Of the three types of Hajj, Hajj-e-Ifrad is intended solely for pilgrims from within the boundaries of the Miqat, typically the residents of Makkah. In Hajj-e-Ifrad, the pilgrim assumes Ihram with the intention to perform only Hajj without Umrah. This type of Hajj does not require an animal sacrifice (although it is recommended as a Sunnah if feasible), and the Ihram restrictions remain until all rites of Hajj are completed. Below is a step-by-step guide to Hajj-e-Ifrad.
Ihram is the first step for a pilgrim, and it is assumed from the Miqat. For Hajj-e-Ifrad, pilgrims declare the intention by saying, “Labbayk Allahumma Hajj” (O Allah, I am here for Hajj). Men wear two seamless white garments, while women wear a modest, unadorned dress, covering their entire body except the face and hands. Talbiyah is recited frequently from the time Ihram is donned until the beginning of the stoning at Jamrat al-Aqabah.
On the 8th of Dhul Hijjah (Tarwiyah Day), proceed to Mina in Ihram. In Mina, pilgrims perform Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, and Isha prayers of that day, and Fajr prayer of the 9th, shortening each prayer to two rak’at without combining them. Pilgrims stay overnight in Mina.
On the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, after Fajr prayer, head to Arafat. Perform Dhuhr and Asr prayers combined and shortened at Arafat during the time of Dhuhr. This day is the main pillar of Hajj. Spend the day in prayer, supplication, and remembrance of Allah. The Prophet (PBUH) recommended the dua: “There is no deity but Allah alone; He has no partner, to Him belongs the dominion and all praise, and He is able to do all things.” Stay at Arafat until sunset.
After sunset, proceed calmly to Muzdalifah, continuously reciting Talbiyah. In Muzdalifah, perform Maghrib and Isha prayers combined, with Isha shortened to two rak’at. Spend the night under the open sky, collecting pebbles for stoning the Jamarat. Perform Fajr prayer and remain in supplication until just before sunrise before heading to Mina.
On the 10th of Dhul Hijjah, perform the stoning of Jamrat al-Aqabah by throwing seven pebbles, each time saying “Allahu Akbar.” After stoning, the pilgrim can shave or trim the hair (shaving is preferred). Women should cut a fingertip’s length of hair. This marks partial exit from Ihram, allowing normal activities except marital relations.
After returning to Makkah, perform Tawaf al-Ifadah, which includes circling the Ka’bah seven times, two rak’at behind Maqam Ibrahim, and Sa’i between Safa and Marwah. Upon completing Tawaf al-Ifadah, all Ihram restrictions are lifted.
On the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul Hijjah, pilgrims return to Mina for the stoning of the Jamarat. Each day after Dhuhr, stone the three Jamarat: the small, medium, and large, with seven pebbles for each. After the last stoning, pilgrims may return to Makkah.
The Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf) is performed as the final rite before leaving Makkah. This Tawaf signifies the conclusion of Hajj, as per the instruction of the Prophet (PBUH).
Focus entirely on worship, make abundant du’a, and adhere to the etiquette and guidelines of Hajj. Avoid any acts that might cause harm or discomfort to fellow Muslims. Remain patient and humble, remembering that Hajj is an opportunity for spiritual purification and closeness to Allah.
Throughout the journey, pilgrims repeat: Labbaik Allaahumma labbaik. Labbaika laa shareeka laka labbaika. Innal hamda, wanni’mata laka wal mulk laka. Laa shareeka laka. (Here I am, O God, at Thy command. Here I am! Thou art without associates, Thine are praise and grace and dominion. Thou art without associates, here I am!)