Certainly, performing Hajj is a significant and sacred pilgrimage in Islam. The following is a general guide to help you understand the basic steps involved in the pilgrimage. Keep in mind that it’s always best to consult with scholars, religious leaders, or official Hajj authorities for specific and up-to-date guidance.
Niyyah (Intention):
Before starting the pilgrimage, make a sincere intention to perform Hajj for the sake of Allah.Ihram:
Enter into a state of ihram before reaching the Miqat (designated boundary). For men, this involves wearing two seamless, white sheets of cloth. Women can wear their ordinary, non-restrictive clothing, following the rules of modesty.
Talbiyah:
Recite the Talbiyah, a specific prayer, to announce your intention and devotion to Allah. “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayk La Sharika
Laka Labbayk, Innal Hamdah, Wan Nematah, Laka wal Mulk, La Sharika Lak” (Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Verily, all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty, You have no partner).
Tawaf al-Qudum:
Upon reaching Mecca, perform the Tawaf al-Qudum, a circumambulation of the Kaaba upon arrival. This is also known as the “Welcome Tawaf.”
Sa’i:
Perform the Sa’i, which involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This commemorates the actions of Hagar (Hajara), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), who ran between these hills in search of water for her son Isma’il (Ishmael).
Rest in Mina:
Spend the night in Mina and engage in prayers.
Arafat:
On the 9th day of Dhu al-Hijjah, proceed to the plain of Arafat. Stand in worship, repentance, and prayer. This is the most critical part of Hajj.
Muzdalifah:
After leaving Arafat, proceed to Muzdalifah and spend the night in prayer.
Ramy al-Jamarat:
Stone the three pillars (Jamarat) in Mina on the 10th, 11th, and 12th days of Dhu al-Hijjah to symbolize the rejection of Satan’s temptations.
Qurbani (Sacrifice):
Perform the ritual sacrifice of an animal, symbolizing the sacrifice made by Prophet Ibrahim.
Halq or Taqsir:
Men traditionally shave their heads (Halq) or cut their hair short (Taqsir) to symbolize humility and the casting off of ego.
Tawaf al-Ifadah:
Perform the Tawaf al-Ifadah, a circumambulation around the Kaaba, followed by Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.
Return to Mina:
Return to Mina for the remaining days and perform the symbolic Stoning of the Devil.
Tawaf al-Wida:
Before leaving Mecca, perform the Tawaf al-Wida, the Farewell Tawaf, as a final act of worship.
Optional Acts:
Engage in additional acts of worship, such as visiting the Prophet’s Mosque in Medina or performing extra prayers.Remember that Hajj is a spiritual journey, and it is essential to approach it with a sincere heart, humility, and a desire for self-improvement. Also, be sure to follow the
guidance of qualified religious scholars and the authorities overseeing the pilgrimage to ensure a proper and accepted Hajj.