FEMALE PILGRIMS AND EQUAL REWARD OF HAJJ: A JOURNEY OF DEVOTION AND DIVINE RECOGNITION
Hajj—the fifth pillar of Islam—is a sacred obligation for all Muslims, both men and women, who are physically and financially able to perform it. Allah, the Almighty, declares in the Qur’an: “Pilgrimage to the House is a duty owed to Allah by people who are able to undertake it” [Qur’an 3:97].
Hajj: A Woman’s Jihad
The significance of Hajj for women is beautifully captured in a narration from the Mother of the Believers, ‘Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), who once asked the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) for permission to join a battle. He replied, “Your Jihad is Hajj.” This statement elevates the status of pilgrimage in the life of a Muslim woman, equating it with the noble struggle of Jihad—a path of devotion, self-discipline, and spiritual fulfillment.
For countless Muslim women, the desire to embark on the sacred journey of Hajj or ‘Umrah has long burned in their hearts. Until recently, the requirement of a male guardian (mahram) often stood as an obstacle. Today, with new permissions allowing women to perform Hajj independently, many are embracing this opportunity to connect with their faith in profound ways.
Worship, Obstacles, and Equal Reward
While the journey of Hajj is filled with spiritual rewards, women may face natural challenges, such as menstruation or postnatal bleeding, that temporarily prevent them from performing certain rites. Despite these limitations, Islam assures female pilgrims that their rewards remain intact. Their obedience to God—whether through action or abstention—is a testament to their submission and sincerity.
In Arabic, the word Hajj means “destination” or “aim,” underscoring the ultimate purpose of this journey: to express servitude (‘ubūdīyah) to God. This servitude is not limited to physical rituals alone, but includes obeying divine instructions—such as abstaining from prayer and fasting during menstruation—out of reverence for God’s wisdom and command.
The Qur’an affirms this equality in reward:
“Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer—We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do.” [Qur’an 16:97]
In another verse, God says: “And they will not be wronged, [even as much as] the speck on a date seed.” [Qur’an 4:124]
Spiritual Empowerment Through Divine Compassion
The Prophet (peace be upon him) acknowledged women’s challenges during Hajj and provided guidance rooted in compassion and practicality. He said, “Do what the pilgrims do, except for Tawaf (circumambulation of the Ka‘bah)”—clarifying that menstruating women may perform all rites of Hajj except for Tawaf and its associated prayer. Women in this state may still enter ihram, stand at ‘Arafat, and perform all other rites of pilgrimage.
If a woman’s menstruation continues until her group must leave, and she is unable to perform Tawaf Al-Ifadah before departing, some scholars permit her to perform it with proper sanitary protection, provided the mosque remains unsoiled. As for Tawaf Al-Wada‘ (the farewell circumambulation), scholars agree that a menstruating woman is exempt from it altogether.
These rulings are not restrictions but demonstrations of Islam’s understanding of human realities, especially regarding the biological and physical conditions of women. They reflect the divine mercy and inclusive nature of Islamic worship.
Equal Devotion, Equal Reward
The Hadith of Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him) further illustrates this point. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“When a woman observes her five prayers, fasts during Ramadan, preserves her chastity, and obeys her husband in what pleases Allah, she may enter Paradise from any gate she wishes.” [Bukhari]
This powerful tradition reaffirms that the spiritual efforts of women are no less valuable than those of men. Their sincerity, resilience, and dedication are deeply cherished and recognized by God.
A Sacred Journey of Faith and Strength
Today, female pilgrims approach Hajj with gratitude, strength, and unwavering faith. Rather than being disheartened by natural challenges, they embrace these moments as part of their spiritual growth. Every step, every prayer, every intention is counted, and every limitation met with patience is rewarded.
The empowerment of Muslim women during Hajj transcends ritual. It is rooted in trust in God’s justice, recognition of divine mercy, and assurance of equality in reward. Women who embark on this sacred journey are full participants in the spiritual legacy of Islam—standing shoulder to shoulder with their fellow believers in devotion, sacrifice, and love for the Creator.
In every way, their Hajj is complete. Their faith is honored. And their rewards—by the grace of the Most Merciful—are abundant.
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