Al Khalid

Do all Muslims have to perform Hajj?

Every ritual or performance of any duty in Islam must be done in complete dedication to Allah. For the belief is such, that Allah is the creator and rightly deserves due praises from his creation. A number of rituals and traditions have to be adhered to in Islam, chiefly the five pillars which cannot be surpassed by any Muslim. Especially for them, that desire to live in Allah’s presence and obtain Sawab or Thawab for themselves and family.

Quoting the Quran, [Quran 3:96-97] The most important shrine established for the people is the one in Mecca; a blessed beacon for all the people. In it are clear signs: the station of Abraham. Anyone who enters it shall be granted safe passage. The people owe it to God that they shall observe Hajj to this shrine, when they can afford it. As for those who disbelieve, God does not need anyone.

Those that have an ardent desire to be in His presence and receive in physical the grace of Him, decide to make this pilgrimage. No matter in which part of the world a Muslim may reside in, even thousand miles away, will still endeavor this. Hajj may be considered an obligation that has its terms and conditions, but Muslims ultimately believe that the thirst in their soul for Allah can only be quenched in full measure there. According to the terms and conditions, an individual who is physically able and financially sound must embark on this journey. Such a condition has to be met with in order to make this pilgrimage an absolutely acceptable one.

To conclude by saying that, performing Hajj is a matter of choice for those who can afford to travel to the shrine and, for them that cannot it is a desire that reigns in their hearts. Some that can make this trip either have the heart to go or are uninterested. The rewards for doing both are received from Allah in time, Muslims believe.