Hajj is an annual Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah, Saudi Arabia, and is one of the Five Pillars of Islam. The timing of Hajj follows the Islamic lunar calendar, specifically in the month of Dhu al-Hijjah. Unlike the Gregorian calendar (which is solar-based), the Islamic calendar shifts by about 10-12 days earlier each year, meaning Hajj dates vary annually.
Hajj Start and End Dates
1. Official Hajj Period
Hajj takes place from the 8th to the 12th (or 13th) of Dhu al-Hijjah, with the most important rituals concentrated on the 9th (Day of Arafah).
Day | Date in Islamic Month | Main Rituals |
Day 1 | 8th Dhu al-Hijjah | Pilgrims enter Ihram and travel to Mina. |
Day 2 | 9th Dhu al-Hijjah | Wuquf (Standing at Arafah) – The most crucial day of Hajj. |
Day 3 | 10th Dhu al-Hijjah | Eid al-Adha, Ramy al-Jamarat (Stoning the Devil), Sacrifice (Qurbani), and Tawaf al-Ifadah. |
Days 4-5 | 11th-12th Dhu al-Hijjah | Continued stoning of the Jamarat, optional Tawaf al-Wida (Farewell Tawaf). |
(Optional Day 6) | 13th Dhu al-Hijjah | Some pilgrims stay an extra day for final rituals. |
2. Key Considerations
- Arafah Day (9th Dhu al-Hijjah): The most important day of Hajj; fasting on this day (for non-pilgrims) expiates sins of two years.
- Eid al-Adha (10th Dhu al-Hijjah): Celebrated worldwide as the "Festival of Sacrifice."
- Tawaf al-Wida: The farewell circling of the Kaaba before leaving Makkah.
Conclusion
Hajj lasts 5-6 days, with its peak on the Day of Arafat (9th Dhu al-Hijjah). Pilgrims must complete all rituals within this period, though some may extend their stay. The exact dates change yearly, so Muslims must check the Islamic calendar for accurate scheduling.
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