Each year, millions of Muslims from all corners of the world respond to an extraordinary call — a divine invitation to the sacred lands of Makkah and Madinah. This journey, known as Hajj and Umrah, is not merely a physical travel across borders; it is a soul-stirring pilgrimage toward spiritual rebirth, forgiveness, and divine nearness.
Before a pilgrim steps onto a plane, before donning the simple white garments of Ihram, the journey truly begins — with a whisper in the heart, a yearning for closeness to Allah, and a longing to walk in the footsteps of the Prophets. This sacred journey starts not with movement, but with a call — the call of Allah.
The Divine Invitation: Not All Are Called
It is often said that you do not choose Hajj or Umrah; Hajj and Umrah choose you. Allah calls whom He wills to His House. Despite one’s wealth or status, not everyone receives this honor. The Qur’an reminds us of this privilege:
“And [due] to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House – for whoever is able to find thereto a way.”
— Surah Aal-Imran (3:97)
The phrase “for whoever is able” goes beyond financial and physical means. It refers to an inner state of readiness, sincerity, and the divine will. If you feel a stirring in your heart for Hajj or Umrah, know that this could be your invitation — and responding to it is the first step in transforming your spiritual life.
Preparing the Heart Before the Feet Move
Before any suitcase is packed, the heart must be unpacked — of pride, arrogance, grudges, and worldly distractions. The intention (niyyah) to perform Hajj or Umrah is not a mere ritual declaration. It is a declaration of devotion, submission, and renewal.
“Actions are but by intentions, and every man shall have only that which he intended.”
— (Hadith – Bukhari & Muslim)
This moment of intention becomes the foundation of your entire journey. It is where the transformation begins — a spiritual migration (hijrah) away from sins, bad habits, and heedlessness, toward a life of Allah-consciousness and accountability.
Repentance: Washing the Soul Clean
Many scholars emphasize that a sincere pilgrim begins the journey by seeking forgiveness. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that Hajj cleanses one of sins just as a newborn is free of sin.
“Whoever performs Hajj for the sake of Allah and does not commit any obscenity or sin will return like the day his mother gave birth to him.”
— (Bukhari and Muslim)
This purification starts before departure — by repenting to Allah, seeking forgiveness from others, and making peace with one’s past. As the body prepares for travel, the soul too begins its cleansing.
A Journey Modeled on Prophets
The Hajj journey is not a new invention — it is a divine tradition, stretching back to Prophet Ibrahim (AS) and continued by Prophet Muhammad (SAW). When a believer decides to embark on Hajj or Umrah, they are retracing the footsteps of the righteous, emulating the submission of Ibrahim, the endurance of Hajar, and the compassion of the Prophet Muhammad.
READ MORE: 21 Surprising Facts About Umrah – The Lesser Pilgrimage Unveiled
Allah said to Ibrahim (AS):
“And proclaim to the people the Hajj. They will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant pass.”
— Surah Al-Hajj (22:27)
Even today, centuries later, that proclamation echoes in the hearts of believers.
What We Learn Before We Even Arrive
Even before arriving in the holy land, a pilgrim begins to learn vital spiritual lessons:
Humility: We are guests of Allah, not tourists. We travel light — physically and spiritually.
Gratitude: Not everyone is given the chance. We cherish every moment and every step.
Introspection: We begin to look within — asking, What have I brought for this journey? and What do I want to bring back?
Detachment: We slowly release our grip on worldly concerns, refocusing our hearts on the eternal.
The Journey Has Begun — Even If You Haven’t Left Yet
This first phase of Hajj and Umrah — the internal awakening — is arguably the most important. It sets the tone for everything to come. Whether you are planning to go soon or dreaming of going one day, the spiritual journey can begin now. The heart can already begin responding to the divine call.
So, if your soul feels drawn to Makkah, know this: Allah is inviting you. Begin your preparations — not just by booking flights, but by purifying your intentions, repenting sincerely, and yearning deeply.
Coming Up in Part 2: “Ihram – The Garment of Humility and Equality”
Next week, we’ll explore the powerful symbolism behind the Ihram garments, and how they reflect our true identity as humble servants of Allah — equal in His eyes, stripped of all worldly labels.
Author: Islam Religion Guardian Columnist
Published by: IslamReligionGuardian.com