Hajj — The Fifth Pillar of Islam
Hajj, the sacred pilgrimage to Mecca, is the fifth pillar of Islam and one of the most profound acts of worship. Allah Almighty commands in the Qur’an: “And Hajj to the House is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, for those who are able to undertake the journey” (Qur’an 2:196). Performing Hajj is therefore an obligation once in a lifetime for every Muslim who is physically fit and financially capable.
Undertaking this pilgrimage in Dhu al-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic calendar, is a journey of faith, sacrifice, and submission. Each year, millions of Muslims gather in Makkah to visit the Kaaba, known as Baitullah — the House of Allah — which was built by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) on the command of Allah and later renewed by the final Messenger, Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The Kaaba serves as the spiritual focal point for Muslims around the world, uniting them in prayer and devotion.
The importance of Hajj lies not only in its rituals but also in its spiritual benefits. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) was once asked which deed is the best, and he replied: “Belief in Allah and His Messenger.” When asked what comes next, he said: “Jihad for the sake of Allah.” When asked again, he said: “An accepted Hajj.” (Bukhari). An accepted Hajj brings immense reward — complete forgiveness of past sins and the chance to return home purified, as if newly born.
During Hajj, pilgrims enter the state of Ihram, perform tawaf around the Kaaba, walk between Safa and Marwa in sa’i, and stand at Arafat, where heartfelt prayers are made for Allah’s mercy. These rituals reflect obedience, patience, and remembrance of Allah, reminding Muslims of the sacrifices made by Prophet Ibrahim (AS), Lady Hajar (AS), and Prophet Ismail (AS).
One of the greatest spiritual benefits of Hajj is the wiping away of sins. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any obscenity or wrongdoing, will return as free from sins as the day his mother bore him.” (Bukhari). This illustrates why millions of believers long to make this sacred journey.
Beyond forgiveness, Hajj is also a symbol of Muslim unity. Pilgrims from every nation, race, and culture gather in Makkah dressed in simple white garments, standing equal before Allah. This powerful scene reflects the universal brotherhood of Islam, breaking down barriers of wealth, language, and status.
In short, Hajj — the fifth pillar of Islam — is more than a physical journey; it is a spiritual rebirth. It brings forgiveness, strengthens faith, and unites the Muslim Ummah under the worship of one Lord, Allah Almighty. May Allah grant every believer the opportunity to perform Hajj with sincere intention and accept it from them. Ameen.
