HAJJ STEPS

Understanding the Journey of Hajj

Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is a sacred pilgrimage undertaken by millions of Muslims each year. While there are detailed rulings and variations depending on the type of Hajj being performed, the following guide outlines the main stages of the pilgrimage.

Step 1: Enter Ihram

Before crossing the designated Miqat boundary, pilgrims enter the sacred state of Ihram.

This includes:

✓ Performing Ghusl (ritual purification)

✓ Wearing Ihram garments

✓ Making the intention (Niyyah) for Hajj

✓ Reciting the Talbiyah:

"Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka La Sharika Laka Labbayk. Innal Hamda Wan Ni'mata Laka Wal Mulk, La Sharika Lak."

Step 2: Arrival in Makkah

Upon arriving in Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf around the Kaaba.

Tawaf

Walk around the Holy Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction while making dua and remembering Allah.

Step 3: Sa'i Between Safa and Marwah

Pilgrims walk between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times, commemorating the journey of Hajar (AS) in search of water for her son Ismail (AS).

Step 4: Mina

On the 8th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims travel to Mina.

In Mina:

  • Pray the prescribed prayers
  • Increase in remembrance of Allah
  • Prepare spiritually for the Day of Arafah

Step 5: The Day of Arafah

The 9th of Dhul Hijjah is the most important day of Hajj.

Pilgrims gather at the Plain of Arafah and spend the day in worship, reflection, repentance and dua.

The Prophet ﷺ said:

"Hajj is Arafah."

Step 6: Muzdalifah

After sunset, pilgrims travel to Muzdalifah.

Here they:

  • Pray Maghrib and Isha
  • Spend the night under the open sky
  • Collect pebbles for the next ritual

Step 7: Stoning of Jamarat

Pilgrims return to Mina and throw pebbles at the largest pillar (Jamarat al-Aqabah), symbolising the rejection of Shaytan.

Step 8: Sacrifice (Qurbani)

Pilgrims arrange for the sacrifice of an animal, commemorating the devotion and obedience of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

Step 9: Shaving or Trimming Hair

Men:

  • Shave the head completely or trim the hair.

Women:

  • Cut a small portion of their hair.

This marks a significant stage in completing Hajj.

Step 10: Tawaf al-Ifadah

Pilgrims return to Makkah to perform another Tawaf around the Kaaba.

This is an essential pillar of Hajj.

Step 11: Remaining Days in Mina

Pilgrims spend additional days in Mina and continue the stoning ritual at the three Jamarat.

These days are devoted to worship, gratitude and remembrance of Allah.

Step 12: Farewell Tawaf

Before departing Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf).

This final act marks the completion of the pilgrimage and serves as a farewell to the Sacred House.

A Journey of Faith

 

Hajj is more than a physical journey—it is a profound act of worship that teaches patience, humility, gratitude and complete submission to Allah.

May Allah accept the Hajj of all pilgrims and grant them a safe, blessed and transformative journey.

NURAA ESSENTIALS
Supporting your sacred journey every step of the way.