Actually How Many Days is Hajj
Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam and is considered a Farz (obligatory) act for Muslims. However, it is only mandatory for those who are physically and financially capable of performing it. While the actual rituals of Hajj last for just five or six days, some people choose to stay longer, and others may prefer a shorter stay. It is important to remember that the essence of Hajj lies in the five days of rituals, and if any of these rituals are missed or not performed correctly, it can invalidate the Hajj. Therefore, it is crucial to approach this sacred journey with care and attention to detail, ensuring that every act is done with sincerity and in accordance with Islamic guidelines.
5 Days of Hajj
Day 1: 8th of Dul-Hijjah
After the Morning Prayer, we head to Mina, which is a key part of the Hajj journey. You can either take a bus or walk to get there, depending on your preference. Once you arrive, you will spend the entire day and night in Mina. The level of comfort and facilities available will depend on the Hajj package you have chosen, as different packages offer varying accommodations and services.
Day 2: 9th of Dul-Hijjah
The day we spend at Arafat is known as the Day of Arafat, and it is one of the most significant moments of Hajj. In the morning, we walk towards Arafat, where we will spend the entire day in prayer and reflection. Standing at Arafat is the most important ritual of Hajj, as the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "Hajj is Arafat." It is crucial to stay within the boundaries of Arafat, as stepping outside of them can invalidate the Hajj.
As the sun sets, we leave Arafat and head towards Muzdalifah, where we will gather pebbles for the Ramy Jamarat ritual. This is a key moment in the Hajj pilgrimage and marks the beginning of another significant part of the journey.
Day 3: 10th of Dul-Hijjah
This day is known as the Day of Sacrifice, and it is a deeply significant part of Hajj. On this day, we perform the stoning of the devil, where there are three pillars that represent Satan. We throw stones at one of these pillars as a symbol of rejecting temptation and evil. After completing the stoning, we offer the sacrifice of an animal, which is a key part of the ritual.
Once the sacrifice is done, we perform Halaq, which is the shaving of the head for men or cutting a small portion of hair for women, symbolizing purity and renewal. At this point, we are free from the state of Ihram and can return to regular clothing.
Next, we travel to the Haram to perform Tawaf and Sa'ii again, completing these important rituals. Afterward, we head back to Mina to spend the night, reflecting on the significance of all the acts we have performed.
Day 4: 11th of Dul-Hijjah
On this day, we repeat the Ramy Jamarat, but this time, we throw stones at all three pillars, representing the rejection of evil in all its forms. After completing the stoning, we head directly to Mina to spend the night there.
Day 5: 12th of Dul-Hijjah
On this day, we repeat the Ramy Jamarat, stoning all three pillars once again. Afterward, we make our way to Makkah for the farewell Tawaf, which is an important and emotional part of the journey. This Tawaf marks the final act before we leave the holy city.
You can choose to spend the night in Makkah, at the building near the Haram, or in Mina. If you decide to stay in Mina or if you are unable to leave Mina on this day, you can stay there. However, on the next day, you will need to perform the stoning ritual once more before leaving.
Day 6: 13th of Dul-Hijjah
On this final day, we repeat the Ramy Jamarat, stoning all three pillars once more. Afterward, we head to Makkah for the farewell Tawaf at the Kaaba. This Tawaf is the last ritual of Hajj, and it marks the completion of our pilgrimage. Once we finish the Tawaf, our Hajj is complete, and we can leave Makkah with a sense of fulfillment and gratitude for the spiritual journey we have undertaken.
