The Rituals of Hajj

The Rituals of Hajj H ajj is the fifth pillar of Islam. It is obligatory for every Muslim, male or female, who has the means, to perform Hajj once in their lifetime. The Hajj rituals are observed over five days, from the 8th to the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. Before reaching Makkah for Hajj, pilgrims must don the Ihram (the ritual garment for Hajj) at a designated location called Miqat. The Miqat for pilgrims coming from Yemen, southern directions, or countries such as India and Pakistan, is the Yalamlam mountain, approximately 92 km (57 miles) south of Makkah. For those coming from or passing through Madinah, it is Dhul-Hulayfah (modern name: Abyar Ali), about 450 km (280 miles) north of Makkah. For pilgrims traveling from Iraq and areas to the east, such as Kufa, Basra, and Baghdad, it is Dhat Irq, approximately 94 km (58 miles) northeast of Makkah. Pilgrims from the Levant (Syria, Jordan, Lebanon, and Palestine) or northern regions, including Turkey, use AlJuhfah (modern-day Rabigh), located about 190 km (118 miles) northwest of Makkah. It is essential to wear the Ihram at the Miqat before entering Makkah. The 8th of Dhul-Hijjah is also known as the Yawm alTarwiyah (Day of Tarwiyah). On this day, after performing Ghusl (ritual purification) at night or after the Fajr