Hajj part IV

Al-Hajj Wa Al-'Umrah

(A concourse of Body and Soul, Time and Place)

Mohammed S. Uddin

Part IV

The Spirit and Rites of Hajj

 

The Spirit of Hajj

Ka'bah is Allah's House.  It is Allah Who decrees who can visit His House.  Hajj is an invitation from Allah^SWT, and the pilgrim is the guest and Allah is the Supreme Host.  Every year there are millions of applicants for Hajj, but only a small group of those makes the Hajj (1-2 million a year). 

 

Hajj is a unique form of worship: it is physically dynamic, and spiritually motivating; it brings all other pillars viz. Prayer, Sadaqa, fasting (for non-pilgrim) under the same shade, for a common goal of achieving Taqwa. It is a spiritual journey, a journey in body and mind, a journey going back in time and place. 

 

The Rites of Hajj and their Spiritual Significance

Intention and Ihram:

Sincere Intention, solely for the sake of worship of Allah.  

Ihram, for man it is two pieces of unsewn cloths, used as upper and lower garments. For woman, it must be simple wear that covers the body from head to toe, except the face and hand.  Ihram is usually put on in Miqat.  The foot wear: no foot wear during Tawaf, otherwise it should be sandals without stitches. 

 

 

Significance of Ihram: The significance of dressing oneself in two pieces of cloths (for man), and simple body cover (for woman), lie in the fact that they mimic the shroud used in wrapping the bodied after death.  Ihram is thus a physical barrier that reflects a separation of the material from the spiritual world.  

Ihram is worn after full cleanliness like cutting nails, shaving private parts, shaving head or shortening hair, followed by bodily purification and Wudu, perfuming the body and making two Raka' of sunnah prayer. The whole process of preparation reminds us the inevitability of death and preparation for burial.  

 

The uniformity of Ihram, makes all Hajjis look alike, eliminating any worldly differences, and teaches equality in birth (born naked) and death (shrouded in just two pieces of cloths).  

 

Once in Ihram, the Hajji must strictly avoid the prohibitions:

 

"The Hajj (pilgrimage) is (in) the well-known (lunar year) months.  So, whosoever intends to perform Hajj therein (by assuming Ihram), then he should not have sexual relations (with his wife), nor commit sin, nor dispute unjustly during Hajj".  (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:197)  

 

  On leaving the Miqat, one must recite Talbyiah and concentrate on the meaning of Talbyiah for spiritual purification (Talbyiah is a part of the vow).  As we recite Talbiya: "Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik La Sharika Laka Labbaik. Innal Hamda Wan-Ni'mata Laka Wal Mulk, La Sharika Laka", we declare our presence and readiness for Allah's service with wealth and life, we denounce Shirk (polytheism), praise Him and announce His Sovereignty. 

 

As one approaches the sacred Precinct of Masjid-al-Haram, and see the Holy Ka'bah, he must stop and stand still and say Allahu Akbar three times, followed by La Ilaha Illa-Allah three times, then raise hands and recite salat and salaam on the Messenger of Allah, and then make any Du'a.

 

The very first glimpse of the Sacred House of Ka'bah, puts us in awe, fills our heart with sense of fulfillment and reverence, and our eyes with tears of joy. It is hard to take the eyes away from its sight:

 

 

Tawaf

History of Tawaf:  Some reports teach that it was in Makkah that our father Adam^AS longed to go back to paradise and be in the presence of Allah. To console his loneliness, Allah commanded him to do Tawaf around the space of the current Ka'bah. And Adam did, and felt whole again.

Other texts teach that Nuh^AS, Ibrahim^AS, and many Prophets before them, all did Tawaf around Allah's sacred House. Their spiritual energy and legacy fill the air. In making Tawaf, the pilgrims walk in the footsteps of all the Prophets, and in the footsteps of Rasulullah^SAAW and his noble companions.

 

In reaching the Masjid-al-Haram, the Hajji makes two Raka'a, and start making Tawaf. He starts at the line marked by the "green light" (starting in the southeast corner), and after raising right hand pointing to the corner, and declaring "Allahu Akbar". It takes seven laps in counterclockwise direction.  The pilgrims should be in Ihram, and make tawaf, keeping the right shoulder bare (for man).  Ihram is not necessary for others, intending to make tawaf.

 

In doing Tawaf, we simulate the Tawaf of the angels around the Baitul Ma'mur, Allah's House in seventh Heaven, where seventy thousand angels make Tawaf every day, and never return (something to reflect about the endless number of angels). In making Tawaf, we spiritually connect ourselves with the angels around Al-Bait Al-Ma'mur:

 

"And by the Bait-ul-Ma'mur (the house over the heavens parable to the Ka'bah at Makkah, continuously visited by the angels)" (Surah At-Tur, 52:4)

 

Tawaf is an Ibada, therefore it must be done in the state of physical purity: "Then, they must remove their dirt, and fulfill their vows, and make tawaf of the Ancient House."   (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:29) 

 

The structure of Ka'bah should also remind us of the joint efforts of the Prophets Ibrahim^AS and Isma'il^AS, in raising the foundation and wall of the House: 

 

"And (remember) when Ibrahim and (his son) Isma'il were raising the foundation of the House (the Ka'bah at Makkah), (saying), "Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us.  Verily! You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower."  (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:127). 

 

This is the legacy of Ibrahim and Isma'il, symbolical of hard work and devotion, and prayer for acceptance of their service.  Any good effort must be followed by supplication for acceptance: "Supplication is the essence of worship."  [Anas bin Malik, Jami At-Tirmidhi 3371 Book 48 Hadith 2)

 

Tawaf or circumambulation is a rotation; that conforms to the universal low of rotation, a model of Allah's universal plan of obedience and worship.  In physical world, objects rotate around a central mass of gravitational attraction (electron in an atom, or celestial bodies), while in Tawaf, we are spiritually attracted by the House, and submit to the Divine Rule:

 

"The sun and the moon run on their fixed courses (exactly), calculated with measured out stages for each. And the herbs (or stars) and the trees prostrate themselves (to Allah)."  (Surah Ar-Rahman, 55:5-6) 

 

Maqam-e-Ibrahim:

 Maqam is where Ibrahim^AS stood to raise the bricks to the wall of the Ka'bah, assisted by his son, Isma'il^AS.  It stands next to Ka'bah, and is included in Tawaf: "In it (the Ka'bah) are manifest signs (for example), the Maqam (place) of Ibrahim…"  (Surah Al-Imran, 3:97)

 

Today, the sacred stone is preserved within a golden cage, few feet away from the wall of Ka'bah, to open the prayer area as well as to facilitate the Tawaf: 

 

After finishing Tawaf, the pilgrim makes two Raka'a in the space around the Maqam: "And (remember) when We made the House (the Ka'bah) a place of resort for mankind and a place of safety.  And take you (people) the Maqam (the place) of Ibrahim as a place of prayer…"  Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:125)

 

 

The well of Zamzam:

The well of Zamzam is about thirty-eight cubits from Ka'bah.  The mouth of Zamzam stands where Isma'il was laid by his mother, lady Hagar, when she went to look for help.  Zamzam water is now supplied throughout in the mosque.

 

The Well of Zamzam was the symbolical reward to lady Hagar for her dependency on Allah^SWT, and for making the effort to save a life. She never lost hope in Allah, in her heart she knew Allah will not forsake her.  It was a Divine gift, the water of which quenched the thirst and abated the hunger of both the mother and son, and served as source of water for the generations afterwards, and presently for millions of Muslims throughout the world. The lesson is one who depends on Allah, Allah never forsakes him. One who puts trust in Allah, Allah feeds him from means beyond his perception:

 

            "…And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, sufficient is Allah for him…"  (Surah At Talaq, 65:3)

 

The well is 35 meter deep and taps ground water from Wadi Alluvium, and it is 4000 years old. Zam-zam water is unique.  Although the source of it is the rain water that is soaked through the sandy soil of Arabian desert, it brings with it many minerals and biological components that are good for health. It is alkaline in pH (compatible with blood alkalinity at pH 7.4), abundant in bicarbonate, calcium and magnesium and fluoride.  It is free from biotics (germs, Dr. Yahya Koshak).  It has anti-oxygen and anti-oncogenic (cancer) property.  It stimulates cell health (German scientist Dr. Knut Pfeiffer)

 

 

Drinking Zam-zam water is sunnah.  It is refreshing, nourishing, and cures minor ailments.  The prophet^SAAW said: "Zamzam water is the best water on the face of the earth.  In it is food for nourishment and healing for illness." [Narrated Ibn Abbas, Grade: Hasan according to Al-Albani].  It cures illness when it is drunk with full sincerity and trust. 

Jibril^AS used Zam-zam water to cleanse the heart of the Prophet^SAAw: once as a child while he was playing with other children, and then in the night of Al-Isra wa Al-Mi'raj.

 

Prophet^SAAW drank Zamzam water standing, to indicate it is permissible to drink standing. [Sunan An-Nasa'I 2965]. The supplication for drinking Zam-zam water is: "Allahumma inni asaluka Rizqan wasi'ah, 'ilman nafi'a, wa Shifa min kulli da'i": "I beseech Thee, O Allah! Bestow on me generous sustenance, beneficial knowledge, and cure from all ailments."

 

Sa'ye: 

The Run of Sa'ye, is the distance between the two hills, As-Safa and Al-Marwa.  Sa'ye starts at As-Safwa, and after seven lapses, ends at Al-Marwa. The Hujjaj fast walk and jog between these two mile-stones. Today, the mounts have been modified to make them easy to climb for people of all ages.  It has also been turned into two levels, to accommodate people making the run.  Sa'ye is a fundamental rite of Hajj. As-Safa and Al-Marwa symbolize Allah's designated Signs.

 

"Verily! As-Safa and Al-Marwa are the Symbols of Allah.  So, it is not a sin on him who performs Hajj or 'Umrah of the House (the Ka'bah in Makkah) to perform the going (tawaf) between them.  And whoever does good voluntarily, then verily, Allah is All-Recognizer, All-Knower."   (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:158)

 

The runs between the two mounts are in commemoration of the runs of lady Hagar.  It depicts the desperation of a lonely mother looking for help to save the life of her infant child, her desperate effort, hope, and complete dependence on Allah.

 

The 8^th Day of Dhul-Hijja, and the First Day of Hajj:

It is also called the day of Tarwiyah.  It is spent in Mina.  It is the day of mental and emotional preparation for the great journey to Arafah, the next day.  It is the first day of Hajj.

 

The 9^th Day of Dhul-Hijja, and the Second Day of Hajj:

In the morning of the 9^th day, the pilgrims proceed to the valley of Al-'Arafah to spend the day there, until after sunset.  It is the second day of Hajj. For the pilgrims, it is an extremely important day, because without observing this day in "Arafah, the Hajj is invalid. The Holy Prophet^SAAW said: "Al-Hajj 'Arafah," meaning "'Arafah is the Hajj" (Ahmad). There is no Hajj without the visit to 'Arafah and observing the day in its proper place and time. 

 

The Arabic word 'Arafah' means to recognize. It is called Al-'Arafah, possibly because, this is the place where Adam and Hawwa met on earth after being ordered to come down from Paradise.  It is also called the Hill of Mercy, because Allah^SWT, out of His Mercy, accepted their supplication for forgiveness. 

 

This is the mount from where the Prophet^SAAW delivered his historical last sermon, and received the testimony of the people that he had delivered the Message of Tauhid to the people.  Allah^SWT acknowledged his service by revealing: "This day, I have perfected your Religion for you, and I have completed My Blessing up on you, and I have chosen Islam as your religion."  (Surah Al-Maida, 5:3)

 

The Day of Arafah is the designated day of worship: prayer, recitation of Qur'an, and remembrance of Allah through Tahlil, Tahmid and Takbir.  The Zuhr Prayer is delayed and "Asr Prayer is prayed earlier.  Both prayers are shortened and prayed with separate Iqama. 

 

It is the day of height of worship. Starting somewhat before noon until sunset, Pilgrims gather to the Plain of 'Arafâh and take their stand (wuqûf) of faith before God, face Qibla, and supplicate with outstretched arms and palms facing up, entreating His mercy and forgiveness. 

'Arafat is the cleansing station outside the haram where we stand and seek forgiveness for all sins that we've committed in our lives. We beg and implore Allah to forgive us, accept our journey to His House and the Masjid al-Haram and all the Manasiks of Hajj. 

 

Fasting on the Day of Arafa:

It is not permissible for pilgrims to fast on the Day of Arafa: "Abu Huraira said that God's messenger prohibited fasting on the day of 'Arafa at 'Arafa."  [Mishkat al-Masabih, 2062, Book 7, Hadith 105]

 

However, it is highly recommende for non-Hajjis, to fast on the Day of 'Arafah: 

"I heard the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) say: 'Whoever fasts the Day of 'Arafah, his sins of the previous and following year will be forgiven.'" [Qatada bin Nu'man, Sunan Ibn Majah 1731, Book 7, Hadith 94]

 

Mujdalifa:

Mujdalifa is a valley between Arafat and Mina. It is a flat open area between mina and Arafat, in the province of Makkah. At one end it has the Valley of Muhassar, and at the other end, lays the Mountains of Ma'zamayn:

                                                                                    

The Hujjaj leave 'Arafah after sunset for Mujdalifa, pray Maghrib and Isha, together, but with separate Adhan and Iqamas (Isha being shortened to two Rakas). They spend the night of 10^th of Dhul-Hijja or greater part of it in Mujdalifa.  Time in Mujdalifa is spent in worship, rest and sleep.  When Fajr is due, they pray Fajr, and proceed towards the Sacred Monument, Mash'aril Haram, and repeat "La Ilaha Illa-Allah, Allahu Akbar, and supplicate as he wishes:

 

"It is no crime in you, if you seek the bounty of your Lord (during pilgrimage).  Then when you pour down from mount Arafat, celebrate the praises of Allah at the sacred Monument and celebrate His praises, as He has directed you, even though, before this, you went astray."  (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:198)

 

The pilgrim leaves Mujdalifa at the dawn, and goes to Mina. Before proceeding for Mina, the pilgrims collect the pebbles for throwing during Ramy, in Mina. 

 

The 10^th day of Dhul Hijja in Mina and Jamarat:

This is the 3^rd day of Hajj. The pilgrims return to Mina from Mujdalifa. The valley of Mina (Muna) is about three miles from Makkah.  It is the valley where Ibrahim^AS intended to sacrifice Isma'il. 

 

It is also the valley where the pillars are erected for throwing stones.  There are three pillars: Kubra (Jamarat-al-Aqaba), Wusta, and Sugra, respectively representing the "Was-was" or whispering of Saitan to Ibrahim, Hagar, and Isma'il.  The whispering was against sacrificing Isma'il for the sake of Allah^SWT.

 

Immediately after coming to Mina, pilgrim proceeds to throw stone at the Jamarat-al-Aqaba (the biggest pillar), then makes the sacrifice, (or designates someone to do it on their behalf), then cuts hair/shaves head, and takes off the Ihram, celebrates the Eid, then proceeds for Tawaful Ifada. 

Tawaful Ifada is wajib, and it must be done between the morning of the 10^th and before the sunset of the 12^th of Dhul-Hujja. 

 

Days of Tashriq

The 11^th, 12^th, and 13^th of the month are called the days of Tashriq.  These days are spent in Mina to complete Ramy (throwing of stone), for relaxation, and for celebration through prayer, sharing food, and exchange of knowledge through khawatir and lectures. Usually, the Hujjaj live in tents in Mina.

 

The Hujjaj can leave anyone of these days, but staying in Mina is encouraged. Before leaving, the Hajji must make the final Tawaf.  In between, during the days of Tashriq, the Hujjaj are encouraged to make additional Tawaf:

 

            "And remember Allah during the appointed Days.  But whosoever hasten to leave in two days, there is no sin on him, and whosoever stays on, there is no sin on him, if his aim is to do good and obey Allah, and no that you will surely be gathered unto Him."  (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:203)

 

The Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf- al-Wada) is an obligatory part of Hajj, except for local residents and menstruating women. After the Farewell Tawaf, the pilgrim should be getting ready to leave the Holy city of Makkah

  

 

 

Hajj Mabrur

An accepted Hajj is called Hajj Mabrur.  For Hajj Mabrur, there are strict guidelines in the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet^SAAW: 

·      Staying away from relationship, bad language, and quarrel. Take the best of provisions, and the provision of provision is Taqwa". (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:197)

 

The Holy Prophet^SAAW said: "Whoever perform Hajj and does not have sexual relations (with his wife), nor commits sin, nor dispute unjustly (during Hajj), then he returns from Hajj as pure and free from sins as on the day on which his mother gave birth to him."  [Al-Bukhari and Muslim, Ryad-us-Saliheen, Hadith number 1274, narrated Abu Hurairah]

 

·      Be a "Mukhbith" (humble): believe in Monotheism, total submission to Allah's Command, love for Allah so that when the word "Allah" is mentioned, the heart fills up with love and fear, show patient perseverance over any afflictions, keep up regular prayer, and spend in charity: 

 

"…And your Ilah (God) is One Ilah (Allah), so you must submit to Him Alone (in Islam). And (O Muhammad^SAAW, give glad tidings to the Mukhbitun (humble), whose hearts are filled with fear when Allah is mentioned, and As-Sabirun (one who patiently bear whatever may befall), who perform As-Salat, and who spend (in Allah's cause) out of what We have provided them.  (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:34-35)

 

 

·      Honor the Sacred Rites of Allah^SWT: "And let them complete their prescribed duties (Ihram, Tawaf, Sa'ye, stay at Arafat, Muzdalifa, and Mina, Ramy of Jamarat, Slaughtering of Hady, etc., and whoever honor the sacred things of Allah, then that is better for him with his Lord.  The cattle are lawful to you, except those mentioned to you…" (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:29-30)

 

·      Honor the designated Symbols, the Sha'air: the stations of Hajj, and the animals of sacrifice: "And the Budn (cow, oxen or camal), We have made them for you, as among the Symbols of Allah, wherein you have much good…"  (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:36)

 

·      Be a "Muhsin" who does Ihsan (excellent deeds): "It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is piety from you that reaches Him. Thus, We have made them subject to you that you may magnify Allah for His Guidance to you.  And give glad tidings to the Muhsinun."  (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:37)

 

The Holy Prophet^SAAW said:

"Al-'Umratu ilal-'Umrati kaffaratul-lima binahuma, wal-Hajjul Mabrur laisa lahu jazaau illal-Jannah": "One 'Umrah to the next 'Umrah, is an expiation of sins (minor) (committed) in between, and the reward for the Hajjul Mabrur is nothing but Jannah (Paradise)."  [Sahih Al-Bukhari 1773, Book 26, Hadith 1, Narrated Abu Hurairah^RA]

 

Of all the best deeds, Hajj Mabrur comes after Tauhid and jihad^* [Al Bukhari and Muslim, Ryad-us-Saliheen, Hadith number 1273, Narrated Abu Hurairah]

^*The best Jihad for women is Hajj Mabrur [Al Bukhari, Riyad-us-Saliheen, Hadith number 1276, narrated Aishah^RA]

 

"Hajjun Mabrur, Sa'yan mashkur, Wa Zamba maghfur."

 

 

 

 

        

Mohammed Uddin

msuddin5@sbcglobal.net

https://nusrat-uddin.blogspot.com/

Al-Hajj Wa Al-'Umrah

(A concourse of Body and Soul, Time and Place)

Mohammed S. Uddin

 

Part III

History of Ka'bah

 

 Description:

Ka'bah, in English, means 'the Cube'.  The present Ka'bah approximately measures 43 ft in height, 42 ft 2 inch in length, and 36 ft 2 inch in width.  Originally, it was unroofed.  Presently it is roofed, and has a gate to enter. It is elegantly covered with a silk and cotton drape. It is at the center of Al-Masjid Al-Haram, in Makkah, in Sa'udi Arabia. The ancient name of Makkah was Bacca, and the ancient name of the region was Paran or Faran. This is the First House built on earth for the worship of Allah^SWT:

 

"The First House (of worship) appointed for men was that in Bacca (the old name of Makkah), full of blessings and guidance for all creations…"  (Surah Al 'Imran, 3:96-97)

 

 

 

The First House was built on a hillock, as a Decree of Allah, so the torrent from rain or flood could pass on the side of the hillock without affecting it [Stories of the Prophets, Imam Ibn Kathir, page 91].  Angel Jibril brought the stone and gave to Ibrahim to engrave it in the corner of Ka'bah; its color was white at the beginning.

 

Ka'bah is also called Al-Bait Al-Atiq, because it survived (U'tiqa) from the Great Flood, at the time Noah^AS [recorded by Ikrimah), and because it was never conquered by any tyrant (recorded by Khusayf). Thus, it is a symbol of freedom, a symbol free from human and natural subjugation, a freedom that extends to the realm of all creations, be it an insect, a tree, a branch of a tree, or even a pebble, because they all are engaged in remembrance of Allah^SWT.  It is a place of self-restraint, and an institution of self-amendments.  

 

Spiritual implication:

Ka'bah is the prototype of Al-Bait-al-Ma'mur, the House of Allah^SWT in the seventh heaven, and just above which is the Throne of Allah:

 

            "And by Al-Bait-al-Ma'mur."  (Surah At-Tur, 52:4), the Frequented House, where seventy thousand angels make Tawaf every day, and the same group never return again; this has been going on ever since the beginning of creation, and will continue till the Day of Judgment.  

When the Prophet^SAAW was taken for Mi'raj, he was shown Al-Bait-al-Ma'mur by Jibril, in the seventh heaven:

 

            "Then I was shown Al-Bait-al-Ma'mur (i. e. Allah's House). I asked Gabriel about it and he said: "This is Al Bait-ul-Ma'mur where 70,000 angels perform prayers daily and when they leave, they never return to it (but always a fresh batch comes into it daily)" (Sahih Bukhari 3207; Sahih Muslim 164)

 

As regards the universal phenomenon of worship, the entire creation, be it living and moving, or non-living like an electron (or smaller), or a pebble, or a non-moving creature like a vine or a tree, or a celestial body like a star or a planet, are continuously engaged in remembrance of Allah, but we may not understand their language and their mode and time of prayer:

 

"Whatsoever is in the heavens and the earth glorifies Allah—He is the Al-Mighty, Al-Wise."  (Surah Al-Hadid, 57:1) 

 

"The seven heavens and the earth, and all that is therein, glorify Him and there is not a thing but glorifies His Praise.  But you understand not their glorification.  Truly, He is Ever Forbearing, Oft-Forgiving."  (Surah Al-Isra', 17:44)

 

Allah^SWT created jinn and man solely for the purpose of worshipping Him (51:56), not because He needs our worship, but because, for created entities like human being and jinn, who are given limited freedom of choice, therefore apt to make mistakes; worship is the means for seeking forgiveness for all the mistakes and sins that we commit, and achieve salvation from punishment.  In fact, Allah does not need our praise and worship, because He is As-Samad (He is Self-Sufficient, Free of need, 112:2).  It is we who need Allah, Who creates us, protects us, sustains us and guides us:

 

 

"O mankind! It is you who stands in need of Allah.  But Allah is rich (Free of all needs), Worthy of all praise."  (Surah Fatir, 35:15)

 

"…But if you disbelieve, then unto Allah belongs all that is in the heavens, and all that is in earth, and Allah is Ever Rich (Free of all wants), Worthy of all praise."  (Surah An-Nisa', 4:131)

            

  

Building Ka'bah:

There is uncertainty about who built the First House of worship: Some believe that it was built by Prophet Adam with the help of Jibril [A Guide for Hajj and 'Umrah, Matthews, Anis Daud, page 17], and some others believe that it was built by Jibril alone.  (Allah knows best!).

 

Father of mankind Adam and mother Hawwa, met in mount Arafah, and were guided to the site of Ka'bah.  Angel Jibril helped Adam to build Ka'bah and taught him the rites of Hajj. Thus how, the rites and routes of Hajj were established.  

 

After Adam's death, and about the time of Prophet Nuh^AS (Noah), people started to worship idols.  They refused to respond to Nuh's call to Tauhid.  After 950 years of preaching, Nuh had only a few followers.  He was disappointed and lost hope in their salvation. Therefore, they were punished with the Catastrophic Flood.  Nuh and his followers were saved in the Ark.  After the flood, Nuh and his son Sam, re-established the practice of Tauhid on earth, but as time passed, the subsequent generation reverted to polytheism.  Allah^SWT sent Hud and Saleh to guide mankind; they also had limited success.  After Saleh's death and many centuries, Allah^SWT sent Ibrahim to call mankind to Tauhid:

 

"And verily, among those who followed his (Nuh's) way, was Ibrahim."  (Surah As-Saffat, 37:83)

 

"And Indeed, We sent Nuh (Noah) and Ibrahim, and placed in their offspring Prophethood and Scripture…"  (Surah Al-Hadid, 57:26)

 

Guided by Jibril^AS,, Ibrahim^AS  came to Paran (the old name of Saudi Arabia) along with his wife, Hager, and son, young Isma'il, and he was shown this site of the Ancient House on the hillock: 

 

""And (remember) when We showed Ibrahim the site of the (sacred) House, saying: "Associate not anything (in worship) with Me, and sanctify My House for those who circumambulate it, and those who stand up (for prayer), and those who bow, and make prostration (in prayer).""  (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:26)

 

He decided to settle his family next to the site (the hillock) where once stood the Ancient House. Lady Hagar accepted Allah's Decree, and stayed there with her infant child.  Isma'il grew up there and became a part of the sprawling community.  

 

Ibrahim^AS used to visit Lady Hagar and Isma'il frequently and provide for them. During one such visit, when Isma'il^AS had grown up to do hard work, Prophet Ibrahim and Isma'il were commanded to clean the Sacred House (of polytheism) and sanctify it for Allah's worship, and make the city safe for those who would seek peace and security:

 

"And We covenanted with Ibrahim and Isma'il that they should sanctify My House for those who compass it round, or use it as a retreat, or bow, or prostrate themselves (therein in prayer)."  (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:125)

 

Rebuilding of Ka'bah:

 

Ibrahim and Isma'il started to rebuild the Sacred House at the hillock, where the Al-Baitul al-Atiq was. As they started the work, he was supplicating to Allah to make the city of Makkah a sanctuary of peace and safety, and provide the people with sustenance from fruits, the halal sustenance to purify the people, and keep them spiritually pure:

 

"And (remember), when Ibrahim said, "O our Lord! Make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last day."  He (Allah) answered: "As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to torment of the Fire, and worse indeed is that destination."    

(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:126)          

 

Ibrahim^AS was laying the bricks, while Isma'il^AS was bringing the bricks to him.  As the height of the wall was rising higher, Ibrahim^AS stood on clay-stone to reach the height.  His foot-prints where he stood are now the symbols of "Maqam Ibrahim". It is said that when an area of the wall was finished, the stone along with him, would move to the next area.  As they were building the wall, they were supplicating to Allah to accept their service: 

 

 And (remember) when Ibrahim and (his son) Isma'il were raising the foundation of the House (the Ka'bah in Makkah), (saying), "Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us.  Verily! You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower."  (Surah Al-Bqarah, 2:127)

 

Pre-Islamic Ka'bah:

Prior to Islam, the Ka'bah was a holy site for the various Bedouin tribes throughout the Arabian Peninsula. Once every lunar year, Bedouin people would make a pilgrimage to Makkah, and circumambulate the Sacred House. Each tribe had its own statue; beside the common ones, the Lat, Uzza, Manat and Hubal were the main statues.  There were 350-360 statues in and around Ka'bah.  At that time, Makkah was also the trade center for the Bedouin. Setting aside any tribal feud, they would worship their gods in the Ka'bah and trade with each other in the city. Various sculptures and paintings were also held inside the Ka'bah.  

 

In the immediate Pre-Islamic Era, before Muhammad's Prophethood, the house had to be rebuilt.  Prophet^SAAW participated in its rebuilding by carrying the bricks, and played a pivotal role in replacing the black stone to its original location, thereby avoiding a potential and dangerous communal dispute among the leaders of different tribes of Quraysh.  

 

The cause of dispute was the black stone.  The stone had to be removed from its original place (the corner of Ka'bah). When the renovation was completed, the stone had to be replaced in its original location. Considered a divine sent, the opportunity to place it back to its original location, was an honor to whoever was given the opportunity. 

To avoid the dispute, the leaders agreed to assign the honor to the first person that would walk to Ka'bah at that minute.  And, it happened to be Muhammad Mustafa^SAAW, the most trustworthy person among the Arabs.  Therefore, he was given the honor.  But in his God-given wisdom, he did not take the honor alone, instead he put the stone on a piece of garment, and let everyone hold the garment and bring the stone next to the corner of the Ka'bah, then he lifted the stone and put it in the right place.

 

Historically, the Ka'bah was a rectangular cube, and it was unroofed.  Over centuries, the Masjid Al-Haram and Ka'bah have undergone many renovations, as the ruling authorities of Makkah changed hands.  The last renovation was after the damage caused by heavy rains and flooding in 1626 CE, during the reign of Uthmani Emperor Murad the IV, when the walls of the Ka'bah collapsed and the Mosque was damaged. The same year, it was rebuilt with granite stones from Makkah, and the Mosque was renovated. (History of Ka'bah)

 

In the early period of Islam, the leadership of Ka'bah was in the hands of different clans of Quraysh.  The leaders were Abu Lahab, Abu Jahl (d.624), Walid bin Mughira (d.622). Umayyah bin Khalaf (d.624), Nazar bin Haris (d.624), Uqbah bin Abi Muayt (d.624), Abu Sufyan (d. 653), Rabi'ah Brothers.  They were the staunchest enemies of Islam and most antagonistic to the Prophet^SAAW, they believed him, but did not want to accept the Message of Islam. To avoid the persecution, the Holy Prophet^SAAW migrated to Medina. In 622 CE. Abu Sufyan became Muslim, after the Treaty of Hudaybiyah. 

 

In year 624 CE, the enemies of Islam gathered an army of one thousand well equipped persons, under the leadership of Abu Jahl, and proceeded towards Medina.  The Prophet^SAAW gathered three scantly equipped persons from Ansars and Muhajiruns, and met the enemy in the valley of Badr. Most of the leaders of Makkah, including Abu Jahl were slain in the Battle of Badr:

 

            Allah Almighty said: "And Allah has already made you victorious at Badr, when you were a weak little force.  So, fear Allah much, that you may be grateful…"   [ Surah Al-'imran, 3:123]

 

The Makkah after the Conquest:

The Prophet^SAAW had a dream that he had entered the Sacred Mosque at Makkah, just before he decided on the journey which resulted in the Treaty of Hudaybiyah.  By this treaty, the Prophet^SAAW and his people could enter the city of Makkah, the following year, without any hinderance:

 

"Truly did Allah fulfill the vision for His Messenger: You shall enter the Sacred Mosque, if Allah wills, with minds secure, head shaved, hair cut short, and without fear, for He knew what you know not, and He granted besides this; a speedy victory."  (Surah Al-Fath, 48:27)

 

The following year, in his final return, the Prophet entered Makkah almost unopposed. The city, that had treated him so cruelly, drove him and his adherents out, forced him to take refuge among strangers, sworn by his life and his adherents, now lay at his mercy.  His old persecutors are now completely at his feet.  

The Prophet^SAW entered the city on his favorite camel Al-Qaswa, with Usama Ibn Zaid, sitting behind him.  On his way, he recited Surah Al-Fat-h (Victory):

 

 "Verily, We have given you (O Muhammad) a manifest victory.  That Allah may forgive you your sins of the past and future, and complete His favor on you, and guide you on the Straight Path; and that Allah may help you with strong help."    (Surah Al-Fath', 48-1-3)

 

 The Muslim Army entered the city unpretentiously and peacefully: they did not rob any house, nor did they insult any man or woman. The Prophet^SAW granted a general amnesty for the entire population of Mekkah, except four criminals, condemned by justice: they were Ikrimah bin Abi Jahl, Abdullah bin Khatal, Abdullah bin Sa'd bin Abi As-Sarh, and Miqyas bin Subabah.  Of them Abdullah bin Khatal and Miqyas bi Subabah were killed on the order of the Prophet^SAAW, and Ikrimah bin Abi Jahl and Abdullah (bin Sa'd) bin Abi Sarh did accept Islam.  He was permitted to punish the enemies, but he resorted to justice and forgiveness:

 

            "I swear by this city (Makkah); and you are free (from sin, and to punish the enemies of Islam on the Day of the conquest) in this city (Makkah)."  [Surah Al-Balad, 90:1-2]

 

Narrated Ibn Abbas: "On the day of the conquest of Makkah, Allah's Messenger^SAAW said: "Allah has made this town a sanctuary.  Its thorny bushes should not be cut, its game should be chased, and its fallen things should not be picked up except by one who would announce them publicly".  (Sahih Al-Bukhari, Vol. 2, Hadith 657)

 

The Prophet^SAAW ordered the destruction of all idols, and pagan images of worship: three hundred and sixty idols, erected in Ka'ba, were thrown out.  He himself participated in the destruction of the idols as he was reciting loud: "Allah is Great, Truth has come, falsehood has vanished; verily falsehood is fleeting.":

 

"And say: "Truth (Islamic Monotheism or the Qur'an 0r Jihad against polytheism) has come and Batil (falsehood, i. e. Satan or polytheism) has vanished.  Surely, Batil is ever bound to vanish."  (Surah Al-Isra, 17:81)

 

After clearing the abomination of the idolators, the Prophet^SAW delivered a speech from As-Safwa hill, to the assembled people, emphasizing brotherhood and its distinguishing criteria in the Words of the Qur'an:

 

"O mankind! We have created you from a single male and female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another.  Verily, the most honorable of you in the Sight of Allah is that (believer) who has At-Taqwa (pious and righteous person who is always conscious of Allah).  Verily, Allah is All-Knowing All-Aware."  (Surah Al-Hujurat, 49:13)

 

With his call to Tauhid, the tribal rivalry completely disintegrated: a great multitude of people came to adopt Islam and take the pledge of allegiance to the Prophet^SAW.  He invited the Quraysh and the gathering, to worship the Lord of the Sacred House:

 

"Let them worship the Lord of this House, Who has fed them in hunger, and made them safe from fear."  (Surah Al-Quraysh, 107:3-4)

 

Umar^RA acting as the deputy, administered the oath, whereby the people bound themselves not to adore any deity but Allah, to obey the Prophet, to abstain from theft, adultery, fornication, infanticide, lying and backbiting:

 

"O Prophet!  When believing women come to you to give you the Bai'ah (pledge), that they will not associate anything in worship with Allah, that they will not steal, that they will not commit illegal sexual intercourse, they will not kill their children, that will not utter slander, intentionally forging falsehood (i. e. by making illegal children belonging to their husbands), and they will not disobey you in Ma'ruf (Islamic Monotheism), then accept their Bai'ah (pledge), and ask Allah to forgive them.  Verily, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful."  (Surah Al-Mumtahana, 60:12)

 

During his stay in Makkah, the Prophet dispatched his disciples in every direction to preach Islam, among the wild tribes of the desert, and to call them to the true Religion of Allah.  He sent a smaller detachment of troops into the suburbs, who destroyed the temple of Al-Uzza, Al-Lat, Suwa'a, and Manat, the famous idols in the temples of the neighboring tribes. The order was to carry out the injunctions in the most peaceful manner.

 

Thus, the last Prophet and Messenger of Allah, completed the mission started by Ibrahim^AS, clean the city of polytheism and establish Islamic Monotheism.  The city of Makkah is the seat and core of Islamic Monotheism, and will continue be so, till the Day of Akhirah.

 

 

 

 

 

 

Mohammed Uddin

msuddin5@sbcglobal.net

https://nusrat-uddin.blogspot.com/

Kind regards,

Mohammed Uddin

msuddin5@sbcglobal.net

https://nusrat-uddin.blogspot.com/

Al-Hajj Wa Al-'Umrah

(A concourse of Body and Soul, Time and Place)

Mohammed S. Uddin

 

Part II

History of Hajj

 

Hajj is a legacy of Ibrahim^AS, his spouse Hagar, his son Ismail^AS, and the last Prophet and Messenger of Allah, Mohammad^SAAW. Each one of them played a significant role in establishing the manasiks of this unique form of worship of Allah, that eventually led to perfection of the concept and made it a pillar of Islam.

 

Life of Ibrahim^AS:

 

Ibrahim^AS was born in Ur of Chaldees (a place in the lower reaches of Euphrates). His father was Azar, who was an idol worshipper. When he saw his father making the idols and worshipping them, he asked him "O my father, why do you worship something that cannot speak, hear or answer.":

 

"When he said to his father: "O my father! Why do you worship that which hears not, sees not, and cannot avail you in anything?"  (Surah Maryam, 19:42)

 

His father disputed with him and threatened him.  He also had dispute with the community, because he broke their idols, except the big idol. Finally, king Nimrud ordered him to be burnt.  He was catapulted into a huge fire, but with the mercy of Allah, the burning power of the fire was taken out; and instead of burning, the fire became a place of peace, safety, and security for him.  At the end, he walked out of the fire, totally unharmed:

 

"They said: "Burn him and help your Alihah (gods), if you will be doing."  We (Allah) said:  

"O fire! Be (you) coolness and safety for Ibrahim!"  (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:68-69)

 

He preached Tauhid, but none followed him except his nephew Lut^AS.  He then decided to leave Ur, and migrated to Syria, then to Palestine; he was accompanied by Sarah (his cousin sister, and would be wife), and his nephew Lut^AS.  While in Palestine, he once traveled to Egypt for inviting people to Tauhid, where he encountered a tyrant king. The king wanted to meet Sarah, then he attempted to seduce her, but he failed because of divine protection.  Out of amazement and reverence, the king gave Sarah a gift: this was Hagar, the Egyptian. 

 

Returning from Egypt, Ibrahim^AS settled in Canaan.  Lady Sarah offered Hagar to Ibrahim for marriage, hoping for Ibrahim's progeny.  Lady Hagar and Ibrahim^AS were soon blessed with Isma'il, the first born.  Later on, Lady Sarah and Ibrahim were blessed with Isaac.

 

The life of Ibrahim^AS was full of challenges.  Because of his sincerity and steadfastness, and blessings of Allah^SWT, he accomplished all of them.  He purified the House of Allah, built the Sacred Refuge, he submitted his will to Allah's Will, and was bestowed with the title "Hunafa'": Ibrahim^AS was 'Hunafa' by birth.  His life history depicts his monotheistic nature:

"And indeed! We bestowed aforetime on Ibrahim, his (portion of) guidance, and We were Well- Acquainted with him (as to his belief in Oneness of Allah)."  (Surah Al-Anbiya, 21:51)  

 

He was promised the leadership of the world, and was permitted to plead for his Ummah.  He was peaceful in the middle of the fire, because of his Taqwa.  But all of these achievements were not enough to make him "The Friend of Allah", and be the leader of mankind till he passed the final Test, the test of his total submission, sincerity, and Love of Allah.  The test had to be achieved through a Great Sacrifice, and the Command for that sacrifice came in a dream:

 

"Then when (the son) reached (the age of serious) work with him, he said: "O my son! I see in vision that I offer you in sacrifice: Now see what is your view!"  (The son) said: "O my father! Do as you are commanded; you will find me, if Allah so wills, one practicing patience and constancy!"  (Surah Al-Saffat, 37: 102) 

 

Hagar and Isma'il in Paran:

When Isma'il was still breast-fed, Prophet Ibrahim^AS was commanded to take Hagar and her son to the valley of Paran (the old name of Makkah).  The valley of Paran was an arid land without any water or harvest. Ibrahim^AS left them at the present site of Haram, between the two hills of As-Safa and Al-Marwa, with only a bag of dates and some water in a water-skin.

 

Helpless and bewildered, young mother with her very young child, wondered, and finally asked Ibrahim, if this was the Command of Allah!  Ibrahim answered her by nodding his head, and quietly left.  Hopeful and reassured, Hagar resigned and submitted to the Will of Allah, and assured herself that Allah will not forsake her and her baby, and deprive them of His Mercy.

 

Speechless and heavy hearted, Ibrahim kept walking quietly till he came out of her sight, and on reaching Thaniya, heartbroken, but ever obedient, he supplicated:

 

"O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring dwell in a valley without cultivation, by Thy Sacred House; in order, O Our Lord!  That they may establish regular prayer: So, fill the hearts of some men with love towards them, and feed them with fruits, so that they may give thanks." (Surah Ibrahim, 14:37)

 

Very soon the bags of water and dates finished: without food and drink, both the mother and the child started to become weak, and the mother became dry of milk.  Perceiving that the situation is dire, the mother, despite the threat to her own life, desperately looked for help for the sake of her baby.  She started to run and climb to the top of the hills of As-Safa and Al-Marwa, to call out for help.  She knew the first time that there was no one around, but she continued her efforts, never giving up the hope, however small that hope was, that there may be some one out there, who will respond to her call.

 

At the end of the seventh run, when she reached Al-Marwa, she heard a voice, and heard it again, and said: "O (whoever you may be)! You have made me hear you voice; have you got something to help me? And behold, she saw an angel digging the earth with his heel (or with his wing), till water gushed out from that hole.  Seeing that, she ran, and started to contain the water with sand, saying the words: "Zumi, ya Mubaraka!", meaning 'Stop there, stop there, O blessed water'.  Thus was the beginning of the Spring of Zam-zam.  She filled the water skin and drank from it, and fed her son.  That was enough for a meal!

The angel said to her: "Don't be afraid of being neglected, for this is the House of Allah which will be built by this boy and his father, and Allah never neglects His people". [Prophet's Tradition, Stories of the Prophets, Imam Ibn Kathir]

  

Historically, Lady Hagar lived in the valley of Bacca and shared the water with the family of Jurhum and others, who lived in the valley, but retained the right to remain in control of the well.  The tradition continued through Isma'il and his descendants to the present Arabs.

 

Because of availability of water, travelers started to settle around the area, and a new community started to grow. She raised her son with moral values, and taught him to remain ever obedient to Allah^SWT, and to his father Ibrahim^AS. Young Isma'il became a part pf that community, and married in the family of Jurhum. 

Prophet Ibrahim^AS used to visit Lady Hagar and Isma'il frequently.  During one such visit, he saw a dream in which he was commanded to sacrifice his beloved son Isma'il.  So, he mentioned the dream to his son to see how Isma'il felt about it.  Isma'il^AS told his father "O father! Do as you are commanded (to do), I will be patient about it":

 

"Then when (the son) reached (the age of serious) work with him, he said: "O my son! I see in vision that I offer you in sacrifice: Now see what is your view!"  (The son) said: "O my father! Do as you are commanded; you will find me, if Allah so wills, one practicing patience and constancy!"  (Surah Al-Saffat, 37: 102) 

 

Bu it was unimaginably emotionally traumatic for both the father and the mother. Ibrahim^AS, Lady Hagar, and Isma'il discussed the dream, and finally they decided to obey the Command. When Ibrahim^AS was ready to slaughter his son and turn him face down, he heard the Call that he has fulfilled the dream, and saw a ram in place of Isma'il.  It was indeed a Monumental Ransom, and became the tradition for his progeny and the Muslim Ummah: 

 

Then, when they submitted themselves (to the Will of Allah), and he had laid him prostrate on his forehead, We called out to him: O Ibrahim!  You have fulfilled the dream! Verily, thus do we reward the Muhsinun."  (Surah Al Saffat, 37:103-105)

 

Thus, Allah^SWT acknowledged the sincere intention of Ibrahim^AS, and accepted the sacrifice of the ram, emphasizing the fact that it is not the material sacrifice that reaches Allah, but it is the love for Allah that reaches Him: "It is neither their meat nor their blood that reaches Allah, but it is the Taqwa (Allah-consciousness) that reaches Him."  (Surah Al-Hajj, 22:37)

 

 

Hajj and Eid-al-Adha:

Hajj and Eid-al-Adha are not supplementary: Hajj is the journey to visit Ka'bah in Makkah, and perform the rites of Hajj, while Eid-al-Adha is the day of Udhiya or sacrifice. Udhiya is an obligatory rite of Hajj. 

 

Eid-al-Adha is the day of celebration of the legacy of Ibrahim, in commemoration of his sincere intention of sacrificing his son Isma'il^AS for the love of Allah.  This is the day when Muslims around the world celebrate the day with or without having to sacrifice cattle (depending on the affordability). Udhiya is not an obligation, but it is highly recommended (Wajib per some schools), to be done on behalf of the living members of the family, or as Sadaqa (charity) for those who passed away, leaving their property behind.

 

Mohammed Uddin

msuddin5@sbcglobal.net

https://nusrat-uddin.blogspot.com/

Mohammed Uddin

msuddin5@sbcglobal.net

https://nusrat-uddin.blogspot.com/