The Sacred Pilgrimage of Hajj
Hajj is a sacred pilgrimage done by Muslims at Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, a duty for every Muslim to complete at least once in their life if physically, emotionally, and financially capable. Hajj occurs in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month in the Islamic calendar. The pilgrimage starts on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah and ends on the 13th.In 2025, Hajj is set between June 4th and 9th in the Gregorian calendar, based on the moon sighting. The Islamic calendar's lunar cycle causes Hajj dates to move forward by approximately 11-12 days annually.
A Spiritual Obligation
For Muslims, performing Hajj is a deeply spiritual duty. As stated in the Holy Qur’an:
“You will enter the Sacred Masjid, God willing, perfectly secure, and you will cut your hair or shorten it (as you fulfil the pilgrimage rituals) there. You will not have any fear. Since He knew what you did not know, He has coupled this with an immediate victory.”
— Qur’an 48:27
Even though it is mandatory just once, some opt to do Hajj multiple times to deepen their relationship with Allah (SWT).
How Long Does Hajj Last?
Hajj spans five to six days, occurring from the 8th to the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah. Eid al-Adha commences when the crescent moon is sighted and lasts Three days.During Hajj, pilgrims undertake a series of spiritual rituals—physically demanding acts like walking 5km–15km daily, and traveling between significant sites. It's a rigorous trial of patience, humility, and faith.
Where Does Hajj Take Place?
Hajj is completed within and around Makkah, encompassing the city of Makkah, the tent city of Mina, Mount ‘Arafah, and the open plains of Muzdalifah
Who Is Exempt from Hajj?
Even though Hajj is compulsory, Islam ensures fairness towards its followers. Exemptions are granted to certain individuals:
- Children – Hajj is only obligatory for adult Muslims.
- Physically incapable – the elderly, weak, or chronically ill.
- Financially unable – unless debts can still be managed and creditors approve.
Historical Roots of Hajj
The first Islamic pilgrimage was performed in 628 CE by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), reviving the ancient rites established by Prophet Ibrahim (AS).The story begins with Ibrahim’s (AS) wife Hajar and son Ismail (AS), left in the barren valley of Makkah. Desperate for water, Hajar ran between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times—until a miraculous spring, known as the Well of Zam Zam, appeared under Ismail’s (AS) feet. Years later, Hazrat Ibrahim (AS) and Hazrat Ismail (AS) were instructed to build the Kaaba—a structure marking the spot where humanity first gathered in monotheistic worship. Though later misused by idolaters, the Kaaba was reclaimed and purified by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), restoring its original purpose.
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