Did you make up your mind to perform your religious obligation this year? If so, then you must have an idea of the Masjid Al-Haram and its various gates before stepping inside it. Let's explore the blog to learn about the pilgrimage, why Mecca holds such importance in Islam, and the significance of Masjid Al-Haram and its gates. Also, how a Hajj Package 2024 can enhance your pilgrimage experience.
Hajj
Hajj is one special pilgrimage of Islam which is described as one of the Five Pillars of the religion. It is said that those who are physically and economically sound need to perform the journey once in their lifetime. To execute the pilgrimage, pilgrims need to come to the Holiest city of Islam that is Mecca.
Believers of Allah (SWT) go there in a special month called Dhu al-Hijjah. During Hajj, Muslims show their Iman on the Almighty and exhibit that they are united. They follow the will of Allah (SWT), their Creator. It's not just a mere journey; rather it's a deeply spiritual experience. Muslims come from all over the world to take part in Hajj. Some come with their reliable Hajj tour operator, and some come alone.
They wear simple clothes (Ihram Clothes) to show they're all the same in front of Allah (SWT). The pilgrimage teaches the believers about faith, unity, and obedience to Allah (SWT). It's a journey that stays in the hearts forever of those who perform it.
Mecca and Its Significance in Islam
Going to Mecca is a way for Muslims to feel connected to the History of their religion and the Creator. They share this special place and experience with other Muslims who come from different parts of the world. The city is important in Islam because –
1. Birthplace of Prophet (ﷺ): It's the place where the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) was born. He was The Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) and spent a significant time of His life in this city which is one of the reasons for coming to the Place.
2. Holy Kaaba: This is the main holy place in Islam. The Holy Kaaba – which is the House of Allah (SWT) for Muslims, is in Mecca, and it's the place Muslims face when they make Ibadat. When pilgrims are on their Hajj and Umrah travel, they perform their rituals in front of it.
3. Great History: Mecca has a very enriching and long history in Islam. The city has witnessed several important events related to the religion.
4. Pilgrimage: People from all over the world go to Mecca. Every year, millions of Muslims make a special journey, called the Hajj, to Mecca. It's almost like a blessing for them as it is believed that pilgrims who complete the journey of Hajj and Umrah do return back to their homeland like a “newborn child”. For all Muslims across the globe, it is crucial to complete the journey of Umrah and Hajj in this lifetime only to gain the mercy of the Almighty Allah (SWT).
So, Mecca is not just a city. It's like the heart of Islam, where people come together in faith and to make Dua.
Masjid Al-Haram
Masjid Al-Haram, also called the Grand Mosque, is the biggest Mosque in the world. It houses the Holy Kaaba the most sacred place for Muslims during Hajj and Umrah. The mosque has the capacity to hold millions of pilgrims inside it, making it a spiritual wonder.
If we keep its spiritual significance aside, the mosque's architecture is another reason to make one spellbound, with stunning domes and minarets reaching towards the sky. Inside, there is a sense of peace and serenity where the pilgrims coming for Hajj and Umrah from Morigaon or other places of the world bow their heads while making Dua.
Gates of Masjid Al-Haram: Facts to know is here
Masjid Al-Haram has many gates, each with its special meaning and history. There are 210 gates in all, with 5 being the most well-known one. These are:
1. Bab Malik Abdul Aziz (King Abdul Aziz Gate): This gate is on the Yemenite side of the Masjid. It's named after King Abdul Aziz which has been reconstructed recently. It's one of the main entrances to the mosque.
2. Bab e Ajyad: This gate is in the southeast part of the mosque, named after Ajyad’s two valleys. It is a small and single portal gate of the Masjid.
3. Bab e Bilal: If you are coming with the cheapest Hajj packages, you must know that the gate can be found on the southern side of the Mosque. As the name implies, this is given after the name of Bilal ibn Rabah, the first muezzin of Islam.
4. The Bab Hunain: It is also known as the Gate of Hunain. The name came from the city of Hunayn. This gate can be found on the southern side of the mosque.
5. Bab Ismail: Prophet Ismail, son of Prophet Ibrahim, is the inspiration behind the name of the Bab Ism'ail (Gate of Ismael). It is a smaller gate situated between Bab Hunain and Bab Hamzah in Masjid al-Haram's southern part.
When coming with your Hajj package booking, know that each of these gates has its own importance. These gates help people move around Masjid Al-Haram easily and reach important places within the mosque.
Conclusion
When planning your Hajj journey, consider opting for a reputable Hajj package. These packages often include accommodations, transportation, and other essential services that a pilgrim needs on the pilgrimage. By choosing the right package, you can focus on your pilgrimage without getting stressed about your logistical details. Also, it makes your pilgrimage the best one.
