Hajj is a holy pilgrimage and the fifth pillar of Islam, one of the most important acts of worship that a Muslim would ever undertake in life. It is annually carried out by millions of Muslims from every corner of the globe, making it one of the largest congregations of people for a religious purpose. The pilgrimage takes place in Makkah during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, which is the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar.

Every able-bodied Muslim is obliged to undertake it, if he is economically and emotionally able to do so. It should be done once in a lifetime, which also makes it such an important spiritual duty. A series of rituals in the pilgrimage includes circling around the House of Allah known as Tawaf, walking between the hills Safa and Marwah known as Sa’i, and standing at Arafat-emulating the acts of Prophet Ibrahim and his family.

Allah (SWT) commands Muslims in the Qur’an to perform Hajj, as in Surah Al-Imran (3:97): “And Hajj to the house is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who are able to undertake the journey.” Hajj provides an opportunity for Muslims to ask for forgiveness, reflect upon their faith, and come together in harmony with other believers from all over the world. It is a deeply spiritual and transformative experience that purifies the soul and strengthens one’s connection to Allah.