Why go for Hajj and Umrah:
As a spiritual journey, going on Hajj or Umrah holds great significance for Muslims around the world. While it's obviously not possible or necessary for every Muslim to make the pilgrimage, those who are able should strive to fulfill this important religious obligation at least once in their lifetime. For me, undertaking Hajj five years ago was one of the most profound experiences of my life so far. It's something I'll never forget and am thankful I had the opportunity to do.
Before performing Hajj myself, I'll admit my knowledge of the rituals and their deeper meanings was somewhat surface level. Sure, I understood the basic steps like circling the Kaaba seven times and moving between Mount Arafat and Mina. But it wasn't until I was actually there, immersed in the experience with millions of other pilgrims from every corner of the globe, that I truly appreciated the spiritual wisdom and lessons behind each act. Being in the sacred sites where so much of our faith's history unfolded in real life added a whole new layer of significance.
One thing that struck me was the powerful sense of unity it fostered. As Muslims, our different races, languages, social statuses and nationalities all melted away. We were all equal in the eyes of God, focused entirely on worshipping him together as one universal community. Dressing simply in plain white cloths symbolized our shared humanity above all else. Chanting Labaik Allahumma Labaik (Here I am, O God, here I am) side by side with brothers and sisters from every background reinforced our interconnection.
The rituals taught valuable life lessons too. Circumnavigating the Kaaba seven times represented man's journey through the seven stages of life - from birth and childhood through maturity, responsibility, aging and finally death. It reminded me of the impermanence of this world and that spiritual development should be our constant focus no matter our stage. Moving hurriedly between sacred sites to complete the Hajj on time under the hot sun simulated struggles we all face and our need to persevere through challenges with determination and faith.
Perhaps most profound was standing in Plain of Arafat, where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) gave his final sermon. Reciting supplications as the sun set, knowing millions of others were praying with me at the exact same moment, created an experience hard to describe. A sense of presence, humility and gratitude washed over me in a way that still resonates today. It was as if standing on that plain, surrounded by natural beauty and history, God's message of mercy, justice and compassion for all mankind was reaffirmed.
Since returning home, I've found myself a changed person - calmer, more contemplative, and focused on living according to Islamic principles each day. The spiritual refinement of Hajj left a deep and long-lasting impact that continues shaping who I am, how I think and what's important to me. It strengthened my faith in ways I didn't think possible prior to going. While Umrah is not compulsory like Hajj, I try to perform it every few years too for the blessings and reminder of staying grounded. I encourage anyone financially and physically able to consider adding this profound journey to their bucket list, regardless of their background or circumstances in life. The memories and benefits will stay with you forever.
