Muslims perform a variety of specific rituals during Hajj, which is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and takes place annually in the holy city of Mecca. Here are some key components of what Muslims do on Hajj:
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Travel to Mecca: Pilgrims travel to Mecca, which is considered the holiest city in Islam.
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Ihram: Before entering Mecca, pilgrims enter a state of spiritual purity called Ihram, which involves wearing special simple garments (two white cloths for men and modest clothing for women) and making intentions to perform Hajj.
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Tawaf: Once in Mecca, pilgrims perform Tawaf by circling the Kaaba seven times in a counterclockwise direction.
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Sa’i: Pilgrims then perform Sa’i, walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, commemorating Hagar's search for water for her son Ishmael.
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Standing at Arafat: On the day of Arafat, pilgrims gather at the plain of Arafat to pray and seek forgiveness. This is considered the highlight of Hajj.
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Muzdalifah: After Arafat, pilgrims travel to Muzdalifah to spend the night under the open sky and collect stones for the next ritual.
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Ramy al-Jamarat: Pilgrims throw stones at three pillars (representing Satan) in a ritual that symbolizes the rejection of temptation.
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Eid al-Adha: During Hajj, pilgrims also sacrifice an animal (usually a sheep, goat, or cow) in commemoration of Ibrahim's willingness to sacrifice his son.
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Tawaf al-Ifadah: After the rituals of Arafat and the sacrifice, pilgrims return to Mecca to perform another Tawaf.
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Shaving or Cutting Hair: Men may shave their heads or cut their hair short, while women usually cut a small portion of their hair.
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Final Tawaf: Pilgrims conclude their Hajj with a final Tawaf before leaving Mecca.
Overall, while fasting, giving to the poor, and praying are important aspects of a Muslim's life and faith, they are not specific rituals associated directly with the Hajj pilgrimage itself. The focus during Hajj is on the specific rites and acts of worship that are unique to the pilgrimage.
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