What is the Hajj?
The correct answer and explanation is:
Hajj is the pilgrimage to Mecca that is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Every able-bodied Muslim who is financially capable is required to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. It is a deeply spiritual and significant journey for Muslims, aimed at seeking forgiveness, strengthening faith, and fulfilling a key religious duty. The pilgrimage occurs annually in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, during the Islamic lunar calendar.
Hajj involves a series of rituals performed over several days, starting in the holy city of Mecca, where pilgrims visit the Kaaba, the cube-shaped building at the heart of the Masjid al-Haram mosque, which is considered the most sacred site in Islam. One of the key rituals is the Tawaf, where pilgrims walk around the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction. Another major component is the Sa’i, the act of walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
Pilgrims also perform rituals like standing at Arafat, which is a day spent in prayer and reflection, symbolizing the day of judgment. Afterward, they spend the night in Muzdalifah, before returning to Mina to perform the symbolic act of the Stoning of the Devil, where they throw stones at three pillars, representing the rejection of temptation.
The significance of Hajj goes beyond the physical act of pilgrimage. It is seen as an opportunity for Muslims to cleanse themselves of past sins, renew their commitment to their faith, and unite with Muslims from around the world, regardless of their nationality or social status. The act of performing Hajj also symbolizes the equality of all Muslims before Allah, emphasizing humility and submission to God’s will.