The Ritual Of Hajj Throughout Time

If one reflects upon the rituals of Hajj throughout ages, he will come across wonders and his faith will grow stronger and feel the inter-linkage or connection between all divine laws and the relationship of all prophets and messengers, despite the differences in the time periods and countries in which they lived. He will also feel that worship is for Allah, having very deep roots as old as the history of mankind. The days of Hajj which are drawing near and we are now in the midst of one of the months of Hajj (which are Ramadan, Shawwal, Thul Qi`dah and Thul Hijjah) are an example of this profound relationship and connection.

Let us then ask what is the history of Hajj? When was it ordained? What are the proofs of its ordinance? What are the conditions that make it obligatory?

The journey throughout time starts with the Prophet, Ibraaheem who felt constrained living with his idol-worshiping people in Iraq. He then moved to Palestine along with his wife Saarah and his nephew Loot. Allah said: “But Lut had faith in him: he said: I will leave home for the sake of my Lord: for He is Exalted in Might, and Wise.” (Al ‘Ankaboot: 26)

Ibraaheem stayed for sometime in Palestine then moved to Egypt and stayed there for a period of time. There he and his wife, Saarah, met trials and tribulations on account of the unjust ruler of Egypt. However, Allah protected Saarah from the harm and abuse of such a tyrant.  Rather, she was given Haajar, an Egyptian female-slave, as a present. This was the beginning of another story more relevant to the ritual of Hajj and the building of the Ancient House.

Ibraaheem again returned to Palestine. His wife Saarah, who was barren at that time, advised him to marry her female-slave Haajar, hoping to give birth to a child. Haajar gave birth to Ismaa’eel and Saarah later gave birth to Is-Haaq. Saarah then felt jealous of Haajar and could not even bare to see her in front of her. She told Ibraaheem    about her jealousy, which was the reason of his migration with Haajar and Ismaa’eel to Makkah.