Today is Nakba Day, an annual day of commemoration. A day of remembrance made especially poignant this year, as we mark over 200 days into ongoing bombardment, displacement and blockade of Palestinians in Gaza. Here we look at the origins and significance of the day. 

What is Nakba Day? 

May 15 is Nakba Day. It marks the beginning of the destruction of the Palestinian homeland. The mass displacement in 1948 of the majority of the Palestinian population. 

Nakba means ‘catastrophe’ in Arabic. It is the word Palestinians and others use to refer to this historic moment from over 75 years ago. For some, the term is also used to describe the subsequent and ongoing persecution of Palestinians and loss of territory.   

In 1998, Nakba Day was officially inaugurated by Palestinian leader Yasser Arafat. But the date had been marked with protests of remembrance and resistance since 1949. 

What happened in May 1948? 

May 1948 saw the start of a mass displacement, which forced over 700,000 Palestinians out of their homes.  

Over the course of the 1948 Palestine War, Israeli forces destroyed more than 530 Palestinian villages and carried out several massacres, killing some 15,000 people. This war lasted until January 1949.

78% of Palestine’s historic territory was captured and used to establish what is now Israel. The remaining land was divided into today’s Occupied West Bank and Gaza Strip. 

Following Israeli victory in the war, abandoned homes were given to Jewish settlers. The descendants of many of the Palestinians who fled in 1948 remain displaced to this day, both within Palestine and around the world. Today, there are now almost 6 million Palestine refugees.  

What led up to this? 

From 1920 to May 1948, Britain ruled over a territory called Mandatory Palestine under an agreement by the League of Nations – a precursor to the United Nations. 

Following the end of World War II and the Holocaust, the British announced their intention to end the mandate. Then, the newly created United Nations began seeking to redraw the boundaries of Palestine to allow for the creation of a Jewish state.  

None of the various partition plans suggested received support from the Palestinians or The Arab League. However, when the mandate ended, the establishment of the state of Israel was declared. This triggered the 1948 Palestine War, also known as the 1948 Arab-Israeli War. 

What happened after the Nakba? 

In the 76 years since the Nakba, the Israeli state has continued to encroach into Palestinian territory, displacing families and violating international law in the process.  

Among the major instances of this was the Six-Day War of 1967. This war saw Israeli forces occupy all of historic Palestine, including Gaza and the West Bank, expelling 300,000 people from their homes. 

In the decades since, tensions in the region have remained high, with relatively frequent flare-ups.

However, the scale of the current escalation is truly unprecedented. Since October 7th, over 35,000 people have been killed. Many more have been displaced, among them people who moved to Gaza after the Nakba. A reported 450,000 people are said to have fled Rafah over the past week alone. 

What was Palestine like before the Nakba? 

Immediately before the Nakba, Palestine was administered by the British. The establishment of Mandatory Palestine took place in a period of intense European colonial expansion. It followed the expulsion of Ottoman forces from the Levant in the Arab Revolt (1916-18). Prior to the Mandatory period, Palestine had been part of the Ottoman Empire for 400 years. 

During the Mandatory period, Palestine became a cohesive political unit with Jerusalem as its capital. The period saw advances in bureaucracy, infrastructure and technology. It is also considered to have laid the groundwork for the establishment of Israel in part by promoting Jewish immigration and depriving Palestinians of self-rule. 

What are the long-term consequences of the Nakba? 

The Nakba resulted in the world’s longest-running unresolved refugee crisis. Some 6 million Palestine refugees reside within Gaza and the West Bank, as well as in neighbouring countries such as Jordan, Lebanon and Syria. In some cases, Palestine refugees in the Middle East have endured wars and further displacement in their host countries.  

The enormous loss of territory that began with the Nakba continues to affect the everyday lives of Palestinians. Many valuable resources are located in land now claimed by Israel. This prevents Palestinians from accessing them and potentially growing their economy. 

The Israeli occupation, which has been ruled illegal under international law, affects every aspect of Palestinians’ lives. It denies their basic human rights, undermines their dignity and entrenches poverty. Restricts movement, trade and access to water, services, farmland, markets, families and religious sites. Cuts Palestinians in Gaza, East Jerusalem and the West Bank off from each other.  

Gaza has been under Israeli blockade since 2007. This restricts the movement of goods and people in and out of the Strip. It also has huge implications for humanitarian efforts.

For example, thousands of essential items are restricted from entering Gaza because Israel considers them to have a “dual use”, meaning they can be used for both civilian and military purposes. Things like fuel, water filters, solar pumps and surgical scissors have been refused entry on these grounds. 

Islamic Relief staff have described the difficulty of cooking without fuel. Family members are suffering respiratory issues due to smoke inhalation as they have no other choice but to cook over an open fire. Without fuel, hospitals cannot carry out lifesaving operations, trash cannot be collected, and water cannot be delivered. The effect of the lack of fuel cannot be overstated. 

How is Nakba Day commemorated? 

For many, Nakba Day is an opportunity to draw attention to the persecution of Palestinians, historic and ongoing. It is a struggle that is still very much ongoing, particularly in years such as this, when Nakba Day falls during an escalation in the crisis.  

The day is also a time to celebrate Palestine’s rich culture and history outside of a narrative of suffering, which for many defines the territory and its people. Palestinians are not only resilient. They are talented writers and dancers, gifted embroiderers and generous hosts.  

Last year, for the first time in history, the United Nations marked Nakba Day. The global body held an event to “serve as a reminder of the historic injustice suffered by the Palestinian people,” as well as to highlight the ongoing refugee crisis. The event included speeches, music, photos and personal testimonies. 

More than 30 countries voted against the resolution to commemorate Nakba Day. This reflects the inability of many states to balance the acknowledgement of Palestinian suffering with their own support of Israel. Israel often opposes official and unofficial commemorations of Nakba Day, describing them as an obstacle to peace in the region. 

Why is Islamic Relief talking about Nakba Day? 

Islamic Relief has been working in the Occupied Palestinian Territory since 1997, supporting Palestinians in need through emergency response efforts and development programming.  

Many of our staff and local partners have become displaced since October 2023 and are facing the same challenges as the communities we support. Our office in Gaza is among the almost 900,000 buildings destroyed or damaged by the ongoing bombing campaign. 

Despite immense challenges, we continue to support vulnerable people in Gaza. Whenever and wherever we can, we provide them with food and water distributions, orphan sponsorship and other assistance. This support is a lifeline for thousands of families in a time of desperate need.  

However, our work and the work of many global and local humanitarian organisations are being curtailed as a direct result of the ongoing violence. Without a ceasefire, and an end to the blockade of Gaza, the support we can offer the people who so desperately need it is limited and nowhere near sufficient. 

Islamic Relief is taking the opportunity presented by Nakba Day to remind donors, decision-makers and the general public, of the longstanding struggle and suffering of the Palestinian people. Their suffering is not consigned to the history books. It is a deepening and devastating humanitarian crisis unfolding before the eyes of the world.

For more than 200 days of the current escalation, families have been separated, starved and killed. This is the present-day reality for everyone in Gaza, but whether it remains their future too depends on the decisions made by world leaders and international bodies today.   

Each year, millions of Muslims from around the world travel to Makkah, Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj.

The fifth pillar of Islam, Hajj is a sacred pilgrimage that must be performed by every Muslim at least once in their lifetime, so long as they are financially, physically and emotionally able to do so.

And [due] to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House – for whoever is able to find thereto a way. But whoever disbelieves – then indeed, Allah is free from need of the worlds.

Qur’an 3:97

Hajj occurs during the holy month of Dhul Hijjah, the 12th month in the Islamic (Hijri) calendar. It falls between the 8th and 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah, depending on the sighting of the moon.

As the Hijri calendar is lunar (following the cycles of the moon), the corresponding date on our Gregorian calendars varies year by year. This year, Hajj 2024 is between Friday, June 14, 2024, to Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

For anyone preparing to go on the pilgrimage this year, it’s an incredibly exciting time. While it will certainly be a test of patience, with great spiritual, emotional, and physical challenges, it also offers an opportunity to cleanse oneself of their sins and draw closer to Allah (SWT).

As Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said:

Whoever performs Hajj for the sake of Allah and does not utter any obscene speech or do any evil deed, will go back (free of sin) as his mother bore him.

Bukhari and Muslim

To help review our knowledge of Hajj and its rituals, this handy and comprehensive guide is here to explore the different aspects of the holy pilgrimage: from its origin to how to perform it.

The Story Of Hajj

The origin of Hajj dates back to the time of Prophet Ibrahim (AS). This was thousands of years before the time of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).

Prophet Ibrahim (AS) built the Kaa’ba, the cubic-like structure in Masjid al-Haram. It is the qibla (direction) that Muslims pray towards and is known as Baitullah, or ‘the House of God’. It also plays an important part in the rituals of Hajj. However, it is not something that Muslims worship itself.

Because of Ibrahim (AS), Muslims are able to perform Hajj. A practice that remains the same as Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and Sahabah (companions) did hundreds of years ago, during the month of Dhul Hijjah in 632CE (10AH).

Hajar, Isma’il (AS) And The Well Of Zamzam

During his prophethood, Ibrahim (AS) encountered several trials. Challenges that became lessons to mankind, teaching us about the importance of devotion to Allah (SWT), sacrifice, faith and more.

These trials include the test of Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son for the sake of Allah (SWT), which is why Muslims perform Qurban on Eid Al Adha. Allah (SWT) also tested Ibrahim by instructing him to leave his wife Hajar and son Isma’il (AS) alone in the desert of Makkah. This is the test that provides the basis for Hajj.

Entrusting in Allah (SWT)’s plan, Ibrahim (AS), Hajar and Isma’il (AS), carried through with the command and endured the trials ahead. When the little food and water that they had soon ran out, Isma’il (AS), an infant at the time, cried of thirst. Hajar, desperately searching for water, ran between the nearby hills of Safa and Marwah in the hope of spotting someone who could help them.

Unable to find help, Hajar returned and found Isma’il (AS) striking and scraping the ground with his leg in distress. Suddenly, a spring burst forth from the barren desert. By Allah (SWT)’s command, a source of water from deep within the earth (that is still in use today), provided Hajar and Isma’il (AS) with water. This is known as the well of Zam Zam.

The water source provided Hajar with a means of trade and livelihood. It enables her to exchange food and other provisions with passing nomads for water. Soon, the site became prosperous. And when Ibrahim (AS), with Allah (SWT)’s permission, returned to his family in the desert, he was amazed to see the miracles that had unfolded for them. These were the fruits of their faith in Allah (SWT).

The Construction Of The Kaa’ba

At the site of the well of Zam Zam, Allah (SWT) commanded Ibrahim (AS) to build the Kaa’ba. He (AS) and his son Isma’il (AS) worked together to build its small stone structure. It marked a space for the sacred gathering of Muslims – all those who believed in the one God, Allah (SWT). 

The Inception of Hajj (The Sacred Pilgrimage)

As time passed, the site of the miracle well of ZamZam and the Kaa’bah gave way for Makkah to become a thriving and prosperous settlement. Ibrahim (AS) returned to the site each year to offer his pilgrimage to Allah (SWT). In turn, years later, when Isma’il (AS) was given his prophethood, he continued the tradition. Thus, began the inception of the Hajj.

However, during the thousands of years that would pass, this would change. The site that was built to commemorate the lessons of Ibrahim’s (AS) trial, the miracle of Allah (SWT) and most importantly the belief in one God was later taken over by pagan Arabs and the worship of idols and spirits. It grew into a city for trade and the worship of pagan gods. And the Kaa’ba eventually came to house these false gods.

Until, thousands of years later, when Muhammad (ﷺ) became a prophet and came with the commandment to restore the Kaa’ba to its original purpose. The last of Allah’s (SWT) messengers, he established Islam in the land for mankind. He (ﷺ) likewise resumed Hajj, performing the first official pilgrimage with his companions in 632 CE, re-establishing the traditions started by the Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

Hajj As We Know It Today

Today, each year, over 2.5 million Muslims worldwide, of every race, class, and culture, travel to Makkah in Dhul Hijjah. Where they stand equal before Allah (SWT) – one’s status, race, culture, and wealth are irrelevant –as they fulfil the rites of Hajj.

These days, Hajj pilgrims travel to Makkah by land, air and sea days and weeks prior to the pilgrimage period. If you’re travelling from Australia, you are likely to fly to Saudi Arabia, touching down in Jeddah or Medina. From there you will travel with your Hajj group to Makkah.

Some people save up money their entire lives to be able to perform Hajj, while others are fortunate enough to fulfil it more than once. Regardless, each Muslim are only required to perform Hajj once in his or her lifetime, and only after meeting the requirements.

Who Is Eligible To Perform Hajj?

Hajj forms one of the five pillars of Islam. The other five pillars include the Shahada (the declaration that “There is no god but God, and Muhammad is the Messenger of God”), Salah (Prayer), Zakat (Almsgiving) and Sawm (Fasting).

As a pillar of the faith, Hajj is a spiritual duty for all Muslims. However, there are still certain conditions Muslims need to meet for it to be obligatory for them to perform the sacred pilgrimage.

Firstly, one must be an adult. While children may go to Hajj, they are not required to. Secondly, one must be healthy. The very weak, sick, elderly, or otherwise physically incapable Muslims are exempt from having to perform the pilgrimage.

Thirdly, one must be financially able to perform Hajj. A person in debt is not obliged to perform Hajj until he has cleared it. However, if one is in debt, one may still perform Hajj as long as their creditor permits it, they have time to pay off the debt and performing Hajj does not affect their ability to pay it off.

When Do I Perform Hajj?

In the Islamic tradition, Muslims use the Hijri calendar which follows the cycle of the moon. This contrasts with the more commonly used Gregorian calendar, which calculates dates using the sun.

Hajj occurs each year between the 8th to 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah. However, the corresponding Gregorian dates differ year to year as the lunar calendar appears to shift forward approximately 11-12 days.

How Do I Perform Hajj?

There are three forms of Hajj: Tamattu, Ifraad and Qiran. In this guide, we will use the Tamattu, the form that the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) encouraged the Muslims to perform.

A Step-By-Step Guide To Performing Hajj

Preparation and Intention

Before you arrive at Makkah to begin Hajj, it’s important to make your intention (niyyah) within your heart. The intention must be to perform the Hajj for the sake of Allah (SWT) alone. It should not be done with the intention of being seen by others or for worldly gain. Only for a desire for good in the Hereafter.

Entering The State Of Ihram

Next, you’ll enter into the state of Ihram (ritual purity). The rules around the clothing of Ihram are extremely simple, yet strict and must be adhered to.

For men, this means wearing the designated white cloth. One piece should be wrapped around your shoulder and one around your waist. Ladies may wear any clothing of their choice but should ensure they observe the rules of Hijab. Face coverings, however, are not permitted. Fully covering shoes are also not permitted. Both women and men must wear sandals for footwear.

Whilst in the state of Ihram, we should also be particularly mindful of our behaviour and words. We should avoid smoking, engaging in sexual relations, swearing, shaving our hair, and cutting our nails. Fighting, arguing, hunting, killing, or unjustifiably breaking anything while in the state Ihram is also forbidden.

We must also not use scented products such as perfumes, moisturisers, makeup, or soaps. We, however, substitute them for unscented toiletries which are permissible to use.

Tip: Carry spare Ihram clothing if you can. Likewise, invest in a decent pair of trekking sandals. They tend to be the most comfortable and practical, given that you will be walking long distances on tarmac as well as gravel. Try and wear-in your sandals before you depart for Saudi so that you don’t break out in blisters or face discomfort once you’re there.
Upon arriving in Makkah, get ready for the biggest spiritual journey of your life! First, you must perform your Umrah. This means doing the rites of Tawaf and Sa’i, as outlined in the next steps.

Tawaf x 7

Tawaf is one of the principal rites of the pilgrimage. It refers to walking in circles around the Kaa’bah in an anti-clockwise motion.

One Tawaf is made up of seven complete circuits. Each one starts and ends at the black stone, situated within the Kaa’bah.

In addition to your Tawaf, you can also offer voluntary prayers. To thank Allah (SWT) for arriving safely and mark the start of this incredibly special spiritual journey.

Safa and Marwa

After you’ve performed your Tawaf, you’ll then perform what’s known as Sa’i (walking and running between the two hills of Safa and Marwa).

You’ll begin the Sa’i on the hill of Safa and walk towards the hill of Marwa. You will eventually see the green marker, at which point you will run until the next green marker and continue walking until you reach Marwa. This completes one lap.

You will then return to Safa to complete your second lap. Your Sa’i is complete once you have performed a total of seven laps between the hills of Safa and Marwa.

This is an important ritual in memory of Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) wife Hajar, and her struggle in the desert in search of water for her son Prophet Isma’il (AS). Sa’i symbolises the ongoing struggle that we encounter throughout our lives, as Hajar experienced herself.

Clip/Shave Hair (Umrah Ends)

Once Sa’i is complete, men will have their hair clipped or shaved, while women will clip their hair to the length of a fingertip. This marks the completion of your umrah, allowing you to leave Ihram, until the 8th of Dhul Hijjah.

Tip: Be very patient here. You’ll likely be tired from tawaf. You also might notice fellow pilgrims in a hurry to complete the Sa’i. Feel free to take your time. Take regular breaks, and drink Zam Zam water which is available between Safa and Marwa.

Resting and praying

Now that you’ve performed your Umrah, for the rest of this blessed month, you’ll stay in Makkah to complete your spiritual journey of Hajj, surrounded by your fellow Muslim sisters and brothers, SubhanAllah! Make sure to get plenty of rest and make the best use of your time by performing sincere acts of worship. Your Hajj will begin on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah.

Re-entering State of Ihram (Day 1/8th Dhul Hijjah)

Fulfilling your sacred obligation of Hajj will be the most spiritual period of your life Insha’Allah (God willing), filled with blessings and forgiveness from Allah (SWT)! The 8th day of Dhul Hijjah marks the beginning of the days of Hajj and the next stage of your spiritual journey. You’ll purify yourself and enter the state of Ihram once again.

Once you’re all set to enter the Ihram, you’ll begin reciting the following invocation called the Talbiyah:

Labbayka Allāhumma labbayk. Labbayk lā shareeka laka labbayk. Inna al-ḥamda, wa n-‘imata, Laka wal mulk. Lā shareeka lak.

لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لاَ شَرِيْكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ لاَشَرِيْكَ لَكَ

“Here I am, O Allah, here I am, here I am. You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and blessings are Yours, and all sovereignty. You have no partner.”

You will then proceed with your Hajj group to the neighbourhood of Mina in Makkah, located roughly eight kilometres from the centre of Makkah.

Tip: Carry some essentials such as unscented sun cream, moisturiser, Vaseline and soap. Sun cream is particularly handy, especially if you have no hair as it is not permissible for men to cover their head or face whilst in Ihram. Vaseline is also particularly valuable for both women and men to protect against painful rashes that may occur as a result of constant walking. All of these are readily available in Saudi Arabia.

Arrive At Mina

Once you arrive in the tent city (neighbourhood) of Mina, you’ll settle into your allocated tent. Here you’ll pray Salah (obligatory prayers), including Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, ‘Isha and Fajr, shortening your four-unit prayers to two units each, without combining them, as stated in the Qu’ran.

You’ll spend the night and pray to Allah (SWT), reading the Qur’an and preparing for day two. It’s an important time for spiritual reflection and devotion, so try and make the most of this special night.

Tip: Be patient here, as space inside the tents can be very tight. You might find yourself very close to fellow pilgrims. The weather is also likely to be very hot, so remember to keep yourself hydrated. The Saudi authorities have installed cold water stations close to all tents, so familiarise yourself with your surroundings.

You may also notice that Hajj authority workers regularly stock up on complimentary cold drinks in cooler boxes next to your tent. They’re there for you to consume, so enjoy them to quench your thirst, but don’t forget the spiritual purpose of being there.

Day of ‘Arafah (Day 2/9th Dhul Hijjah)

After sunrise in Mina, you’ll then head to the plains of ‘Arafah, where you should be spending your time in contemplation and prayer. This includes reciting Istaghfar (asking for forgiveness) and making supplications – marking the Day of ‘Arafah when we ask Allah (SWT) for forgiveness for our sins.

Upon reaching the plains of Mount ‘Arafah, pilgrims observe shortened Dhuhr and Asr prayers combined (two Rakat instead of four). However, according to Abu Hanifa, the combining of Dhur and Asr is only valid if one prays behind the Imam in the Masjid. Therefore if one were to pray in the tent, then they should not combine both salah.

On this day, there will be a sermon delivered from Masjid al-Nimra on Mount ‘Arafah. Try to listen to the Khutbah (sermon) if possible. Your group may also facilitate an English translation of this sermon.

Tip: Don’t be tempted to exhaust your energy and trek up Mount ‘Arafah, also known as Jabal al-Rahmah, on this day. Jabal al-Rahmah is the hill from where the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ) delivered his sermon. There is no authentic source to suggest any benefit in trekking the hill itself or to undertake this climb as a religious ritual.

Importance of ‘Arafah

The day of ‘Arafah is one of the most important days for Muslims across the world. Allah (SWT) refers to the Day of ‘Arafah in Surah al-Maidah as the Day on which He perfected His religion, completed His favours upon His beloved Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and approved Islam as a way of life!

The Prophet (ﷺ) also said:

“There is no day on which Allah frees people from the Fire more so than on the day of ‘Arafah. He comes close to those (people standing on ‘Arafah), and then He reveals before His Angels saying, ‘What are these people seeking.”

Muslim

So, be sure to stand on the plains of ‘Arafah and make lots of Du’a (supplication), focusing your energy on Allah (SWT), asking Him for forgiveness and blessings for you and your family. Don’t forget to include your friends, relatives, neighbours as well as the wider Ummah (community) in your Du’a on this special day.

Arrive in Muzdalifah

After sunset, you’ll depart ‘Arafah and head to Muzdalifah – an open plain between Mina and ‘Arafah. Once you reach Muzdalifah you’ll perform your Maghrib and ‘Isha Salah, one after the other, shortening the ‘Isha Salah to two Rakat.

As Abdullah ibn Umar (RA) narrates:

“The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) offered the Maghrib and ‘Isha prayers together at Muzdalifah with a separate Iqamah (second call to prayer) for each of them and did not offer any optional prayer in between them or after each of them.”

Sahih Bukhari

Afterwards, you can then spend the night in worship or resting. The Prophet (ﷺ) went to sleep until shortly before Fajr, choosing not to engage in night worship as he normally did. So, follow the Sunnah. Don’t be tempted to exhaust yourself but rest instead. You have a long day ahead of you!

While in Muzdalifah, you may also collect pebbles to perform Rami (the stoning of the devil) over the next three days. You can collect the pebbles from anywhere in Mina.

The size of the pebbles should be similar to the size of date stones/seeds. You will need a total of 49 pebbles. However, it is better to pick up 21 more pebbles as a precautionary measure. When you proceed to the phases of throwing the pebbles at the Jamarat (the stone pillars), you may miss the target, or some pebbles may fall from your hand. Therefore, it is better to have more than to be short.

Tip: At Muzdalifah, you will stay under the night sky. There are no tents or other accommodation facilities here. Although there are plenty of lights, it is still fairly dark. Try to stay near your group. It’s very easy to get lost among the thousands of pilgrims.

Toilets and Wudhu facilities are also available in Muzdalifah. We highly recommend you use the toilets and freshen up before you leave ‘Arafah. However, they will also likely be crowded so remember to be patient.

Rami and Hady (Day 3/10th Dhul Hijjah & start of Eid al-Adha)

The 10th of Dhul Hijjah is also called the Yawm al-Nahr, or the Day of Sacrifice (Qurbani).

After performing Fajr Salah you will depart Muzdalifah and go back towards Mina. Remember to continuously recite the Talbiyah.

On this day, Pilgrims perform the Hady (sacrificial animal) and also commence the first of three days “stoning of the devil” rite or Rami. Muslims around the world also offer Qurban (Qurbani or Udhiyah) during this time and begin the four-day festival of Eid al-Adha. We know this from this verse in the Qur’an:

“And when you are safe, then, whoever avails the advantage of the ‘Umrah along with the Hajj shall make an offering of whatever animal is available. However, any one who finds none shall fast for three days during Hajj, and for seven days when you return; thus they are ten in all. This is for him whose family folk are not residents of Al-Masjid-ul-Harām.”

Qur’an 2:196

Origin Of Rami (The Stoning Of The Devil)

The stoning of the Jamarat (also referred to as the ‘stoning of the devil’) is a ritual carried out by Hajj pilgrims whereby pebbles are thrown at three stone structures in Mina across three days.

The act of throwing stones at the Jamarat is known as Rami. The ritual of Rami is symbolic of the actions of Ibrahim (AS) when he was faced with the trial of having to sacrifice his son, Isma’il (AS) upon the commandment of Allah (SWT).

On the way to carry out the commandment, Iblis (Satan) repeatedly tried to tempt Ibrahim (AS) into disobeying Allah (SWT). As Ibrahim (AS) reached Jamarat al-Aqaba, Allah (SWT) ordered Angel Jibreel (AS) to instruct Ibrahim (AS) to throw seven stones at Iblis. He obliged, and Iblis fled immediately. The three Jamarat indicate the three places where Iblis tried to dissuade Ibrahim (AS) from obeying the command of Allah. However, the pillars do not contain Iblis, as many people are wrongly led to believe.

How To Perform The Rami (The Stoning Of The Devil)

On the 10th, 11th, and 12th day of Dhul Hijjah, you will perform Rami (the stoning of the devil). The size of the pebbles should be similar to the size of date stones or seeds. You will need a total of 49 pebbles.

You’ll need a certain number of pebbles for each of the three days. The breakdown is as follows:

• 7 pebbles for the 10th of Dhul Hijjah
• 21 pebbles for the 11th of Dhul Hijjah
• 21 pebbles for the 12th of Dhul Hijjah

Try to carry four small pouches per person for your pebbles. Coin bags are a good size and convenient to carry. Use the four pouches to group pebbles according to the breakdown above.

Once you reach the Jamarat, you will head to Jamarat al-Aqaba, the largest pillar. Here, you will throw the first seven pebbles at the concrete pillar. You will only pelt this one pillar on the first day.

Upon each throw, you’ll say the Takbir:

Allāhu ‘Akbar

اللهُ أَكْبَرُ

Allah is Greater

Tip: Don’t rush to perform the Rami. The Hajj authority will most likely allocate a set time for your group to go and perform Rami. They do this to minimise overcrowding and the risk to pilgrims.

Try not to get angry and throw your sandals or other valuable possessions at the pillars. Iblis is not contained within the pillar, so you’ll only lose your valuables and there is no benefit in doing so!

Qurbani and Eid al-Adha

The festival of Eid al-Adha, or the Feast of Sacrifice, is also celebrated by Muslims around the world not performing Hajj on the 10th Dhul Hijjah. By offering Qurbani (sacrifice), Muslims commemorate Prophet Ibrahim’s (AS) willingness to sacrifice his son Isma’il (AS) upon the commandment of Allah (SWT).

Shaving The Head (Day 4/11th Dhul Hijjah)

After offering the Hady, male pilgrims will shave or trim their hair, as the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) did. For women, they will trim their hair by the length of a fingertip.

Now you are allowed to leave the state of Ihram and wear comfortable clothing. You are also allowed to resume otherwise Halal activities forbidden during the state of Ihram, except for sexual intimacy. It is Sunnah to apply perfume as the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) smelt strongly of musk at this point.

Tip: Use disposable blades to shave each other’s head within your group. If that’s not possible, a number of barbers in Mina will shave your head for a price. Ensure that the barbers use new blades to avoid infection.

Tawaf al-Ifadha and Saai’ (Day 5/12th Dhul Hijjah)

You will now go to Makkah to perform Tawaf al-Ifadha and then another circuit of Sa’i as part of your Hajj rituals.

Tawaf al-Ifada and Sa’i are obligatory. You must perform the tawaf al-Ifadha and the Sa’i after the Rami, the Qurbani (sacrifice) and shaving (or trimming) of the head.

With the completion of the Tawaf and Sa’i, you are then allowed to relax and do everything that was lawful before entering the Ihram, including engaging in marital relations.

You will, however, return to your tents in Mina and continue with the remaining rituals of Hajj.

Tip: The Tawaf area will be extremely crowded during this time. Try to use the upper levels of the Haram or the roof. You might want to do this around midnight when it tends to be quieter.

The Second Day of Rami

On the 11th Dhul Hijjah, you will proceed to your second day of Rami (the stoning of the devil).

On this occasion, you pelt each of the three pillars in order. You will begin with Jamarah al-Ula (the small pillar), then Jamarah al-Wusta (the second/middle pillar) and finally, Jamarah al-Aqaba (the third/large pillar). You stop after the first and second Jamarat to make Du’a facing the qibla. Each one should be stoned with seven consecutive pebbles accompanied by the Takbir. Remember to take your spare pebbles with you in case you lose some!

Spend the night in Mina

Once your second Rami is completed, you will return to your camp in Mina and spend the rest of the day and night in worship, making the most of the remaining time you have.

The Third Day of Rami

On the afternoon of the 12th Dhul Hijjah, you’ll have your final batch of pebbles (21 pebbles) ready to repeat the same steps as the previous day.

Tawaf al-Wida (The Farewell Tawaf)

You now have only one step left to perform before completing Hajj. This is the farewell Tawaf – the last rite Muslims must perform.

This Tawaf is Wajib (obligatory) according to Hanafis, Shafi’is and Hanbalis but Sunnah according to Malikis. It must be performed before leaving the boundaries of the Haram. Omitting this Tawaf, without a valid reason, is not deemed lawful in Islam.

Ibn Abbas (RA) narrated:

“The people were ordered to perform the Tawaf al-Wida as the last thing before leaving (Makkah), except the menstruating women who were excused. “

Bukhari

For this Tawaf, you will complete seven laps of Tawaf. Then perform two Rakat of Salah and drink Zam Zam water. There is no Sa’i or shaving/trimming of the head after this Tawaf.

Hajj Mabrook! You’ve now completed your Hajj!

For those of us who are unable to travel and perform Hajj this year, don’t despair! The best ten days of the year are the 1st to the 10th of Dhul Hijjah.

These days are a second chance to earn the mercy and forgiveness of Allah (SWT) after Ramadan. We should use this blessed time to do more good deeds. These can be giving charity, connecting with the Qur’an, helping out within the community and more. It is also important to enhance our obligatory acts of worship by being mindful of our prayers and ensuring we pay our Zakat on time.

Our Prophet (ﷺ) also said:

There are no days that are greater before Allah or in which good deeds are more beloved to Him, than these ten days, so recite a great deal of Tahleel (saying of la illaaha illa Allah), Takbeer (saying of Allahu Akbar) and Tahmeed (Alhamdulillah) during them.

Ahmad

Thus, the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah is an ideal time to make du’a for Allah (SWT) and remember Him as much as we can. It’s also highly recommended for us to fast during these ten, especially on the day of ‘Arafah, as “it will expiate the sins of the previous and upcoming years.” (Sahih Muslim).

Qurban (Qurbani, Udhiyah on Eid Al-Adha for non-travellers is Sunnah muakkadah (confirmed Sunnah) according to most scholars and Waajib (a religious duty) according to the Hanafis. If you can afford to offer the sacrifice, then you are encouraged to do so. This would be in remembrance of the struggle and dedication of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to Allah (SWT). It also supports a struggling family, as a third of the sacrifice goes to the needy.

Regardless of whether or not you’ve been able to attend Hajj, the month of Dhul Hijjah holds countless blessings for Muslims around the world! So let us make the most of these best 10 days of Dhul Hijjah, and seek to achieve a similar reward as those going to Hajj during this most blessed time!

Why doesn’t Islamic Relief use a 100% Donation Policy? In this explainer, we explore why 100% donation policies aren’t really possible and the relevance of admin fees in Islam. We also examine how having admin fees is one of the best tools we have. As they allow us to support the communities we serve to the fullest, helping them build a brighter future.

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Islam teaches us that Allah (SWT) rewards good deeds abundantly. Kindness to others, reading the Qur’an, doing regular Ibadah (worship) and giving charity are examples of all good deeds we, as Muslims, are greatly encouraged to do. And when they are done with sincere intention, one can earn copious rewards.

Charity-giving, more specifically, Zakat (almsgiving), in particular, forms one of the five pillars of Islam. In 2022, a study by the World Bank and the Islamic Research and Training Institute (IRTI) of the Islamic Development Bank (IDB) estimated global Zakat fund reached $550 billion to $600 billion per year. This has the power to lift communities in need out of poverty, providing them with humanitarian assistance and more during times of war, conflict, economic crisis and disaster.

However, when it comes to choosing where to give their donation, the Muslim community face an annual dilemma. The question of a ‘100% donation policy’, and how we navigate the minefield of misinformation that comes with it.

What is a 100% Donation Policy?

A ‘100% donation policy’ or ‘no admin costs’ is a method used by some charity organisations to imply that 100% of a donor’s money, in its entirety, goes straight to those in need. When compared to charities who are transparent about their admin fees, this looks like the superior choice. Understandably, so many would be confused about the ethics surrounding their donation.

When donating to a charity, here are some important questions to consider regarding your donation:

• If 100% of my donation goes directly to those in need, how are those charities covering the costs needed to deliver it directly to them?
• Are the charities promoting a 100% donation policy transparent about how they’re covering their admin costs?

Any charity performing life-saving work is almost certainly employing the relevant means to help them do it, whether that be through staff, vehicles, buildings, and more. All of these cost money. This is why a 100% donation policy wouldn’t work. This is why we encourage our donor community, and beyond, to instead focus on the question, “How effectively is my donation being used?”.

Why Admin Fees are Necessary in Lifesaving Work

We’re here to help provide more information on what exactly happens to your donation when you donate to Islamic Relief. As well as why we don’t use a 100% donation policy, how this isn’t really possible, and why our admin fees are one of the best tools we have for serving the communities at the heart of our work.

Here are five reasons why admin fees are powerful and important for those in need:

It costs to help those in need on the ground

Islamic Relief is fortunate to have been able to provide aid to millions of people in over 40 countries since 1984. We often work in remote areas of the world to get help to those in urgent need. Where our teams face challenges working in conflict zones or after the impact of a natural disaster.

Thus, admin fees help facilitate the delivery of our aid on the ground. They cover essential costs. This includes procedures in conducting needs assessments to ensure our aid is relevant, fuel for cars to transport aid, rent for local offices, salaries for staff and expenses for volunteers who help deliver our life-saving responses. They also cover the costs of monitoring and evaluating the impact of our work. Without admin, our work simply wouldn’t be possible.

It helps us to use your donation in the most effective way possible

Did you know, that for every $1 donated to Islamic Relief, just 4c is used to cover admin costs? Although a minuscule amount, it has an incredible impact on our ability to use your donation as effectively as possible.

Out of your donation, a further 9c goes towards raising more funds for those in need. This portion of your donation is carefully and effectively used to pave the way for ground-breaking work in fundraising. Thus, for every $1 invested, we’re able to raise $10 more, which enables us to continue delivering more aid. Making the remainder of your $1 donation (89c!), going a phenomenal way towards our life-saving work.

Since 1984, your generous donations have helped transform and save over 120 million lives. We couldn’t do this without your support, and we are accountable to you for every penny spent.

Admin fees change the future

You’re helping Islamic Relief to build a brighter future for those in need. As well as delivering aid, Islamic Relief works to campaign for the most vulnerable communities and strives to effect change. This includes campaigning on issues such as climate change, which is having a devastating impact on communities in the global south, as we saw in 2022 during the Pakistan floods.

Your admin fees are not going towards band-aid solutions. The thought leadership that is required to use sustainable energy to power water projects in Lebanon, Yemen and Somalia, and build disaster-resistant housing in Türkiye, Syria, Pakistan Indonesia, is the same that is required to mitigate the effects of global issues that tackle the root causes of poverty and inequality around the world.

Admin fees are an Islamically legitimate cost

Zakat has strict rules around the eligibility of the donor and the one who receives it. The impact of this obligatory form of charity is powerful and has the ability to eliminate poverty in the world.

In His divine wisdom, Allah (SWT) decreed that one of the eight people eligible to receive Zakat, are the administrators of Zakat, the al ‘amilina alayha. Islamic Relief enlists the help of scholars to verify the distribution of Zakat at Islamic Relief, and ensure your precious donation goes towards upholding this upright practice.

It’s our calling, our living

Alhamdullilah, since 1984, by the will of Allah (SWT) Islamic Relief has been able to serve the world’s most vulnerable people. Thanks to the support of our volunteers, staff, and generous donors, we are able to carry out life-saving work.

When volunteers donate their time to support our work, Islamic Relief covers their basic expenses. Our staff work incredibly hard to ensure that volunteers’ efforts are properly supported. So we can create the worldwide impact that we have around the globe, moving towards our goal of eliminating poverty.

As an organisation, it’s important to sustain our employees’ abilities. To help us achieve our mission, this includes paying them a salary. Many of our staff see their role in the sector as a calling to help those in need. However, they would be unable to do so without being able to cover the cost of living.

It’s also important for us to consider the incredible skill set of our employees on the ground, who deliver ground-breaking work and solutions to increasingly complex situations across the world. Staff expertise helps us to deliver innovative solutions, like rainwater harvesting in Bangladesh to ensure communities have access to clean water.

Localisation in our work is extremely important to us. That is why 95% of our staff are employed from within the areas and communities we serve, to ensure we’re sensitive to the cultural and religious requirements of those in need. Because our staff are from the areas that we work in, they know what’s needed on the ground. They help ensure that we reach as many people as possible, even in the most difficult-to-access regions like Yemen and Gaza.

You donation helps us save lives

Poverty impacts so many vulnerable people across the world. Islamic Relief will continue to put the most vulnerable first, always. But, in order to do that, we need your support. Transparency around our admin costs is an integral part of the relationship we have with our loyal donors. We are accountable to those in need, and to you, our loyal donors. Thank you.

Islamic Relief is launching an emergency response as flash floods in northern Afghanistan have killed hundreds of people and left thousands homeless.

One of the worst-hit is the Baghlan province, where more than 1,000 homes have been destroyed. More than 300 people have been reported as killed so far, but many more are still missing.

Many residents were unprepared for the sudden rush of water caused by the heavy rainfall. Roads and agricultural land have also been destroyed by the floods. With these areas struck after days of torrential rain, we fear that families who have lost land, assets and homes will be pushed further towards starvation.

The humanitarian crisis in Afghanistan worsens

Afghanistan is currently in the midst of one of the world’s biggest food crises. Thousands of people in the affected areas are already suffering from severe hunger.

Umair Hasan, Islamic Relief’s Country Director in Afghanistan, says:

“Huge rivers of water and mud suddenly swept through villages, destroying vital farmland and washing away people’s fragile homes. Many people are reportedly still missing so the number of people affected could still rise. There are many urgent needs but people have been left homeless and hungry, so shelter and food are particularly critical.

“We plan to provide families with food, other aid, or cash so that they can find shelter and buy essential supplies on the local markets where they’re functioning. Hygiene materials are also needed as water-borne diseases often spread fast after floods.

“People in Afghanistan have suffered a string of drought, earthquakes and floods over the last couple of years, on top of extreme hunger and economic crisis. The cumulative impact is devastating, but the international community has largely neglected the country. This is another reminder that people in Afghanistan continue to need support.

“Most of the deaths so far have been reported in Baghlan province in the north – where Islamic Relief has existing projects – but the floods have also affected parts of neighbouring provinces such as Takhar and Badakhshan. Local authorities have declared a state of emergency.“

Flash flooding destroys more lives in Afghanistan

Almost 1,590 families have been affected by ongoing heavy rains and flash flooding across almost all regions in Afghanistan.

Since early April, flash floods, caused by heavy rainfall, have taken the lives of 35 people and left another 47 people injured. Further heavy rains in May have led to extensive flooding in several areas of the country.

Overall the most severely-affected provinces are Badghis, Farah, Hilmand, Kabul, Kandahar, Laghman, Nangahar, Parwan and Uruzgan.

There has been extensive damage to road infrastructure and agricultural lands.

Our teams are responding on the ground

Islamic Relief’s response will target families who have lost their homes and assets. We also support other vulnerable affected people, such as those with disabilities and orphaned children.

Our teams in Afghanistan have identified that priority needs are food, hygiene kits and shelter. We are already operating in some of the most severely affected areas and responding with immediate aid.

Currently, our teams are planning to provide humanitarian assistance to affected families in the Baghlan area. Previously, we were also on the ground in Balkh and Kunar. Where we provided cash grants to help families purchase food and emergency shelter items.

We are also coordinating our response with other humanitarian actors and authorities. By combining our efforts, we ensure affected communities are supported in the most effective way possible.

There are no safe zones in Gaza as Israeli attacks on Rafah force hundreds of thousands of people to flee and threaten the delivery of new aid supplies. 

More than 150,000 people have fled Rafah in recent days. A further 300,000 people are affected by the evacuation orders as Israel’s attack on Rafah spreads and intensifies. 

Rafah and its border crossing are a lifeline to the people in the enclave where thousands have been killed. They are a hub of aid agency operations for people weeks away from widespread famine. Now this area too is facing destruction as the invasion escalates. 

The Israeli forces have been attacking Rafah with artillery, ground troops, demolition operations, and aerial bombardments. Violence is rapidly expanding. People in the city live in fear amid the attacks and threatened further invasion. 

Civilians who flee face even greater challenges

Many people are walking miles to search for shelter, carrying whatever possessions they can. Extremely vulnerable people including malnourished infants, elderly people, injured and sick patients, and people with severe disabilities are among those ordered to move.  

Most are now sheltering in horrific conditions, without adequate access to food, water or other essentials.  This includes the designated evacuation site of Al Mawasi. Israel claimed this site as a“safe” area. However, many evacuees are still subject to impending famine, lack of shelter, spread of disease, and scarce healthcare availability. 

Al Mawasi is a sandy area which is unsuitable for hosting large numbers of displaced people. It is not an ideal solution for housing the over 1.2 million people crammed into Rafah, many of them starving, injured or sick including women and children. 

The healthcare system in Gaza is also shutting down with only a third of Gaza’s hospitals partially functioning. The aid system has now moved into a new stage of fading, almost at the point of debilitation. Since last Sunday no aid has come into Gaza by land.  

Israel has sealed the Rafah border crossing which is a key entry point for delivery of humanitarian supplies and aid agencies are almost out of food and fuel in Gaza.

The Rafah invasion is amplifying the ongoing Israeli siege and the suffering 

An Islamic Relief staff member in Gaza says:  

“I feel like this is the end. It feels like we will all be either trapped and killed in Gaza, or we will all be forced out. People have stayed in Rafah thinking it’s safe and hoping that global pressure would stop an invasion. But now we are abandoned by the world and everyone feels betrayed and let down.  

“It’s an unimaginable scene, with tens of thousands of people looking for shelter. People are pale and thin, tired and afraid. There are children, women, elderly people and people with disabilities trying to flee in wheelchairs. Injured people have to leave the hospital with recent bandages and bloodstains. 

“In other parts of Gaza, the few bits of remaining land are now filling up with tents and shacks built of bits of wood and nylon.   

“No humanitarian assistance has entered since Israel took over the Rafah crossing and the Kerem Abu Salem crossing closed. Bakeries have stopped working because they don’t have fuel, so we don’t have bread. We don’t have any water supply as that also depends on fuel deliveries, so yesterday we had to pay $50 just to refill our tank. Cars have stopped, so people coming from Rafah to the Middle Area are either walking or packed into vans carrying hundreds of people.    

“Many people in Gaza are already suffering from famine, but now we are entering a new period of unprecedented hardship.”   

Islamic Relief strongly condemns Israel’s order for civilians to evacuate yet again and calls on world leaders who have repeatedly warned against an invasion of Rafah to urgently pressure Israel to stop its attack and ensure humanitarian aid can enter Gaza. 

We demand the Israeli government reopens the Rafah border crossing reestablishing this vital lifeline to people in Gaza. We call for an end to the invasion of Rafah. An immediate ceasefire to prevent more deaths across the enclave. 

Each year, millions of Muslims from around the world travel to Makkah to perform the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj. As one of the five pillars of Islam, it is an important staple of the religion, alongside Shahada, Salah, Zakat and Sawm. Thus, every adult Muslim, if able, must perform it at least once in their lifetime.

The pilgrimage occurs during the same time each lunar year, in Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth month in the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar. It begins on the 8th of Dhul Hijjah and lasts approximately five to six days depending on the sighting of the moon. The blessed days of Arafah and Eid Al-Adha also occur during this period.

The year, the Hajj period is expected to fall between Friday, June 14, 2024, and Wednesday, June 19, 2024. Learn more about when Hajj is in 2024 here.

Why Do Muslims Go On Hajj?

Hajj is the fifth and final pillar of Islam. Being a pillar of the religion, it is a spiritual duty on every adult Muslim to perform Hajj. However, unlike the pillars of prayer (Salah), Zakat and fasting (Sawm), Muslims only have perform the pilgrimage once in their lifetime, so long as they are physically, emotionally, and financially able.

The Importance of Hajj in Islam

In the Holy Qur’an, Allah (SWT) mentions the pilgrimage in Surah Al-Baqarah, in verse 197, where He states that its season falls within the “well-known months” of the Islamic Calendar. This includes Dhul Hijjah, when the main Hajj period takes place.

Allah (SWT) also commands Muslims to fulfil the sacred pilgrimage, as mentioned in Surah Ali Imran:

And [due] to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House – for whoever is able to find thereto a way. But whoever disbelieves – then indeed, Allah is free from need of the worlds.”

Quran 3:97

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) also stressed upon the many rewards of Hajj. He stated:

“Whoever performs Hajj for the sake of Allah and does not utter any obscene speech or do any evil deed, will go back (free of sin) as his mother bore him.”

Bukhari and Muslim

The Hajj pilgrimage is a test of patience and temperament, and can be spiritually, emotionally, and physically challenging. However, it is also a momentous occasion that delivers an experience like no other. An opportunity to draw closer to Allah (SWT) more than ever before.

That is why many Muslims around the world strive their whole lives for the opportunity to perform Hajj – sometimes even more than once!

What Happens During Hajj?

Each year, millions of Muslims travel by land, sea and air to Makkah, Saudi Arabia and perform Hajj. Approximately 2-3 million people attend Hajj each year, with each of them having to complete a series of rites and rituals.

Here are the 18 steps of Hajj at a glance:

• Preparation and Intention
• Enter state of Ihram
• Tawaf x7
• Safa and Marwa
• Clip/Shave Hair (Umrah ends)
• Resting and Praying
• Enter state of Ihram
• Arrive at Mina
• Day of ‘Arafah
• Muzdalifah (under the night sky)
• Rami (stoning of the devil)
• Qurbani
• Shave Head
• Tawaf al-Ifadha
• Rami (stoning of the devil)
• Spend night at Mina
• Rami (stoning of the devil)
• Farewell Tawaf al-Wida

Each action of Hajj has their spiritual, emotional, and physical challenges. During the five or six days of, pilgrims can expect to walk between 5km-15km per day, as there is some travel between locations. But much of the pilgrimage takes place at the Masjid al-Haram, where the Kaaba is located.

What is the Ka’aba?

The Ka’aba (meaning “cube” in Arabic) is the most sacred site in Islam. It is the sacred bayt Allah (House of God) and was first built by Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS).

“And remember Ibrahim and Ismail raised the foundations of the House (With this prayer): “Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us: For Thou art the All-Hearing, the All-knowing.”

Quran 2:127

The Ka’aba is a fundamental part of the Tawaf ritual in Hajj. It also the qibla (direction) towards which Muslims turn towards in prayer five times a day. Previously, Muslims would pray facing Al-Aqsa in Jerusalem.

How Do You Prepare for Hajj?

Hajj is an act of worship that is also very physically demanding. For this reason, many Muslims try to prepare for it weeks in advance, so that the travel required between locations across the five-to-six-day pilgrimage does not come as a shock.

Being physically prepared helps pilgrims complete the emotionally and spiritually demanding aspects of Hajj. This allows them to focus on performing the actions of the pilgrimage to the best of their ability, doing the most for Allah (SWT)’s sake.

Other times Muslims travel to Makkah

Hajj is not the only time Muslims can travel to Makkah. Umrah is a lesser pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of the year. While it is not obligatory, it also offers many rewards for Muslims who choose to take it. For Allah’s Messager (ﷺ) said,

“(The performance of) `Umra is an expiation for the sins committed (between it and the previous one). And the reward of Hajj Mabrur (the one accepted by Allah) is nothing except Paradise.”

Sahih al-Bukhari

There are also far fewer steps in Umrah when compared to Hajj. Hajj lasts approximately five to six days (depending on the sighting of the crescent moon), whereas Umrah can be performed within a much shorter period. However, one can perform either pliglimages as many times as one likes in their lifetime, if one has the means to do so.

Conclusion

Hajj as we know it today was first performed in 628 CE, by the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the first Muslims. He (ﷺ) was instructed to re-establish the traditions started by the Prophet Ibrahim (AS) as instructed by Allah (SWT), millennia before.

Last year, 1.84 million Muslims from around the world travelled to Makkah for Hajj 2023. They like, like many Muslims who performed the pilgrimage before them have now become Hajji (Hajjah for women).

Best of luck to those who are going for Hajj this year. May Allah (SWT) grant you safe travels! And may those of who have not been one day embark on this momentus journey, insha’Allah!

Islamic Relief is appalled at the news that Israel has told over 100,000 Palestinians to evacuate Rafah. This will put many lives at even greater risk. People must not be forced to move yet again. 

People sheltering in eastern parts of Rafah on May 6, 2024, received messages saying the Israel military “is about to operate with great force” in the area. The order told civilians to evacuate to the so-called humanitarian zone of Al Mawasi “for your own safety”. Heavy bombing in Rafah overnight has reportedly killed many civilians, including several children.  

As we have seen over the past seven months, forcing so many people to move is impossible without serious humanitarian cost. People will inevitably die as a result of the evacuation. The sick and wounded, elderly people, newborn infants and people with disabilities are particularly vulnerable. They often cannot evacuate without support. 

The area where people have been ordered to move – al Mawasi – has been designated a so-called ‘safe humanitarian zone’. But it is not safe. Civilians sheltering there say they continue to face attacks and severe shortages of food, water and other vital aid. Forcing more people there will make the humanitarian crisis even worse.  

Islamic Relief reiterates that civilians must be protected regardless of whether they stay or leave Rafah. Ordering people to leave does not absolve Israel of its obligations under international humanitarian law to refrain from harming civilians who cannot, or choose not to, leave.      

For many weeks, Islamic Relief and other humanitarian agencies have been warning that an invasion of Rafah must not be allowed to go ahead. It will have catastrophic humanitarian consequences. More than 1.2 million people are now sheltering in dire conditions in Rafah. Many of them have been forced to move several times over the past seven months.  

The Israeli invasion of Rafah must not be allowed to happen, Islamic Relief warns again as fears mount over an imminent ground invasion.

More than 1.2 million Palestinians are sheltering in Rafah in apocalyptic conditions. Civilians there are terrified about the coming days as more deadly bombings hit Rafah overnight and Israeli forces are reportedly amassing nearby.  

An invasion of Rafah would have catastrophic humanitarian consequences.

The invasion would inevitably kill thousands more civilians and uproot hundreds of thousands of people yet again. It would make widespread famine inevitable. It would massively disrupt the humanitarian response across Gaza, which is primarily based in Rafah, at a time when lifesaving aid is needed more than ever. 

World leaders must do everything they can to halt the escalation in Rafah. They must increase efforts to ensure an immediate ceasefire and humanitarian access.   

Since October, Rafah has become one of the most overcrowded places in the world.

About half of Gaza’s entire population is now crammed into the tiny area along the border with Egypt. Islamic Relief staff and partners in Rafah are distributing aid such as cooked meals and water. However, many people are still starving and desperately need food, healthcare and other aid.   

Many people fled to Rafah on Israeli orders to leave other parts of Gaza. Yet, now, they are being ordered to move again. Civilians must be protected regardless of whether they stay or move. Ordering people to leave does not absolve Israel of its obligations under international humanitarian law to refrain from harming civilians who cannot, or choose not to, leave.    

The humanitarian crisis in Rafah is worsening by the day.

Multiple families share a single tent, while others sleep under scraps of cloth or plastic, surrounded by sewage water. Last week extreme heat killed at least two young children in the tents as temperatures rose above 100 degrees Fahrenheit (38 degrees Celsius).  

Islamic Relief staff in Gaza described conditions in the tents during such heat as “like living in an inferno”. Similar temperatures are likely in the coming weeks. With the heat and lack of clean water and sanitation, the spread of diseases is expected to increase even further.

Gaza is now just weeks away from widespread famine, yet Israel’s blockade continues.

Within the Gaza Strip, the ongoing blockage restricts aid despite repeated commitments to allow for more aid. Last week, an average of just over 200 trucks a day were able to enter Gaza. This is far less than the 500 a day that entered Gaza before October and it barely scratches the surface of what is needed now. Israel continues to obstruct humanitarian access to northern Gaza, with the UN reporting that more than one-third of aid missions to the north were blocked during April.

The US military has announced that construction of a temporary pier to deliver aid by sea should be finished soon. But even if it gets fully operational, its capacity will be just a fraction of what is needed. Only an immediate ceasefire and full unimpeded humanitarian access by land can ensure that aid reaches people in sufficient quantity.  

Hajj is the sacred pilgrimage Muslims perform at the holy mosque of Masjid al-Haram in Makkah, Saudi Arabia. It takes place during Dhul Hijjah, which is the twelfth and final month in the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar.

The beginning of Hajj starts on the starts the 8th of Dhul Hijjah. It then ends on the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah, depending on the sighting of the moon. In 2024, this period is expected to fall between Friday, June 14, 2024, to Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

What is Hajj?

Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam, alongside Shahada (profession of faith), Salah (prayer), Zakat (almsgiving) and Sawm (fasting).

As such, undertaking Hajj holds great importance in Islam. It is a spiritual duty. Every Muslim is required to perform it at least once in their lifetime, so long as they have the means. This includes being not only financially able, but also physically and emotionally.

The Significance of Hajj 

In the Holy Qur’an, Allah (SWT) commands Muslims to take this sacred journey: 

You will enter the Sacred Masjid, God willing, perfectly secure, and you will cut your hair or shorten it (as you fulfil the pilgrimage rituals) there. You will not have any fear. Since He knew what you did not know, He has coupled this with an immediate victory.

Qur’an 48:27 

Hajj also occurs in Dhul Hijjah during its first ten days, one of the most sacred periods of the entire Islamic calendar.  

As such, performing the pilgrimage offers Muslims the opportunity to refresh their spiritual selves. To cleanse themselves of their sins and draw closer to Allah (SWT). 

How Long Does Hajj Last? 

The pilgrimage is performed over five to six days, from the 8th to the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah. The Day of Arafah (9^th Dhul Hijjah) and Eid Al-Adha (10^th Dhul Hijjah) also fall between these days.  

The pilgrimage includes a series of rites and rituals, some of which must be performed in order. It can be physically demanding, as pilgrims are required to travel between locations throughout. On average, one can expect to walk between 5km to 15km per day.  

Performing Hajj is a test of patience and temperament. It is a spiritual, emotional, and physical challenge and can take some preparation. That is why, for many, it is often a once-in-a-lifetime event. 

When Does Hajj Occur?

Hajj takes place between the 8th and the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah each Islamic year, depending on the sighting of the moon.

Dates in the Islamic calendar appear to shift forward approximately 11-12 days as it corresponds to the Gregorian calendar, as the Islamic Calendar operates on the lunar cycle.

This year, the Hajj period is expected to fall between Friday, June 14, 2024, to Wednesday, June 19, 2024.

While Muslims are only required to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetimes, it can be performed multiple times, so long as they fall within the set dates. You can also perform Umrah, a voluntary pilgrimage to Makkah taken at any time of the year.

Where Does Hajj Take Place?

Hajj is performed in Makkah (also referred to as Mecca) in Saudi Arabia. The pilgrimage consists of a series of rites and rituals across five to six days and is performed across several locations within the vicinity of Makkah.

These locations include:

• The city of Makkah
• The tent settlement of Mina
• Mount ‘Arafah
• Muzdalifah

Who Is Excluded from Hajj? 

It is required of every Muslim to perform Hajj at least once in their lifetime. However, the Hajj is not intended as a burden upon Muslims. Muslims are only required to perform Hajj so long as it is within their capacity. 

Those who are exempt from Hajj are the following: 

• Children. While they may go to Hajj, only Muslim adults (male or female) are required to perform Hajj. 
• Very weak, sick, elderly, or otherwise physically incapable Muslims. 
• Muslims who are financially unable to perform Hajj. However, if one is in debt, they may still perform Hajj if the person they owe money to permits it, they have time to pay off the debt and Hajj does not affect their ability to pay it.  

Brief History of Hajj 

In 628 CE, the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and the early Muslims embarked on the first Islamic Pilgrimage (Hajj), re-establishing the traditions started by the Prophet Ibrahim (AS), who first began the tradition of Hajj millennia before. 

The Story of Hajar (AS) and Ismail (AS)  

The story of Hajj begins with Prophet Ibrahim (AS) receiving a commandment from Allah (SWT). Allah (SWT) orders Prophet Ibrahim (AS) to travel to the barren desert of Makkah and leave his wife Hajar and infant son Ismail (AS). Despite the trials ahead, the family trusted in the Divine Wisdom of Allah (SWT) and set out to follow His commandment.

While in the desert, Hajar (AS) and Ismail (AS) quickly ran out of resources. In a desperate effort to find water, Hajar (AS) ran between the two neighbouring hills of Safa and Marwa in search of someone who could help or nearby water. She did this seven times, only to return to a crying Ismail (AS) empty-handed. 

As the infant Ismail (AS) cried, he struck the ground with his leg and a stream of water burst forth at the commandment of Allah (SWT). This stream of water relieved the mother and son of their thirst and became a resource with which they traded for provisions of all kinds with travelling merchants. This stream of water is known today as the Well of Zam Zam. 

Years later, Allah (SWT) commanded Ibrahim (AS) to return to his family, where he found the miracle of his family alive and indeed thriving. A barren desert that had started with only Hajar and Ismail (AS) was now transforming into a thriving settlement that would become known as Makkah. 

Allah (SWT) then instructed Ibrahim (AS) to mark the space for a stone structure. This would be known as the Kaaba, which Ibrahim (AS) built with his son Ismail (AS).  

The Significance of the Kaaba and Masjid al-Haram

The space surrounding the Kaaba was created for worshippers of the one God to gather. In fact, the Kaaba simply marks the spot where Muslims unite. It is not something that is worshipped, as idolatry is prohibited in Islam. 

Over time, the Kaaba would be taken over by pagan Arabs, who filled it with idols. However, thousands of years later, when the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was given revelation and the final message of Tawheed (monotheism), he was instructed to reinstate Ibrahim’s (AS) sacred tradition – the sacred pilgrimage we know as Hajj today. 

Frequently Asked Questions 

• What does Hajj mean?

  The word Hajj, in Arabic, means ‘to intend a journey’. 

• How many days is Hajj?

  The pilgrimage is performed over five to six days, from the 8th to the 12th or 13th of Dhul Hijjah. The Day of Arafah (9^th Dhul Hijjah) and Eid Al-Adha (10^th Dhul Hijjah) also fall between these days. 

• Who is excused from Hajj?

  Those excused from Hajj are children (however, they can accompany their parents) the very weak, sick, elderly, or otherwise physically incapable and those who would be financially burdened if they make the pilgrimage.

Eid al-Adha is one of the two blessed celebrations Muslims obverse, the other being Eid al-Fitr. There are many observances unique to Eid Al-Adha (and Dhul Hijjah in general), including Qurban.

This year, Eid Al Adha 2024 is expected to fall on the evening of Sunday, July 16, 2024, depending on the sighting of the moon.

What is Eid Al-Adha?

Eid al-Adha (meaning “festival of sacrifice”) is an Islamic celebration occurring in Dhul Hijjah, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic (Hijri) Calendar. Depending on the country and lunar cycle for the year, the celebration can last two to four days.

The Eid of Sacrifice commemorates the ultimate act of sacrifice performed by our beloved Prophet Ibrahim (AS). The submission he made in his willingness to give up what he loved most, his son, Ismail (AS), for the sake of Allah (SWT). 

As such, Muslims, in turn, also offer a sacrifice, known as Qurban, on this day of celebration.

What is Qurban?

Qurban (also known as Qurbani or Udhiyah) means sacrifice. It is an act of worship unique to Eid al-Adha, commemorating the sacrifice Prophet Ibrahim (AS) made to Allah (SWT).

Following the Eid prayer on the first day of celebration, Muslims around the world slaughter an animal – typically a sheep, goat, camel or cow. The sacrificed animal is then divided into three equal portions. One-third shared goes to the needy, one-third goes to relatives and neighbours, and the remainder Muslims keep for their own families. 

Who should give Qurban?

Qurban is mandatory for every Muslim who has reached the age of puberty, and who can afford it. Typically, Muslims who are eligible for Zakat should also give Qurban.

When should I give my Qurban?

It is best practice to purchase your Qurban as early as possible so that it can be performed on time. While one can carry out the sacrifice on any day of Eid al-Adha (from the 10th to the 13th of Dhul Hijjah), performing it on the first day is Sunnah.

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) used to carry out the sacrifice immediately after the Eid prayer. In turn, his first meal on the day of Eid was meat from the sacrifice. 

Other Observances of Eid Al-Adha

As with any festival and important occasion, we follow the example of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). There are various Sunnah acts of worship you can do on the day of Eid. These include performing ghusl, wearing one’s best clothes, reciting takbeer and offering Eid greetings.

Similar to Eid al-Fitr, Eid prayer is also an important part of Eid al-Adha. Attending the Eid prayer and walking to the Eid prayer are also Sunan of the Prophet (ﷺ).

Why donate your Qurban to Islamic Relief?

When you donate your Qurban to Islamic Relief, we prioritise providing meat to the most vulnerable families across the world during the Holy season. 

Our international teams work hard to get your donation to the hardest-to-reach regions and conflict-affected areas, including Myanmar, Palestine, Syria and Yemen. 

Meat is sourced locally to support the local economy and distributed fresh. All logistics—from sacrifice to transportation—are handled in accordance with Islamic principles, and with the best hygienic practices possible. Each pack contains 2-5 kilograms of meat and feeds a family of approximately 4-8 people.

Donate Qurbani now and make your sacrifice.