One of the most important objectives of this blog is to share beneficial knowledge and advice – whether that comes from experts or just my own (or other people’s) experience. And with Ramadan completed, the months of Hajj have now begun. That means that for the many prospective hujjaaj who are going this year, things … More Leaving for Hajj soon?
Previous posts in this series: Parts 1 to 7 The certainty The Prophet s.a.w. reportedly* advised us to “Remember frequently the destroyer of pleasures” – referring to death. It’s the only certainty we have in life – the fact that we will die; and it’s a fact that everyone accepts – even the atheists. Personally, … More Hajj Chronicles Part 8: Every soul shall taste it
Continuing from last time, we now look at a few other attractions in the city of Madinah. The Cave of Uhud Related to the Battle of Uhud is the Cave of Uhud, which is quite far from the battle site. The cave – which sits on the side of Mount Uhud – is where the … More Hajj Chronicles Part 7: Madinah attractions (Part 2 of 2)
Previously in this series: Introduction and parts 1 to 5 While Masjid an-Nabawi is the main attraction in Madinah, for now, I’d like to cover some of the other attractions in the city. There seems to be a standard ‘tour circuit’ in Madinah – places of historical and religious significance (called ‘ziyarahs’). Many of these … More Hajj Chronicles Part 6: Madinah attractions (Part 1 of 2)
A collection of a few shots from Masjid-al Haram in Makkah. (You can view the gallery by clicking, or for larger versions, right click the shot you want and open it in a new tab / window). Sources: Pictures 1,2, and 6 are from other people, but 3, 4, 5 are mine.
Previous parts: Introduction | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3| Part 4 The first 24 hours in Madinah made a huge impression on me and helped me realise why people love the place so much: it felt like the Prophet s.a.w.’s masjid was a piece of Jannah. Of course, quite literally, there … More Hajj Chronicles Part 5: A little piece of Heaven
Previous parts: Introduction | Part 1 | Part 2 | Part 3 First impressions Mention the name ‘Madinah’, and the first descriptions many Muslims will use involve words like ‘peaceful’, ‘calm’, ‘tranquil’, etc. Our arrival there was anything but that – but such is to be expected when we had to deal with the chaos … More Hajj Chronicles Part 4: Welcome to Madinah
Undoubtedly, Hajj is one of the greatest events in the life of a Muslim – and one filled with many lessons. From the struggles of raising the funds and getting the opportunity, to the patience that’s needed to endure the hardships of travel, and then to the incomparable spirituality felt during the five days of … More For the rest of your days
Previous parts: Introduction | Part 1 | Part 2 The Arabic term sabr is often translated as ‘patience’, ‘perseverance’, or ‘steadfastness’, and we all know its tremendous importance in Islam. When it comes to Hajj, many people tell you that you’ll need a lot of it – because you’ll inevitably face difficulties and trials, such … More Hajj Chronicles: Part3: Twelve bags of sabr
Previous parts: Introduction | Part 1 How it started I’d wanted to go for Hajj for a long time – but had only planned to go two years ago, in 2009. Generally, that’s the wrong approach to take. You’re supposed to go as soon as you’re capable (physically, financially, etc.) – because it’s an obligation, … More Hajj Chronicles: Part2: Beginnings
slip-sliding away..... 