The Comprehensive Guide to Hajj 2025: Rituals, Steps, and Eligibility Criteria

Introduction

Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and a mandatory pilgrimage for all physically and financially capable Muslims at least once in their lifetime. It is a journey of faith, devotion, and spiritual renewal, drawing millions of Muslims to Makkah, Saudi Arabia, each year.

In this detailed guide, we will explore who is eligible for Hajj, essential preparations, step-by-step rituals (Manasik of Hajj), dos and don’ts, and frequently asked questions.

Who is Eligible for Hajj?

Not every Muslim is obligated to perform Hajj. To qualify, one must meet the following conditions:

• Muslim: Hajj is exclusive to Muslims.
• Maturity: The pilgrim must have reached puberty.
• Mental and Physical Health: The person should be mentally sound and physically fit to undertake the journey.
• Financial Stability: The individual must afford all expenses without causing hardship to their dependents.
• Debt-Free: Those with outstanding debts are not obligated to perform Hajj.
• Mahram Requirement for Women: Women are traditionally required to travel with a male guardian (Mahram), but recent regulations offer exceptions.

When is Hajj 2025?

Hajj occurs from the 8th to the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. For 2025, Hajj is expected to take place from June 6 to June 10, depending on moon sighting.

Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Hajj

Hajj includes a sequence of sacred rituals (Arkan) that must be completed in the correct order:

1. Ihram – Entering a State of Purity

• Ihram signifies a state of spiritual sanctity.
• Pilgrims wear white seamless garments (two pieces for men; modest attire for women).
• Niyyah (intention) is declared, followed by the recitation of Talbiyah:

  Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk…

2. Tawaf – Circumambulating the Kaaba

• Upon reaching Makkah, pilgrims perform Tawaf, walking seven times counterclockwise around the Kaaba.
• The ritual starts at Hajr al-Aswad (the Black Stone).
• Two rakats of prayer follow at Maqam Ibrahim.

3. Sa’i – Walking Between Safa and Marwah

• Pilgrims walk seven times between Safa and Marwah, re-enacting Hajrah’s (AS) search for water.
• Pilgrims drink Zamzam water, believed to be a divine blessing.

4. Mina – The First Stop (8th Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pilgrims travel to Mina, where they perform daily prayers and engage in reflection.

5. Arafat – The Pinnacle of Hajj (9th Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pilgrims gather at Mount Arafat, engaging in Wuquf (standing in prayer), seeking Allah’s forgiveness.

6. Muzdalifah – Collecting Stones (Night of 9th Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pilgrims move to Muzdalifah, pray, rest under the open sky, and collect pebbles for Jamarat.

7. Rami al-Jamarat – Stoning the Devil (10th Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pilgrims stone the largest pillar (Jamarat al-Aqaba), symbolizing rejection of Satan’s temptations.

8. Qurbani (Animal Sacrifice)

• A sacrificial animal (goat, cow, or camel) is slaughtered in memory of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) sacrifice.
• The meat is divided among the poor, relatives, and oneself.

9. Halq or Taqsir – Hair Shaving or Trimming

• Men shave (Halq) their heads, while women trim (Taqsir) a portion of their hair.

10. Tawaf al-Ifadah – Second Circumambulation

• A second Tawaf is performed as an essential part of Hajj.

11. Rami al-Jamarat – Stoning the Three Pillars (11th & 12th Dhul-Hijjah)

• Pilgrims stone all three Jamarat, symbolizing the rejection of evil.

12. Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wida)

• Before leaving Makkah, pilgrims perform a final Tawaf, marking the conclusion of Hajj.

Recommended Practices During Hajj

• Recite Talbiyah and Quran consistently.
• Engage in extra prayers and supplications.
• Maintain patience and kindness towards fellow pilgrims.
• Distribute charity and aid the less fortunate.
• Observe Islamic etiquette and dress codes.
• Uphold cleanliness and hygiene.

Prohibited Actions During Hajj

• Avoid disputes, arguments, or harm to others.
• Do not cut nails or hair while in Ihram.
• Refrain from using scented products (perfume, soap, deodorant).
• Do not engage in hunting or harming animals.
• Men must avoid stitched clothing.
• Marital relations are forbidden during Ihram.