The Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam. It is the pilgrimage to the sacred city of Makkah in the month of Dhul Hijjah. Muslims all around the world wait eagerly for this month to perform a pilgrimage.
It is mandatory for financially dependent Muslims, at least once in a lifetime. People from all over the world visit Makkah this month to perform the pilgrimage.
Hajj is an incredible example of brotherhood and equality. People of every race and color stand shoulder to shoulder in a similar dress (ehram) and perform Hajj. There is no difference between an Arab or a non-Arab, a fair or dark-skinned person, etc. All Muslims, the ummah of the last Prophet Muhammad PBUH perform this practice sincerely and submit only to Allah by keeping aside any differences.
Hajj in 2023 falls most probably from 26 June. Therefore, people who are getting this great opportunity must pay attention to the spiritual and physical preparation for Hajj 2023 from Pakistan with a help of a registered Hajj travel service provider.
In this article, we will discuss how one can prepare for Hajj.
Points for spiritual preparation:
When preparing for Hajj, the act of worship, it must be conducted with pure intention and devotion. These are some points regarding spiritual preparation for Hajj pilgrimage:
Purification of intention:
This sacred journey must be performed for no reason other than to praise and worship Allah Almighty.
Hajj is obligatory for people who can afford it. Hence, people must perform it to fulfill the decree and to be obedient to our creator.
The Hadith of our Holy Prophet says:
“The reward of deeds depends upon the intentions and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended for. So whoever emigrates for worldly benefits or for a woman to marry, his emigration will be for what he emigrated for.” [Sahih Al – Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 1 – The Book Of Revelation, Chapter 1, Hadith 1]
Therefore, one must purify his intention and that no worldly cause should be the reason to perform Hajj.
Patience:
You might be looking for steps to prepare for a spiritually enriching Hajj experience, patience is one of them.
You’ll have to practice patience multiple times during Hajj. There can be inconveniences during the journey, accommodations, etc, therefore stay patient. Moreover, you must avoid verbal or physical fights while performing the rituals of Hajj. Although there will be crowds performing hajj but be patient and resist doing anything immoral.
Seek help from Allah:
Before you start your journey, pray and ask Allah for his help and guidance as he is the best guardian. Ask him to allow you to perform the rituals of Hajj precisely and accurately. Furthermore, pray that He accepts this worship of yours.
Seek forgiveness:
When you plan to submit to Allah, you must seek forgiveness for your past bad deeds and feel guilt over them. Be sincere with your repentance and try your best to abstain from them in the future.
Points for physical preparation:
Apart from spiritual rehearsal, you must also get yourself prepared physically. As there thousands of Pilgrims every year perform Hajj, so, one should be physically stable to endure the hot weather and crowds.
Good diet:
One month prior to your hajj, it is mandatory that you consume a balanced diet and make yourself physically fit. During Hajj you’ll have to walk for long periods, and you’ll perform Tawaf and Saii, these rituals require walking so you have to be prepared for it. Moreover, you’ll visit Mina and Arafat, although you’ll be taken by buses, but due to overcrowding sometimes you have to get down from the buses and walk to your tents. Therefore, you must have the stamina and the energy to walk long distances and must not neglect Hajj training and fitness.
Stay hydrated:
Before and during the Hajj keep yourself hydrated. Keep a water bottle with you throughout the trip otherwise, dehydration can cause you problems. Even keep snacks with you in case you feel nauseated due to a lot of traveling.
Boosting immunity:
If you are sensitive or get sick quickly, keep a few medicines with you. Moreover, put on a mask throughout the journey to stave off cough and flu. Furthermore, avoid sharing your belongings to others, to prevent the spread of germs.
These are a few points for preparing body and mind for Hajj 2023. Although much more can be added to these lists. However, these are the basics that one needs to follow to enjoy a wonderful hajj experience.