All About Hajj, Its History, Origin & Significance

Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, and Muslims perform it once a year. Every year, they travel from all around the world to Makkah for it. After all, it is a powerful reminder of faith, unity, and equality. Hajj takes place during the month of Dhu al-Hijjah and symbolizes the great sacrifice of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.). Hajj rites have been changing during different eras. But all grace to the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ; he restored it to its pure origin. He made sure that Muslims gather to worship and be grateful to Allah Almighty. Learn about the history and significance of Hajj and its impact on the Muslim community.

When Is Hajj Performed?

Hajj is performed each year during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah. It is the twelfth month of the Hijri calendar. The main rituals take place from the 8th to the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. During this time, Muslims gather in Makkah to fulfill their fard and follow the footsteps of Prophet Ibrahim.

Why Muslims Perform Hajj?

Hajj gives Muslims a chance to shed their sins and spiritually cleanse themselves. It is a journey of faith, sacrifice, and renewal. Moreover, they perform Hajj to obey Allah’s command. It is the fifth pillar of Islam and compulsory for those who are financially capable. Hajj unites Muslims from every corner of the world. Therefore, it is also a reminder of equality, patience, and devotion.

How many times is Hajj emphasized in the Quran?

Allah SWT mentions Hajj about 12 times in the Quran. The command to perform Hajj appears clearly in Surah Al-Imran (3:97). Other verses refer to its rituals, purpose, and spiritual meaning. These repeated mentions show that Hajj is a major pillar of Islam and a divine obligation.

Now that we’ve talked about why people perform Hajj, let’s dive into its history.

The Origin and Early History of Hajj

Hajj honors the acts of devotion by the Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) and his family. As Allah commanded, he left his wife, Hazrat Hajra and infant son, Ismail in Bakkah. Below, we are about to discuss the series of events and moments of faith we commemorate during Hajj rituals.

• The Faith of Hajra

You should know that Bakkah (now known as Makkah) was a barren valley. Hajra sensed that his son was extremely thirsty. So, she ran 7 times between the hills of Safa and Marwah in search of water. Finally, her perseverance and faith bore a miracle. To reward her, Angel Jirbril revealed a spring of water where she ran. This became known as the spring of Zamzam. 

Why do Muslims run between Safa and Marwa during Hajj?

Muslims run between Safa and Marwa to honor the struggle of Hajra, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S). She ran between the two hills searching for water for her son, Ismail. This act is called Sa’i. And it reminds us of her faith, patience, and trust in Allah’s mercy during hardship.

• Construction of the Holy Kaaba

Later, Allah instructed Ibrahim and Isma’il to construct the Kaaba. It would refer to the “House of Allah,” and the center of Tauheed. When it was established, Ibrahim was commanded to preach the Hajj to humanity.

“And proclaim to the people the Hajj [pilgrimage]; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant past.”

– Surah Al-Hajj (22:27)

When was the Holy Kaaba Built? 

The Holy Kaaba was first built by Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) and his son Ismail (A.S.) by Allah’s command. According to several sources, they built it around 5000 years ago. It was meant to be a house of worship for the One God. Over time, it was rebuilt several times. But its foundation and purpose are the same as established by Prophet Ibrahim: Tauheed.

• Prophet Muhammad ﷺ & His Role in Hajj

Human faith drifted as time passed. This is why the Kaaba got surrounded by idols. But not for too long. In 630 CE, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  re-established the Kaaba. He removed all these idols and restored it as a place of Allah Almighty’s remembrance. Two years later, he performed his Farewell Pilgrimage. He performed the Hajj rituals and delivered his final sermon at Mount Arafat. While addressing his people, he emphasized the principles of equality, justice, and devotion to Allah.

“O People! Just as you regard this month, this day, this city as sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you.”

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ  during his Last Sermon.

How Many Times Did the Holy Prophet Muhammad ﷺ Perform Hajj?

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ performed Hajj only once in his lifetime. It is known as Hajjat al-Wada’ or the Farewell Pilgrimage. He performed it in 632 CE, the tenth year after Hijrah. During this Hajj, he delivered his final sermon at Mount Arafat. And it is really important in not just the history of Islam, but also the history of humanity.

This Hajj established the rituals that Muslims continue to follow today. Meanwhile, the Last Sermon has teachings for Muslims of all times – past, present, or future.

When did the Holy Prophet Muhammad’s ﷺ Gave His Last Sermon?

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ delivered his last sermon on the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, 10 AH (632 CE) during his last Hajj. It holds the essence of Islam and our duties as humans. In fact, humanitarians consider it a charter of human rights, justice, and spiritual guidance. After all, It serves as a moral compass for Muslims across generations and for non-Muslims as well.

Here are the key points of the sermon:

• Rights of Life and Property

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ emphasized that every Muslim’s life and property are sacred. So, others should respect it. He urged that we must return any entrusted things to their rightful owners and avoid harming others. This teaches us the importance of justice, trustworthiness, and accountability in Islam.

• Equality and Brotherhood

Another important teaching of the sermon is equality. The Prophet ﷺ stated that, “No Arab holds superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab over an Arab. Similarly, a white person has no superiority over a black person, nor does a black person over a white, except through piety and good deeds.” This powerful message defies all racial and ethnic differences. We are all humans and we are all the same.

• Rights and Responsibilities in Marriage

The Prophet ﷺ also spoke about how to treat women. He instructed men to be kind and respectful toward their wives and to recognize them as partners and supporters. His guidance greatly uplifted their dignity and well-being. Had the world followed his teachings, women’s history would have been far less tragic.

• Economic Justice

In a move to establish economic justice, the Prophet ﷺ prohibited all forms of interest. He declared it as a way of exploitation and an unfair means of earning. With this directive, he promoted fairness in financial dealings.

• Adherence to the Quran and Sunnah

Lastly, the Prophet ﷺ pledged to follow the Quran and his Sunnah. He assured that Muslims would remain on the right path and avoid misguidance by holding firmly to these sources.

Why is Hajj Important in Islam?

Hajj is a physical, financial, and spiritual journey. And it impacts your soul in ways you can’t comprehend. You can say it’s more of a transformative experience than a religious duty. After all, it deepens your faith and connection to Allah.

Here are the reasons why Hajj holds such great importance in Islam:

• You Fulfill a Pillar

Hajj is a core component of Islamic practice. This is because it includes all: salah, redemption, sacrifice, and meditation. By performing it, Muslims demonstrate obedience to Allah’s command and complete a pillar of their faith.

The Quran states:

“And Hajj to the House (Kaaba) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who are able.”

Surah Al-Imran (3:97)

• You Renew the Soul

Hajj offers an opportunity to let go of your sins and start afresh. Performing its rituals is a way to seek forgiveness and return home spiritually rejuvenated. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any obscenity or wrongdoing will return [free of sin] as the day his mother bore him.” – Sahih Bukhari

• You Unite with Your Muslims Brothers

All Muslims are brothers to each other, and Hajj is a big reminder of this. About 2,000,000 people perform the Hajj every year. It brings together Muslims from diverse backgrounds, cultures, and languages. They all dressed in simple white garments known as Ihram. This symbolizes that no one is superior or inferior. In fact, we are all like each other.

• You Honor Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.) Tradition

The rituals of Hajj honor the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S.), his wife Hajra, and their son Isma’il (A.S.). Pilgrims retrace Hajra’s search for water, Prophet Ibrahim’s sacrifice, and his family’s faith during hardships. This connection to prophetic history deepens the experience even more.

• You Show Humility & Devotion

Pilgrims leave worldly comforts to perform this duty. By doing so, they show humility and patience. This reminds them that this life is temporary and they connect with their real purpose.

Hajj Through the Ages

You should know that Hajj has evolved over the centuries. Each era has added something to it. And the Hajj performed today reflects all these historical, cultural, and technological changes. Let’s walk you through the main milestones.

 How Does Hajj Influence the Muslim Culture?

Hajj brings Muslims from diverse backgrounds together. This is how it becomes a global occasion of brotherhood and a melting pot of cultures. With shared rituals, prayers, and experiences, people inspire each other.

Let’s take a look at how Hajj has influenced different cultures, and the other way around:

 Inspiration in Literature and Art

• Hajj has become a source of artistic and literary expression.
• Famous travelers like Ibn Battuta documented their Hajj journeys with rich insights.
• Artistic forms such as Persian miniatures and Ottoman calligraphy portray the essence of Hajj in an awe-inspiring way.

Cultural Impact

• Pilgrims from different areas of the world left an impact on the local communities and culture in Makkah.
• Residents have adapted to speak multiple languages and understand different customs.
• Makkah has become a vibrant center of global Islamic culture.
• People travel all around Saudi Arabia after Hajj. Hence, they leave their cultural impact on several cities in KSA.

How is Umrah Different from Hajj?

Umrah is a shorter pilgrimage to Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year. Meanwhile, Hajj is performed only during Dhul-Hijjah. Unlike Hajj, Umrah is not obligatory but highly recommended. Both involve similar rituals, but Hajj includes additional rites and has greater significance.

What are the rituals of Hajj (Minasiq-e-Hajj)?

There are 10 fundamental rituals of Hajj. These were established by the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ. Each step holds a meaning and reflects submission. Here are the steps followed during Hajj:

1- Ihram

Hajj begins with entering the state of Ihram. It is when Muslims wear specific clothes anf follow specific rules. Men wear two white, unstitched pieces of cloth. And women wear modest, plain attire. Hujjaj must also refrain from certain actions like cutting hair or nails, arguing, or harming any living creature.

2- Tawaf

Once you arrive in Makkah, you perform Tawaf. It refers to walking seven times around the Kaaba in an anti-clockwise direction. This act is a powerful expression of devotion and submission to Allah. After tawaf, you’llhavtwo units of prayer behind Maqam Ibrahim, a stone associated with Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

3- Sa’i 

After Tawaf, pilgrims perform Sa’i. For this, you will run between the fills of Safa and Marwah. It reminds how the wife of Hazrat Ibrahim stayed patient and trusted Allah while struggling.

4- Wuquf-e-Arafah

On the 9th of Dhul-Hijjah, you travel to the plain of Arafat for Wuquf. It is the most essential part of Hajj. From noon to sunset, you stand in prayer, reflect on your lives, and seek forgiveness from Allah. 

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “Hajj is Arafah”, emphasizing its importance.

5- Muzdalifah

After sunset, pilgrims move to Muzdalifah. Here, they spend the night in the open air. They combine the Maghrib and Isha prayers, rest, and collect pebbles for Rami. This quiet night under the stars is a time of meditation and preparation for the next day.

6- Ramy al-Jamarat

On the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah, you travel to Mina to perform Ramy al-Jamarat. It involves throwing seven small stones at the largest of three pillars. This action symbolises Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) rejection of Shaytan’s temptations.

7- Qurbani

After the stoning, the pilgrims sacrifice animals. This ritual is called Qurbani. It recalls when Prophet Ibrahim (AS) became willing to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah. The meat is usually distributed to the poor and needy.

8- Hair Cutting or Shaving

Afterward, Muslim men shave their heads and women cut a small part of their hair as a sign of renewal. This act marks the completion of major Hajj rituals. It also symbolizes a fresh start in the journey of faith.

9- Tawaf al-Ifadah

After returning to Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf al-Ifadah. This refers to another seven rounds around the Kaaba. This is one of the most important rituals. Plus, you must complete it for Hajj to be valid.

10- Tawaf al-Wada’

Before leaving Makkah, pilgrims perform the Farewell Tawaf or Tawaf al-Wada’. This final act is a way of saying goodbye to the holy city and thanking Allah for the chance of Hajj. It leaves a lasting spiritual impact that people carry into their daily lives.

Is Eid Al Adha a Hajj Ritual?

Eid Al Adha is not a direct Hajj ritual, but an Islamic festival. Muslims all across the globe celebrate it on the 10th of Dhul-Hijja. By sacrificing animals, they commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) obedience to Allah. People spend this festival with prayers, sacrifice, and acts of charity. Ḥujjaj perform Qurbani and celebrate this Eid during Hajj.

What Happens on Eid Al Adha?

Eid al-Adha is the “Festival of Sacrifice”. On this occasion, Muslims sacrifice animals – usually a sheep, goat, or cow – in the name of Allah. The meat is then distributed among friends, family, and the needy. Eid al-Adha coincides with the last days of Hajj. In fact, Qurbani is one of the fundamental rituals of Hajj.

“Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you” – Quran 22:37

Conclusion

On the surface level, Hajj seems just a pilgrimage. But, it is actually a journey of faith. And it teaches us so much more. It gives lessons of humanity, kindness, justice, tolerance, and then some. Every ritual changes something in us. That’s why it is said that performing Hajj is like being reborn. While we talk about the greatness of Hajj, we can’t ignore the importance of the Last Sermon. It is a timeless guide for both Muslims and Non-Muslims. Ultimately, Muslims return home after Hajj with a renewed outlook on life and faith.