Hajj is one of the obligatory pillars of Islam that must be performed by every physically and financially capable Muslim. However, not all hajj pilgrimages receive the same rewards.
- There is hajj that is accepted (mabrur), which means it is accepted by Allah and earns His forgiveness and paradise.
- There is also hajj that is valid (makbul), meaning it is performed in accordance with the Islamic law and is complete.
- Lastly, there is hajj that is rejected (mardud), which is hajj that is rejected by Allah due to being mixed with sins and mistakes.
So, how can one perform an accepted hajj? What are the characteristics of an accepted hajj according to Prophet Muhammad? And how can one achieve it? Let's explore the explanations.
First Characteristic: Hajj Performed with Sincerity (Ikhlas)
The first characteristic of an accepted hajj is performing it with sincerity, solely for the sake of Allah without seeking praise or recognition from others. Prophet Muhammad said:
"Whoever performs Hajj for Allah's sake, refrains from sexual relations and evil deeds, will return (after Hajj free from all sins) as if he were born anew." (Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim)
From this hadith, we understand that an accepted hajj is one that is free from bad intentions, foul speech, and evil actions. An accepted hajj is performed with a pure heart and good manners.
Second Characteristic: Hajj Accompanied by Righteous Deeds (Amal Salih)
The second characteristic of an accepted hajj is performing it alongside righteous deeds, which are actions that comply with the Islamic law and benefit oneself and others. Prophet Muhammad said:
"Whoever performs Hajj and avoids sexual relations and sin, will return (after Hajj free from all sins) as if he were born anew." (Narrated by Ahmad)
From this hadith, we comprehend that an accepted hajj requires abstaining from all forms of disobedience, such as adultery, consuming alcohol, gambling, stealing, and so on. An accepted hajj involves filling one's time with acts of worship such as prayer, remembrance of Allah, recitation of the Quran, giving charity, doing good deeds for others, and more.
Third Characteristic: Hajj Followed by Positive Change
The third characteristic of an accepted hajj is that it is followed by positive change, meaning abandoning bad habits and improving the quality of worship and morality. Prophet Muhammad said:
"Whoever performs Hajj and refrains from all sins, returns (after Hajj) as if he were born anew." (Narrated by Ibn Majah)
From this hadith, we understand that an accepted hajj serves as a turning point for repentance from all sins and mistakes. An accepted hajj marks the beginning of a new life characterized by greater obedience to Allah and better treatment of others.
These are the three characteristics of an accepted hajj according to Prophet Muhammad. May we be among those who can perform hajj with these qualities. Ameen.
0 Comments