Hajj

Hajj History

The Observance of Hajj is a meaningful annual Islamic pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, in Saudi Arabia. As one of the five core pillars of Islam, the Hajj represents a critical aspect of a Muslim's spiritual journey, strengthening their connection with the divine and fostering a sense of unity and equality within the global Islamic community. Millions of people from around the world partake in this momentous event, participating in various rituals and rites with a shared goal of spiritual purification and self-discovery.

The history of Hajj dates back thousands of years and is rooted in the life of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), a revered figure in Islam. Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son, and the eventual substitution of a ram, is a central theme during the observance. Canadians from a variety of backgrounds are increasingly interested in the Hajj's cultural, historical, and religious implications, owing to the growing presence and influence of the Muslim community in Canada. Hajj promotes understanding, tolerance, and respect among people of different faiths and traditions, making it a significant global event.

While individuals in Canada may not travel to Mecca, many Muslim Canadians gather with their loved ones and communities to observe the coinciding Eid al-Adha, or Festival of Sacrifice. This occasion encompasses acts of charity, feasting, and prayer, mirroring the spirit of the pilgrimage. Canadians who are not of Muslim faith are encouraged to learn about and appreciate this meaningful observance, fostering a sense of multiculturalism and understanding. The Hajj and Eid al-Adha generally fall during the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah, which varies from year to year on the Gregorian calendar. Hajj is observed on June 26th this year.

Hajj facts

• According to Sahih Bukhari (one of the six main hadith writings of Sunni Islam), the Prophet Muhammad once said that those who finish the Hajj without committing any obscenity or transgression will have their sins completely wiped away.
• All male pilgrims wear the ihram, a garment that is made of two pieces of unstitched clothing. They are forbidden from wearing anything that has stitches in it, clothes that cover their ankles, or anything that cover their heads. All female pilgrims are forbidden from wearing anything to cover their faces or hands.
• According to the Canadian government, between 3,500 and 5,000 Muslims from Canada perform Hajj every year.
• The Canadian government provides resources, such as travel health notices related to Hajj, to ensure the health and safety of Canadian citizens during their pilgrimage. The Public Health Agency of Canada provides vaccinations and medical advice to help protect pilgrims from diseases such as meningitis and respiratory illnesses.

In the News and Trending in Canada for Hajj

Top things to do in Canada for Hajj

• If you are Muslim, go on a Hajj pilgrimage or attend the smaller Umrah.
• Visit the mountains of Al-Safa and Al-Marwah in Mecca. Pilgrims walk between two hills, Safa and Marwa, seven times during the Hajj because they believe that Hagar, the wife of Abraham, did the same when looking for water for her thirsty baby Ismael. As soon as she finished her seventh run, the Zamzam well sprung out from under baby Ismael's foot. To this day, pilgrims on the Hajj drink the Zamzam's water, and often take it home with them in large canisters.
• Watch a documentary to learn more about Hajj in Canada. Here are our recommendations:
  1. One Day in the Haram (2017) - This documentary offers an exclusive, behind-the-scenes look at the inner workings of the Haram, the sacred mosque in Mecca, during the annual Hajj pilgrimage. The film showcases the efforts of thousands of people who work tirelessly to accommodate millions of Muslim pilgrims from around the world.
  2. A Sinner in Mecca (2015) - This documentary follows the journey of a gay Muslim filmmaker who embarks on the Hajj pilgrimage in search of redemption and acceptance. The film offers a personal and intimate insight into the challenges faced by those whose sexual or religious identities make them feel unwelcome in the sacred city.
  3. HAJJ: The Journey of a Lifetime (2012) - This series by Al Jazeera English features stories of Canadian Muslims who embark on the Hajj pilgrimage. Each episode follows a different Canadian Muslim family on their journey to Mecca, capturing the emotional and spiritual transformations they experience along the way.
• Participate in a Hajj fundraiser. Different fundraising programs are held for the cause of Hajj and Umrah to help financially support the less fortunate.