The Pilgrim's Journey

For all of us life is a journey, but every now and again our journey brings us to a place which is so special and unique that it leaves its mark in an indelible way. Such was the case for me on 2nd December 2006 when I journeyed to Mecca for hajj.

Spiritual Aspects

In spite of some physical hardships, I would consider it one of the greatest spiritual experiences of my life. Many Muslims regard the Hajj as one of the great achievements of civilization, because it brings together people from around the world and focuses them upon a single goal: completing the Hajj.

The believer should be self-aware and examine his or her intentions in performing the pilgrimage. This should lead to constant striving for self-improvement.

The Hajj rituals have a deep psychological significance for Muslims. The pilgrimage is usually a very profound experience for those who participate. When life is lived according to the precepts of the religion and the mind is in a suitable condition, the pilgrimage can spiritually transform the individual.

Performing the Hajj
The hajj, gathering today millions of Muslims annually, was perhaps the greatest impetus to voluntary mobility before modern times. The economic, cultural, and political importance of this major annual gathering of Muslims from around the world has further increased with the advent of telecommunications and transport technologies, though the increased numbers have taxed the available facilities.

The Saudi Arabia's government has done their best as host. Major programs were introduced to ensure the security and safety of the pilgrims, as well as their well-being and comfort. Steps were also taken to establish facilities and services aimed at improving housing, health care, sanitation and transportation. It was cold session and we enjoyed warm water throughout the stays in Medina, Mecca, Arafat, Muzdalifah and Mina. The toilets and tents are reasonably good and satisfactory … what more could I say …

Muslims today undertake the pilgrimage in ease, receive a warm welcome on their arrival in Saudi Arabia, and are provided with the most modern facilities and efficient services possible. Without the distractions that their forebears had to contend with, today's pilgrims are free to focus solely on the spiritual aspect of the Hajj.

This year stoning of the jamarat was done at ease with no rush or trampling. The half completed 5 storey jamarat has made ease for the pilgrims even for those on wheelchair … and believe this … the project is managed by a Malaysian firm.

Effects of the Hajj
The pilgrim, the hajj, is honoured in his or her community. For some, this is an incentive to perform the Hajj. In some communities, a person who has done the Hajj will be nicknamed "hajji" or "hajjah" - which can be translated as "honorable pilgrim". Although it must be said such names have no religious foundation.

The Hajj should be an expression of devotion to God, not a means to gain social standing. The talbiyah prayer (a recital of the following words by the pilgrim during Umra and Hajj) reflects this sentiment:

Labbaika Allahomma Labbaik. Labbaik La Shareeka Laka Labbaik. Innal-Hamdah, Wan-Nematah, Laka wal Mulk, La Shareeka Laka.
Translation: "Here I am at Thy service O Lord, here I am. Here I am at Thy service and Thou hast no partners. Thine alone is All Praise and All Bounty, and Thine alone is The Sovereignty. Thou hast no partners."