ISSUE 01

The Hajj Magazine from Hunafaa Travel

HAJJ

The Pilgrimage to Makkah:

(Here I come, O Lord!) Packed in the plane were white, black, brown, red, and yellow people, blue eyes and blond hair, and my kinky red hair -- all together, brothers! All honouring the same Diety, all in turn giving equal honour to each other. . . . [Al-Hajj Malik El-Shabazz a.k.a Malcolm X]

“Every one of the thousa

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Jeddah, was dressed this way.

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had on the same thing I ha

d

on. Once thus dressed, we all

had begun intermittently calli

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out “Labbayka! (Allahumma)

Labbayka!”

IN THIS ISSUE

Package SummariesThe world’s largest spiritual gathering: Hajj, the last and final pillar of Islam; a pilgrimage to the Holy city that is made at least once during a

lifetime.

Package DetailsSee what we have to offer. Packages built to

work around you.

Boona MohammedDubbed the “voice of a generation”. Discover what the Youtube sensation and Hunafaa Travel

have in common.

Hajj Development Programme

We want to make this journey a turning point in peoples’ lives.

Hajj Memoirs; a journey of the hearts

Highlights, memories, emotions from one of our 2012 pilgrim.

are leaving for London now. The hujjaj (pilgrims) have answered the call; a call that required them to change their food and clothing, their residence and companions. They gave their wealth in answering this call. They left their families and comforts in answering this call. They overcame their desires and emotions in answering this call. Hajj is a clear and evident sign that the Muslim can change for the better in a matter of days, sincerely for Allah. May Allah Al-Shakur accept their Hajj. May Allah Al-Rabb give them the strength to make those changes beyond the Hajj. ‘O you who believe! Answer the call of Allah and His Messenger when he calls you to that which gives you life...’” [8:24]

Facebook post - 15th Dhul Hijjah 143331st October 2012We

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Abu Hurayrah said: I heard the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) say: “Whoever does Hajj for the sake of Allah and does not have, during the Hajj, intimate relations, commit sin, or argue unjustly, will come back like the day his mother gave birth to him.” (Bukhaari and Muslim)

Package Details

A few points to strengthen your trust in choosing us to take care of your spiritual journey:

• Confirmed return flights• Flight arriving direct to Madinah• Acquisition of necessary visas• Hajj drafts• 4 star hotel in Makkah and Madinah• Triple and Quad rooms available, all rooms ensuite (except

Aziziyyah)• Building in Aziziyyah during the days of the Hajj rites (walking

distance to the Mina tents)• Breakfast whilst in hotels in Makkah and Madinah• All meals provided during stay in Aziziyyah and the days of the

Hajj rites• All Ground transportation on private air-conditioned

dedicated coaches (except from airport to hotel)• Religious guides• Educational programme throughout tour• Pre-Hajj seminar (full day)• Tour of historical and religious sites in Madinah• VIP services in Mina • Dedicated tents in Arafat

Cost Per Person

2 Week Express£3595 per adult for quad room£3695 per adult for triple room£3895 per adult for double / twin room

Aziziyah, the place of preparation

Our packages include a two night stay in Aziziyyah, which is a district of Makkah, located a few miles away from al Masjid al Haram. The apartments are usually a 30 minute walk to the Haram. However, taxis and shuttle services are easily accessible with journey times varying between 10-15mins. During our stay pilgrims will have the opportunity to rest and prepare themselves mentally and physically. Valuable lectures will be given by our religious guides to prepare pilgrims for the Hajj days to come.

The Aziziyyah apartment is in close proximity to the European Mina tents. Pilgrims will have access to their rooms to rest and also to use the bathroom facilities during the days of Hajj. All the rooms are air-conditioned. 5-6 people will be sharing in each room. Men and women will be accommodated separately.

Services in Mina

Accommodation in Mina is in air-conditioned tents provided by the Hajj Ministry. Camps are located in the European enclave but with extra services including; mattresses, pillows & blankets, 3 meals a day and 24 hour supply of hot and cold drinks.

European tents are approximately 45 minutes (walking distance) from the Jamarat. We will arrange guided walks to Jamarat and back to the tents with our experienced team. During our stay in Mina we will have regular lectures and reminders with the religious guides who will accompany the group.

Private Transportation

When leaving the airport in Saudi Arabia, everyone must use government-provided transport. Government coaches are also used during the days of Hajj. However, this rule is limited to just that. For all other journeys ground transportation is on air-conditioned coaches – exclusively for our group.

Why Choose Us?

Experience Alhamdulillah, we have a team of individuals with years of experience. We also have Saudi partners whom we work with. You can rest assured that we’ve been on this road before and know what to expect. We’ve facilitated for the young, old and the disabled, families and individuals.

Honesty & DedicationWe will always do our utmost to deliver what we promise. You will find us absolutely dedicated to ensuring that your Hajj is completed in the proper manner. This is more than just a business to us.

TeamOur packages are accompanied by our experienced team of committed individuals that will go the extra mile to make it a journey of a lifetime.

Our staff are carefully selected and trained to ensure that you are in the best hands, leaving you free to focus on your Hajj. They are friendly and committed to customer service.

EducationAt Hunafaa Travel, we make every effort to ensure that we have an effective programme in place so that you are able to attain maximum benefit from this blessed journey. From the Pre-Hajj seminar, to the literature, the lectures running throughout the tour, and the social atmosphere – we hope to add so much more to the Hajj experience.

We are always accompanied by experienced religious experts ensuring that you are given appropriate religious and practical guidance.

Quality & ValueWe are proud of the high standards we achieve and the value for money we offer.

We take great care to ensure that our packages are the best value for money in the business, and we know that outstanding value means ensuring that all of the ingredients are right, not just the price.

Testimonial“I am very pleased to have completed my Hajj with Hunafaa Travel in 2012. They provided a service that was honest, transparent and reliable. I also benefited much from the religious guides that accompanied us throughout, inspiring us with daily lectures and naseehah. I am indebted to the sincere brothers at Hunaffa who helped make my Hajj an unforgettable journey. [Abul Fayes]

Hunafaa Exclusive£3899 per adult for quad room£3999 per adult for triple room£4199 per adult for double / twin room

Pack

age

Sum

mar

ies

OCTOBER 2013

6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13 14 15 16 17 18 19 20 21 22 23 24

2 WEEK EXPRESS MADINAH AZIZIYYAH HAJJ RITES FLY

HUNAFAA EXCLUSIVE MADINAH AZIZIYYAH HAJJ RITES MAKKAH FLY

Itinerary Overview

Hotel in Madinah 4* 4*

Hotel in Makkah O 4*

Meals at Hotels Breakfast Breakfast

Dist. of Hotel in Makkah O 7 mins

Dist. of Hotel in Madinah 3 mins 3 mins

Double room availablity Madinah only P

Stay in Aziziyyah P P

Access to Aziziyyah during Hajj days P P

Prices From £3,595 £3,899

Departing 6th October 6th October

Returning 19th October 24th October

Total Length of Package (days) 13 18

Working Days (leave required) 10 14

2 WEEKEXPRESS

HUNAFAAEXCLUSIVE

All dates are subject to variation based on moon sighting.

Detailed Itinerary

6th October Depart from London Heathrow. Arrive in Madinah. Check-in to Hotel Ramada 17th October 12th Dhul-Hijjah. Stay in Mina.

11th October Leave Madinah. Coach journey to Aziziyyah. Perform Umrah. Stay in Aziziyyah. 18th October 13th Dhul-Hijjah. Leave Mina. Go to Aziziyyah.

13th October 8th Dhul-Hijjah. Go to Mina. Begin the Rites of Hajj.19th October

Check into Hotel in Makkah - Elaf Al Multaqa (Hunafaa Exclusive Package only)

14th October 9th Dhul-Hijjah. Arafat. Muzdalifah. Express pilgims will perform Farwell tawaf and leave for Jeddah for Flight back to the UK

15th October 10th Dhul-Hijjah. Stay in Mina. 23rd October Perform the Farwell tawaf and leave for Jeddah for Flight back to the UK

16th October 11th Dhul-Hijjah. Stay in Mina. 24th October Arrive back at Heathrow.

Just a 7-minute walk from the Holy Haram in Makkah, Elaf Al Multaqa offers air-conditioned rooms with flat-screen TV. It features a 24-hour front desk and an elevator.

The rooms at Elaf Al Multaqa are fitted with carpeted floor and decorated in warm colours. Each offers a flat-screen TV, a minibar and a safety deposit box. The bathroom includes a shower.

Nearby shopping area and restaurants are within a walking distance from Elaf Al Multaqa. King Abdulaziz International Airport is 98 km drive away. Free private parking is possible on site.

Accepted credit cards - Visa, Euro/Mastercard, MaestroThe hotel reserves the right to pre-authorise credit cards prior to arrival.

ELAF AL MULTAQA

4 star - 500 metres from the Haram

HOTEL FACILITIESGeneral 24-hour front desk, Family rooms, Lift/elevator, Air conditioning InternetNo internet access available.ParkingFree private parking is possible on site (reservation is not needed).

HOTEL POLICIESCheck-inFrom 16:00 hours Check-outUntil 12:00 hours Cancellation / PrepaymentCancellation and prepayment policies vary according to room type. Children and extra bedsOne child under 12 years stays free of charge when using existing beds. There is no capacity for cots in the room.PetsPets are not allowed.

Accepted credit cards - Visa, Euro/Mastercard, MaestroThe hotel reserves the right to pre-authorise credit cards prior to arrival.

Ramada Madinah offers 4-star accommodation just a 3-minute walk from the Holy Mosque of Prophet Mohamed (saws). It features room services and 24-hour reception desk with a multilingual staff.

The air-conditioned rooms of the Madinah Al Qibla are equipped with flat-screen satellite TV and a minibar. All rooms include private bathrooms with a bathtub. A selection of Arab and continental dishes is served at the a-la-carte restaurant of the hotel, prepared using fresh seasonal and local products. Many of Medina’s attractions, including the top holy sites of Mount Uhud and Maqbarat Al-Baqi’ are easily accessible from the Ramada Madinah Al Qibla.

HOTEL FACILITIESGeneral Restaurant, 24-hour front desk, Newspapers, Non-smoking rooms, Family rooms, Lift/elevator, Safety deposit box, Air conditioning, Designated smoking area Services Room service, Laundry, VIP room facilities, Fax/photocopying InternetWiFi is available in public areas and is free of charge. ParkingFree public parking is possible at a location nearby (reservation is needed).

HOTEL POLICIESCheck-in16:00 - 00:00 hours Check-out12:00 - 14:00 hours Cancellation / PrepaymentCancellation and prepayment policies vary according to room type. Children and extra bedsAll children under 9 years stay free of charge when using existing beds. There is no capacity for extra beds in the room.PetsPets are not allowed.

RAMADA MADINAH AL QIBLA

4 star - 50 metres from the Haram

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PLACES OF INTEREST

Jabal al-Noor Jabal al-Noor (The Mountain of Light) is where it all started. If fit and well then take the long hike up to cave Hira. There is also a small mosque located at the foot of the mountain where one can pray. Be sure to take plenty of supplies especially water as it is no easy climb. Beware of straying monkeys, they tend to snatch items of pilgrims.

Al-Madinah Media Museum The museum is located not too far from the Prophet’s mosque and is hardly recognizable from the outside. It is in a basement. A documentary is shown depicting a brief history of the city as well as pictures and models illustrating the layout of the Prophet’s original home and other significant sites in the city during the days of old.

Mada’in Salih Mada’in Salih is a pre-Islamic archaeological site located in the Al-Ula sector, within the Al-Madinah region of Saudi Arabia. It situated almost 750 KM north from Jeddah, 300KM from Al-Madinah. The city is mentioned as Al-Hijr in the Qur’an.

Accounts from the Qur’an place the settlement of the area by the tribe of Thamud after Noah but before Moses, which can be interpreted as the 3rd millennium BC.

According to the Islamic texts, the people of Thamud, who would carve out homes in the mountains, were punished by Allah for their persistent disbelief and oppression, and their killing of the she-camel, being struck by a sound wave.

Badr and UhudExcellent historic landmarks where the battles of Badr and Uhud took place. They are great places to start imagining the history of Islam. There is a great sense of serenity in those places.

FOOD, DRINK AND WATER

Food Try to have a diet consisting of high fibre and complex carbohydrate foods. Eat foods such as potatoes, pasta, rice, bran, wholemeal bread, lentils and green vegetables. As these foods take longer to digest, they will keep you fuller for longer and will provide you with the increased energy you need at the Hajj. Make sure to eat fresh fruit with meals, but peel before eating.

Always eat freshly prepared food and make sure any meat you eat is thoroughly cooked. Avoid exposed food from service counters, fried or fatty foods, salads and uncooked vegetables as these may have been washed in contaminated water.

Dried fruit such as apricots and raisins are excellent snacks between meals as they are a good source of energy as well as vitamins and minerals.

Drink There is a real risk of dehydration at the Hajj. Always carry water with you when away from your hotel. Only drink mineral water from a sealed bottle or from the water fountains found in the great mosques. Water used for brushing your teeth or making ice should be boiled or sterilized. Zamzam water is of course safe to drink.

Try to drink at least 5-6 glasses (2 litres) of water daily. Fruit juices and milk are also good alternatives to water.

OTHER TOP TIPS

Shaving your hair: Insist that the barber who shaves your head uses a fresh blade for each pilgrim. The re-using of a blade will expose you to serious blood borne infections such as Hepatitis B and C.

‘Crotch Itch’: Due to the constraints of the ihram, men are at risk of developing inflamed, itchy, tender groins. Lubricating the inside of the thighs with Vaseline will help prevent this.

Make sure you take ample time to rest and sleep.

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

For anyone visiting the holy cities especially during the Hajj period, taking public transport is somewhat of a headache at times. The most popular forms of transport are:

The Motorcyclists: The driver (usually a young lad) will use every manoeuvre possible to cut through delays including going head-on into oncoming traffic; riding in the opposite direction in a one way tunnel, and driving as fast as possible. For the inexperienced, they will often find themselves saying the shahadah in fear of their lives.

Though it is the quickest form of transport, finding someone for a lengthy journey can be difficult.

The Minicabs: Not much to be said about minicabs… They’re a decent ride for the most part. However, some drivers are known to smoke whilst driving or play music. Moreover, minicabs have an inability to manoeuvre like motorcycles and therefore they are at the mercy of the traffic. A 20 minute journey can take up to 2 hours. And some drivers will take on other customers whilst already having a customer on board.

Minicabs are safer forms of transport, suitable for couples and families but also have their cons.

The Hajj season is extremely lucrative for public transport workers. Expect prices to go sky high. Prices are multiplied by ten fold. Expect a lot of haggling if you’re not willing to spend that kind of cash. Keep in mind that most drivers charge per seat and not simply the length of a single journey.

In general, finding a minicab or motorcyclist is not too difficult during that period. It is quite the norm for ordinary residents of the city to take up a spot of minicabbing. We found ourselves approaching non-minicabs for late night journeys.

AVOIDING THE HAJJ CROWDS

Overcrowding and stampedes, particularly at the Jamaraat, are one of the main causes of minor injuries during the Hajj. You will often find yourself in large crowds and at risk of getting lost.

1. Avoid fast moving crowds and travelling too close to other people.

2. Try to always travel in pairs and arrange a central meeting point with your group at set times in case you become separated from them.

3. If possible, travel at night or after initial rushes have subsided.4. Travel as lightly as possible and only take essential items with

you when performing the Hajj rites.5. Stay calm, have patience and do the Hajj at your own pace.

Remember that the Hajj is a once in a lifetime experience so take your time to savour and enjoy each moment!

“Labayk Allaahumma Labayk…”Summarised from the words of Ibn al-Qayyim, `Abd Al-Razzaaq al-Badr and Aboo `Ubayd

Imam Muslim reported that Jabir said, describing the Hajj of the Prophet :

“Then he started to say the words of tawhid, ‘Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am. You have no partner, here I am. Verily all praise and bounties are Yours, and all dominion. You have no partner (Labbayk Allaahumma labbayk. Labbayka laa shareeka laka. Innal-hamda wan-n imata laka wal-mulk. Laa shareeka laka).’”

The talbiyah is the slogan of the hujjaj (pilgrims). With it the believer defines his purpose.

The talbiyah also signifies a transfer from one state to another or one rite to the next. This is similar to how the takbir in salah is an indication of change from one of its pillars to another.

Consequently, the Sunnah is to repeatedly say the talbiyah and then stop as soon as one begins tawaf. Thereafter, he resumes the talbiyah until the standing at `Arafah, at which point he stops. When the standing comes to an end he continues the talbiyah once again until arriving at Muzdalifah wherein he stops. And like this he continues with the rest of his Hajj. And so, the talbiyah is a distinguishing mark of Hajj which is said when moving between rites.

Labbayk Allaahumma labbayk

This portion is often similarly translated as “O Allaah, here I am. Here I am.” As is normally the case, much of the meanings and connotations are lost in translation.

Some of the lofty meanings embedded in the word labbayk are as follows.

• It is a response. Labbayk is said to someone who has called and invited you. For this reason, its meaning has been explained as “I answer your call.”

The essence of the talbiyah transcends beyond the call of Hajj, it serves to assist in answering all those actions which give life:

“O you who have believed, respond to Allaah and to the Messenger when he calls you to that which gives you life.” [8:24]

Thus the labbayk is an answer to the call of obedience. It serves as a testimony and promise of obedience to Allaah from here on.

• Labbayk denotes love and a sense of drawing close. It is only said to someone whom you love. For this reason, its meaning has been explained as “I answer your call lovingly.” Thus, the believer answers the call lovingly and with excitement as opposed to burden and dislike. It reflects the eagerness to

draw closer and closer to Rabb al-`Alameen.

• It connotes meanings of sincerity and perseverance. This stems from its different Arabic constructions based on the same root letters. Islam then furthered its meanings to include repentance, hope, humility and more. Thus this word demands much from the pilgrim.

• The word labbayk is linguistically constructed in the dual form. Thus it implies a reiteration or repetition of what has preceded with regards to its meanings. Rather it implies continuity. It is like saying, “O Allaah! I answer your call, and again I answer it. I will continue to answer it for eternity” In this case, the dual form connotes obedience after obedience, love upon love… and this is the case for all of its implications.

Allaah intended by this word, with all these meanings, to incite the slave to reach the highest ranks of `ubudiyyah.

Innal-hamda wan-n`imata laka wal-mulk

This portion is often similarly translated as “Verily all praise and bounties are Yours, and all sovereignty.”

Hamd means praise. This is among the most beloved deeds that bring one close to Allaah .

What does it mean when a person praises someone? A person praises someone when he recognises good qualities in that

individual, for which the person should be praised. Thus, hamd should be affirmed for Allaah with this frame of mind.

Additionally, the Arabic word hamd is not completely equivalent to the English word praise. Hamd connotes love and truthfulness amongst other qualities. Therefore, if a being is praised with qualities he does not possess, or the slave praises his master without admiration or believing in the reality of that praise, it is not hamd. This is like a commoner praising a tyrant in the hope of ridding himself from his tyranny. There is no love or admiration, they are just empty words.

• N`imah means bounty. In this case, it is the recognition that all favours and bounties are from Allaah. It evokes a sense of gratitude, and also a yearning for His favours. The ability to perform `Umrah or Hajj is a n`imah. Jannah, which is the reward for Hajj Mabroor, is a n`imah.

Hamd is a recognition and praise of the Essence of Allaah whilst n`imah is a recognition and praise of His Actions.

The words hamd, n`imah and mulk are preceded by ‘al’ which denotes every kind of praise, bounty and dominion.

• Mulk means dominion. It is an affirmation that to Allaah alone belongs the kingdom, and no true sovereignty belongs to anyone other than Him . It is the recognition that all languages, shapes, colours... belong to Him. Dominion (mulk) does not only incorporate land but it includes everything other

than Him; the entire creation in all its forms. He is Sovereign over it all. There is no will except that He is over it sovereign. There is no means except that He is over it sovereign; it is from His mulk. Fire is a means by which something is burnt but Allaah is sovereign over it, and that is why the fire which Ibrahim was thrown into became a means of coolness and not heat, it became a means of refuge and not pain. His rule is over all beings and characteristics.

In this phrase, we are simultaneously affirming dominion, bounty and praise for Rabb al-`Alameen. This is another way to exalt Allaah and differs from mentioning these lofty descriptions independently.

It combines dominion which includes power and ability; bounty which includes immense goodness, kindness and mercy; and praise which comprises complete magnificence and utmost generosity, all of which lead to admiring and loving Allaah, and appreciating Him .

This combination indicates the flawlessness, splendour, and majesty that is befitting for Him and which He alone deserves. When someone is mindful of Allaah in such a manner and knows Him to be this way, it fills his heart with good thoughts and emotions about Allaah. Thus, he turns to Allaah and does everything that would cause Allaah to love him and this, in fact, is the objective and essence of submission and worship.

Laa shareeka laka

This portion is often translated as “You have no partner.”

There is a subtle point in repeating the testimony that Allaah has no partner. It is said once after answering His call by saying, “labbayk,” and it is repeated again after saying “innal-hamda wan-n imata laka wal-mulk”. The latter highlights that He has no partner in hamd, n`imah, and mulk, while the former indicates that He has no partner as it relates to answering the call. Hence Jaabir called these words tawhid.

Labayk Allaahumma labayk. Labayka laa shareeka laka. Innal-hamda wan-n`imata laka wal-mulk, laa shareeka laka.

The Six Days of HajjTheir names and an overview of the practises therein8th-13th Dhul Hijjah1

“And proclaim to the people the Hajj (pilgrimage); they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass.” [22:27]

1 Dhul Hijjah literally means “Possessor of the Pilgrimage.” It is the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar. It is during this month that pilgrims from all around the world congregate at Makkah and other sacred sites to perform the Hajj.2 It is the plural of ‘Arafah.Primarily sourced from http://www.yaserbirjas.net/

8th Dhul Hijjah – Yawm al-Tarwiyah

The first day of Hajj is the 8th day, known in Arabic as Yawm al-Tarwiyah (the day of fetching water and quenching thirst). It is known as Yawm al-Tarwiyah because in the past there were no sources of water on the actual plains of ‘Arafah and Mina (in which the pilgrims will inhabit an entire day). The plains for the most part are wide open valleys, dry and barren.

Because of the scarcity of water in the area, the pilgrims were instructed to prepare for this long day by feeding and supplying their animals and riding beasts with enough water for the long journey ahead. The pilgrims would also fetch water for themselves and fill their water skin bags. It is for this reason the day was given the name Yawm al-Tarwiyah or “the day of fetching water and quenching thirst.”

Yawm al-Tarwiyah is essentially a preparation for the days to follow and in particular the 9th day.

What do the pilgrims do on the 8th day of Hajj?

1. Regardless of their location, whether they are in a hotel, already in Mina or at Makkah, the Hujjaj or pilgrims prepare themselves to enter the state of Ihram: clipping their fingernails, trimming their moustaches, shaving the underarms and pubic areas and taking a thorough shower. Men put on perfume and wear the two white garments. As for women then they wear their regular clothes.

2. Once they are ready to start their move to Mina, they pronounce their words of Ihram “Labbayka Allahuma Hajj” which symbolizes the purpose of this journey, “Here I am O Allah for the Hajj.”

3. In Mina, the pilgrims generally remain there for the entire day and night until after Fajr (dawn prayer) the next day.

9th Dhul Hijjah – Yawm al-‘Arafah

The second day of Hajj is the 9th day, known in Arabic as Yawm al-‘Arafah (the day of ‘Arafah).

There are different interpretations on why that day was called ‘Arafah or ‘Arafaat. Two are as follows:

1. The root letters of ‘Arafah linguistically can mean “to be acquainted with.” It is said that ‘Arafah was the place where Adam and Eve (may peace be upon them both) met once again when they were sent down to reside on earth. They came down on two different spots but eventually were able to meet and recognize each other on this plain.

2. It is a place where people are acquainted with each other. Since the pilgrims spend most of that day on the same place, many will be acquainted with each other. So it is a place of ta’aaruf (getting to know one another), and because of the great number of people making ta’aaruf the word ‘Arafaat’ came about.

Yawm al-‘Arafah is essentially a day of calling upon Rabb al-‘Alameen. It is a day wherein the slave acquaints himself to his merciful Creator, and wherein his Creator acquaints his slaves to the Angels.

The Prophet said, “There is no day on which Allaah 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 boasts before His Angels saying: ‘What are these people seeking?!’” [Tirmidhi]

What do the pilgrims do on the 9th day of Hajj?

1. On that day most of the pilgrims will still be in Mina. They pray Fajr in their camps in Mina, and after sunrise they start their final preparation for the journey ahead.

2. As they all head to ‘Arafah, they chant the Talbiyah continuously.

3. Once the pilgrims reach ‘Arafah, they take their places in their pre-assigned camps and wait until the call for prayer is announced.

4. When the time for prayer approaches, the imam who delivers the sermon stands to remind the congregation and those in the surrounding areas with what is known as the sermon of ‘Arafah. The adhan or call for the prayer is then announced, the imam then leads the congregation in the Zuhr and ‘Asr prayers, combined and shortened, each performed in units of two with one adhan and two Iqamah’s.

The sermon will be broadcasted live on many national and international media outlets. One mistake many pilgrims fall into is that they follow the imam in salah even if they were staying in their own camps miles away where the prayer is held. Instead every camp should have their own congregational prayer but without the need for an extra khutbah (sermon).

5. Once the prayer is done, the hujjaj spend the rest of the day in active devotion performing many acts of worship.

The hujjaj are obligated to stay in the boundaries of ‘Arafah until past sunset. Anyone who fails to stay there risks invalidating his entire Hajj.

10th Dhul Hijjah – Yawm al-Nahr

The third day of Hajj is the 10th day, known in Arabic as Yawm al-Nahr (the day of sacrifice).

There are two opinions on the origin of this name:

1. The first referring to Ibrahim and when Allah commanded him to sacrifice his son Ismail. This act itself is called nahr (slaughter/sacrifice). Some scholars reported this incident to have happened on this day of the year.

2. The second referring to the actual practice of sacrificing animals on the day of ‘Eid. Because the sacrifice takes place on a massive scale, this day was named after it.

This day is the most blessed and virtuous day in the entire year. The Messenger of Allah said: “The best day with Allah is Yawm al-Nahr, and then Yawm al-Qarr (the day that follows, when the pilgrims reside in the camps of Mina for worship).” [Ahmad] What do the pilgrims do on the 10th day of Hajj?

In the early hours of Yawm al-Nahr, after Fajr, the majority of the hujjaj will start their day from the plains of Muzdalifah. Once they finish Fajr prayer, they stay in the Mash’ar al-Haram or the site of Muzdalifah until close to sunrise then they start their march to Mina.

On this day, the pilgrims are obligated to perform four specific rites of Hajj, these four do not have to performed in a specific order:

1. To stone the major jamarah (‘Aqabah) with seven stones.

2. To offer the sacrificial animal whether by hand which is the most preferable method or by proxy. This rite is an obligation on those who perform the Hajj in the form of Tamattu’ or Qiran in which the hujjaj perform both ‘Umrah and Hajj, joined or separate. Anyone who performs the Hajj as a single ritual without ‘Umrah is not obligated to offer this sacrifice.

3. To shave the head or shorten the hair for men, and to clip a bit of the hair for women.

4. To perform Tawaf (circling seven times around the Ka’bah) and Sa’y (to run between the two hills of Safa and Marwa). This Tawaf is known in Hajj as Tawaf al-Ifaadah or Tawaf al-Ziyaarah. This Tawaf is from compulsory pillars of the Hajj.

The pilgrim remains in a full state of Ihram until three of the four are done. He remains in a partial state of Ihram as long as the Tawaf is not done yet. Once the Tawaf is done then he or she can leave the state of Ihram.

The hujjaj then are all required to continue their Hajj by moving to Mina again to spend the night or most of the night in the camps there.

11th, 12th and 13th Dhul Hijjah – Ayyaam al-Tashreeq

These are the final days of Hajj. They are called Ayyam al-Tashreeq (the days of Tashreeq).

Perhaps the strongest opinion on why they are called Ayyam al-Tashreeq is because in the past the pilgrims used to slice the meat they acquired from the sacrifices, season it with salt and then let it dry in the sun. The dehydration of the meat allows the pilgrims to preserve it from spoiling on their long journeys back. This was prior to the invention of refrigeration. The process in itself is called tashreeq, and it linguistically has a connection to sunrise or sunshine. The process entails the exposure of the meat to the sun for a long time

These days are considered days of celebration and worship. It is recommended to enjoy these days by feasting. The Messenger of Allah said: “The days of Tashreeq are days of eating and drinking.” [Muslim] i.e. feasting.

What do the pilgrims do on these last few days?

1. The hujjaj are required to spend most of the night, preferably the entire night and days, of the days of Tashreeq in Mina.

2. During these days the hujjaj recite the Takbeer until the end of the Hajj season.

3. The most important practice of these days is the throwing of stones at the jamarat site each day.

The timing of this rite of Hajj is critical. The standard opinion is that this should be performed after the time of zawal or when the time of Zuhr is already in until right before sunset.

After finishing throwing the stones at each station the hujjaj stand on the side away from the traffic, facing Makkah and raise their hands with du’a and praise and then move on to the next station starting from the minor, the middle and then the major one for last. Note there is no du’a at the last station.

Once the hujjaj are done, they ought to return to Mina.

4. The fifth day of Hajj is the 12th of Dhul Hijjah. Any pilgrim who desires to hasten and leave early can end his or her Hajj after they perform the throwing of the stones on that day, and they have to be out of Mina before sunset. If they stayed in Mina after sunset then they are required to remain there for the extra day, the 13th, which is the last and final day of Ayyam al-Tashreeq.

Once the hujjaj have taken care of all the essentials of Hajj, making sure nothing of their obligations is left without being fulfilled or compensated for, they prepare themselves for their departure to Makkah for the finale rite. The sunnah of the Messenger of Allah is to perform Tawaf al-Wada’ or the Farewell Tawaf right before the departure from Makkah. It is considered wajib (obligatory) to perform this Tawaf for those who are legally able.

You will find as the Hajj season draws to a close, many of the hujjaj depart from Makkah with sorrow and grief, and just as they arrived with tears and joy, they are now leaving with tears and a mixture of perplexing sadness and happiness. Nevertheless, they all leave with hope that their Hajj was Mabroor or faultless and that Allah has accepted their offerings during these days of great sacrifice. They all leave with hope that this experience was a true redemption from sin and emancipation from the painful snares of both worlds.

After ‘Asr time, the plains of ‘Arafah transforms into a completely different sight. Hundreds of thousands of people are now realizing the imminence of the end of this blessed day, and hence engage in a passionate and vigorous du’a.

People will be standing or sitting everywhere, on the side of the road, on the mountain of Rahmah and on the top of their cars and buses raising their hands and voices with du’a, and shedding tears and worries in a hope that they will be forgiven all their sins.

6. Once the day comes to an end, and right after sunset the hujjaj start heading back towards Mina. On their way to Mina there will be one stop for the night, the plains of Muzdalifah. Whether they go riding or walking the hujjaj have to stop in Muzdalifah to pray Maghrib and ‘Isha combined, where Maghrib is done in full three units and ‘Isha is shortened into two.

It is the sunnah of the Prophet and therefore for the hujjaj to spend the entire night in Muzdalifah resting, and hence the best act of worship on Muzdalifah is to go to rest and sleep. The hujjaj need to rest after a long day of worship and they also need to prepare well for a longer day of various acts of worship, the day of Nahr i.e. the day of ‘Eid.

It is permissible for people of legitimate excuses to leave the plains of Muzdalifah after half of the night had passed, in order to avoid being caught in the crowd and the heavy traffic. The elderly men and women, the sick, the disabled and those who work to serve the hujjaj are permitted to leave earlier and continue with the rituals of Hajj before the great crowd arrives.

Hajj memoirs; the journey of the hearts11th October 2012

Jeddah - 5:30amJeddah was filled with the atmosphere of Hajj, causing a surge of excitement. This is the place we were told, one would have to wait seven to ten hours before being cleared. By the mercy of Allah, it only took a matter of hours to complete immigration and customs.

MakkahWe arrived in Makkah just before the Jummah adhan. We rested in our hotel for a while before making way to perform Umrah.

The sighting of the Kabah for the first time was overwhelming. Its splendour, its beauty and magnificence cannot be described in any other way except by being in its presence. It was before me. The place that I had once only visualised through postcards and souvenirs was in front of me. People in their hundreds were circulating around me, but I felt as though I couldn’t see anyone - only me and the Kabah. I felt extremely insignificant standing before the house of the Almighty.

MedinaAfter a tiresome journey filled with; delays, cancellations and few mosquito bites, we finally reach our destination. Medina.

The Masjid is a construction of inconceivable beauty. It is a vision which most certainly leaves an imprint in your heart forever. To walk in a place so immersed in Islamic History is not only inspiring but humbling.

MinaThe experience of Mina is like no other, never had I felt such a strong sense of contentment and oneness. After spending a night in our tents we begin our journey to the greatest days of Hajj; Arafat.

AfrafatPilgrims streaming in by the thousands, perhaps even millions, from every roadway, every entrance. The melodious chanting of the Talbiya resonating through the plains of Arafat. Tears flowing down the faces of the pilgrims, crying unashamedly. It was certainly a day where tears fell and hearts overflowed with humbleness to Allah.

MuzdalifaMillions of pilgrims beautifully spread out like a rug, under the night sky. The full moon and sparkling stars hanging above like glass lanterns. There is a cacophony of a large variety of languages. People from every corner of world make bed for the night, whether you are rich or poor one is unable distinguish between the two.

Being in a state of Ihram makes one appreciate the simple things in life which we take for granted like soap and toothpaste. Muzadlifa is an enriching experience that will never be forgotten.

HeathrowHajj truly is a journey of the hearts. Allah had blessed the journey with wonderful companions who made the trip even more memorable. We were all strangers to begin with, but within a matter of days we are eating and sharing from the same plate.

Saying goodbye to my sisters had left a feeling of emptiness in my heart. The journey of a lifetime had come to an end. Words cannot do justice to the Hajj; there simply isn’t an adjective that can truly describe the essence of this journey.

Fahima Ali (Pilgrim from 2012 Hajj Tour)

We want to make this journey a turning point in peoples’ lives by educating and inspiring them. The reward for an accepted Hajj is nothing short of Paradise and forgiveness for all of one’s sins. Thus Hajj provides a “clean slate” with which a Muslim can literally start over, and live a good life unmarred by bad deeds and habits.

It is therefore imperative that anyone contemplating performing this “journey of a lifetime” makes the necessary effort to prepare for such an excursion. From the Pre-Hajj seminar to the online and offline resources, lectures, residence with scholars and students of knowledge and a healthy social atmosphere – we hope to assist our pilgrims in making such preparations.

What we offer

Pre-Hajj Seminer

At Hunafaa Travel, we make every effort to ensure that we have an effective programme of lectures so that you are able to attain maximum benefit from this blessed journey. Before we leave the UK we invite all of our pilgrims to attend a Pre-Hajj Seminar in order to mentally prepare everyone for Hajj, provide important practical guidance and also religious instruction. This is also a golden opportunity to ask any questions that you may have.

Literature

We provide comprehensive handbooks, and online and offline resources to educate our pilgrims. We endeavour to keep the content as simple as possible. There is no additional cost for the literature.

Religious Guides

Accompanied at all times by our experienced British team, scholars and students of knowledge, we provide continual spiritual and practical guidance. We have a series of lectures and Q&A sessions which will take you through the rites of Hajj and Umrah. There is the opportunity to live with our scholars and students of knowledge, eating and drinking, socializing with them, learning from their experiences.

Social Atmosphere

One of the greatest perks of travelling in a group is the ability to network with people whom you otherwise would not. Acquaintance between the pilgrims has always been a highlight from the Hajj journey. Our staff are very friendly and always on hand to help. We engage our pilgrims on a personal level so much so that a new friendship is often forged.

“The quality of the lectures was superb. I loved the mix between the spiritual and practical content of the lectures. It was very well balanced. The opportunity to experience living with People of Knowledge first hand was awe-inspiring.” [Hunafaa Travel customer]

Hajj Development Programme

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