Salam, David.

Thank you for your question.

Actually you are not the first reader who writes asking us for some clarifications of the rituals of Hajj. We have already dealt with some of the misconceptions spread about Hajj in previous answers. Please refer to the links provided, where you will find answers related to all your queries about Hajj and `Eid al-Adha.

Spiritual Ethics of Hajj

About Hajj and how it touches your spirit. Hajj has inward ethics, more than just being a yearly ritual. What are these inward ethics of Hajj? Sister Dalia Salaheldinsheds some light on the inward ethics of Hajj.

The Black Stone… an Idol?

Do Muslims in the world honor the Black Stone of the Ka`bah as an idol? Is it not strange that Hajj, one of the pillars of Islam, rotates around a mere black stone in Makkah? What is the importance of that stone? Professor Shahul Hameed

sheds some light on the significance of the Black Stone.

Rejoicing the Sacrifice

Why do Muslims rejoice while killing a beast and shedding its blood, during their pilgrimage? Is it meat or blood that pleases your God? SisterDalia Salaheldin  sheds some light on the significance of the sacrifice.

Significance of `Eid Al-Adha

As for this feast when you do pilgrimage, you have too many rituals. This is whether you go for pilgrimage or not. Here is a brief idea about the significance of some of these rituals. Dr. Ebrahim Kazim sheds some light on the significance of `Eid al-Adha.

A Stand of Forgiveness

I want to know about the importance and etiquette of standing on `Arafah. Please tell me what supplications do pilgrims say while standing there. SisterDalia Salaheldin sheds some light on the stand on `Arafat.

From One to Ten … All Merits!

I notice some Muslims give attention and more care to the first 10 days of the lunar month of Dhul-Hijjah. Please tell me why are these days special and what are the advantages of extra effort in worshipping during these days.  Professor Shahul Hameed sheds some light on the importance of these special days.

Once in a Lifetime

How can such a journey be a manner of worship? What makes it a lifetime journey? Why did God order Muslims to perform Hajj? And, how do you know that you have been accepted? Sister Dalia Salaheldin sheds some light on the importance of this journey.

Honor the House, Kiss the Stone?

Don't Muslims claim that they worship no God but One God? Then, why do they glorify the Ka`bah and its Black Stone? SisterDalia Salaheldin sheds some light on the significance of the Ka`bah and the Black Stone.

We hope these links are satisfactory. Thank you again for contacting us and please keep in touch.

Salam.