What is Hajj pilgrimage and Eid al-Adha? Understanding their deep religious meaning and importance for Muslims worldwide

Once every year, large groups of Muslim pilgrims travel to Saudi Arabia to take part in the Hajj, a very important religious journey. This pilgrimage is one of the five pillars of Islam, which means it is a key part of the Muslim faith. For many, it is a powerful spiritual experience and a chance to ask God for forgiveness and to erase past sins.

What Is the Hajj?

The Hajj is the annual pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia. Every Muslim who is physically able and can afford it must try to make this journey at least once in their lifetime. Some Muslims choose to go more than once. Along with faith, prayer, giving to charity, and fasting, the Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam.

When Does the Hajj Take Place?

The Hajj happens once a year during the month of Dhul-Hijja, the last month in the Islamic lunar calendar. This year, the Hajj will begin on June 4. When it takes place in summer, the heat in Saudi Arabia can be very intense, making the pilgrimage tough for many. In the past, there have been many deaths during the Hajj, mostly among pilgrims who travelled without permission and had to walk long distances under the hot sun.

Why Is the Hajj Important for Muslims?

For Muslims, the Hajj is a religious duty and a deeply spiritual event. It is a chance to grow closer to God, seek forgiveness, and follow in the footsteps of the prophets. The pilgrimage also brings Muslims from all over the world together. People of different races, languages, and backgrounds unite in one place to worship God, feeling a strong sense of community and equality.

Many pilgrims carry prayer requests from family and friends, hoping their prayers will be heard during the journey. Some save money for years or wait for a permit just to be able to make the trip.

Before the Hajj, pilgrims prepare carefully. They pack essentials, learn about the rituals, and get ready both physically and spiritually.

What Are Some of the Rituals During Hajj?

Pilgrims begin by making an intention to perform the Hajj and enter a state called "ihram." This means they follow certain rules. For example, men wear simple cloth garments instead of normal clothes. This helps them leave behind luxury and show humility before God.

One of the most important moments is standing on the plain of Arafat. Here, pilgrims pray to God, ask for forgiveness, and make personal requests. Many cry as they pray.

Pilgrims also perform "tawaf," which means walking around the Kaaba, a cube-shaped building in Mecca, seven times. Muslims face the Kaaba during their daily prayers anywhere in the world.

Other rituals include retracing the steps of Hagar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). Muslims believe she ran between two hills seven times looking for water for her son.

What Is Eid al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha, known as the "Feast of Sacrifice," is a major Muslim holiday that starts on the 10th day of Dhul-Hijja, during the Hajj. It celebrates Ibrahim’s great test of faith when he was willing to sacrifice his son to obey God.

During this holiday, Muslims around the world sacrifice sheep or cattle and share the meat with poor people. It is a time of joy, sharing, and remembering faith.

Inputs from agencies