WHAT YOU MUST DO BEFORE GOING TO HAJJ

By Administrators On May 19, 2025

Before arriving in Makkah to begin Hajj, it is essential for a pilgrim to formulate the intention (niyyah) sincerely in their heart. This intention should be made solely for the sake of Allah (SWT), seeking His pleasure and the reward of the Hereafter. It is not to be done for showing off, gaining status, or any worldly benefit.

The niyyah doesn’t need to be spoken aloud (though some scholars permit saying the Talbiyah as a form of expressing it), but the sincerity in one’s heart is what truly counts. The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:

“Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will get what they intended.” (Bukhari & Muslim)
This emphasizes the importance of starting Hajj with a pure heart and correct purpose—devotion to Allah alone.

Preparing for Hajj requires both spiritual and practical readiness. Here’s a concise list of what you should know and do before going on Hajj:

✅ 1. Learn the Essential Rituals (Manasik of Hajj)

Understand each step of Hajj:

Ihram: The state of consecration, including what to wear and what to avoid.
Tawaf: Circling the Kaaba.
Sa’i: Walking between Safa and Marwah.
Standing at Arafah (Wuquf): The most important pillar.
Muzdalifah and Mina: Collecting and throwing pebbles (Ramy).
Sacrifice (Qurbani) and shaving/cutting hair (Tahallul).
Final Tawaf (Tawaf al-Ifadah).

✅ 2. Memorize Key Duas and Supplications

Focus on:

Talbiyah: “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk…”
Duas for Tawaf and Sa’i
General daily adhkar (dhikr)
Duas from the Qur’an and Sunnah

Even if you don’t memorize all, understand the meaning and make personal heartfelt duas in your own language.

✅ 3. Purify Your Intention (Niyyah)

Make the firm intention to perform Hajj only for the sake of Allah, not for social status, photos, or recognition.

✅ 4. Learn the Rules of Ihram

Understand what is forbidden in Ihram:

Cutting nails/hair
Using perfume
Hunting or killing animals
Engaging in marital relations, etc.

✅ 5. Seek Advice from Past Pilgrims

As you mentioned:

“Speak to someone who has already been to Hajj.”

This is excellent advice. Ask them:

What challenges they faced
What they wish they knew before going
How they stayed spiritually focused

✅ 6. Prepare Physically and Logistically

Stay in good health — Hajj can be physically demanding.
Arrange all necessary vaccinations, visas, documents.
Pack wisely — only essentials, including unscented items for Ihram.

✅ 7. Attend Hajj Seminars or Watch Tutorials

Many mosques and Islamic centers offer pre-Hajj training sessions. They walk you through the rites in detail and often include Q&A.

✅ 8. Repent and Settle Debts

Before you leave:

Make tawbah (repentance) for past sins.
Pay off debts or leave clear arrangements.
Seek forgiveness from others and make peace with people.