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Hajj: The Global Conference of the Ummah

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Hajj: The Global Conference of the Ummah

Hajj: The Global Conference of the Ummah

We are all familiar with global summits and conferences during which presidents and other heads of state meet. Besides, foreign ministers, ministers of defense or others meet during other conferences. In the professional context, there are conferences for physicians, others for engineers and the same for other professions. For each of these conferences, there are authorities that organize them, call for them, determine their places and organize their programs.
Hajj is a great and unique global conference for the Muslim nation, and if the nation of Islam realizes and benefits from its merits and goals, its state would be better than it is nowadays.
The invitation to this great conference came from Allaah The Almighty to His Prophet Ibraaheem, the intimate friend of Allaah may Allaah exalt his mention. Allaah The Exalted Says (what means): {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 pass.} [Quran 22:27] It is a historic and genuine invitation that is not renewed or revoked. The permanent place of holding the conference that never changes is the Sacred House of Allaah and its holy environs that combine divine blessing, historic antiqueness and religious sanctity. The agenda with all the words and deeds contained therein is dictated by virtue of the Order of Allaah The Almighty to Muhammad the Messenger of Allaah, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) who said: “Learn your rituals from me (by seeing me performing them).”The people invited to this conference are Muslims, whether rulers or ruled, rich or poor, men or women, with no conditions or privileges other than Islam. The only qualification is to be a Muslim –and that is it.
As a result, this conference has been held periodically for thousands of years in the sacred sites. You can see the entire nation of Islam represented in it in various categories such as its rulers, scholars, common masses, leaders, soldiers, men, women, elderly and youth. Can a conference like this be without benefits or impact?
It is a question that should be on the mind of every Muslim and every pilgrim in order to meditate and reflect, then to benefit and work. The following are some reflections on the great conference of Hajj:

  • Every pilgrim travels long distances and crosses many borders. Some pilgrims come from the countries of disbelief or countries of oppression and suppression. All of them strive and suffer in order to reach the sacred sites and participate in the gathering. By crossing all the barriers and overcoming all the difficulties, they declare that the superiority of faith is greater, the caller towards Allaah The Almighty is worthier of being answered, the path of Islam is straighter and that the brothers of faith are nobler.
  • Its unique uniform distinguishes this conference, which is not a condition in other conferences. The pilgrim abandons his ordinary clothes and adornment and devotes himself to Allaah The Almighty. In this way, he declares that this world is not in his heart, that his value lies in the essence not the appearance. He testifies that if the caller to Allaah The Almighty calls and he hears the call to worship, the whole world with its adornments will never act as a barrier in his way; rather, he is ready to relinquish it for the Sake of Allaah The Almighty.
  • This conference reminds the nation to remove all the matters that divide it and to hold firm to the Islamic divine methodology and path. When they make Tawaaf around the honorable Ka‘bah, they declare this important principle that makes humble submissive worship to Allaah The Almighty and a continuous relationship with Allaah The Almighty the center of their lives.
  • This conference is an opportunity for setting the general policies of the nation, discussing problems, guiding and instructing through sermons in the season of Hajj , just like the comprehensive and all-inclusive Prophetic sermon in the Farewell Hajj.

Finally, Hajj is the season of practically demonstrating the unity of the Islamic nation where differences such as color, race and language dissolve. This unity is with respect to destination and intention, acts and deeds, dress and shape, and standing and movement. In addition, it unites the souls and strengthens ties along with the fulfilling a much greater purpose, which is linking the nation to its Creator, following His Sharee‘ah (Islamic law), elevating the Islamic standards and abolishing worldly criteria.
Does the Muslim nation realize the importance of these meanings and others? Do individual Muslims know these landmarks? There should be an initiative by the responsible leaders, pious scholars and all Muslims to achieve, along with fulfilling the obligation, the major benefits for the nation that is now suffering woes, defeat and division. Allaah The Almighty Says (what means): {And [mention, O Muhammad], when We Designated for Ibraaheem (Abraham) the site of the House, [saying], “Do not associate anything with Me and purify My House for those who perform Tawaaf and those who stand [in prayer] and those who bow and prostrate. 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 pass – That they may witness benefits for themselves and mention the Name of Allaah on known days.} [Quran 22:26-28]

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The Muslim Woman at Hajj

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The Muslim Woman at Hajj flickr.com

The Muslim Woman at Hajj

The rites of Hajj include many actions that commemorate women. For example, Sa‘y between As-Safa and Al-Marwah commemorates what our mother Haajar, may Allaah exalt her mention, did. Zamzam water gushed forth from the earth by the mercy of Allaah The Almighty in response to her supplications to Allaah The Almighty in order to quench her and her son’s thirst.
Dear sister,
O you who has left for the Sacred City to perform one of the pillars of Islam; as you were treading the earth of Makkah, did you not recall the bright image of that believing woman who was so confident and had perfect trust in her Lord? Ibraaheem (Abraham) may Allaah exalt his mention brought Haajar and her suckling son Ismaa‘eel (Ishmael), may Allaah exalt their mention, to the desert area at the Sacred House where there was neither water nor any people around. Ibraaheem may Allaah exalt his mention left them with nothing but a bag of dates and a water-skin and then he went away. Haajar followed him saying, “O Ibraaheem, where are you going? Are you leaving us in this valley which has no humans or anything?” She repeated her question many times, but he did not look back. She said, “O Ibraaheem, did Allaah order you to do so?” He said, “Yes.” Thereupon, she said her eternal illuminating words, “Then, He will never fail us.” Do you see the firmness of her faith, the power of her trust in Allaah, her reliance on Him and submission to Him?
O Muslim sister, did you not recall the bright image of Khadeejah, the Mother of the Believers may Allaah be pleased with her while she was anxiously following the course of the call to Islam and the fruits of the message?
Do you not see in your imagination a glimpse of Asmaa’ bint Abi Bakr may Allaah be pleased with her the young woman with the two girdles, who used to walk for long distances under the scorching heat of the sun carrying food from Makkah to the Cave of Thawr, the hideout of the Messenger of Allaah, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), and her father Abu Bakr may Allaah be pleased with him? When she did not find anything to wrap the food in, she tore her sash into two halves to put one of them around her waist and carry the food in the other. Therefore, she was nicknamed “the lady with the two girdles”. She played an important role in supporting the truth and the success of the plan of Hijrah may Allaah be pleased with her.
Dear sister, while you were staying in the tent during Hajj, did you not remember your Mother ‘Aa’ishah may Allaah be pleased with her when she was with the Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) in the Farewell Hajj? She narrated that she and her sisters among the Companions used to uncover their faces during Ihraam and used to cover their faces whenever non-Mahram men passed by them. Did you not remember this and follow her example? Sister, you do not want to come to Hajj seeking forgiveness only to become an aide to Satan in tempting the believers with your unveiled beauty. Let it not be the case that while people return with forgiven sins, you return with accumulated sins, Allaah forbid! You should be far above such faults as you are one of the modest, bashful and chaste women.
Dear sister, it is permissible to take your children with you in Hajj if there is need to do so. Ibn ‘Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with him narrated that a woman came to the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) raised a boy to him and asked him, “Can the Hajj of this young boy be accepted”?” The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said:“Yes, and you will be rewarded.”[Muslim]
Another narration reads that the Messenger of Allaah, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was at Ar-Rawhaa’ and met a caravan and greeted them. He asked them:“Who are you?”They said, “We are Muslims. Who are you?” The people said, “This is the Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ).” Consequently, a woman rushed to her Howdah and took the hand of her little boy and asked, “Can this young boy perform Hajj?” The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), said:“Yes, and you will be rewarded.” [Abu Daawood: Saheeh]

The Muslim youth at Hajj:

Many people postpone the obligation of Hajj until they become grey-haired. They view it improper to perform Hajj while they are young, if they consider performing Hajj in the first place. However, the youth among the righteous predecessors used to hasten to perform this ritual during their youth and strength.

Saalim may Allaah have mercy upon him narrated on the authority of his father that a boy came to the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) saying, “I want to go in this direction – meaning Hajj.” The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) walked with him and said:“O boy, may Allaah provide you with piety, direct you to goodness and suffice your concerns!”When the boy returned and greeted the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), raised his head and said:“O boy, your Hajj is accepted, your sins are forgiven and your expenditure is compensated.” [Ibn Khuzaymah and At-Tirmithi: Hasan Ghareeb]
Anas may Allaah be pleased with him narrated that a man came to the Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), and said, “O Messenger of Allaah, I want to travel so provide for me.” The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said:“May Allaah provide you with piety, forgive your sins and facilitate goodness for you wherever you are.” [At-Tirmithi; Al-Albaani: Saheeh]
When the Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), reached Madeenah during Hijrah, Muhammad ibn Anas Ath-Thafri may Allaah be pleased with him was two weeks old. The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), wiped his head. Later, when this child was ten years old, he joined the Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), in the Farewell Hajj.

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Selfies affecting Holy Kaaba

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Selfies affecting Holy Kaabaimage by: saudigazette

Selfies affecting Holy Kaaba

Islam is the religion of peace and tolerance. It welcomes everyone, without discrimination on color, caste or creed.  It accept its followers the way they are, and asks them to worship no other than Allah (SWT) and accept the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, as His last messenger.
It’s been more than 1400 years since Islam has spread across the globe, and it is not only Arabs who are Muslims, but people from every country on every plant. With the development of science and technology, things are becoming easier compared to in the past for those travelling and visiting the Holy cities of Makkah and Madinah.
Yet, pilgrimages are performed just as when they started. Technology and smart phones have helped a lot, offering several advantages to pilgrims, but the new fashion of taking selfies while on pilgrimage has become the norm and has spread like an epidemic.
A selfie has become a way to show that a person was actually here. It began on Hajj, but now has now grown dramatically. A growing number of pilgrims stop and take selfies while circumambulating the Ka’ba. Several people have been seen making videos or taking a video call while circling the Ka’ba. We will not debate whether it’s right or wrong to use phones in this way on Hajj, but it certainly does affect others.
“I miss the old days when capturing pictures wasn’t allowed inside the Haram. At least, we didn’t used to end up bumping into each other” Rahat Saleem said after a recent visit to Makkah.
“Selfie craze is disturbing the normal flow of Tawaf and it causes problems not only to elderly, but to every worshipper.” Fatima Sharif, who is in the Kingdom on a visit from Pakistan, said.
“Personally I think it takes the pleasure and serenity away from the worship and from the task you are here perform in Makkah.” another pilgrim, who is saddened by selfie mania, said.
It is a person’s choice whether to take a picture or not, either for their memory or to show others, but one has to respect other people as well. Holy sites are always crowded with people coming from near and far to worship and perform pilgrimage. When a person stops at Mataf or Sa’ee just to have their picture taken, it hinders the flow, causing people to bump into each other.  At other times, your picture can include several strangers in the background male and female who should not be in your selfie. Always take a note of whether it is the right time or place, thinking about others first is also a good deed and will be rewarded.

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Faith And Noble Deeds

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Faith And Noble Deeds

Faith And Noble Deeds

Q.  What is Iman (faith)?
Ans. Iman (faith) means to believe in:
(i) Allah,
(ii) All His Attributes,
(iii) Angels,
(iv) Divine Books,
(v) Prophets,
(vi) Veracity of things brought by the Holy Prophet from Allah, and
(vii) Affirmation in words of all the above things. This affirmation or assertion is the essence of Iman. But the condition for affirmation is waived in special circumstances and situations. For example, the Faith of a dumb person is valid even though he is unable to give it expression in words.
Q. What do we mean by noble deeds?
Ans. All the modes of worship and good practices taught to us by Allah and His Messengers are to be taken as noble deeds.
Q. Are the modes of worship and noble deeds also part of Faith?
Ans. Yes, Faith in its entirety includes noble deeds. These noble acts give light and perfection to one’s Faith which remains incomplete without them.
Q. What do we mean by worship?
Ans. To worship means to offer one’s servitude. One who offers servitude is a worshipper mid the one served is the object of worship. There is only one Being worthy of worship for all of us He is Allah who created us and the universe. We are all His servants. He has ordained us to worship Him. It is, thus, our duty to offer our worships to him.
Q. What sections of Allah’s creation have been ordained to worship?
Ans. Human beings and Jennies have been commanded to offer their worships.  These two are known as mukallaf (answerable). Angels and the rest of animate creatures are not answerable in respect of worship to Allah.
Q. Who are Jennies?
Ans. Jennies are also among the major creations of Allah, They are made of fire. Their bodies are so fine as to be invisible. But they become visible should they choose to take the form of man or animal. God has invested them with power to assume the form of an animal or a human being. They are both male and female. They procreate too.
Q. What is the proper way of worship?
Ans. Worship can take several forms, such as:
(i) Saying Salat,
(ii) Fasting,
(iii) Giving alms,
(iv) Performing Hajj,
(v) Offering sacrifices,
(vi) Retiring to mosques in I’tikaf,
(vii) Exhorting people to do good,
(viii) Forbidding them to do evil,
(ix) Giving respect and regard to one’s parents, teachers and elders,
(x) Setting up schools,
(xii) Studying religion,
(xii) Imparting religious knowledge and education to others,
(xiv) Helping those who would study religion,
(xv) Fighting Allah f s enemies for the sake of Allah,
(xvi) Attending to the needs of the poor,
(xvii) Feeding the hungry,
(xviii) Extinguishing the thirst of the thirsty.
Doing such other acts as Allah commands and approves of also fall within the precincts of worship. These very acts and practices are known as “noble deeds”.

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'Complete the Hajj and ‘Umrah for Allaah'

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‘Complete the Hajj and ‘Umrah for Allaah’

Allaah The Almighty Says (what means): {“And complete the Hajj or ‘Umrah for Allaah…” } [Quran 2:196]
Scholars of Tafseer (exegesis) mentioned that this verse was revealed in Al-Hudaybiyah in the sixth year A.H. The polytheists of the Quraysh prevented the Muslims from entering Al-Masijid Al-Haraam to perform ‘Umrah (lesser pilgrimage). In fact, this incident was before Hajj was rendered obligatory for Muslims. Hence, what is meant in the verse is ‘Umrah while Hajj was mentioned in the verse to give Muslims the glad tidings that they would perform Hajj later; and this is one of the miracles of the Noble Quran.
Scholars of Tafseer elaborated on that verse, and here we shall highlight their opinions briefly:
They agree unanimously that once the Muslim starts his Hajj or ‘Umrah, he is obliged to complete it. Meanwhile, their opinions vary on the intended meaning of completing Hajj or ‘Umrah. There are four different opinions regarding this issue:
1)   Ibn ‘Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with him said that it [completing Hajj or ‘Umrah] means finishing the due rituals of Hajj or ‘Umrah after starting them.
2)   Other scholars argued that the intended meaning of the verse is that the Muslim should enter the state of Ihraam before he leaves his home intending Hajj or ‘Umrah only without being engaged in any other worldly affairs aside. ‘Ali along with other Companions may Allaah be pleased with them adopted that opinion. Furthermore, Sa‘eed ibn Jubayr and other Taabi‘oon (successors) may Allaah have mercy upon them adopted the same opinion as well.
3)   Mak-hool may Allaah have mercy upon him believes that the intended meaning is the necessity of assuming Ihraam for the Hajj or the ‘Umrah from the due Meeqaat.
4)   Some argue that the meaning here is to perform Hajj or ‘Umrah separately. ‘Umar may Allaah be pleased with him elaborated on that verse saying, “Completing Hajj and ‘Umrah means to perform them one at a time and to perform ‘Umrah on months other than the months of Hajj.” [‘Abdul-Razzaaq]
Furthermore, Imaam At-Tabari may Allaah have mercy upon him mentioned in his Tafseer that the correct among these opinions is the first opinion, which states that completing Hajj or ‘Umrah means finishing the due rituals of Hajj or ‘Umrah after starting them and performing them duly.
Additionally, scholars hold different opinions regarding whether ‘Umrah is an obligatory or a Sunnah act of worship. The Hanafi and Maaliki scholars consider it to be a voluntary act. This was the same opinion that was held by Jaabir ibn ‘Abdullaah and Ibn Mas‘ood may Allaah be pleased with them among the Companions and An-Nakha‘i may Allaah have mercy upon him from the Taabi‘oon (successors). Those who adopted this opinion did not find in this verse any evidence that ‘Umrah or Hajj is obligatory. In fact, they found that this particular verse proves only that Muslims should complete Hajj or ‘Umrah i.e. finishing the due rituals of Hajj or ‘Umrah after starting them. They argued that the evidence on the obligation of Hajj is not stated in that verse, but in other verses such as the one (which means): {“… And [it is due] to Allaah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House…”} [Quran 3:97]
Maalik may Allaah have mercy upon him said, “The ‘Umrah is an act of Sunnah but we do not know of any one who rendered it permissible for Muslims to neglect performing it.”
Whereas, Imaam Ash-Shaafi‘i and Imaam Ibn Hanbal may Allaah have mercy upon them believed that ‘Umrah is obligatory just like Hajj. ‘Umar, Ibn ‘Umar and other Companions may Allaah be pleased with them adopted that opinion in addition to ‘Ataa, Mujaahid and Al-Hasan may Allaah have mercy upon them from among the Taabi‘oon.
Allaah The Exalted Says (what means):
·  {“And I Did not Create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” } [Quran 51:56]
·  {“And they were not commanded except to worship Allaah, [being] sincere to Him in religion…” }[Quran 98:5]
Thus, the meaning of the verse (which means): {“And complete the Hajj or ‘Umrah for Allaah…”} [Quran 2:196] is to carry out the due rituals of Hajj and ‘Umrah properly and offer them with full sincerity to Allaah The Exalted after starting them. It is worth mentioning that the previously mentioned verse underlines two significant issues:
·   First, it highlights the importance of completing the acts of worship after starting them; as Allaah The Exalted Says (what means): {“… do not invalidate your deeds”} [Quran47:33]
Furthermore, ‘Aa’ishah may Allaah be pleased with her said, “The best righteous deed for the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was that which was done frequently and on regular basis.” [Muslim]
·  Second, which is the most important one, offering acts of worship with full sincerity to Allaah The Almighty. Actually, devoting one’s intention of worship solely and sincerely to Allaah The Almighty is one of the pillars of the validity of any act of worship and a reason for having our acts of worship accepted. It was narrated in a reported citation that ‘Umar may Allaah be pleased with him used to recite that supplication, “O Allaah, make all my deeds righteous and offered with full sincerity to You with nothing thereof devoted to anyone but You.”

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Hajj and Spiritual Discipline

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Hajj and Spiritual Discipline

Hajj and Spiritual Discipline

Spiritual discipline is a means to regulate and develop the spirit that Allaah The Almighty breathed into man. Allaah The Almighty Says (what means): {And when I have proportioned him and breathed into him of My [created] spirit, then fall down to him in prostration.}[Quran 15: 28]
It was narrated that Ibn Mas‘ood may Allaah be pleased with him said, “The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) who is the most truthful one, said to us:’Each one of you comes together in his mother’s womb for forty days and then becomes a clot for a similar period of time. Then he becomes a chewed lump of flesh for a similar length of time. Then an angel is sent to him and he breathes spirit into him…’” [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
Man consists of body and spirit. When the spirit is weak, the body dominates the spirit and a man becomes similar to animals. He becomes a slave and prisoner of the lusts of food, drink, sex, sleep as well as other sensual desires. The spirit wilts and withers away, and is overcome and dragged to the dirt. Thus, man falls to the lowest depths and lives solely to satisfy his physical needs, thereby restricting his aspirations and hopes only to this earth and the worldly life. He becomes like the heedless people who do not see beyond the view of their sensual eyes, for their hearts have been tainted and covered by a veil due to their deeds.
When the spirit is strong, it overcomes the body, leads man to goodness in both worlds and saves him from both extremism and negligence. When the spirit dominates, it neither curbs the body’s desires, nor wrongs it. Rather, it leads the body in a way which reforms it. Thus, one surrenders to Allaah The Almighty Who breathed the spirit into him; thus, he is far removed from acquiring animal-like traits and achieves the task for which he has been created, which is succession on earth.
“Spiritual energy is man’s largest and greatest energy and the most relevant to existence. On the contrary, the body’s energy is limited, as it depends on what is perceived by the senses. Although the mind’s energy is more powerful, it is also restricted by time and place. Spiritual energy, however, is neither limited nor restricted, since it is connected to Allaah The Almighty.” [Manhaj At-Tarbiyah Al-Islaamiyyah: Muhammad Qutb]
Islam gives special care to the spirit, since it is the means of connecting it to Allaah The Almighty. The essence of the Islamic approach in disciplining the spirit is to establish a permanent connection between it and Allaah The Almighty in every moment, every action, every thought and every feeling.
Worship is the most effective way to discipline the spirit. Worship makes one always connected to Allaah The Almighty. The main purpose of many acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, Hajj and Zakaah (obligatory charity), is to establish a permanent relationship between the slave and his Lord and to further keep this relation strong and firm. It is from the favors of Allaah The Almighty on man that some acts of worship are performed daily (such as prayers), others annually (such as fasting), and a third category which is required just once in one’s lifetime, such as Hajj. The acts of worship in essence are opportunities to maintain a strong and firm relationship between the slave and his Lord. The role of Hajj is refining the soul and strengthening its connection to Allaah The Almighty and charging it with consciousness of Allaah The Almighty.
The role of Hajj in spiritual discipline
Abu Hurayrah may Allaah be pleased with him narrated that the Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), was asked, “What is the best deed?” He replied: “To have faith in Allaah and His Messenger.”The enquirer asked, “What next?” The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), said:“To perform Jihaad for the sake of Allaah.” The enquirer asked, “What next?” The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), said:“To perform a valid and accepted Hajj.” [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
Hajj is immediately mentioned after Jihaad because they are both from the best acts of obedience which bring one closer to Allaah The Almighty, next to having faith in Him.
It was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah may Allaah be pleased with her said, “O Messenger of Allaah! We find Jihaad the best of deeds. May we (i.e. women) participate in Jihaad?”The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), replied:“No, the best Jihaad for you (i.e. women) is a valid and accepted Hajj.” [Al-Bukhaari] According to another narration, she said, “O Messenger of Allaah! Are women required to make Jihaad?”The Prophet, sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ), replied:“They are required to make Jihaad with no fighting in it: i.e. performing Hajj and ‘Umrah.”[Ibn Khuzaymah]
Hajj is a temporary desertion of the worldly life
Hajj starts when one assumes Ihraam (sacral state) by taking off form-fitting clothes, abandoning perfume during the whole period of Ihraam, wearing a uniform which consists of an upper and lower sheet of white cloth. When one is in the state of Ihraam, he abandons the adornment and pleasures of the worldly life and uses only what covers his ‘Awrah (private parts), as he seeks nothing but the satisfaction of Allaah The Almighty.
Talbiyah implies encouragement to head for Allaah The Almighty
When the pilgrim reaches the Meeqaat (a place from where one has to assume Ihraam), he starts to repeat Talbiyah, saying, “Labbayka Allaahumma labbayk. Labbayka laa shareeka laka labbayk (O Allaah, I answer Your Call, there is no partner with You).” It is as if one says: I have abandoned the worldly life with everything in it and hastened to You, my Lord, so that You may become satisfied with me. Here I am worshipping none but You and care for none but You. He declares this after he has cast off his ordinary clothes and the pleasures of the worldly life for the sake of Allaah The Almighty alone.

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Preparing for Hajj & Umrah

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Preparing for Hajj & Umrah

Every year, millions of Muslims make the journey of their lifetime. They come from all over the world for the sole purpose of fulfilling one of Allaah’s greatest commandments to mankind – the Hajj. Abu Hurayrah may Allaah be pleased with him narrated that “The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was asked, ‘Which is the best deed?’ He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said: ‘To believe in Allaah and His Messenger ( sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )).’ He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was then asked, ‘Which is the next (good deed)?’ He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said: ‘To participate in Jihaad in Allaah’s cause.’ He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was then asked, ‘Which is the next?’He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said: ‘To perform an accepted Hajj.” [Al-Bukhaari] For over 1400 years, believers have been making Hajj to the House of Allaah in Makkah. It is an obligation for each and every Muslim to perform Hajj at least once in his/her lifetime if he is physically and financially able.
Pre-Hajj preparations
Due to the importance of Hajj, preparations for it should not be taken lightly. Besides planning the actually logistics of the trip, the Muslim needs to prepare Islamically, physically, mentally, and financially for this great act of worship. Islamically, one of the most important preparations for this journey is acquiring the necessary knowledge for performing the rituals of Hajj and ‘Umrah correctly and in accordance to the Sunnah of the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ). This means studying and learning about Islam, acquiring a high degree of Eemaan (faith) in order to deal with the emotional and physical demands of Hajj, and learning correctly the actual religious rituals and requirements from the beginning to the end of Hajj and ‘Umrah. Studying and learning about the Hajj can be accomplished in a variety of fashions, from reading books on the subject or using computer programs which utilize a multimedia format, to actually taking classes offered by Islamic centers on the rituals of Hajj and ‘Umrah. Furthermore, many travel groups that specialize in Hajj and ‘Umrah trips offer Hajj preparation classes as well as scholars and students of knowledge that help those going for Hajj perform the rituals of Hajj and ‘Umrah correctly.
In addition, it is important to mention that spiritually preparing for Hajj and ‘Umrah is also a lesson on how to follow the footsteps of the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) who taught the Companions may Allaah be pleased with them – a lesson that can be transformed into other acts of worship. Preparing for Hajj is a spiritual experience with a period of self-reflection and a lesson in piety and humility. The pilgrim must focus on his sole intention of performing Hajj. That it is solely for the pleasure of Allaah and in accordance to His Commandment regarding this act of worship. The believer also needs to resolve any conflicts or differences between him and others and seek forgiveness for any acts of transgression. This stage of preparation should take place long before the actual departure for Hajj.
Other preparations that should be planned long before the actual trip are financial in nature. Simply, going to Hajj costs money. Furthermore the pilgrim must pay off any old debts (this includes any type of loans), household bills, and leave enough money to pay any living expenses likely that other members of his family not making Hajj might need. Finally it is important to complete one’s will (wasiyyah) before departing on Hajj.
Another important step in preparing for Hajj is the need to prepare physically for the event. Not only is Hajj a spiritual event, it also requires a lot of physical stamina from the participant. Hajj is not a picnic! Completing the rites of Hajj includes a lot of walking, mixing with many people, living in high temperatures (during summer), and exerting a great deal of effort. Another important step in preparing physically for Hajj is to make sure you are medically fit for the trip. Individuals with chronic health issues need to see their primary care physician in order to discuss any medical risks that need to be addressed prior to their Hajj experience.
Another recommendation is that these individuals also travel with a healthy caretaker in case any problems might arise during the actual Hajj. In addition, pilgrims must have the necessary vaccinations required by the Saudi Government for cholera and meningococcal meningitis. Because of these issues, it is also important to emphasize that one should complete Hajj and ‘Umrah as soon as one is able to both physically and financially. Some people wait until they are old to go for Hajj. This is wrong and makes Hajj more difficult than necessary for the participant and in many cases for his traveling companions. Performing Hajj as soon as possible corresponds to the Hadeeth narrated by ‘Abdullaah Ibn ‘Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with him who said: “The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said: ‘He who intended to perform Hajj should hasten to do so.’” [Abu Daawood]
The last pre-logistic preparation centers on preparing mentally for Hajj. This includes learning and accepting that the Hajj experience includes frustration, intense dessert heat (during summer), and various differences in culture and food. The pilgrim can expect to stand in long lines, be shoved and pushed by others while completing the necessary rituals, and be in an uncomfortable close proximity to members of the opposite sex.
One purpose of Hajj is for the individual to be tested. The individual will be tested on physical, emotional, and spiritual levels.

Article by: www.islamweb.net

The Prophet successful leadership and benevolence during Hajj

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The Prophet’s successful leadership and benevolence during Hajj

Allaah, Almighty, gave the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) perfect moral values. He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) therefore fulfilled all the requirements of ideal benevolence and successful leadership. People came to him with open hearts. They raced to perform the Hajj with him when they learned of his intention to perform this important pillar of Islam. Everyone wanted to accompany him and be under his banner. Thus, some one hundred thousand pilgrims performed the Hajj with him. [Muslim]
They all were desirous of following his example and of having first hand knowledge from him. The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) left a profound impression on their souls. He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) gave them the best guidance and for them he was an exemplary leader. In fact, he sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was the greatest leader and inspirer the world had ever seen. Following are just a few examples in this regard:
i)  His modesty
Modesty is one of the attributes of good conduct for which Allaah rewards his servants. Abu Hurayrah may Allaah be pleased with him narrated, “Allaah will elevate those who worship Him in humility.” [Ibn Maajah] Modesty in fact, was an order from Allaah to the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ). Allaah Says (what means): “And lower your wing to the believers who follow you.” [Quran, 26:215] Thus, the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) obeyed Allaah, and attained an unsurpassable degree of modesty. This was seen during his Hajj on different occasions:
He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) refused to receive any special treatment as he insisted on drinking from the same basin as everybody else, although people were dipping their hands into the water. “I don’t want it,” he sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said when they offered to bring him clean water, “Give me some of the water that people are drinking.” [Al-Bukhaari]
He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) also allowed Usaamah Ibn Zayd may Allaah be pleased with him to ride behind him in public from ‘Arafah to Muzdalifah. [Muslim]
He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) stopped to listen to a woman from the public to answer her question. [Muslim]
ii)    His mercy
During the Hajj, the Prophet’s sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) mercy for the people can be seen on many occasions:
The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) ordered those who did not offer Hady to end their state of Ihraam completely; this would permit them to have sex with their wives, to be dressed in their normal clothes, and to wear perfume. This was an act of mercy for the nation and alleviation of their burden. [Muslim]
He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) combined Asr (afternoon) and Thuhr (noon) prayers at ‘Arafah, [Al-Bukhaari], and delayed his prayers when he per-formed Ifaadhah (moved) to Muzdalifah, [Al-Bukhaari], thereby making it easier for the people to perform the rituals. Indeed it would have been difficult for the pilgrims to dismount and unpack several times. In so doing, the pilgrims were able to halt their camels and put their belongings at the same spot where they spent the night.
The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) gave permission to the weak to perform Ifaadhah, (to leave) from Muzdalifah ahead of the rest of the pilgrims at night, right after the moon had set. Thus, they were able to perform their rituals easily and comfortably on Slaughter Day before the others. [Al-Bukhaari]
At the time when pilgrims went to spend the night in Mina, the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) permitted his uncle Al-‘Abbaas may Allaah be pleased with him to stay in Makkah to continue providing people with drinking water. [At-Tirmithi]
Further, he sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) allowed shepherds to cast their Jimaar (pebbles) in one day instead of two after Slaughter Day. [Muslim]
Being merciful to his people, the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) would sometimes perform the rituals in a less favorable manner than they should ideally be performed. For example, he sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) performed Tawaaf on his camel back and touched the Black Stone with a stick instead of kissing it or touching it with his hand. He did not perform Tawaaf or Sa’y on foot, which would have been better because he did not want people to be turned away or get hurt in his presence. [Muslim]
iii)  His magnanimity
The good deeds of the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) as leader of the pilgrims during the Hajj were countless and evident for all around. Here are just few examples:
The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was so generous in giving alms and charities, that he gave away the one hundred badanas (sacrificial camels)—including their meat, hides and coverings. [Muslim] He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) also donated in other charities on many occasions. [Al-Bukhaari]
The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was so kind to the weak that he mentioned them in his exhortations. [Ahmad]
Committed to saving his people, the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) invoked Allaah at ‘Arafah and Muzdalifah, to accept them and to forgive them their sins. [Ahmad] When asked by a pilgrim to invoke Allaah on his behalf, he offered a general invocation and said, “may Allaah forgive you all.” [At-Tirmithi]
He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) spoke clearly and repeatedly to the pilgrims, giving them general information but without going into details. He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) dealt with the fundamentals of Islam, explained the grave sins and clarified some principles so that people would better understand them. [Al-Bukhaari]
iv)  His patience
During his Hajj, the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) showed all of the three types of patience simultaneously. He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was most enduring in obeying Allaah’s commands and offering sacrifices. He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) did it in complete relaxation, tranquility and submissiveness to Allaah. [Al-Bukhaari]
The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was a most religious, most knowledgeable and most observant of Allaah’s limits and never transgressed them. The patience and endurance he sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) exhibited when he led the pilgrims without any sign of complaint or resentment is indeed commendable.
v) His responsibilities
The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was keenon perfecting submission and surrender to Allaah, and on performing the Hajjrituals perfectly. He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was the leader of thepilgrims and in charge of their general unity and welfare. Additionally, he wasthe educator and guide of these massive crowds, teaching them good and warningthem against evil. He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was doing his utmost toconvey his message and to explain Islamic rulings in a perfectmanner.
vi)  His leniency
The Prophet’s sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) leniency during the Hajj is exemplified on different occasions:
He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) took shelter in the shade and moved between the sacred sites on camel back. Had he done otherwise, it would have been difficult for the Muslims to follow his example. [Muslim]
He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) also appeared publicly during the Hajj, so pilgrims had no difficulty in following in his footsteps and asking his opinion about whatever problems they had. [Abu Daawood]
He sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) made matters easier for pilgrims, and never asked them to do anything beyond their capacity, whether in performing the rituals or in leading them and shouldering the responsibility for them. [Al-Bukhaari]
Moreover, he sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) did not come near the Ka’bah after the Tawaaf of arrival until he had returned from ‘Arafah, [Abu Daawood], and settled in Mina on the Days of Tashreeq. This leniency is clearly shown when he did not go to Haram until he was ready to leave Makkah. [Al-Bukhaari]
Further, he sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) ordered his companions may Allaah be pleased with them to be kind to themselves. Upon seeing a man walking and leading his badana (sacrificial camel), the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said to him “Ride on it.” “It is a badana (a camel intended as a ritual sacrifice),” the man replied.” “Ride on it, woe to you,” the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said (woe to you) on the second or third time. [Muslim]

Article by: www.islamweb.net

Haj inspectors go fully electronic

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Haj inspectors go fully electronicimage source

Haj inspectors go fully electronic

MADINAH — The Directorate of Haj will issue iPads, instead of pen and paper, to its inspectors to record violations.
Director of Haj in Madinah Mohammad Al-Bijawi said the directorate has become 100 percent electronic.
“We no longer use paper to complete our procedures. We plan to expand the dependency on electronic processing over paper processing to Yanbu’s Prince Abdulmohsen Airport and Yanbu commercial port,” said Al-Bijawi.
He also said using iPads is cost efficient and it simplifies the process. “The directorate has an application specially designed for the purpose. The application has a database of all services available for pilgrims, including flight schedules and lists of hotels in Makkah and Madinah where the pilgrims stay,” said Al-Bijawi.
He said easy access to all of these information enables the inspector to check up on any violations committed by the service providers or pilgrims themselves
“The inspector can also record the location of the violation using GPS. The application has a document indexing all services available for the pilgrims,” said Al-Bijawi.
He added the document helps inspectors to guide lost pilgrims to their destinations.
“Now inspectors can focus on doing their work instead of following up with paperwork. The use of electronics will further expand in the future to better serve the pilgrims and to develop the services offered,” said Al-Bijawi.

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Muslims Unity and the hajj

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Muslims Unity and the hajj

Muslims Unity and the hajj

Muslim Unity and agreement lead to strength and victory, while disunity and disagreement lead to weakness and defeat. Powerful nations only succeeded because of unity among its members and integration of its efforts. History is the best witness to this rule. Hence, we find several texts in the Quran and the Sunnah stressing this great principle and warning against disagreement and dispute. Allah The Almighty Says (what means):

{And obey Allaah and His Messenger, and do not dispute and [thus] lose courage and [then] your strength would depart; and be patient. Indeed, Allaah Is with the patient.} [Quran 8:46]

Abu Mas‘ood, May Allaah Be Pleased with him, said: “The Messenger of Allaah sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) used to place his hand upon our shoulders at prayer time (when we would form rows for the prayer) and say, ‘Stand in straight rows and do not differ among yourselves, or else your hearts will differ (due to disaccord).’”[Muslim]

Hajj is a great occasion where the Muslims’ unity appears in its most beautiful forms. All differences disappear, all barriers melt and Muslims gather in this imposing scene, which delights the souls and hearts.

Muslims from all over the world gather around this Ancient House, towards which they turn to perform the prayers five times a day, the House towards which they turn their souls and hearts during prayers in their faraway lands. Now, they gather around it to see, consult, love, and shake hands with each ‎other. They took off those different and distinguishing clothes to wear a white uniform indicating the whiteness of their hearts, as well as the purity of their appearance and souls.

Indeed, these are magnificent moments when all pilgrims move from Mina to stand this great standing in ‘Arafah confirming the unity of place, time, clothes and destination.

There are unanimous manifestations of unity in Hajj, including:
–   Unity of place and time: Hajj is performed in a specific time and place and it is impermissible to be performed at any other time or in any other place. Allaah The Almighty Says (what means): {Hajj is [during] well-known months, so whoever has made Hajj obligatory upon himself therein [by entering the state of Ihraam], there is [to be for him] no sexual relations and no disobedience and no disputing duringHajj.} [Quran 2:197]
The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said: “Hajj is the standing at ‘Arafah.”[At-Tirmithi]

–   Unity of rituals: All pilgrims are required to perform the rituals of Hajj including Ihraam, Tawaaf, Sa‘y between the Safa and Marwah, standing at ‘Arafah, spending the night at Mina, stoning the Jamraat and so on.

All pilgrims perform the same rituals, the thing that embodies and deepens brotherhood and love among them.
–   Unity of aim and feeling: All pilgrims come from every distant pass hoping for the Mercy of Allaah The Almighty, fearing His punishment and raising their hands to implore Him and ask for His forgiveness, bounty and satisfaction.
They have one Qiblah, one Lord, similar feelings and similar clothes. These manifestations of unity that take place in this blessed occasion maintain the feeling of unity and reinforce the feeling of brotherhood among Muslims. They also strengthen mutual sympathy and sharing in joy in addition to religious and worldly cooperation among Muslims.
This was a brief overview of this important issue that occupy the minds of all Muslims, who aspire to a time when the Muslim nation will reunite to achieve superiority over the other nations and restore its leadership that the Muslims lost because of disunity and disagreement. Allaah The Almighty Says (what means): {Allaah Has Promised those who have believed among you and done righteous deeds that He Will surely Grant them succession [to authority] upon the earth just as He Granted it to those before them and that He Will surely Establish for them [therein] their religion which He Has Preferred for them and that He Will surely Substitute for them, after their fear, security, [for] they worship Me, not associating anything with Me. But whoever disbelieves after that – then those are the defiantly disobedient.} [Quran 24:55]

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Haj – The journey of love

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Haj - The journey of love

By Him whose House the loving Haj visit,
Responding with ihram at the appointed limit,
Uncovering their heads in total humility
Before One to Whom faces bow in servility.
They exclaim in the valleys,
“We have responded to You –
All Praise is Yours, and Kingdom too!”
He invited and they answered, with love and pleasure;
When they called upon Him, nearer came the Divine treasure.
You see them on their mounts, hair dusty and disheveled,
Yet never more content, never happier have they felt;
Leaving homelands and families due to holy yearning,
Unmoved are they by temptations of returning.
Through plains and valleys, from near and far,
Walking and riding, in submission to Allâh.
[At the Ka’bah]
When they see His House – that magnificent sight
For which the hearts of all creatures are set alight –
It seems they’ve never felt tired before,
For their discomfort and hardship is no more.
Now the eye of the Lover drowns in its streams,
It sees through its tears the goal of its dreams;
Now for Allâh, how many tears are issued?
Each one being followed by a multitude,
When the eye perceives the House, its darkness clears,
And from the sorrowful heart, pain disappears;
Vision cannot encompass this beautiful sight:
Each glance returns with greater delight!
No wonder at this, for when the Merciful preferred
The House for Himself, it became most honoured.
He clothed it in Majesty, a magnificent garment;
Embroidered it with Beauty, a wonderful ornament!
The hearts all love the House therefore,
Awed and humbled, in respect and honour.
Arafat
Now to ‘Arafat, hoping for Mercy and Forgiveness
From the One overflowing with Generosity and Kindness;
Now for Allâh is that Magnificent Standing
Like, though lesser than, the Day of Reckoning.
The Irresistible draws near, His Majesty manifest,
Boasting to His angels, for He is the Mightiest,
“My slaves have come to Me so lovingly,
I’ll be Generous and Merciful, willingly.
I have forgiven their sins, – to this you are witness –
Fulfilled their hopes, and showered them with goodness.”
So joyous news! O people of that standing,
When sins are forgiven and Mercy is spreading;
How many slaves are set completely free?
Whilst others seek a cure, and heal will He.
Now Satan is never known to lose such face:
He’s blameworthy, rejected, in utter disgrace.
For he sees a matter that enrage him must:
He flees, slaps his face and covers it in dust!
Such Forgiveness he never did see
As granted by the Lord, and such Mercy!
He built his edifice from every temptation available
Till he thought it was complete, unassailable;
Then Allâh struck his building at its very foundation,
So it fell upon him, tumbling in devastation;
What worth has his structure, this evil ploy,
That he does build, and the Lord does destroy?
[Muzdalifah and Mina]
Now to Muzdalifah, to spend the night
In the Sacred Area, then Prayer at first light;
Now on to the Great Pillar, which they need
To stone at the time of the Prayer of ‘Id;
Now to their tents for the sacrifice prepared,
Reviving the tradition of a Father revered.
If sacrificing themselves were Allâh’s demand,
They would respond, submitting to the command;
Just as they’d expose their necks in Jihad
To Allâh’s enemies, till these stream with blood;
They discipline themselves, presenting the head for a shave:
Bringing humility and happiness to the obedient slave.
[The Tawaf of Ifadah/Ziyarah]
So when they’ve removed those natural growths,
Completed their rites, and fulfilled their oaths,
He invites them again to visit His House:
What honour and welcome this visit allows!
By Allâh, they visit it in so much splendor,
Receiving their rewards and plenty of honour;
There Allâh bestows Grace, Favour and Kindness,
Showing Generosity, Mercy and Forgiveness.
[Mina]
Then they return to Mina, each to his tent,
Every minute wish is granted, and they are content;
They stay there a day, then another, then a third,
They’re allowed to depart early, but to stay is preferred;
They stone the pillars daily after the sun’s decline,
With a slogan of Takbir in the presence of the Divine!
If only you could see their standing there:
Palms outstretched, hoping for Mercy’s share!
“O Lord! O Lord! Knowing as You do
That we hope for no-one, only You!
Then grant our wish, O You All-Knowing,
We pray for Your Mercy overflowing.”
[The Farewell Tawaf]
When they’ve achieved at Mina all their gains,
Once more they fill the valleys and plains:
To the Ka’bah, the Sacred House, by the end of the day,
To circle it seven times, and then to Pray.
When departure nears and they are certain
That the bond of proximity is about to loosen,
There’s only a last stand for a final farewell:
Now for Allâh are the eyes that swell,
And for Allâh are the heavy hearts that turn
Into cauldrons of desire where fire does burn;
And the passionate sighs whose heat so vigorous
Nearly melts the Lover, ecstatic, rapturous!
Now you see those bewildered, perplexed in the throng,
Whilst others chant their sorrowful song:
“I depart, but there remains for You my yearning,
My fire of grief is raging and burning;
I bid farewell, but longing pulls my reins –
My heart is encamped in Your eternal plains!”
No blame today for saying what you feel:
No blame for expressing what you used to conceal!

Article by: en.islamway.net

Hajj, a life-changing event for Muslims

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Millions of devout Muslims from around the world have just completed the Islamic pilgrimage called Hajj. The Hajj is an annual pilgrimage to Mecca, and it is compulsory for Muslims to do it at least once in their lifetime, once they are physically able and financially capable.
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Many Muslims say the Hajj is a life-changing experience, like the civil-rights leader Malcolm X, who said doing the Hajj in March 1964 made him change his views on whites and racism.
In T&T, former chairman of the San Juan/Laventille Regional Corporation, Nafeesa Mohammed believes doing the Hajj has had a major impact on her life. Mohammed performed Hajj, not once but twice—in 2010 and 2012.
Mohammed said when she was growing up, she heard stories about the Hajj from her aunt and other members of the family.
“I really became more aware of the rites of the Hajj when my mother was performing her own Hajj in 1994. Just as she had completed the most sacred rites of the Hajj, my father got a heart attack here in Trinidad and died. We had to bury my father while my mother was in Makkah in Saudi Arabia.”
Another couple, Hajji Shazad and Hajjin Fariza Khan also feel the Hajj has been a transformative life event.
The Khans of Orange Field Road, Carapichaima, performed Hajj in 2010.
Shazad Khan explained that having the intention of performing Hajj is the main factor for Muslims: “Each Muslim is supposed to practice the correct teachings of Islam and with that comes humility and genuine forgiveness in your heart. You must make that intention to perform the Hajj and proceed on the journey by submitting to the will of Allah and constantly declaring that you are there at the service of the Lord.
In terms of special requirements before performing the Hajj, Mohammed explained that there are certain matters that prospective pilgrims would try to fulfill.
“Hajj is compulsory only if you have the means to do it. It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience and you are not supposed to borrow money to go to perform Hajj,” Shazad said.
“Your personal, family and financial affairs should be organized before leaving for Hajj. Provisions must be made for your dependents prior to departing from your home.”
Mohammed described her first Hajj experience as the most beautiful as she was able to perform the Hajj along with her husband, Reza Abasali.
“I was also able to retrace the movements of my mother at the time of my father’s death as he succumbed during the most intense time of the Hajj rituals. This brought great comfort and peace to me because being near the Kaaba makes me understand much more about life and death and our purpose in this life.”
“Spending more than a week in the City of Madinah was also the most beautiful part of my Hajj experience because I was so close to the tomb of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). This is such a sweet smelling and beautiful place. My heart was at peace being so near to our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH),” Mohammed said.
“My whole life has centered around a struggle here in T&T for the preservation of certain aspects of our religious and cultural heritage. I am a traditional moderate Muslim and I was able to witness that the majority of Muslims from around the world are just like us who have no hesitation in showing such abundant love and respect for Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).”
Mohammed said since her first Hajj experience her life has changed dramatically, “I actually started wearing hijab full-time when I made my first downpayment for the Hajj. By that time, my Islamic consciousness was growing by leaps and bounds. I am still the same person but I view life differently.
“We attach ourselves to things that are ephemeral and I am more aware of our real purpose in this life. When we leave this world, it is only our deeds that follow us. So striving to do as much good in this life is my mission. I was brought up by my parents who instilled in us that service to the community is service to God. So this has been an easy path for me.
“I live a normal life but there is much more God consciousness. I am not fanatical or dogmatic at all! My heart and soul have been touched in a profound way since Hajj and I am able to express feelings of love with great ease and comfort.”
While there, Khan said he was able to perform Umrah Hajj on behalf of his children —Fadil, who passed away suddenly earlier this year, daughter Suranah and mother, Imam Baksh-Khan, who is also deceased. This, Khan said is a lesser pilgrimage.
The best part of his experience was on the day of Arafat, “this is where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is his last sermon. I prayed all day there, making dua and asking for forgiveness. Being there was like a sea of white, representing purity. The millions of people were all dressed in white. It was a breathtaking scene.”
Shazad Khan’s wife Fariza said her cherished moment was finally viewing the Holy Ka’aba. The Ka’aba is an ancient stone structure that was built and re-built by prophets as a house of worship. The Ka’aba is considered the center of the Muslim world and is a unifying focal point for Islamic worship.
Fariza said, “It was just an awesome and fulfilling experience all around. It really humbles you and makes you closer to God.”

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Article source www.guardian.co.tt