Hajj rituals

Hajj rituals are a series of sacred acts performed by Muslims during the pilgrimage to Makkah. These rituals symbolize devotion, unity, and submission to Allah. Pilgrims begin by entering a state of purity known as Ihram, wearing simple white garments to show equality before God. They then perform Tawaf by circling the Kaaba seven times, followed by Sa’i—walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah in remembrance of Hajar’s search for water.

On the Day of Arafah, pilgrims stand in prayer at Mount Arafat, seeking forgiveness and mercy from Allah. The next steps include Muzdalifah, where they collect pebbles, and Ramy al-Jamarat, the symbolic stoning of the devil in Mina. Pilgrims also sacrifice an animal as an act of obedience and share its meat with the poor. The journey concludes with Tawaf al-Ifadah and shaving or trimming the hair, marking spiritual renewal and purification.