Nearly 2 million Muslims are preparing for the annual Hajj pilgrimage to Mecca, Saudi Arabia, which begins on May 25, 2026. Many pilgrims arrive weeks in advance to prepare for the journey.
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, obligatory once in a lifetime for all adult Muslims who are physically and financially able. The word derives from the Arabic root “h-j-j”, meaning “to intend a journey” or “to set out for a definitive purpose.”
The pilgrimage takes place from the 8th to the 12th (or 13th) of Dhul-Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, roughly 70 days after Ramadan. Due to the lunar calendar, Hajj shifts 10–12 days earlier each year in the Gregorian calendar.
Rituals begin with entering the state of ihram before entering Mecca. Men wear two white garments, women modest attire, symbolizing equality, humility, and unity before God.
In Mecca, pilgrims perform tawaf — circling the Kaaba seven times counterclockwise. Then comes sa’i, walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, reenacting Hagar’s search for water for her son Ishmael.
Pilgrims proceed to Mina, the “city of tents,” where they spend the night in prayer. On the second day, they gather at the plain of Mount Arafat for wuquf (standing) from noon to sunset, praying and repenting — the most important ritual.
After sunset, they travel to Muzdalifah for prayers and to collect pebbles. On the third day, they return to Mina and throw seven pebbles at the largest of three pillars (rami), symbolizing the stoning of the devil.
An animal sacrifice is offered, commemorating Abraham’s willingness to sacrifice his son. Men shave or trim their hair, women cut a small lock — a sign of spiritual renewal.
Pilgrims return to Mecca for another tawaf and sa’i, then back to Mina for daily stoning of all three pillars. Those staying an extra day repeat the stoning.
Before leaving Mecca, a farewell tawaf (tawaf al-wada) is performed. Hajj concludes with Eid al-Adha, featuring a special prayer, animal sacrifice, and feasts. The greeting “Eid Mubarak” is exchanged.
Source: www.aljazeera.com