Hajj is the yearly pilgrimage to Mecca in the Islamic month of Dhul Hijjah, one of the five pillars of Islam. Every Muslim who is physically and financially able must perform it once in a lifetime.
The fuller answer
Millions of pilgrims from every country gather in simple white garments (ihram) so that no rank or wealth shows. They circle the Kaaba, walk between Safa and Marwa, which recalls Hagar's search for water for her son Ishmael, stand on the plain of Arafat in prayer, and spend nights at Muzdalifah and Mina. At the end, they sacrifice an animal and share the meat with the poor.
Hajj follows the footsteps of Prophet Abraham and his family. Many pilgrims describe it as the most moving experience of their life: all are equal before God, and a person who performs it properly returns, the Prophet ﷺ said, free from sins like on the day their mother gave birth to them. A smaller pilgrimage, Umrah, can be made at any time of the year.
In it are clear signs [such as] the standing place of Abraham. And whoever enters it shall be safe. And [due] to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House - for whoever is able to find thereto a way. But whoever disbelieves - then indeed, Allah is free from need of the worlds.
Indeed, as-Safa and al-Marwah are among the symbols of Allah. So whoever makes Hajj to the House or performs 'umrah - there is no blame upon him for walking between them. And whoever volunteers good - then indeed, Allah is appreciative and Knowing.
This answer follows the mainstream Sunni understanding and is general learning, not a fatwa. Where Muslims differ, the answer says so. Have a question of your own? Write to us.
