#hajj #arafat
Hajj, one of the five pillars of Islam, is set to take place in 2024 from June 14th to June 19th. This annual pilgrimage, mandatory for all financially and physically able Muslims, involves a series of rituals performed over five days in and around Mecca, Saudi Arabia. These rituals commemorate the actions of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his family, symbolizing unity, humility, and submission to Allah.

The pilgrimage begins on the 8th day of Dhul-Hijjah, the last month of the Islamic lunar calendar, with the wearing of the Ihram, a state of purity and the symbolic white garments. Pilgrims then proceed to Mina, where they spend the night in prayer and reflection. On the 9th day, they travel to Arafat for the climax of Hajj, the Day of Arafat, where they stand in prayer from noon to sunset, seeking forgiveness and making supplications.

Following Arafat, pilgrims move to Muzdalifah to collect pebbles for the ritual of Rami al-Jamarat, performed on the next three days in Mina, symbolizing the stoning of Satan. The sacrifice of an animal, known as Qurbani, is also performed, commemorating Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son Ismail in obedience to Allah. The pilgrimage concludes with Tawaf al-Ifadah, the circumambulation of the Kaaba, and the shaving or cutting of hair.