Pillars of Hajj (4)

The four pillars of Hajj - without them, Hajj is not complete. One who leaves a pillar must perform it; there is no substitute. **1. Ihram (Intention):** - The intention and resolve to enter Hajj - Hajj is pure worship; not valid without intention - **Hadith:** "Actions are by intentions" [Bukhari & Muslim] - **Consensus:** Hajj is not valid without intention - Best practice: verbalize the intention, specifying the rite intended **2. Standing at Arafah:** - The greatest pillar, by consensus - **Hadith:** "Hajj is Arafah" [Tirmidhi, Abu Dawud, Nasa'i - sahih] - **Time:** From after noon (zawal) on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah until dawn of the 10th **3. Tawaf al-Ifadah (Circumambulation):** - Also called Tawaf al-Ziyarah or Tawaf al-Fard - Done after leaving Arafah - **Quran:** "Then let them end their untidiness and fulfill their vows and perform Tawaf around the Ancient House" [22:29] - **Consensus:** This is a pillar **4. Sa'i Between Safa and Marwa:** - Walking between the two hills - **Hadith of Aisha:** "Allah has not completed the Hajj or Umrah of anyone who does not perform Sa'i between Safa and Marwa" [Muslim] - **Hadith:** "Perform Sa'i, for Allah has prescribed Sa'i upon you" [Ahmad, Ibn Khuzaymah - sahih]