By Sarah NEGEDU
As the sacred first ten days of Dhul Hijja begin, Nigerian pilgrims from the Federal Capital Territory have been urged to uphold worship and spiritual devotion throughout the Hajj rites in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
The admonition was given during an interactive session where a delegation from the Saudi government engaged with the FCT pilgrims at one of the FCT pilgrims’ accommodation blocks in Makkah.
Dhul Hijja is considered the most sacred days of the Islamic calendar and the Saudi authorities were on ground to guide FCT pilgrims on the spiritual significance of Hajj and the conduct expected of pilgrims. The team emphasised that certain acts enhance the acceptance of one’s pilgrimage, while others may render it invalid.
Clerics leading the session warned that while Hajj is a pillar of Islam, its reward hinges not only on rituals but also on conduct. They noted that irritability, impatience, or acts of intolerance can undermine the spiritual essence of the pilgrimage.
One of the clerics pointed that, “Hajj is a school of patience,” stressing the need for pilgrims to remain calm in the face of challenges, including long queues, fatigue, and the large crowds that characterise the pilgrimage.
Pilgrims were urged to forgive fellow travelers and to use such acts of forgiveness as a pathway to seek Allah’s mercy. The clerics further advised pilgrims to devote more time to the recitation and reflection on the verses of the Holy Qur’an.
Dhul Hijja, the twelfth and final month of the Islamic calendar, is especially revered for its first ten days. Muslims believe that righteous deeds performed during this period are greatly multiplied in reward, making it a spiritually opportune time for increased prayer, charity, and remembrance of God.
The pilgrimage is expected to peak with the Day of Arafah, followed by Eid al-Adha celebrations observed by Muslims across the world.
