Before embarking on the Hajj pilgrimage, numerous Muslims dedicated themselves to thorough physical, mental, and spiritual preparation for the demanding journey to the Holy Lands. In addition to increasing their daily physical activity to build endurance for long distances, many pilgrims were advised to participate in Hajj classes and programs. These educational sessions instruct on prayers, Hajj rituals, and their proper execution.
Despite the presence of knowledgeable scholars, guides, and experienced individuals, as well as the time and effort invested in learning the necessary information, it is not uncommon for pilgrims to encounter gaps in their knowledge upon arrival, mainly if it is their first Hajj experience.
The splendour of the two holiest cities in the Islamic world, the multitude of believers flooding Makkah, and the profound spiritual energy of the place can be overwhelming and awe-inspiring, leading to momentary forgetfulness. This occurred when Rizwan Salasa and his spouse, first-time pilgrims, entered Makkah.
“Going to Hajj classes is obviously encouraged, and we did that … However [what we found] is that when you land in Madina and Makkah, you are so overwhelmed you know you do forget. Our Sheikh told us that, you know, ultimately, everything is about your [intention] and what’s in your heart. So you try to remember all of these things that you were taught, and in my own experience, it’s not easy.”
First Time Experience in Makkah
As the days of Hajj draw near, a significant influx of people from around the world enters the city, posing challenges in carrying out certain rituals in Makkah. Despite the obstacles encountered, Salasa and his spouse managed to perform their first Umrah, and this realisation revitalised and invigorated their spirits for the days ahead.
Nevertheless, with a touch of joy and satisfaction in his tone, Salasa mentioned that his most significant challenge thus far has been restraining the impulse to circumambulate the Kaaba and visit its sacred sites continually.
“I think the first time you experienced that [Umrah], it’s overwhelming, but the reward of it is so amazing. When you sit down, you actually realise it … It just gives you that feeling of I’m going to try again, but we must be mindful. My biggest challenge [is] I need to curb myself. I need to say, “Hey, the five days are coming, and you need to be healthy for that period”. But really, you just want to be there. I mean, it calls you, pulls you, and you just want to make the effort to get there more and more.”
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How Are They Preparing for the Days of Hajj?
Hajj is a personal and individualistic spiritual expedition. While pilgrims participate in group activities such as collective circumambulation (tawaf) and visiting ziyarat (sacred sites), some individuals choose to prepare for the coming days of Hajj uniquely.
Salasa shared that he and his spouse have opted to venture on their path, separate from the group. They are dedicating time to reflect on the journey and to emotionally and spiritually ready themselves for the upcoming days of Hajj.
“We’ve taken the time to break away from all the group activities like the mass tawafs and going to the ziyarat places. I think the time is coming closer, and we’ve made the decision to emotionally and spiritually prepare ourselves, sort of just taking the sideline … I think that the reality is that it’s your heart you need to prepare. Spiritual leaders do their best, but it’s really a personal thing. My advice to anybody would be if you feel you need to be alone, that’s fine, but if you feel like being part of the group, do it. It’s really a preference thing.”
