Several years ago, way before I converted to Islam, I remember that I was mesmerised by a particular picture. Thousands of people in a blur around this cuboid black building. It just looked so peaceful. “One day,” I said, “I will somehow go and be a part of this!”
That one day actually came. I have only been a Muslim for 5 years now, but last month I had the opportunity to embark on the hajj. Just like many others I was petrified. How can millions of people share the same facilities, complete the same rites of pilgrimage, yet walk away from hajj so happy and content? The answer is simple. Hajj is a lesson about the reality of our lives. Nothing can prepare you for the deep spiritual awakening of the meaning of the verse: “And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion?” [Qur’an 57:20]
I thought I understood what being patient was. But through hajj, I learnt that patience, gratitude and contentment make up the equation for success in life.
The hajj is rightly called the journey of a lifetime. It is about realising what you have made the purpose of your life to be, what it should actually be, and an epic reminder of the reality of God.
(Sister from UK)