Complete Hajj Guide - Shepherds | Umrah Travels & Hajj Agency in Bangladesh

What is Hajj?

Hajj is the greater annual Muslim pilgrimage to Mecca, which takes place in the month of Zulhijjah, the last month of the Arabic lunar year. It is a mandatory religious duty for Muslims that must be carried out at least once in their lifetime by all adult Muslims who are physically and financially capable of undertaking the journey and can support their family during their absence.

Importance of Hajj in Islam

Hajj is one of the pillars of Islam, because the Prophet (ﷺ) said:
“Islam is built on five (pillars): the testimony that there is no Deity but Allaah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah, establishing regular prayer, paying zakaah, fasting Ramadaan and performing pilgrimage to the sacred House of Allaah.” [SahihBukhari 8, Sahih Muslim 120]

It is obligatory according to the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of His Messenger (ﷺ), and according to the consensus of the Muslims. Allaah says:
“And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka‘bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allaah, those who can afford the expenses (for one’s conveyance, provision and residence) ; and whoever disbelieves [i.e. denies Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah), then he is a disbeliever of Allaah], then Allaah stands not in need of any of the ‘Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists)” [Quran 3:97]

Who Must Participate in Hajj

In the case of a woman, this includes having a Mahram. If she does not have a Mahram, then she is not obliged to do Hajj.

The Muslim should hasten to fulfill the duty of Hajj when it becomes obligatory on him and must not delay it, because the Prophet (ﷺ) said: “Hasten to do Hajj – meaning the obligatory Hajj – for none of you knows what will happen to him.” [Hasan by al-Albaani in Irwa’ al-Ghaleel, 990].

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Virtues of Hajj

The Prophet (ﷺ) say: “Whoever performs Hajj and does not commit any obscenity or commit any evil will go back (free of) sin as on the day his mother bore him.” [al-Bukhaari (1521) and Muslim (1350)]
Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “…an accepted Hajj brings no reward but Paradise.” [Al-Bukhaari (1773) and Muslim (1349)]
The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “Make the Hajj and ‘Umrah follow each other closely, for they remove poverty and sins as the bellows removes the dross of iron, gold and silver, and an accepted Hajj brings no less a reward than Paradise.” [At-Tirmidhi (738) and an-Nasaa’i (2631) Classed as hasan by Shaykh al-Albaani in SaheehSunan at-Tirmidhi ]

Benefits of Hajj

The benefits of Hajj are immense; some of them are as follows:

Wearing ihraam is a physical expression of being the slave of Allaah and our submission to His commands.
It teaches us Tawheed from the moment the pilgrim enters ihram and recites the talbiyah.
The gathering of the people in Hajj reminds us about the Hereafter.
It develops a sense of unity, because Hajj makes all people the same in their clothing, deeds, rituals, qiblah and the places they visit.
It trains us to be content with modest clothing and accommodation.
Hajj teaches us to be disciplined and develops patience and putting up with annoyance from people, because the pilgrims will inevitably be exposed to crowding and arguments, etc.
It develops brotherhood amongst the Muslims since we get to exchange knowledge and experience with other Muslims and benefit each other.
Hajj trains us to be charitable as the pilgrim spends a great deal of money for the sake of Hajj, on travel expenses, on the road and in the sacred places.
By performing Hajj, we can learn on how to develop Taqwah – consciousness of one’s duties towards Allah in a great deal.
It trains us to be kind to other people. Since during hajj, the pilgrims often guide those who are lost, teach those who are ignorant, help the poor and support the disabled and the weak.
The story of Hajar the mother of Ismaa’eel (peace be upon them both) teaches us to put our trusts on Allah and never to lose hope from His mercy.
It develops a sense of connection with the Prophets (peace be upon them) from our father Ibraaheem (peace be upon him), to our Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). When the pilgrim visits the sacred places and performs the rituals, he remembers the visits of those Prophets to these sacred places.
Hajj is a kind of intensive training in worship and remembrance of Allaah. Since the pilgrims persist in worshipping and remembering Allaah during the days of Hajj, moving from one sacred place to the next, from one action to another.
Finally, the gathering of Hajj is not at the invitation of any government or president; rather it is the invitation of the Lord of the Worlds. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “The guests of Allaah are three: the warrior for the sake of Allaah, the pilgrim performing Hajj and the pilgrim performing ‘Umrah.” [Saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Nasaa’i, 2464]

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Preparation for Hajj

Our sincere intention must be to perform Hajj solely for the sake of Allah and perform it the way the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) performed Hajj, which is following the Sunnah. We should keep in mind that no righteous deed will be accepted unless it fulfills these two basic conditions: sincerity of intention and following the Sunnah of the Prophet (ﷺ).
Hajj must be performed with halaal funds.
Hajj is a huge test of character, especially patience and it will start from the time we make the intention to perform it.
Be humble and have the right mentality with positive attitude; otherwise, we would find it very difficult to cope. We should try to understand the magnitude and ground reality of Hajj when 3 million people performing the same rituals, in the same time and place. Remember, it is not an annual vacation rather an act of worship.
Before our hajj flight we should gain complete and authentic knowledge about each and every aspect of Hajj and also learn how to do wudhu and perform salah properly. The more we learn about Hajj, its obligations, and prohibitions; the more comfortable we will feel during the whole process.
Study the Seerah of Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) and history of hajj.
Understand the meaning of the Talbiyah and what it implies.
Be careful not to be involved with shirk or incorrect practices.
All of our debts and financial obligations must be fully discharged before our journey.
Remain with scholars who can explain the rituals correctly.
Refrain from all kinds of ‘bad talk’ from the moment we have the intention to go to Hajj.
Remind ourselves that this is a once in a lifetime opportunity so try to make the most of it.
It is very important to be physically fit before we go. Otherwise, we will not be able to do as much worship we would have liked to perform and in the manner we wanted it. The more physically fit we will be the better we can worship Allah the way He deserves to be worshiped.
Implement the lessons from Hajj in our lives after Hajj.
Travel with a reliable scholar who can remind us about our religion. And for this, one may choose the ‘right’ hajj package and the ‘right’ hajj agency.

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Why Hajj with shepherds

Hajj according to Quran & Sunnah.
Shariah consultancy by Dr. Monzur E Elahi and other prominent Islamic scholars.
Competitive package pricing.
Customized package options.
Assistance during Hajj pre-registration & Registration.
Training by experienced management on practical issues.
Training by experienced management on practical issues.
Economy Class air ticket of Saudi Arabian Airlines/Bangladesh Biman.
Hajj visa processing.
Transportation by AC bus.
Three meals a day.
Guidance on Umrah, Hajj & relevant topics as well as regular classes in Saudi Arabia.
Visiting historical places in Makkah & Madinah.
Optional tour to Taif and Jeddah.
Regular communication from pre-registration till return from Hajj.
Special rates for infants and children.

Hajj Pre-registration requirements

For Hajj Pre-registration please provide us the following for each person.

Scanned copy of NID (both sides).
Full contact details. (Present & Permanent Address with Police Station & Post Office).
30,752 taka/person govt. pre-registration fee (price included in the package).
Mobile Number.
Profession.
Marital Status.
Spouse’s Name (If Married).
Scanned copy of Govt. Birth Certificate (only for any child below 18 yrs and Non resident Bangladeshi).
Scanned copy of Passport Size with white background (only for any child below 18 yrs and Non Resident Bangladeshi).
Viber/Whatsapp Number (if any).
Email (if any).
Copy of Bangladeshi Passport (For Non resident Bangladeshis)
Copy of Foreign Visa (For Non resident Bangladeshis).

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To Book Your Next Package
Contact With Shepherds – Reliable Hajj Agency in Bangladesh

Detailed Hajj Rituals and Steps

Ihram

Detailed Explanation: Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim must enter before performing Hajj or Umrah. It involves wearing specific clothing: two white, unstitched sheets for men, and simple, modest clothing for women. The spiritual significance of Ihram is to symbolize purity, equality, and the renunciation of worldly pleasures.
Step-by-Step Guide:
1. Perform Ghusl (ritual purification).
2. Wear the Ihram garments.
3. Make the intention (Niyyah) for Hajj or Umrah.
4. Recite the Talbiyah: “Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka Laa Shareeka Laka Labbayk, Innal-Hamda Wan-Ni’mata Laka Wal-Mulk, Laa Shareeka Lak.”

Tawaf

Detailed Procedure: Tawaf involves circumambulating the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction. Each round starts and ends at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad). Pilgrims should recite specific prayers and supplications during Tawaf.
Significance: Tawaf represents the unity of believers in the worship of the One God, as they move in harmony around the Kaaba, the house of Allah.

Safa and Marwah

Detailed Steps: Sa’i involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, located near the Kaaba. Pilgrims start at Safa, walk to Marwah, and then return, completing the journey seven times.
Historical Context: This ritual commemorates Hagar’s desperate search for water for her son Ishmael, which led to the discovery of the Zamzam well.

Day of Arafat

Detailed Activities: On the 9th day of Zulhijjah, pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafat to perform Wuquf (standing), which involves standing in prayer and supplication from noon until sunset.
Importance: The Day of Arafat is considered the pinnacle of Hajj. It is a day of forgiveness and mercy, where pilgrims seek Allah’s pardon and blessings.

Muzdalifah

Detailed Guide: After sunset on the Day of Arafat, pilgrims travel to Muzdalifah, where they spend the night under the open sky. They collect pebbles for the stoning ritual (Rami) and perform Maghrib and Isha prayers combined.
Significance: Spending the night in Muzdalifah symbolizes unity and equality among pilgrims, as they all rest together in the same place.

Stoning of the Devil (Rami)

Detailed Procedure: Pilgrims throw seven pebbles at each of the three Jamarat (stone pillars) in Mina over three days. The stoning ritual begins on the 10th of Zulhijjah and continues on the 11th and 12th.
Symbolism: This act symbolizes the rejection of evil and the temptations of Satan, following the example of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).

Animal Sacrifice

Detailed Guide: Pilgrims perform the sacrifice of an animal, typically a sheep, goat, cow, or camel, on the 10th of Zulhijjah. The meat is distributed among the poor, family, and friends.
Significance: The sacrifice commemorates Prophet Ibrahim’s willingness to sacrifice his son in obedience to Allah, who then provided a ram as a substitute.

Shaving/Cutting Hair

Detailed Explanation: Male pilgrims shave their heads or cut a portion of their hair, while female pilgrims cut a small portion of their hair. This act symbolizes purification and the completion of Hajj rituals.

Farewell Tawaf

Detailed Procedure: The Farewell Tawaf (Tawaf al-Wada) is performed before leaving Mecca. Pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba seven times, similar to the initial Tawaf.
Significance: This final ritual signifies the completion of Hajj and a farewell to the sacred city of Mecca.

Read more details about – How to Perform Hajj Step by Step.

Health and Safety during Hajj

Ensuring health and safety during Hajj is crucial. Here are some key tips:

Stay Hydrated: Drink plenty of water to avoid dehydration in the hot climate. Always carry a water bottle.
Wear Comfortable Footwear: Use well-fitted, comfortable shoes to prevent foot injuries.
Sun Protection: Use sunscreen, wear a hat, and carry an umbrella. Light-colored, loose clothing helps keep you cool.
Personal Hygiene: Wash hands regularly and use hand sanitizers to prevent illness.
Follow Health Guidelines: Adhere to health advisories and guidelines on vaccinations and medications.
Be Aware of Surroundings: Stay aware and keep in touch with your group. Carry a card with your accommodation details.
Rest and Pace Yourself: Get enough rest and avoid overexertion.
Emergency Preparedness: Know the locations of medical facilities and emergency services.
Avoid Crowds: Minimize time in crowded areas to reduce the risk of accidents.
Stay Informed: Keep updated on weather conditions and follow authorities’ instructions.

By following these tips, you can ensure a safer and more fulfilling Hajj experience.

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Logistical Information

Proper planning and understanding of logistical details are essential for a smooth Hajj experience. Here are some important points to consider:

Travel Arrangements: Book your flights and accommodations well in advance. Ensure your travel documents, including your passport and Hajj visa, are in order.
Accommodation: Confirm your accommodation details before departure. Familiarize yourself with the location and facilities available.
Transportation: Understand the transportation options available for moving between the holy sites. Use official transport services to ensure safety and reliability.
Luggage: Pack light and only bring essentials. Ensure your luggage is clearly labeled with your contact information.
Communication: Keep a mobile phone with you for easy communication. Save important contact numbers, including those of your group leader and accommodation.
Money and Valuables: Carry a small amount of cash for daily expenses. Use secure methods to store your money and valuables.
Local Customs and Regulations: Familiarize yourself with local customs and regulations to ensure respectful and lawful behavior.
Emergency Contacts: Keep a list of emergency contacts, including local authorities and medical facilities.

By taking care of these logistical details, you can focus on your spiritual journey and make the most of your Hajj experience.

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Financial Planning

Effective financial planning is essential for a stress-free Hajj. Here are some key considerations:

Budgeting: Create a detailed budget covering all expenses, including travel, accommodation, food, and other necessities. Factor in additional costs for emergencies and unforeseen expenses.
Saving: Start saving early to ensure you have sufficient funds. Consider setting up a dedicated savings account for your Hajj expenses.
Payment Methods: Carry a mix of cash and cards. Ensure your cards are accepted internationally and inform your bank of your travel plans to avoid any issues.
Currency Exchange: Exchange some money into the local currency before you travel. Familiarize yourself with the exchange rates and find reliable exchange services.
Travel Insurance: Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers health, travel delays, and lost belongings. This provides financial protection against unexpected events.
Expense Tracking: Keep track of your spending during Hajj to stay within your budget. Use a notebook or a mobile app to record your expenses.

By planning your finances carefully, you can ensure a smooth and worry-free Hajj experience, allowing you to focus on your spiritual journey.

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Spiritual Preparation

Spiritual preparation is a vital aspect of your Hajj journey. Here are some steps to help you get ready:

Knowledge and Understanding: Study the rituals and significance of Hajj. Read books, attend seminars, and consult knowledgeable individuals to deepen your understanding.
Intention (Niyyah): Make a sincere intention to perform Hajj solely for the sake of Allah. Reflect on your purpose and purify your intentions.
Repentance and Forgiveness: Seek forgiveness from Allah for past sins and wrongdoings. Make amends with others and seek their forgiveness to cleanse your heart.
Dua and Supplication: Learn and memorize important duas (supplications) for Hajj. Regularly engage in dua, asking Allah for a successful and accepted pilgrimage.
Physical and Mental Readiness: Prepare yourself physically by maintaining good health and fitness. Mentally prepare by practicing patience, humility, and gratitude.
Acts of Worship: Increase your acts of worship, such as prayer, fasting, and recitation of the Quran. Strengthen your connection with Allah through these practices.
Community and Support: Engage with your local community and seek support from fellow pilgrims. Sharing experiences and advice can enhance your spiritual preparation.

By focusing on these aspects, you can ensure that you are spiritually prepared for the profound journey of Hajj, allowing you to fully immerse yourself in this sacred experience.

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