During the 12th Islamic lunar calendar month Dhul Hijah, millions of pilgrims from all over the world usually make their way to the city of Mecca to visit the Kabbah, the first house and holiest place of worship to perform Hajj. Hajj is one of the 5 acts of worship prescribed in the religion of Islam. But we are in the midst of a pandemic. Notably, the traditions of the Prophet Mohammed (peace be upon him)sa have guided the decision in Saudi Arabic this year to confine pilgrims to those who are residing in the land. By his sayings, Muslims find answers on how to act under many circumstances, as he advised, “If you hear of an outbreak of plague in a land, do not enter it; and if the plague breaks out in a place while you are in it, do not leave that place.” (Sahih al-Bukhari) Further regarding isolation, the Prophetsa taught that those who are sick should not in any way compromise the community at large. He said, “Do not place a sick patient with a healthy person.” (Sahih al-Bukhari). The Hajj is due upon all Muslims and is to be performed once in a lifetime if you have the means (financial) and you are physically able to do so, and the path to Mecca is safe.
Although the community of Muslims actively participating in Hajj is greatly reduced y this year, it has not reduced the significance of these 10 Days of Duhl Hija including the Day of Arafat and the 5 days celebration of Eid Al Adha.
Hajj Explained
Islamic tradition holds that the Kabbah is built near the very spot Adam and Eve first prayed on earth, and was rebuilt by Ibrahim and his son Ismail by the order from Allah. Since that day, the Kabbah has been a place of pilgrimage. Today, Muslims from all levels of society, all cultures & colors, male & female make the trip once in a lifetime as the Prophet Mohammedsa did himself. Pilgrims perform rituals that commemorate the story of the Prophet Ibrahim It is a time for spiritual contemplation, asking for forgiveness from the Lord, and reflecting on one’s life.
Unity and Equality of Mankind
The unity and equality of all pilgrims start with the dress. Men wear two pieces of unstitched white cloth and women wear a simple dress with no frills, symbolic yet meaningful. The purpose is to humble and remind us that we are all one human race, equal except by what is in our hearts and our good deeds, which can only be judged by God/Allah. In summary, pilgrims from all over gather in worship no separation between them in any form (color, language, ethnicity, status or background) seeking forgiveness and Mercy.
Day of Arafat
The Day of Arafat is on the 9th Day of Dhul Hija and pilgrims in Mecca will spend the day on Mount Arafat in worship, prayer and supplications to the Lord. Completion involves arriving at Mount Arafat before noon and spending the afternoon upon the mountain, remaining until sunset. However, individuals who are physically unable to complete this portion of the pilgrimage are allowed to observe it by fasting, which is not practiced by those making the physical visit to Arafat. During the afternoon, from about noon until sunset, Muslim pilgrims stand in supplication and devotion, praying for their Lord’s abundant forgiveness until sunset prayer.
Day of Arafat for Non-Pilgrims
Muslims around the world who are not participating in the pilgrimage often spend this day in fasting and devotion as well. Both government offices and private businesses in the UAE and other Islamic nations are generally closed on the Day of Arafat to allow employees to observe it. The Day of Arafat is, therefore, one of the most important holidays in the entire Islamic Year. It is said to offer expiation for all sins of the prior year, as well as all sins for the upcoming year. Once all rituals are all fulfilled, the Hajj is complete and pilgrims will celebrate Eid Al Adha, the Festival of the Sacrifice.
Eid Al Adha
The Eid begins with a congregational Eid Prayer held after the dawn prayers the morning after the Day of Arafat. After the Eid Prayers, most Muslims will sacrifice a sheep, whose meat is distributed in thirds – 1/3 to your immediate family, 1/3 to friends and neighbors 1/3 to the poor people. It is a happy occasion where the Hajj goers are congratulated and people gather to share a meal and gifts. These festivities last for 5 days in the tradition of the Prophet Mohammedsa.