What Is Hajj in Islam? A Pillar of Faith Explained Simply

If you’ve ever wondered what Hajj is in Islam, you’re not alone. Hajj is one of a Muslim’s most beautiful and deep experiences. It’s not just a physical pilgrimage; it’s a spiritual rebirth, a once-in-a-lifetime experience to stand before Allah in complete submission and surrender.

Let’s walk through it together, step-by-step, and discover it.

What is hajj in Islam: Definition of Hajj in Islam

What is hajj in Islam? Hajj in Islam is the pilgrimage to the sacred city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, meaning it’s one of the pillars of what it means to be Muslim. All able, adult Muslims are commanded to undertake Hajj once in a lifetime.

Allah commands this in the Qur’an: “In it are clear signs and the standing-place of Abraham. Whoever enters it should be safe. Pilgrimage to this House is an obligation by Allah upon whoever is able among the people.1 And whoever disbelieves, then surely Allah is not in need of ˹any of His˺ creation..” (Qur’an, Surah Al-Imran 3:97)

This sacred pilgrimage takes place during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah and involves a series of highly symbolic rituals carried out by Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him) and subsequently Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him).

Origins and Historical Context of Hajj

What is hajj in Islam and its origins? Hajj in Islam is traced from the beginning back to the era of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham, peace be upon him).

Allah directed Prophet Ibrahim to leave behind his wife Hajar and their baby boy Isma’il (Ishmael) in the desolate valley of the desert in Makkah. With complete trust in Allah, Hajar desperately ran to find water for her crying child, running between Safa and Marwah hills.

In her desperation, Allah caused a spring — Zamzam — to erupt under Isma’il’s small feet. Later, Allah instructed Prophet Ibrahim and his son to build the Kaaba, the sacred house of worship in Makkah. Allah says in the Qur’an:

“And [mention] when We designated for Abraham the site of the House, [saying], ‘Do not associate anything with Me and purify My House for those who perform Tawaf and those who stand [in prayer] and those who bow and prostrate.'” (Qur’an, Surah Al-Hajj 22:26)

This very Kaaba remains at the center of Hajj today. All the pilgrimage rites trace back to these early days of piety, faith, and submission.

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What is Hajj During the Era of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)

During the time Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) was sent as the final messenger, the true nature of Hajj had been lost to the people of Makkah. Although they still made the pilgrimage, it was punctuated with pagan rituals and idol worship.

One of the responsibilities of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was to restore to Hajj its original meaning, understanding what is hajj in Islam — returning it to the authentic monotheistic worship of Allah alone.  

After the conquest of Makkah, all idols were driven out of the Kaaba, and Hajj was re-established in its original monotheistic form.

The Prophet (peace be upon him) himself made Hajj once after. This was called the Farewell Pilgrimage (Hajjat al-Wada’). In this Hajj, he delivered a strong sermon encapsulating the principles of Islam, reiterating equality, justice, and righteousness.

He said: “Take from me your rituals of Hajj.” (Sahih Muslim)

This Farewell Hajj became the blueprint for all Muslims to follow until the end of time.

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Why Is Hajj Obligatory for Muslims?

As we venture into what is Hajj in Islam, we need to remember not just what it is, but why Allah made it obligatory.

Hajj isn’t a ritual, it’s one of love, sacrifice, and submission with a deep meaning in the life of every Muslim. Let’s explore the reason why Hajj is such an indispensable feature within Islam.

What is Hajj in Islam and Where It Stands among the Pillars of Faith?

Hajj in Islam is one of the Five Pillars, the pillars of a Muslim’s practice and faith. Similar to prayer (Salah), fasting (Sawm), and charity (Zakat). What is hajj in Islam? Hajj is a significant act of worship that brings a Muslim closer to Allah.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Islam is built upon five: testifying that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, establishing the prayer, paying zakat, making the pilgrimage to the House, and fasting Ramadan.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith 8)

Hajj crowns a Muslim’s practice of Islam, and for those who can, it becomes an ongoing obligation that they must undertake.

A Command of Allah

One of the most obvious reasons Hajj is obligatory is that Allah commands it in the Qur’an. He says:

“In it are clear signs and the standing-place of Abraham. Whoever enters it should be safe. Pilgrimage to this House is an obligation by Allah upon whoever is able among the people. And whoever disbelieves, then surely Allah is not in need of ˹any of His˺ creation..” (Qur’an, Surah Al-Imran 3:97)

This is reminding that Hajj is not optional, it’s mandatory for all who have the physical and economic ability to perform it. To neglect it without a valid reason is a serious omission of one’s religious duties.

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A Pilgrimage of Submission and Humility

When you understand what is Hajj in Islam, you observe that it’s a practice of humility, equality, and devotion. There is no difference between the rich and the poor, the follower and the leader at Hajj.

They all wear simple white garments (Ihram) and are equal in the sight of Allah, free from worldly distinctions. Hajj reminds people to set aside pride, worldly possessions, and status, and remember that all are equal in the eyes of their Creator.

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said the following in his Farewell Sermon: “All mankind is from Adam and Eve. An Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab, nor does a non-Arab have superiority over an Arab…” (Sahih al-Bukhari)

Hajj, therefore, serves as a tremendous reminder of our shared humanity and ultimate return to Allah.

A Chance at Complete Forgiveness

Another reason why Hajj is obligatory is because of its enormous spiritual reward. Performing an accepted Hajj is a chance to have all prior sins wiped clean. Consider the mercy of returning from Hajj as pure and sinless as the day you were born! Therefore one must know what is hajj in Islam.

What greater motivation can one request?

Preparing for the Ultimate Return to Allah

As Muslims set out on Hajj, they are reminded that this life is transitory and they will one day come back to Allah. The Ihram white attire resembles the plain shroud for burial, reminding us that on the Day of Judgment, we will stand before Allah with only our deeds.

Learning what is Hajj in Islam shows us that it’s not just a journey, it’s a preparation for the final meeting with our Creator.

Allah reminds us: “And fear the Day when you shall be returned to Allah. Then every soul shall be compensated for what it earned, and they shall not be wronged.” (Qur’an, Surah Al-Baqarah 2:281)

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Conclusion

Learning what is Hajj in Islam reveals a story that’s not only history, it’s personal. Hajj reminds us that Islam is a religion of continuity, binding us to the belief of Prophet Ibrahim, to Hajar’s sacrifice, to the call of Prophet Muhammad, and finally, to Allah’s endless mercy.

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FAQs

Who is required to perform Hajj?

A: Every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able must perform Hajj once in their lifetime.

When is Hajj performed?

A: Hajj takes place during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, from the 8th to the 13th.

What are the main rituals of Hajj?

A: Key rituals include Ihram, Tawaf (circling the Kaaba), Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah), standing at Arafat, and the symbolic stoning of the devil.

What is the spiritual purpose of Hajj?

A: Hajj purifies the soul, strengthens faith, and brings forgiveness of sins.

Can women perform Hajj alone?

A: Most scholars say a woman must be accompanied by a mahram (male guardian), but opinions vary based on circumstances.