Obligatory and Sunnah Acts of Performing Hajj

Importance and Status of Hajj in Islam

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and a highly revered act of worship performed by millions of Muslims every year in Makkah. Allah Almighty clearly made Hajj obligatory in the Qur’an:

“And pilgrimage to the House is a duty owed to Allah by all people who are able to undertake it.” (Surah Al-Imran: 97)
Hajj is a means of spiritual purification and unity for the Muslim Ummah. It is not just a physical gathering but a profound submission and devotion to Allah.

Detailed Explanation of the Obligatory Acts of Hajj

The obligatory acts of Hajj are those essential rites which must be performed; otherwise, the Hajj is considered invalid or deficient. The key obligatory acts include:

1. Entering Ihram and Making Intention

Entering into the state of Ihram from the designated Miqat, wearing the Ihram garments, and making the specific intention (Niyyah) for Hajj.

2. Standing (Wuquf) at Arafat

The most crucial pillar of Hajj. Every pilgrim must stay in the plain of Arafat from noon to sunset on the 9th of Dhu al-Hijjah.

3. Spending the Night at Muzdalifah

After leaving Arafat, pilgrims must spend the night at Muzdalifah.

4. Stoning the Jamrat (Jamarat al-Rajm)

On the 10th, 11th, and 12th of Dhu al-Hijjah, symbolic stoning of the three pillars representing Satan.

5. Animal Sacrifice (Qurbani)

Performing the sacrifice of an animal on or after the 10th of Dhu al-Hijjah.

6. Tawaf al-Ifadah

Circumambulating the Kaaba seven times after returning from Mina.

7. Staying in Mina on the Days of Tashreeq

Pilgrims must stay in Mina on the 11th, 12th, and optionally the 13th of Dhu al-Hijjah.

Detailed List and Description of Sunnah Acts of Hajj

The Sunnah acts complement the obligatory ones and bring additional reward:

• Tawaf al-Qudum: Performing Tawaf upon arrival in Makkah.

• Sa’i (walking) between Safa and Marwah: In addition to the obligatory Sa’i, extra Sa’i is Sunnah.

• Halq or Taqsir: Men shaving or trimming their hair; women trimming a small portion of their hair.

• Reciting specific duas and dhikr: At various holy sites during Hajj.

• Observing proper etiquette and manners throughout the pilgrimage.

Difference Between Obligatory and Sunnah Acts

Important Do’s and Don’ts During Hajj

Do’s:

• Maintain patience and trust in Allah.

• Observe all obligatory and Sunnah rites properly.

• Respect the sacred places and fellow pilgrims.

• Display humility and kindness.

Don’ts:

• Violating Ihram restrictions (such as cutting hair or nails).

• Engaging in disputes or quarrels.

• Lying, boasting, or any form of dishonesty.

Islamic Evidence from Qur’an and Authentic Hadith

• Allah says:

“And perform Hajj and Umrah for Allah.” (Surah Al-Hajj: 37)

• The Prophet ﷺ said:

“Whoever performs Hajj properly, he will come back free of all sins as the day his mother bore him.” (Sahih Bukhari)

• Another hadith states:

“Whoever completes the pillars of Hajj, it is as if he is newly born.” (Musnad Ahmad)

Conclusion: Advice and Inspirational Message for Readers

Hajj is a noble and honorable act of worship, marking a new beginning in a Muslim’s life. Perform it with sincere preparation, patience, and firm faith in Allah. May Allah accept your Hajj and grant you success in all aspects of life. Every Muslim’s journey to Hajj should be a memorable and transformative experience.