To re-enact the Story of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), our Primary students took part in the Hajj simulation coordinated by the Religion Department on Monday, 3rd June 2024.
Our Foundation to Year 6 students were taught about the rituals in their classes as part of their study and then got an opportunity to apply their learning into practice by taking part in the Hajj simulation.
Alhamdulillah, our Hajj simulation was celebrated with great enthusiasm and zeal at our College. Staff and students engaged in activities that mimic the rituals of Hajj, such as circumambulating the Ka'bah, performing Sa'ee between Safa and Marwah, standing on the plain of Arafat to make Dua, simulating the stay in Mina with tents, emulating the night spent in Muzdalifah by sleeping and collecting rocks, participating in the symbolic act of throwing stones at the Jamarat, and drinking Zamzam water; are wonderful ways to educate and immerse in the spirit of this significant pillar of Islam. Such activities not only provide a practical understanding of the rites but also foster a deeper connection with the rituals and their significance.
What is Hajj?
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and it mandates that every adult Muslim who possesses the physical and financial means should undertake a pilgrimage to Makkah at least once in their lifetime. This pilgrimage serves as a tribute to the trials and life of Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and his family. It is a significant communal gathering, bringing together over three million Muslims from various backgrounds to engage in identical rituals over five days in and around Makkah.
When does Hajj take place?
Hajj takes place over five days during Dhul Hijjah, the 12th month of the Islamic lunar calendar. Pilgrims reside in Mina, spend a day at Arafat, a night in Muzdalifah, and then return to Makkah for the final Tawaf, known as the farewell Tawaf. Eid ul-Adha, also known as the Festival of the Sacrifice, is observed by Muslims around the world on the third day of Hajj, coinciding with the 10th of Dhul Hijjah. The Eid celebration starts with a special morning prayer followed by a sermon. Subsequently, Muslims are encouraged to perform a sacrifice, typically a lamb or goat, in commemoration of the story of Ibrahim (AS) and his son Ismail (AS), symbolizing devotion and obedience to Allah.
The Purpose of Hajj
The primary objective of Hajj is to seek Allah's forgiveness, embodying humility and patience throughout the pilgrimage. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned that a person who performs Hajj properly "will return as a newly born baby (free of all sins)."
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has said regarding the blessed days of Dhul Hijjah: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” The people asked, “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah?” He said, “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah, except in the case of a man who went out, giving himself and his wealth up for the cause (of Allah), and came back with nothing.” (Al Bukhari)
Indeed, it is highly recommended to fast during the first nine days of Dhul Hijjah, with a particular emphasis on fasting on the 9th day, known as the Day of Arafah. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has emphasized the significance of engaging in righteous deeds during the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah, highlighting that fasting is among the best of deeds. Fasting on the Day of Arafah is especially meritorious, as it is said to expiate the sins of the past year and the coming year. This period is a time of great spiritual significance and offers a unique opportunity for Muslims to draw closer to Allah through fasting, prayer, and good deeds.
Wishing everyone a Blessed Ten Days of Dhul Hijjah and a Happy Eid-ul-Adha. May this special day bring peace, happiness, and prosperity to all. May your sacrifices be accepted, and may you be showered with Allah's countless blessings. Eid Mubarak!