Author: Muhammad Asim Ismail Zahi
The Wisdom and Philosophy of Hajj and Its Hidden Secrets (Part 13)
Hajj and Pilgrimage in Past Religions: Its Characteristics and Differences
All religions and human nations have sacred places that are the focus of travel and devotion. These nations have developed methods, habits, customs, and traditions for this religious journey and sacred pilgrimage; this is, in fact, an acceptance of the decrees of nature and a response to the call of conscience. As stated before,
humanity has always sought something to fulfill its longing, affection, and desire, aspiring to atone for great sins and mistakes. Thus, people seek a grand religious stage where they can gather based on religious brotherhood and spiritual emotion.
Therefore, no nation or period of human civilization has been devoid of religious journeys, renowned rituals, or sacred scenes in which people gather, offer sacrifices, and draw nearer to Allah Almighty or their gods.
Allah the Almighty says: “وَلِكُلِّ أُمَّةٍ جَعَلْنَا مَنْسَكًا لِيَذْكُرُوا اسْمَ اللهِ عَلَى مَا رَزَقَهُمْ مِنْ بَهِيمَةِ الْأَنْعَامِ فَإِلَهُكُمْ إِلَهُ وَاحِدٌ فَلَهُ أَسْلِمُوا وَبَشِّرِ الْمُخْبِتِينَ” Translation: “And for every nation, We have appointed a ritual of worship, that they may mention the name of Allah over what He has provided for them of the cattle. So your God is One God (Allah), so submit to Him, and give good tidings to the humble.”
He also said: “لِكُلِّ أُمَّةٍ جَعَلْنَا مَنْسَكًا هُمْ نَاسِكُوهُ فَلَا يُنَازِعُنَّكَ فِي الْأَمْرِ وَادْعُ إِلَى رَبِّكَ إِنَّكَ لَعَلَى هُدًى مُسْتَقِيم” Translation: “And for every nation, We have appointed a ritual that they should follow; so let them not dispute with you in the matter, and call to your Lord, for you are indeed on a straight guidance.”
Archaeological excavations have uncovered rituals and shrines in ancient civilizations and underground cities, and history has chronicled some of their conditions. However, it remains challenging to fully understand the truth, history, rulings, and customs related to them. Researchers may find only a few comparisons and scattered, undocumented accounts that offer minimal insight.
Judaism and then Christianity are the closest religions to Islam, having a rich historical background. Historians and scholars have extensively explored these two religions, recognizing them as the faiths of prominent nations engaged in culture, literature, and politics. Jerusalem (Bayt Al-Maqdis), its monuments, and its surroundings have served as a spiritual center for both religions, rendering its pilgrimage an ancient and authentic practice for them. However, this significant religious pillar still carries ambiguity, concealment, confusion, and a lack of information about its practices. [If we compare this with the Islamic pilgrimage (Hajj), whose rituals, rules, and details constitute a vast library that provides researchers with clear guidance.]
Here we summarize material from the Encyclopedia of Judaism, Volume 2: “The pilgrimage to Jerusalem, referred to as Ziarat (REYAH), is performed during three festivals: the Feast of Shavuot (Harvest), the Jewish Passover (Pesach), and the Feast of Sukkot. It is obligatory for all individuals, except for children who have not reached the age of obligation, as well as women, the blind, the lame, the disabled, and those suffering from physical or mental illnesses. According to Mosaic Law, each pilgrim must bring an offering to God; however, the specific number of offerings is not mandated. While Hajj is not obligatory for women and children, many do accompany their husbands and fathers to engage in public markets. The recorded numbers of pilgrims in various periods are often exaggerated. During Hajj, numerous sheep were slaughtered, and the skins of these sacrifices were given to innkeepers who offered shelter to pilgrims.
After the destruction of the Temple in Jerusalem, the Hajj pilgrimage did not cease. When Muslims, led by Saladin Ayyubi (MABH), conquered Jerusalem in 1187, Jewish residents from eastern regions were permitted to travel to Jerusalem and other areas, such as Damascus, Babylon, and Egypt. In the fourteenth century, East European Jews, particularly those in Babylon and Kurdistan, were accustomed to making the Hajj pilgrimage at least once a year, often undertaking the journey on foot.
The Crusades inspired European Jews to embark on pilgrimages, and in 1492, when Jews were expelled from Spain and many migrated to Islamic lands, the number of Jewish pilgrims increased significantly. They frequently gathered at the tomb of the prophet Samuel in the village of Ramah in Palestine, where they held their annual markets and ceremonies. Jewish communities in different cities criticized each other for insufficient enthusiasm towards pilgrimages, while Christians took the opportunity to visit the Holy Land.
Jewish pilgrimages occur on specific days, often referred to as pilgrimage days, especially in East and North Africa. It is common for Jews to visit the tombs of their ancestors, which include notable kings, prophets, righteous individuals, or saints. During these days, they celebrate through prayer and expressions of joy, akin to public holidays. The period from the evening of the 17th of Tamuz to the 7th of Ab sees Jews gathering in front of the western wall of Solomon’s Temple for 23 consecutive days, starting worship at midnight on the 9th of Ab. Additionally, there are various shrines, tombs, and local sites that people from every region and city visit.
Pilgrimage Among Christians: Here we summarize the information from the Encyclopedia of Religions and Ethics on this topic: “Hajj is the name of a journey that Christians undertake to visit holy places, such as sites associated with the earthly life of the Prophet Jesus (PBUH) in Palestine, religious centers in Rome, or holy places linked to recognized martyrs. The first generation of Christians did not initially perceive the necessity to visit the places attributed to the Prophet Jesus (PBUH); however, later generations placed greater emphasis on this matter. The concept of pilgrimage spread from the third century AD, with many Christians enthusiastically seeking relics and places linked to Jesus (PBUH) and prioritizing these visits over his teachings and advice.
By the thirteenth century, pilgrimage to the holy places of Rome became more popular than those to the Holy Land (Jerusalem). Although pilgrimage to Jerusalem did not cease entirely, Rome gained significant importance, especially with the establishment of tombs for saints like Peter and Paul. This helped solidify Rome’s status as a pilgrimage center for Catholics worldwide. Pilgrims have also held reverence for the catacombs in the Vatican due to the remains of martyrs.
Throughout history, pilgrims have consistently visited Rome, and the numerous churches and ancient sacred sites have continually captivated visitors’ attention.
Surprisingly, many names of graves, tombs, and public places exist in Palestine and the regions, cities, or villages where Jews and Christians have historically resided. The articles on “Hajj and Pilgrimage” in the Encyclopedia of Judaism and the Encyclopedia of Religions and Ethics document various tombs, locations, and revered individuals in Europe and Asia, along with the specific days and months dedicated to pilgrimages. Understanding the significant importance and attention that Jews and Christians allocate to these sites, as well as the exhaustiveness of travel and associated difficulties, highlights how much this practice has engaged and influenced their sentiments.
This intense reverence has, at times, led some to the point of shirk (polytheism) and the worship of entities other than Allah. The Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) expressed great concern about this practice, fearing it might spread among Muslims (the bearers of monotheism and the final nation). He emphasized the importance of distancing their tombs and graves from all forms of shirk, worship, and exaggeration.
This concern was evident even during his final illness. Imam Bukhari (MABH) narrated from Hazrat Ayesha and Abdullah ibn Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them): “أخبرني عبيدالله بن عبدالله بن عتبة أن عائشة وعبدالله بن عباس قالا لما نزل برسول الله صلیاللهعلیهوسلم طفق يطرح خميصة له على وجهه فإذا اغتم بها كشفها عن وجهه فقال وهو كذلك لعنة الله على اليهود والنصارى اتخذوا قبور أنبيائهم مساجد يحذر ما صنعوا” Translation: “Ubaidullah bin Abdullah bin Utbah told me that Ayesha and Abdullah bin Abbas said: When the Messenger of Allah, MABH and grant him peace, was distressed, he would throw his cloak over his face. When he felt discomfort from it, he would uncover his face and say: “The curse of Allah be upon the Jews and Christians. They took the graves of their prophets as places of worship.” He warned against what they had done.”
“وعن عطاء بن يسار أن رسول الله صلیاللهعلیهوسلم قال اللهم لا تجعل قبري وثنا يعبد اشتد غضب الله على قوم اتخذوا قبور أنبيائهم مساجد” Translation: “On the authority of Ata ibn Yasar, the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: “O Allah! Do not make my grave an idol to be worshipped. Allah is very angry with people who have taken the graves of their prophets as mosques.”
Nonetheless, Indian religions—including Buddhism, Hinduism, and Brahmanism—feature numerous shrines, temples, and holy places that attract visitors from around the world. These places are revered due to significant events in their history, and they believe that some of their elders visited, spoke to, or met divine entities there, or that their gods manifested in these locations.
Religious festivals, ceremonies, and markets commonly held at these sites showcase the belief in the sacredness of these places. Many of these shrines are situated along the banks of the holy river Ganges, where thousands travel to bathe in its waters.
Countless gatherings occur at these holy sites, whether annually or every few years. For instance, the KUMBH (Kumbh Mela) bathing festival occurs every twelve years at the confluence of the Ganges and Yamuna rivers in Prayag (Rudra Prayag). One of the most renowned cities for this ceremony is Benares, where bathing in the Ganges is deemed an atonement for sins and considered a significant virtue. Many aspire to die in this city, even transporting deceased loved ones from distant areas for cremation or immersion in the Ganges. Other notable holy areas include Ayodhya—associated with Ram Chander—as well as Haridwar and Mathura—linked to the history of Krishna; all are considered sacred cities.
These locations are primarily in the North-Western Province, boasting numerous temples and holy sites, with the number reaching dozens across the Indian subcontinent. Customs and traditions among Hindus in these worship places vary by region and community. The city of Gaya in Bihar, where the founder of Buddhism, Gautama Buddha, attained enlightenment (referred to as Nirvana), is a major pilgrimage site.
Moreover, the festivals and markets held at these locations attract millions, particularly during large-scale events, despite the chaos and lack of cleanliness often associated with such gatherings. The government endeavours to maintain order and health regulations to mitigate the spread of diseases. These ceremonies exhibit historical polytheistic customs intertwined with ancient legends about deities.
The Quran distinguishes itself by mentioning the pilgrimage to the Kaaba, which was constructed by Prophet Abraham (PBUH). It renounces the polytheism, idolatry, and falsehoods that have infiltrated the pilgrimage practices of other religions, stating: “ذَلِكَ وَمَنْ يُعَظِّمْ حُرُمَاتِ اللَّهِ فَهُوَ خَيْرُ لَهُ عِنْدَ رَبِّهِ وَأَحِلَّتْ لَكُمُ الْأَنْعَامُ إِلَّا مَا يُتْلَى عَلَيْكُمْ فَاجْتَنِبُوا الرِّجْسَ مِنَ الْأَوْثَانِ وَاجْتَنِبُوا قَوْلَ النُّورِ حُنَفَاءَ لِلَّهِ غَيْرَ مُشْرِكِينَ بِهِ” Translation: “These are the rules of Hajj; and whoever esteems the sacred things of Allah, then that is better for him in the sight of his Lord. And cattle have been made lawful for you, except what is recited to you (as forbidden). So, avoid abomination (which is) idols and avoid false speech and falsehood.”
This was a brief description of the methods of Hajj, pilgrimage, and religious journeys in the great religions of the world, which still have countless followers, possibly numbering in the millions.
Shaikh al-Islam Ahmad ibn Abdul Rahim Dehlavi, MABH, possessed remarkable insight and extensive knowledge that aligned with the path of righteousness and justice. In his book Hujjah Allah Al-Baligha, he discusses Hajj, stating, “The principle of Hajj has existed in every nation, for those nations have invariably needed a place to seek blessings, having observed divine signs there. They have also revered the sacrifices and remain of the past, as they serve to remind us of our close connections.”
“The most deserving place for Hajj is the House of Allah, built by Prophet Abraham (PBUH) with clear signs of divine acceptance. It was constructed at Allah’s command in a barren land when no other land hosted Hajj, except in instances of polytheism or baseless innovations.”
Readers may easily compare these religions to Islam or the Islamic Hajj, understanding their differences from the fourth pillar of Islam and reflecting on the divine blessing through this verse: “لِكُلِ أُمَّةٍ جَعَلْنَا مَنْسَكًا هُمْ نَاسِكُوهُ فَلَا يُنَازِعُنَّكَ فِي الْأَمْرِ وَادْعُ إِلَى رَبِّكَ إِنَّكَ لَعَلَى هُدًى مُسْتَقِيمٍ” Translation: “And for every nation, We have appointed a ritual that they will follow; so let them not dispute with you in the matter, and call to your Lord. Indeed, you are on a straight guidance.”
Continues…
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