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Haj Introduction

Hajj preface
In Hadith, Hajj is mentioned as one of the indispensable pillars of Islam religion. Hajj is an imperative duty (Fardh) for all Muslims. Those who have resources to carry it out, they must perform it correctly. Once in life time, during Hajj season (Zil - Hajj), it has to be executed. If someone is bestowed with more affluence, he may complete Hajj more than once. Hajj is such devotion (Ibadat) wherein money, strength and time are spent in Lord Allah’s way. It is one of the amazing traditions to procure Lord Allah’s bliss. It provides an excellent opportunity to propagate ‘Muslim Brotherhood’ universally. It is a solitary platform wherein all Muslims pray at a central venue (such as Holy Kaabah, Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifa & Medinah).
Simultaneously, during trial & tribulation of Hajj season, one’s patience, truthfulness and contentment is severely tested. It is suggested that one must not grumble about adversity faced through this sacred journey.
In order to obtain ‘Maqbool & Mabroor Hajj’, Lord Allah may give His unique strength, endurance and stamina to all Hujjaj. Insha’Allah. Ameen.
Types of Hajj:

Hajj’s rule, regulation & rite vary according to pilgrims’ intention and dwelling. These variations are traditionally grouped in three categories. There are 3 types of Hajj. (1) Hajj – e - Ifrad (2) Hajj – e - Qiran (3) Hajj – e – Tamattu.

Without committing any invalid action, if Hajj is performed according to prescribed tenet, guideline and custom, ‘Allah Jall - e - Jala Lahu’ will definitely acknowledge it.

	Hajj – e - Ifrad	Hajj – e – Qiran	Hajj – e - Tamattu
Definition	Isolated Hajj: Pilgrim performing it is called ‘Mufrid’. It is allowed only for those living within the boundary (Miqat) from where Ihram is put on.	Accompanied Hajj: Pilgrim performing it is called ‘Qarin’. It can only be done by those living outside the boundary (Miqat). *"This concession is only for those whose homes are not near the sacred Mosque."* Noble Quran 2:196.	Enjoyable Hajj: Pilgrim performing it is called ‘Mutamatti’. It can only be done by those living outside the border line (Miqat). *"This concession is only for those whose homes are not near the sacred Mosque."* Noble Quran 2:196.
Ihram	Pilgrim is required to enter in state of Ihram with sole intention of doing only Hajj.	This Hajj is combined with Umrah. ‘Qarin’ must enter in state of Ihram with intention of performing ‘Hajj & Umrah’ together. Until Hajj & Umrah is completed, irrespective of time, ‘Qarin’ is not allowed to release Ihram.	This Hajj is combined with Umrah. After completion of Umrah, ‘Mutamatti’ is allowed to release Ihram. He can do all permissible things. However, ‘Mutamatti’ requires wearing new Ihram for Hajj.
Umrah	Prior Hajj rites (i. e. 8th moon of Zil – Hajj), if ‘Mufrid’ performs Umrah, then, he is no longer considered as ‘Mufrid’. He must shift to another two types of Hajj. Once again, he requires combining Umrah along with them and adhere that regulations.	Prior commencement of Hajj rites, ‘Qarin’ must complete Umrah. It can be finished in the months of ‘Shawwal, Zil – Qadh & First 7 moons of Zil – Hajj’. However, he cannot release Ihram. He must end Hajj rituals also with same Ihram.	Prior initiation of Hajj rites, ‘Mutamatti’ can complete Umrah. It can be finished in the months of ‘Shawwal, Zil – Qadh & First 7 moons of Zil – Hajj’. He is allowed to release Ihram also. He can conclude Hajj rituals in new Ihram.
Tawaaf	On arrival, he circumambulates around holy Kabaah (Tawaaf). It is known as ‘Tawaaf – ul – Qudoom. Completes two rakaat salaat at ‘Muqam – e – Ibrahim’ and does ‘Saii’.	On arrival, he circumambulates around holy Kabaah (Tawaaf). Completes two rakaat salaat at ‘Muqam – e – Ibrahim’ and does ‘Saii’. This will be for his ‘Umrah’. During Hajj days, (i. e. 8th Moon to 12th Moon of Zil – Hajj) once again, he does it same to complete his Hajj rituals too.	On arrival, he circumambulates around holy Kabaah (Tawaaf). Completes two rakaat salaat at ‘Muqam – e – Ibrahim’ and does ‘Saii’. This will be for his ‘Umrah’. During Hajj days, (i. e. 8th Moon to 12th Moon of Zil – Hajj) once again, he does it same to complete his Hajj rituals too.
Rami – Al – Jamaraat (Jamaraat – ul – Ula, Jamaraat – ul – Wusta & Jamaraat – ul – Kubra / Uqba)	On Eid - ul – Zuha (10th moon of Zil Hajj) pilgrims must strike only one of the large ‘Jamaraat’ with seven pebbles. After the stoning is completed, every pilgrim must cut or shave their hair. On each of the following two days, they must hit each of the three walls with seven pebbles, going in order from east to west. Thus at least 49 pebbles are needed for the ritual, more if some throws miss. Some pilgrims stay at ‘Mina’ for an additional day, in which case they must again stone each wall seven times again. The pebbles used in the stoning are traditionally gathered at ‘Muzdalifah’, on the night before the first throwing, but can also be collected at ‘Mina’.	On Eid - ul – Zuha (10th moon of Zil Hajj) pilgrims must strike only one of the large ‘Jamaraat’ with seven pebbles. After the stoning is completed, every pilgrim must cut or shave their hair. On each of the following two days, they must hit each of the three walls with seven pebbles, going in order from east to west. Thus at least 49 pebbles are needed for the ritual, more if some throws miss. Some pilgrims stay at ‘Mina’ for an additional day, in which case they must again stone each wall seven times again. The pebbles used in the stoning are traditionally gathered at ‘Muzdalifah’, on the night before the first throwing, but can also be collected at ‘Mina’.	On Eid - ul – Zuha (10th moon of Zil Hajj) pilgrims must strike only one of the large ‘Jamaraat’ with seven pebbles. After the stoning is completed, every pilgrim must cut or shave their hair. On each of the following two days, they must hit each of the three walls with seven pebbles, going in order from east to west. Thus at least 49 pebbles are needed for the ritual, more if some throws miss. Some pilgrims stay at ‘Mina’ for an additional day, in which case they must again stone each wall seven times again. The pebbles used in the stoning are traditionally gathered at ‘Muzdalifah’, on the night before the first throwing, but can also be collected at ‘Mina’.
Sacrifice (Qurbaani)	If ‘Mufrid’ wishes, he may offer an animal sacrifice. But he is under no obligation to do so. *"But if someone cannot afford a sacrifice, he can fast three days during Hajj and seven row days after returning home. That is ten days in all."* Noble Quran 2:196]	‘Qarin’ must offer an animal sacrifice. From ‘Miqat’, he may come with one animal or he can arrange in Mina. *"But if someone cannot afford a sacrifice, he can fast three days during Hajj and seven row days after returning home. That is ten days in all."* Noble Quran 2:196]	‘Mutamatti’ must offer an animal sacrifice. *"But if someone cannot afford a sacrifice, he can fast three days during Hajj and seven row days after returning home. That is ten days in all."* Noble Quran 2:196]
Tahallul	Since ‘Mufrid’ has intention to perform only Hajj, no shaving or clipping of hair is required till stoning of ‘Jamaarat’ & sacrifice. Until ‘Rami – Al – Jamaarat’, he remains in Ihram. ‘Tahallul’ in Hajj refers to dissolution or ending the state of Ihram by virtue of which all restrictions of Hajj return lawful. A pilgrim who makes ‘Tahallul’ is not in the state of Ihram and is no longer performing Hajj.	After Umrah, ‘Qarin’ may clip his hair. He does not need a complete shave. ‘Tahallul’ in Hajj refers to dissolution or ending the state of Ihram by virtue of which all restrictions of Hajj return lawful. A pilgrim who makes ‘Tahallul’ is not in the state of Ihram and is no longer performing Hajj.	After Umrah, ‘Mutamatti’ may clip his hair instead of complete shave. ‘Tahallul’ in Hajj refers to dissolution or ending the state of Ihram by virtue of which all restrictions of Hajj return lawful. A pilgrim who makes ‘Tahallul’ is not in the state of Ihram and is no longer performing Hajj.

Hajj Procedure:
8th Zil Hajj – First Day of Hajj
During 7th Zil Hajj’s night, after Isha prayer, ‘Muallim’ normally arranges for Hujjaj to leave for Mina. But it is okay to follow your Muallim’s schedule. After sunrise, Hujjaj may proceed towards Mina. On way, pronounce ‘Talbiyah’ as often as you can and also recite other supplications. In Mina, offer Zuhar, Asr, Maghrib and Isha prayers. Spend that night in Mina and on 9 Zil - Hajj, offer Fajr prayer there.

9th Zil Hajj – Second Day of Hajj
In Mina, offer Fajr prayer. Say ‘Takbir – e – Tashriq (Allah – u – Akbar, Allah – u – Akbar, La ilaha illallah - u - wallah – u – akbar, Allah – u – akbar wa lillah il hamd) and Talbiyah. Get ready and reach Arafat by Zawal; (declining of sun). Waquf – e – Arafat is in progress at beginning of Zawal and ends at sunset. Spend this time uttering Talbiyah, repent your sins, and seek forgiveness and mercy of Lord Allah. Say Durud Sharif and utter all supplications (Duas) in Arabic and in your own language. It is better to do Waquf while standing but sitting down is also allowed.
In Masjid – e – Namrah, imam leads Zuhar and Asr prayers, combined and shortened, with one Azan but separate Iqamahs. At other places in Arafat, some people similarly join these two salaats. If you are away from Masjid – e – Namrah, as recommended by most scholars, it is advisable that you offer them at their proper times with Jamaat.
When sun sets in Arafat, proceed to Muzdalifah without offering Magrib prayer reciting Zikr and Talbiyah on way.
In Muzdalifah, at Isha time, offer Magrib and Isha prayers together. For both prayers there is only one Azaan and one Iqamah.

First offer ‘Fard’ Magrib prayer with Jamaat. Then say Takbir – e – Tashriq and Talbiyah.
Immediately after that, tender ‘Fard’ Isha prayer with Jamaat.
After this, present two Sunnat of Magrib.
Then proffer two Sunnat of Isha followed by Witr prayer.
Offering Nafl prayer is optional.

This is a very blessed night in which glorify Lord Allah, recite Durud Sharif, read holy Qur’aan, utter Talbiyah and supplicate very humbly. Also take some rest. Pick up forty – nine pebbles if ‘Rami’ is to be performed for three days and seventy if for four days. Its size must be approximately of big grams (chick peas). At Fajr time, after two rakat Sunnat, offer Fard prayer with Jamaat. Later, perform Waquf. Whenever sun is about to rise, proceeding to Mina is obligatory.

10th Zil Hajj – Third Day of Hajj
In Mina, hit ‘Jamaarat – ul – Uqba’ with seven pebbles one after another. There are three days designated for sacrifice (Qurbaani), i. e. 10, 11 or 12 Zil – Hajj. It can be done any time during day or night. It is usually easy to sacrifice an animal on 11 Zil – Hajj. After Qurbaani, men shall preferably get their whole head shaved (Halaq). But it is also permissible to cut off about an inch / one fourth of hair (Qasr). A woman is prohibited to shave her head. She can cut about an inch long hair. But according to some scholars, it is sufficient for a woman to have a lock of her hair clipped.

If sacrifice is postponed according to convenience, Halaq or Qasr is also delayed. Halaq or Qasr must be done after sacrifice.
Once sacrifice is offered, and if one desires, he can delay Halaq or Qasr until 12th of Zil – Hajj. After Halaq, all Ihram’s prohibitions are lifted except private relations between husband and wife. These relations are permissible after Tawaf – e – Ziyarat.
In Mina, Halaq or Qasr is Sunnat. But you are allowed to do it anywhere in Haram. If done outside precincts of Haram, it requires ‘Dum’.
It is mandatory that Rami, Qurbaani & Halaq or Qasr are done in chronological order respectively. Otherwise a ‘Dum’ is charged as penalty.

After completion of aforementioned tasks, you can carry out Tawaf – e – Ziyarat. It can be performed any time, day or night, from 10 Zil – Hajj to 12 Zil – Hajj. Normally, it is convenient to do it on 11 Zil – Hajj. According to Sunnat, this Tawaf is to be executed after Rami, Qurbaani and Halaq or Qasr. It is essential that every effort shall be made to do it accordingly.

After Tawaf – e – Ziyarat’s conclusion, complete Saii. It is Sunnat that your ablution (Wudu) is intact during Saii. After Saii, return to Mina and spend night there.

11th Zil Hajj – Fourth Day of Hajj
After Zawal (Decline of Sun), on each of three Jamaraat, throw seven pebbles. Fling seven stones at ‘Jamaraat – ul – Ula. After this facing Qibla, praise Lord Allah and supplicate in Arabic & in your own language. There is absolutely no prescribed ‘Dua’. You can move to ‘Jamaraat – ul – Wusta and throw seven pebbles at it. Here too, facing Kaabah, praise Lord Allah and earnestly seek his mercy and blessings. No particular ‘Dua’ is prescribed here either. Then hurl seven stones on ‘Jamaraat – ul – Uqba. But this time do not supplicate at all, after ‘Rami’, just return to your place.
If ‘Tawaaf – e – Ziyarat’ is not completed yesterday, please do it today. You can return to Mina for overnight stay. At your place, engage in Zikr and Ibadat. You can recite Holy Quran, glorify Lord Allah, repent your sins and seek forgiveness. Ask Lord Allah whatever you want and do not commit sin.
12th Zil Hajj – Fifth Day of Hajj
After Zawal, throw seven stones on three Jamaraats i. e. ‘Jamaraat – ul – Ula, Jamaraat – ul – Wusta & Jamaraat – ul – Uqba respectively. As did earlier, you can supplicate similarly. If you could not do ‘Tawaaf – e – Ziyarat’ earlier, it is essential to do it today before ‘Maghrib’. After today’s Rami, you have an option to return to Makkah before sunset.
After Hajj, from Makkah, when you intend to return to your country, it is obligatory (Wajib) to carry out Tawaaf – e – Vidaa (Fare well circumambulation). Its procedure is same as that of ‘Nafl Tawaaf’.