles for stoning the devil.
- Ramy al-Jamarat: Stoning the pillars representing the devil.
- Sacrifice: Offering an animal in sacrifice, followed by shaving the head or cutting hair.
- Tawaf al-Ifadah: Another circumambulation of the Kaaba.
Practical Details
For women, the pilgrimage must be performed in the company of a maḥram, a male relative whom they cannot marry.
Scholarly Perspectives
Imam ash-Shafi’i contested the need for a male guardian, referencing that the Qur’an does not explicitly state this requirement. However, traditions often cited support the necessity of a maḥram.
Books for Further Studies
- “Manasik al-Hajj” by Ibn Qudamah
- “The Hajj: Pilgrimage in Islam” by Eric Tagliacozzo
- “Makkah to Madinah: A Photographic Journey of the Hijjah and Umrah Rituals” by Muhammad Khurram Khan
Takeaways
- Unity and Equality: The Ḥajj emphasizes the unity and equality of Muslims under God.
- Spiritual Cleansing: Offers an opportunity for spiritual renewal and forgiveness of sins.
- Historical Significance: Reinforces the historical and theological links to Abraham and early Islamic traditions.
Conclusion
The Ḥajj stands as a significant act of faith and commitment in Islam, embodying the principles of sacrifice, humility, and unity. It distinctively marks the spiritual journey of Muslims towards a closer connection with Allah, fulfilling a lifelong commandment enshrined in the Qur’an.
For further study and exploration into the rituals and their significances, the mentioned books offer a comprehensive look into the various facets of the Ḥajj.
