The news of my grandfather’s death was broken to me by his daughter: my mother. My go-to response was… alhamdulillah! It certainly took me by surprise, as it did her. She then made a comment I cannot recall. Alhamdulillah for not recalling it 😊
Praise for Allah is almost foreign to us at the onset of grief. We say it during condolences because it is the expected reply. However, it was praise that came from deep within me. Alhamdulillah for that.
My relief, which lead to the heartfelt praise for my Rabb was due to the nature of his illness. My grandfather, may Allah forgive him, had a condition that prevented him from lying down, as doing so lead to loss of breathing. Thus he had to be seated at all times. Imagine that. SubhanAllah! I still picture how I saw him last, sitting on a mat outside his room and hunched over a bit. Alhamdulillah for the blessings that are in health and in illnesses.
Though we visited a lot and spent time with him growing up, I never got to converse much with him because he was deaf, and I, unfortunately, did not get to learn sign language. A family member usually translated between us, and it always felt inadequate to me. He wasn’t born that way, but came upon it much later in life. I look forward to long conversations with him in Jannah. Alhamdulillah for blessings we don’t even stop to acknowledge. Astaghfirullah!
One thing, though – the feeling of always being welcomed with real warmth and love lives on in me. Alhamdulillah for family, and the ability to maintain ties of kinship.
With hindsight and reflection, I now understand my praise at that moment came from relief for him that his illness is finally over. That now he gets respite from our Rabb, the Most Merciful, Who never breaks His promise and has assured us that after hardship (and within hardship) comes relief. Alhamdulillah for the gift of eeman.
Fast forward to last year, when my father died. My go-to response was the classic and established “inna lillahi wa inna illayhi raji’oon” followed by “Allahumma ‘jurni fi museebati wa akhlifli khayran minha”, then loads of dua. I made the statement, and supplicated with full consciousness of the meaning of what I was saying. It gave me hope. After that, there was Hamd – sincere and deep praise. I believe Allah prepared me for that by guiding me to the book, ‘Don’t Be Sad’ by Dr A’id Al Qarni. Alhamdulillah for beneficial and practical knowledge.
I praised Allah and still do for my father’s demise, for his long illness, for family, for calm within the trial and for having good expectations from Him for my father. With a heavy heart, I still found reasons to smile sincere smiles through the period of grief. I miss my father, may Allah forgive him. Alhamdulillah for being alive to benefit him the best way I can.
He was a good father to us and did his best by us. He listened and engaged. He was not just my father but a friend I could come to and discuss things with earnestly. Yes, he had his moments, but don’t we all? Long story short, I love my father! And he loved me too. May Allah love and be pleased with him, ameen. Alhamdulillah for the gift of good parents.
Jumping to the present, I have been shaken to the core by a personal trial, and I still see reasons to say alhamdulillah! That, however, is a story for another day in shaa Allah.
This life is filled with tests, those we can comprehend and those we will never. The goal is to become better because of them, to earn the pleasure of Allah through them and be handsomely rewarded by Him for bearing those tests with beautiful patience. If that is not reason enough to say alhamdulillah, I don’t know what is.
We are people of alhamdulillah! We can live it with understanding of what the phrase truly means. We should be grateful for having it to begin with.
“Alhamdulillah” for me is the silver lining I see in every cloud that comes my way, believing that nothing comes my way which is not good for me, even if I don’t see it initially. Positivity is a choice, and with “alhamdulillah”, it becomes an easy choice.
Contained within these pages is the captivating narrative of a Muslim woman who, unexpectedly, felt an intense longing to embark on the Hajj pilgrimage. Through the boundless mercy of Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) , she found solace and a sense of fulfillment in this transformative journey. The primary objective of sharing this account is to empower and motivate other women who may harbor doubts or hesitations about undertaking the pilgrimage without the accompaniment of their families. By cultivating a sincere intention and placing their trust in the Almighty, they can embark on this sacred expedition with the reassurance that they will be enveloped in divine protection and serenity, guided by the ultimate Guardian and Protector.
The Call From Allah:
It is often said that Hajj is a personal invitation from Allah(سبحانه وتعالى) Himself. In the year 2022, I was blessed with the extraordinary opportunity to heed this call as a single woman embarking on a solitary quest for salvation, forgiveness, and the love of Allah(سبحانه وتعالى).
In sharing my personal journey, my aim is to inspire and empower women, particularly those who are older than 45 years of age, to embark on this sacred pilgrimage even in the absence of familial companionship. For in Allah’s (سبحانه وتعالى) abode, no one is truly alone.
My reflections transport me back to the age of forty, when an opportunity to perform Umrah arose with my family. Though I yearned to join them, circumstances conspired against me, preventing my participation. Looking back, I now understand that the absence of inspiration in my heart during those instances signified Allah’s (سبحانه وتعالى)will, as He did not want me to embark on this holy journey with a half-hearted intent.
It was in 2017 that I finally stood before the Kaaba, and I was utterly overwhelmed by the experience. It had a profound impact on me, igniting a desire within my soul to return. In 2020, just before the pandemic struck, I embarked on Umrah once again, this time accompanied by my teenage children. Although I departed with an insatiable longing to revisit the holy sites, the prospect of Hajj remained a nebulous idea, something to be pursued in the distant future.
In 2021, Saudi Arabia reopened its doors to locals for Hajj, and it was through the story of a friend’s sister, who undertook the pilgrimage with a group, that the idea of Hajj first stirred within me.
Then came the year 2022, and as Ramadan approached its conclusion, the notion of performing Hajj suddenly emerged in my thoughts, this time with unwavering determination.
Initially, as I contemplated traveling alone, my inclination was to join a Hajj group from the United States, deeming it safer and more organized. I spent my Eid holidays exploring Hajj options from the US, only to discover that all slots for Hajj 2022 were already fully booked. Though somewhat disappointed, I reconciled with this outcome, accepting it as Allah’s (سبحانه وتعالى) decree, and resolved to try again the following year.
However, just two days later, the idea of traveling for Hajj from Pakistan, my current place of residence, surfaced. Intrigued, I began my online search, aided by friends who recommended travel companies they had previously used. To my astonishment, these companies had open bookings with a range of travel packages. Suddenly, the prospect seemed within reach! While excitement filled my heart, apprehensions and doubts also crept in:
Was I truly deserving of this opportunity?
Could I navigate this sacred journey alone?
What if I faltered during the Manasik-e-Hajj rituals?
My doubts intensified when a well-meaning friend cautioned, “You cannot go alone; you should go with family or friends! If you fall ill or get injured, there will be no one to care for you.”
These unsettling thoughts almost swayed me into postponing my plans and waiting to go with friends the following year. However, deep within, the fervor of Hajj ignited a flicker of courage. Looking back, I am firmly convinced that Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) was guiding my thoughts, emotions, and actions every step of the way.
Alhamdulillah, the transition from “should I?” to “I should,” and from “can I?” to “I can,” was swift and remarkable. In the next astounding 72 hours, a whirlwind of events unfolded: I diligently prepared my travel documents, found roommates whose travel dates aligned with mine, identified a reliable Hajj group, and suddenly, I was all set!
My roommates turned out to be two kind-hearted sisters whom I had never met before. Their generosity knew no bounds as they graciously welcomed a stranger into their fold. For two weeks, we lived together in perfect harmony and selflessness, united by the spirit of Hajj. Alhamdulillah.
Tips for Planning Hajj:
Approach your planning process with complete trust and reliance on Allah (Tawakkul), and begin reciting the Talbiyah as soon as you embark on this journey of preparation.
Do not allow the fear of traveling alone to discourage you. Remember, there is no place more sacred than the house of Allah (سبحانه وتعالى), and there is no guardian stronger and more protective than Him.
Seek advice and guidance from multiple sources, gathering insights and experiences from those who have performed Hajj before. However, remember to use the information that resonates best with your own circumstances and understanding.
Hajj Preparations:
Filled with excitement, I embarked on my preparations for Hajj, recognizing it as a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity and the most significant journey of my life. As a guest of Allah(سبحانه وتعالى) , I understood the importance of being physically, mentally, and emotionally ready for this sacred pilgrimage.
To build my physical stamina, I began a routine of regular walks and exercises. I understood that Hajj involved physical acts of worship and would test my endurance.
In order to be well-informed and not blindly follow others, I started reading books related to Hajj. These included books containing supplications (duas) and others that provided a comprehensive understanding of the rituals and processes involved.
To gain further insight and emotional preparation, I eagerly listened to countless Hajj stories shared by friends and family. Their experiences helped me anticipate what I would encounter and guided my emotional state.
Many people reached out to me, entrusting their personal prayers (duas) to be taken to the house of Allah(سبحانه وتعالى). It was heartwarming to receive such requests. One friend even expressed a desire to meet me just to experience the blessed atmosphere around me. Although I found it amusing at first, I soon realized the profound impact of their prayers. Each day leading up to the journey was filled with blessings. I received gifts such as abayas, prayer mats, tasbih (prayer beads), books, scarves, caps, and even a portable fan. However, the most significant blessings came in the form of prayers and well-wishes from everyone who heard about my upcoming Hajj. Allah’s (سبحانه وتعالى ) blesssing showered upon me long before the pilgrimage even began!
Tips for Hajj Preparation:
Physical and Spiritual Preparation:
Prioritize physical fitness by engaging in regular exercise and walking to build stamina for the physically demanding aspects of Hajj.
Engage in spiritual practices such as reading the Quran, engaging in extra prayers, and increasing remembrance and supplication to strengthen your spiritual connection.
Read books and booklets that provide comprehensive information about the rituals and processes of Hajj, allowing you to familiarize yourself with the required steps.
Utilize Instructional Resources:
Seek out trustworthy scholars or reliable sources that offer instructional videos and step-by-step guidance for performing the Hajj rituals. These resources can be particularly helpful for visual and auditory learners, providing a clear understanding of the procedures involved.
Travel Light and Choose Appropriate Clothing:
Pack light and only carry essential items to ensure convenience and ease during your journey.
Consider the weather conditions during the time of Hajj and select clothing materials that are suitable for the climate.
Opt for well-worn and comfortable shoes that can withstand the walking and physical activities involved in the pilgrimage.
Utilize videos and checklists available that provide guidance on the necessary clothing and gear to bring along for the journey.
By following these tips, you can prepare yourself physically, spiritually, and practically for the transformative journey of Hajj.
En route to Medina: The City of Peace
As I embarked on my journey to Medina, I found solace in reciting my favorite book of duas. Before leaving for the airport, I made sure to review the list of everyone I had promised to pray for, ensuring that no one’s requests were overlooked.
During the flight, I contemplated recording my thoughts and emotions daily as a reflective exercise and a way to preserve the memories of this extraordinary event in my life. These recordings have become a cherished treasure, allowing me to revisit those incredible moments whenever I desire.
Upon arrival in Medina, the immigration process surprisingly went quickly, marking the beginning of our first stage. Despite the bustling atmosphere of Hajj, Medina retained an aura of peace that touched the soul and brought tranquility to the mind. Within Masjid-Nabawi, there were moments of quiet connection amid the rush of prayers.
In the mornings, I would sit for hours after Fajr, immersing myself in duas and marveling at the serene beauty of the mosque’s architecture. The soft light filtering in and the gentle sounds of birds created a sense of profound tranquility that I have never experienced elsewhere.
Even during prayer times, the courtyard of the mosque was filled with worshippers. Despite the massive crowds and children running around, the air of peace and positivity remained undisturbed in Medina.
Our second day in Medina was dedicated to visiting the Roza. A mix of excitement, anxiety, and longing filled my heart simultaneously. Patience was necessary as women had to endure prolonged waiting periods. While holding my place in line, I recited Durood and observed women from diverse backgrounds. I witnessed a beautiful array of abayas and scarves worn by women from around the world, all momentarily united in paying their respects to the beloved Prophet (PBUH). The queues would advance and recede like the ebb and flow of tides. Faces would light up as the line moved forward, while others anxiously awaited their turn.
A signal from the local organizers prompted us to move, only to wait for the next stage. After two to three hours, we finally entered the sacred space! Although the desire to get as close to the Roza as possible was strong, I chose to let the natural flow of the crowd guide me. Once seated, time seemed to fade away. I offered two Nafls of prayers, grateful for those precious moments I had spent inside.
As I reflect and write about these memories, I can still feel the profound tranquility that enveloped me in Medina. It was a city of peace, where the hustle and bustle of Hajj could not disrupt the serene atmosphere that permeated every corner.
Tips:
Utilize the downtime at Masjid-e-Nabawi: Take advantage of the moments between prayer times to sit, contemplate, and connect with your spirituality. Find a peaceful spot where you can immerse yourself in the serenity of the mosque and deepen your connection with Allah.
Embrace patience during the wait at the Roza: Be prepared for a lengthy waiting period when visiting the Roza. Understand that your time at this sacred place will be brief, so it’s important to make the most of it. Rather than becoming anxious or resorting to pushing and shoving to get closer, maintain a calm and patient demeanor. Trust in Allah’s plan and believe that you will reach the position that He intends for you. By avoiding stress and focusing on the spiritual significance of the moment, you can fully embrace and cherish the experience.
Remember, Hajj is a journey of self-discovery, devotion, and connection with Allah. These tips aim to enhance your overall experience and help you make the most of this sacred pilgrimage.
Our Journey and Arrival in Makkah:
With joy in our hearts and Medina dates in our possession, we embarked on the next leg of our journey to Makkah, this time by train. The train was filled with fellow travelers from different nations, all united by the wearing of Ahram and the recitation of Talbiyah. The continuous repetition of Talbiyah served as a constant reminder and its echoes lingered in my mind. After a two-hour journey, we arrived at the Makkah station, where the local staff warmly greeted us with flowers, prayer mats, the Holy Quran, and dua books. The blessings continued to pour upon us.
Once settled in our hotel, we wasted no time and headed towards the Haram, ready to perform Umrah. The sight of the Kaaba never fails to inspire awe within me. It is a simple yet elegant structure that brings tears to the eyes of millions and instills hope in the hearts of many. Standing among the sea of people, I realized that despite the crowd, I stood alone before Allah’s house and its Creator.
During this Umrah, I felt a sense of ease that accompanied me every step of the way. It was as if the space had expanded or as if I was walking in a protective bubble. My Tawafs, the circumambulation around the Kaaba, were completed swiftly, and I had my dua book hanging around my neck for quick reference. I even had the opportunity to make dua in front of the door of the Kaaba, a remarkable feat during the busy Hajj season.
The Saae, the ritual of walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa, went smoothly, and with that, our first Hajj ritual was completed.
Tips:
Maintain the Decorum of Thought and Behavior in Ahram: While in the state of Ahram, it is essential to be mindful of our thoughts and actions. Strive to maintain a state of humility, reverence, and submission to Allah. Avoid ego, entitlement, frustration, or anger. Embrace the spirit of surrender and let go of any negative emotions.
Ḥajj is [during] well-known months,so whoever has made ḥajj obligatory upon himself therein [by entering the state of iḥrām], there is [to be for him] no sexual relations and no disobedience and no disputing during ḥajj. And whatever good you do – Allāh knows it. And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is fear of Allāh. And fear Me, O you of understanding.
Embrace the Essence of Submission: Hajj is a journey of complete surrender to Allah(سبحانه وتعالى). Understand that the true essence of Hajj lies in submitting ourselves entirely to His will. Embrace the flow of the pilgrimage experience and trust that you will find what you seek. Remember, a profound connection with Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) can be found in moments of serenity and reflection, far more than in the physical space gained by pushing and rushing.
By keeping these tips in mind, you can ensure a more meaningful and spiritually rewarding Hajj experience.
Pre-Hajj Period:
During the initial days leading up to Hajj Tammatu, we were granted a sense of comfort. Being in close proximity to the Kaaba had an extraordinary impact on the soul. Mundane desires and thoughts gradually faded away, leaving only a deep connection with Allah (سبحانه وتعالى).It was a profound feeling that I longed to encapsulate and carry back home with me.
On the first day, I made the decision to spend my time at the Haram on my own, separate from my group. It was a typical day during the season, with large crowds entering and exiting the Haram. For women, finding a suitable place to pray often posed a challenge due to the ever-changing spaces and entrances. Like others, I aspired to pray in the Mataf.
As Zuhr prayer approached, I embarked on a journey from gate to gate in search of an open entrance. I felt a sense of solitude and anxiety, with each closed gate intensifying these emotions. After about 30 to 40 minutes of fruitless attempts, I finally made my way to the rooftop to pray. By then, I was exhausted, overwhelmed, and filled with a profound sense of loneliness. In those moments, I beseeched Allah for assistance in overcoming these feelings. At one point, I even questioned my decision to embark on this solo Hajj journey. However, as I made my way back to the hotel, a realization struck me. It dawned on me that Allah had orchestrated this unsettling experience for a reason. I needed to undergo this trial to comprehend that I required nothing and no one but my connection with my Creator. This profound realization washed away all doubts and feelings of isolation, replacing them with immense relief.
It became evident to me that the optimal time to reach the Mataf was 60 to 90 minutes before prayer, as anything less than that only exacerbated the challenge of reaching it.
Tip:
Due to the management of traffic flow, it is important to note that gate entrances frequently change. Therefore, relying on the same gate may not guarantee access to the Mataf. To ensure entry, it is advisable to head towards the Mataf at least 90 minutes prior to the prayer time.
Experiences and Emotions from Mina to Muzdalifah:
The duration of five days during Hajj tests one’s physical, mental, and emotional endurance. The constant change in venue, environment, and procedures necessitated continuous reflection on the purpose behind it all. What became clear to me was that Hajj is a journey towards Allah(سبحانه وتعالى), undertaken for Allah(سبحانه وتعالى), but in the company of Allah’s people. As an introvert, the social aspect of Hajj was initially uncomfortable for me. I found myself surrounded by strangers, sharing spaces, and living in close proximity that surpassed my usual boundaries of comfort. We ate together, slept together, and formed connections as we pursued a common purpose.
I came to realize that the essence of Hajj lies in the sense of community, where individuals often discover social and spiritual kinship with people they had never known before. Heart-to-heart conversations about worries and aspirations took place with a peculiar sense of trust that is seldom found in any other gathering. Although I struggled with social connectivity, simple acts like making a child smile or offering someone a cup of tea provided me with a sense of belonging. Utilizing my medical background also gave me a sense of purpose and a place within that temporary community.
In Mina, a friend warned me about people getting lost, and unfortunately, I fell into that category. The vast sprawl and uniform construction made navigating the area quite challenging. I often found myself needing to step out for fresh air and satisfying my curiosity by exploring the seemingly endless tent city. I discovered the main kitchens where meals were prepared for the Hajjis. There was an abundance of food and coolers filled with drinks accessible to all residents of the camp. Although walking around in the heat was tiring, it was a refreshing experience. However, retracing my steps and finding my way back proved to be tricky, as even with tent numbers, one wrong turn could lead to an entirely different place.
Stepping outside of the tent also allowed me to focus better on my prayers (duas) and provided the much-needed physical activity that is challenging to achieve within a crowded tent.
Tips:
Seek out a peaceful and quiet spot where you can deeply connect with Allah(سبحانه وتعالى) , as everyday conversations may distract you from your purpose and focus during Hajj.
Avoid discussing food or engaging in wasteful behavior. Hajj is not a time for criticism or debate. Instead, accept all provisions with gratitude and appreciation.
Arafah: The Significant Day
Arafah is considered the pinnacle of Hajj, often referred to as the most crucial event emphasized in various books and videos. Filled with anticipation and excitement, we arrived in Arafah well ahead of time. Our new tent was larger and bustling with activity. In an attempt to make every minute count, I tried to tune out the surrounding chatter. Seeking a moment of solitude, I stepped outside with my Quran, despite the scorching sun. Surprisingly, amidst the heat, an extraordinary sense of tranquility enveloped me.
However, that time outside triggered a migraine headache. While enduring the throbbing pain, I managed to combine my Zuhr and Asr prayers, swiftly taking medication to alleviate the headache. Yet, my sensitivity to the heat persisted, hindering my ability to focus on my supplications (duas) while witnessing others deeply immersed in their own. A wave of panic swept over me. What if I missed the opportunity to offer my heartfelt invocations due to this migraine? In an attempt to find relief, I initially started with a dua to alleviate my headache. Eventually, my roommate discovered a quieter spot where my headache subsided. Finally, I regained my rhythm and directed my focus towards my duas. Once I completed my own prayers and received the blessings of dua from friends and colleagues, I stood outside, following the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet (PBUH).
Normally, offering sincere supplications brings me peace and hope. On that day, in the midst of the immense crowd, I felt an overwhelming sense of gratitude for being able to stand among countless individuals, all raising their hands to their Maker in hope and humility. It was a breathtaking sight that cannot be adequately described in words.
As the intense heat gradually subsided and clouds appeared above, the time for Maghrib prayer drew near, each passing minute growing increasingly precious. Eventually, it was time to depart, and people embraced each other, shedding tears of joy for having completed the day of Arafah.
Only Allah(سبحانه وتعالى) knows the desires, anguish, and hopes of His devoted followers gathered on that day. Each of us prayed for redemption, for our worldly affairs, our faith, and our Hereafter. May Allah(سبحانه وتعالى) accept all our sincere supplications.
Tips:
It is crucial to stay well-hydrated in Arafah due to the intense heat. Make sure to drink plenty of water and fluids throughout the day.
Pace yourself during the day, reserving your energy for after the combined Zuhr/Asr prayer. The post-prayer period is when many activities and rituals take place.
While most invocations come from the heart, consider writing down any important duas you wish to recite. This can help you remember and focus on them during your time in Arafah.
Remember to continue drinking fluids until approximately an hour before leaving Arafah. However, be mindful to gradually reduce your intake as the facilities for bathroom facilities in Muzdalifah may be located far from your overnight accommodation.
Muzdalifah:
Leaving Arafah, mixed emotions of hope and concern accompany Hajjis. The anticipation of having our prayers fulfilled blends with the worry of potentially missing out on any significant supplications to Allah. Boarding buses, we made our way to Muzdalifah, where we would spend the night under the starry sky. However, in our case, the glow of bright streetlights replaced the natural stars as we disembarked. Amidst this artificial luminance, I quickly located my seventy stones for the symbolic ritual of stoning, ensuring I had spare ones as well. As I lay down, I imagined the scene from the very first Hajj, envisioning the night sky dominated by twinkling stars, casting their reflection on the vast white ground covered with Hajjis. Despite my initial fascination, exhaustion soon overtook me, and I fell asleep until the time of Tahajjud prayer. There was ample time between Tahajjud and Fajr to repeat important duas and any last-minute supplications that may have been missed on the day of Arafah.
With the arrival of sunrise, a sense of relief washed over me, knowing that the major rituals of Hajj were now complete.
Tips:
If feasible, bring a thin sleeping bag and an additional bag to collect stones (if not provided by your Hajj organizers). It is important to note that there are no tents in Muzdalifah, so having a sleeping bag can provide some comfort during the night.
Once in Muzdalifah, prioritize collecting your stones early on and then focus on resting. This will help conserve your energy for the remaining rituals.
Keep your list of important duas easily accessible. This way, you can refer to it and ensure that you recite all the supplications that hold significance to you.
Days of Rami:
The highly anticipated days of Rami followed. I vividly recalled my father’s stories of Hajjis becoming emotional while confronting the symbol of Satan and striking it vehemently with their anger and whatever belongings they held. The image of people using slippers, caps, umbrellas, and anything they could find remained etched in my mind since then. It seemed that even while vowing to humiliate Satan, his deceitfulness often affected the pilgrims.
I also remembered the advice I had received, focusing on the experience of masses rushing, pushing, and jostling with each other in their fervor to punish the greatest of demons. With this in mind, I entered the area wearing shoes to protect my feet in case of being stepped on, tightly gripping my bag of stones. Ensuring the accurate count of stones was my second biggest concern after navigating through the crowd. To solve this, I held seven stones in one hand, throwing them individually instead of reaching into the bag each time. The crowd surged in waves, with most people swiftly completing their actions within minutes. It was a matter of waiting for one group to finish, allowing them to exit before making my way to the pillars, making the process smoother. Due to the large crowds, announcements were made to encourage staying in the camps and ease the rush. It was wise to heed such announcements, knowing there was ample time to complete the Rami ritual.
For me, the three days of Rami served as a time of unburdening and cleansing. It felt like more than just pelting the symbolic Satan; it was as if I was confronting and purging my own resentment, anger, disappointments, and feelings of hopelessness. I felt a profound sense of lightness and inner peace.
Upon returning to Mina, I replayed the moments of Rami in my mind. The rhythmic sound of pebbles striking against each pillar reminded me of raindrops falling on the earth, cleansing it of impurities.
Tips:
When participating in the Rami ritual, avoid rushing and pushing through the crowd. Emotions can run high in this area, but it’s important to remain calm and patient. Remember that everyone will have their turn, so wait for your opportunity without causing any unnecessary commotion.
After completing the Rami ritual, choose a designated spot away from the pillars to regroup with your companions. This will help ensure that you don’t accidentally lose track of each other amidst the crowd. Having a predetermined meeting point can be helpful in maintaining the cohesion of your group.
Returning to Makkah:
The yearning to be in the presence of the Kaaba remains constant. The devotion one feels towards the magnificent structure, draped in its beautiful black covering, is unparalleled. No other place can evoke such a profound connection.
We had two days allocated to offer every prayer within the Haram. However, the post-Hajj period was noticeably busier, as everyone else had the same intention. In light of this, I made the choice to perform my seven rounds around the Kaaba once a day, allowing others the same opportunity.
As expected, the space within the Mataf filled up quickly, and we found ourselves navigating through long distances, moving from one entrance to another, eventually leading us to the rooftop. Sometimes, I would position myself on the first floor and observe the crowds engaging in the Tawaaf ritual. As I witnessed the masses slowly circling the Kaaba in an anticlockwise direction, it reminded me of the swirling arms of a galaxy, filled with stars following their ordained paths. The parallels with nature were striking and served as a poignant reminder of the beauty and harmony in the universe.
Tip:
Due to the large crowds, it is advisable to plan your Tawaf-e-Ziyarah (circumambulation of the Kaaba) strategically. Consider performing it after the Isha prayer, as this time tends to be less crowded compared to other times of the day. This can help you have a more peaceful and focused experience during your Tawaf.
Returning Home and Life after Hajj:
The journey back to Jeddah airport marked the conclusion of our Hajj pilgrimage. As I boarded the plane, I couldn’t help but feel a mix of emotions. While I was excited to reunite with my family, the thought of returning to the mundane aspects of worldly life held little appeal. During the flight, I found myself contemplating the purpose I had in life now, realizing that this question demanded deep introspection.
Upon landing, the activities and excitement of arrival took over my thoughts. I was greeted by family and friends with flower garlands, marking the beginning of celebrations that would last for several days. The initial days back home were filled with sharing dates and Zamzam water with loved ones, receiving gifts upon gifts, and indulging in delicious dinners. It felt as though the attractions of life were pulling me right back into its embrace.
For days, I recounted my Hajj experiences to friends and family, sharing the stories that had unfolded during those sacred days. Now, I could truly appreciate and connect with the Hajj stories of others that were shared with me, stories that had previously held little significance.
I firmly believe that Hajj should bring about a transformation in our hearts and our way of life. I pray that Allah guides us and helps us redirect our lives with purpose. Whenever I find myself becoming too engrossed in the worldly affairs, I can listen to the voice recordings I made during Hajj, allowing me to revisit the emotions and experiences that I had during those extraordinary two weeks.
Hajj is not just a journey that ends with the return home; it is meant to be a catalyst for positive change that resonates throughout our lives. May Allah bless us all and grant us the ability to carry the lessons and blessings of Hajj with us, allowing them to shape our journey towards Him.
Tips:
Cherish the connections you formed with your fellow group members during Hajj. These bonds are unique and special. Even if circumstances change and distances separate you, make an effort to maintain these connections. They serve as reminders of a transformative time that cannot be replicated.
Endeavor to bring about a positive change in your life that will help sustain the spiritual connection you had with Allah (سبحانه وتعالى) during Hajj. Reflect on the lessons learned and the experiences gained, and implement at least one meaningful change in your daily routine or habits. This will allow the spirit of Hajj to continue influencing and guiding you long after the pilgrimage is over.
In the Quran, Allah (سُبْحٰنَه وَتَعٰلٰى) says regarding the completion of Ramadan:
لِتُکۡمِلُوا الۡعِدَّةَ
“[He wants that] you complete the [prescribed] number [of days],
وَلِتُکَبِّرُوا اللّٰهَ عَلٰى مَا هَدٰٮكُمۡ
And that you proclaim the Greatness of Allah for that [to] which He has guided you;
وَلَعَلَّکُمۡ تَشۡكُرُوۡنَ
And so that perhaps you will be grateful.”
[Surah al-Baqarah 2: 185]
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What is takbeer?
It is proclaiming the Greatness of Allah, in heart and on tongue. In general, it refers to saying اَللّٰهُ اَكْبَر (Allahu Akbar).
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What, when and where?
We say:
(Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great; there is no god except Allah; Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great; and to Allah is all praise & thanks)
“This takbeer is Sunnah according to the majority of scholars. It is Sunnah for both men and woman, in the masjid, in the home and in the marketplace.
Women should say the takbeer quietly, and men should say it out loud.
The time for this takbeer begins when it is known that the new month (Shawwaal) has begun.
And it ends when the prayer begins – i.e., when they start the Eid prayer, the time for the takbeer ends.”
Or maybe you couldn’t exactly break away from sins the way you imagined you would.
Allah sees us, and He hears our internal dialogue. He sees how we beat ourselves up over not doing better despite knowing better.
Sometimes we don’t face Him out of shame – shame of repeating the same mistakes over and over and over again.
The heaviness we feel is our souls screaming, ‘Are you mad at me, O Allah? I’m so, so sorry; but I don’t know how to prove it to you. I keep slipping over and over again.”
Now imagine Allah (سُبْحٰنَه وَتَعٰلٰى) responding.
To those of you who feel like you’re beyond His forgiveness, this is for you.
Quran Reflections is a collection of thoughts and experiences of students of the Holy Quran. The blog aims to educate and inspire others to realize the beauty and significance of Allah's Book so that it may also impact the lives of many more around the world.
Quran Reflections is a collection of thoughts and experiences of students of the Holy Quran. The blog aims to educate and inspire others to realize the beauty and significance of Allah's Book so that it may also impact the lives of many more around the world.
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