Walking the Path of Hajj
Explore the Sacred Sites of Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina
The plains of Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina—collectively known as the Mashaa’ir (The Sacred Sites)—are the very heart of the Hajj pilgrimage. It is here that millions of Muslims gather annually to perform the obligatory rituals prescribed by Allah (SWT), following the traditions of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the legacy of Prophet Ibrahim (AS).
While the atmosphere during the five days of Hajj is electric and intensely crowded, a Ziyarat tour outside of the Hajj season offers a different experience. It is a chance for quiet contemplation, visualizing the magnitude of the pilgrimage, and connecting with the profound spiritual history of these locations.
Join Umrah.cab on a comfortable journey through these blessed lands.
Visiting the Mashaa’ir Outside of Hajj
It is important to understand that the specific rituals performed at these sites (such as the standing at Arafat, the night stay at Muzdalifah, or the stoning at Mina) are exclusive to the days of Hajj (8th to 13th of Dhul Hijjah).
During a Ziyarat tour (while on Umrah or visiting Makkah at other times), these areas will be largely empty. Mina’s famous tents will be present but uninhabited, and the plains of Arafat and Muzdalifah will be quiet. The purpose of this visit is historical understanding and spiritual reflection, not the reenactment of Hajj rituals.
1. Arafat: The Pinnacle of Hajj
Arafat is a vast plain located about 20 kilometers southeast of Makkah. It is the most crucial site of the pilgrimage; as the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Hajj is Arafat.” If a pilgrim misses the standing (Wuquf) at Arafat on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, their Hajj is invalid.
Spiritual Significance
It is here that pilgrims spend the day in deep prayer, supplication, and seeking forgiveness, in what many describe as a preview of the Day of Judgment. Arafat is also where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered his profound Farewell Sermon.
Key Landmarks in Arafat
Jabal ar-Rahmah (The Mount of Mercy)
This small, rocky hill is the most prominent landmark in Arafat. It is believed to be the spot where the Prophet (PBUH) stood to deliver his sermon.
During Ziyarat: Many visitors choose to climb the steps to the top of Jabal ar-Rahmah. While not a religious requirement, it offers a panoramic view of the entire plain, allowing one to visualize the immense gathering of Hajj. It is a popular spot for making Dua (supplication).
Masjid Nimrah
This large mosque is located on the boundary of Arafat. During Hajj, the Khutbah (sermon) is delivered here before the combined Dhuhr and Asr prayers.
Note: A significant portion of the front of the mosque is actually outside the boundary of Arafat. Pilgrims must be careful to be within the designated Arafat boundaries during Hajj. During Ziyarat, you can view the mosque’s impressive architecture.
2. Muzdalifah: The Open-Air Sanctuary
Located between Arafat and Mina, Muzdalifah is an open, level plain. After sunset on the Day of Arafat, pilgrims move here to spend the night under the open sky, following the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH).
Spiritual Significance
The time in Muzdalifah emphasizes equality and humility, as all pilgrims, regardless of wealth or status, rest on the ground. Here, pilgrims combine their Maghrib and Isha prayers and collect pebbles (Hasa) for the stoning ritual (Rami) in Mina.
“But when you depart from Arafat, remember Allah at the Mash’ar al-Haram (the sacred site in Muzdalifah)…” (Quran 2:198)
Key Landmarks in Muzdalifah
Masjid Mash’ar al-Haram
This mosque marks the spot where the Prophet (PBUH) is believed to have prayed and supplicated during his stay in Muzdalifah.
During Ziyarat: Muzdalifah will appear as a vast, empty expanse marked by boundary posts. It is a moment to reflect on the simplicity of Hajj.
3. Mina: The City of Tents and Sacrifice
Mina is a valley located about 8 kilometers from Makkah. It plays a vital role for the longest duration during Hajj. Pilgrims spend the Day of Tarwiyah (8th Dhul Hijjah) and the Days of Tashreeq (10th, 11th, 12th/13th Dhul Hijjah) here.
Spiritual Significance
Mina is where pilgrims perform the Rami (symbolic stoning of the devil) and the Hady (animal sacrifice). These rituals commemorate the events where Prophet Ibrahim (AS) was commanded by Allah (SWT) to sacrifice his son, Ismail (AS), and was tempted by Shaitan (Satan) to disobey. Ibrahim (AS) stoned Shaitan to drive him away, demonstrating his unwavering obedience to Allah (SWT).
Key Landmarks in Mina
The Jamarat Complex
This is the central focus of Mina. The Jamarat are the three pillars representing where Shaitan tempted Prophet Ibrahim (AS). They are named:
- Jamarat al-Sughra (The Small Pillar)
- Jamarat al-Wusta (The Middle Pillar)
- Jamarat al-Aqaba/Kubra (The Large Pillar)
To ensure the safety and smooth flow of millions of pilgrims, the Saudi government has constructed the massive, multi-level Jamarat Bridge complex. The original small pillars have been replaced by large, wide walls to facilitate the stoning ritual.
During Ziyarat: You can view this impressive structure and understand the logistics involved in the Rami ritual. It is a humbling sight to see the scale of the operation.
The Tents of Mina
Mina is famous for being the largest temporary “tent city” in the world, housing nearly 3 million pilgrims in high-quality, fire-resistant tents.
During Ziyarat: Driving through Mina, you will see these endless rows of tents, empty and waiting for the next Hajj season.
Masjid Al-Khayf
Located at the base of the mountain in Mina, this mosque holds great virtue. It is narrated that 70 prophets, including Prophet Musa (AS) and Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), have prayed here.
Practical Tips for Your Ziyarat Tour
Best Time to Visit
Recommended: Morning (after sunrise until 11 AM) or late afternoon (after Asr prayer). This provides good light for viewing the sites.
Duration and Distance
Total Tour Time: 2.5 to 4 hours, depending on stops and Makkah traffic. Arafat is about 30-45 minutes by car from Masjid Al-Haram.
What to Expect
The areas are vast and can be dusty. Wear comfortable clothing and shoes, especially if you plan to climb Jabal ar-Rahmah (an easy climb with stairs).
Reflection
Bring a Hajj guidebook to better understand the rituals associated with each site as you visit, enhancing your spiritual connection.
Included in Your Umrah.cab Ziyarat Tour
Umrah.cab provides a comfortable and informative journey through the Mashaa’ir:
- Knowledgeable Drivers: Our drivers are familiar with all the key landmarks in Arafat, Muzdalifah, and Mina.
- Comfort and Convenience: Travel in a modern, air-conditioned vehicle, essential for the Makkah climate.
- Flexible Stops: We accommodate stops at Jabal ar-Rahmah, the Jamarat complex, and other key viewing points for reflection and prayer.
