Hajj & Zyarat

Hajj & Ziyarat – Description

Hajj and Ziyarat are two important spiritual journeys in Islam, both involving travel to sacred sites, but they have different religious significance.

1. Hajj (The Major Pilgrimage)

• Definition: A mandatory pilgrimage to Makkah for Muslims who are physically and financially able.

• Time: Performed during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah (8th–12th).

• Rituals Include:

  • Wearing Ihram (white garments).

  • Tawaf (circling the Kaaba).

  • Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwa).

  • Standing at Arafat (key moment of forgiveness).

  • Stoning the Jamarat (symbolizing rejection of evil).

  • Qurbani (sacrifice) in honor of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

• Reward: Hajj, if performed sincerely, wipes away past sins and grants immense spiritual reward.

2. Ziyarat (Visitation of Holy Places)

• Definition: A voluntary visit to Islamic historical and sacred sites, including the graves of prophets, saints, and companions.

• Common Ziyarat Locations:

  • Madinah: Visiting Masjid an-Nabawi and the grave of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

  • Iraq: Karbala (Shrine of Imam Hussain), Najaf (Imam Ali’s Shrine).

  • Jerusalem: Masjid Al-Aqsa (third holiest site in Islam).

• Importance: Ziyarat strengthens faith, love, and connection with Islamic history but is not obligatory like Hajj.