Introduction: The Sacred Duty of Hajj
"Pilgrimage thereto is a duty, humanity owe the Almighty for those who can afford the journey…" (Q3:97). It needs no emphasis that Hajj rites accepted by the Almighty must be prosecuted with lawful means. A public office holder who diverts public funds to provide Hajj seats for political patronage faces double jeopardy: accountability for bad governance and for spiritual corruption.
Preparing for the Journey: Writing Your Will
Embarking on Hajj means the pilgrim is prepared for any eventuality. Islam requires that before setting out, you write your will—not because you expect to die, but because Muslims must live with constant consciousness of death. Since not every pilgrim returns home, it is in line with Islamic law to write your will according to Quran 2:180-182.
The Test of Patience and Piety
Hajj is the best spiritual journey, yet it is also the greatest platform to test our claims as Muslims. While packing your luggage, include patience and perseverance; as you board the airplane, don your coat of piety and sacrifice. Were not Prophet Adam and Hawa (peace be upon them) tested in paradise? If you are quarrelsome, irascible, or temperamental, re-read your resolve to embark on this journey.
Avoiding Spiritual Corruption
Hajj offers the greatest opportunity for success in this life and the hereafter, but it also has the greatest potential for losing eternal redemption. A pilgrim who engages in illicit conduct, vitiates rites through brigandage and rebellion, or uses Hajj tickets for political jobbery will lose the reward. Remember those who organize "sabaka night" in Minnah—where is the evidence in Islamic texts for such activities?
Hajj Is Not Tourism
Constantly keep in mind that Hajj is first and foremost a spiritual assignment, not tourism. Avoid turning tawaf, sa'y between Safa and Marwa, and the standing in Arafah into tourist exercises. During a recent Umrah, I saw pilgrims with cameras taking pictures during tawaf, profaning the sacred. Though these actions do not invalidate the rites, they take away the inner dimensions. The pilgrim who does this shifts attention from the Almighty to the Self. The female pilgrim taking pictures during sa'y cannot remember Hajar or her Creator, losing the opportunity for self-rediscovery.
Purity of Heart: Avoiding Riyaa
When going to Hajj, you must go in a pure state, leaving behind quarrels or arguments with Muslim brothers. Another disease of the heart is ar-Riyaa (showing off). Many people like to show off that they have been to Hajj and are "Hajjis." Your pilgrimage should be for the sake of the Almighty, not to gain respect from family or community. The desire to show off fuels acts like implanting a golden tooth in one's mouth.
Conclusion: Pray for Your Country
Keep in mind the importance of these rites so you may have the full measure of Hajj's treasures. Remember this may be the last time you visit the Ka'aba, and pray for your country, Nigeria. The Prophet (peace be upon him) was asked which deed is best. He said, "To believe in the Almighty and His Apostle." Then, "To participate in Jihad in the Almighty's Cause." Then, "To perform Hajj-Mabrur." Before stepping out, pause at the door, recite Ayat Al-Kursi, Surah Al-Ikhlas, Surah Al-Falaq, and Surah Al-Nas, and offer this invocation: "O The Almighty, we ask You for virtue and piety in this journey, and for deeds which please You. O The Almighty, facilitate our journey and let us cover its distance quickly. O The Almighty, You are The Companion on the journey and The Successor over the family. O The Almighty, I take refuge with You from the difficulties of travel, from having a change of hearts and being in a bad predicament, and from an ill-fated outcome with wealth and family."
