By Muhammad Tariq
For the performance of Hajj and its sacred rituals
— Pilgrims from all over gather as individuals
All in white apparel, dressed identical
— From Mecca to Mina, together they travel
They shun worldly pleasures, and do not quarrel
— Piety is their best capital
The main event begins after the morning’s ritual
— In the plains of Arafat, each would assemble
Hands raised in prayer, tears visible
— They repent, hearts soft and humble
Muzdalfa is next; as the night envelops
— Combining Maghreb and Isha, a deed exceptional
They pray through the night, sleep only a little
— And gather the pebbles for the stoning ritual
After morning prayers, to Jamarat they hustle
— For stoning the pillar, the devil’s symbol
Then they sacrifice an animal, as is traditional
— A goat, sheep, cow, or a camel—each permissible
This is followed by clipping the hair, an act admissible
— Shaving the head, however, is more preferable
Ihram is replaced with clothes more usual
— For Tawaf e Ziarah, towards Mecca they travel
Then between Safa and Marwah, they shuttle
— Honoring a desperate mother in deep trouble
They stay in Mina, two days—three, if desirable
— And stone the Satan, most despicable
The farewell Tawaf is the last of the ritual
— Like the newly born, they return from the holy festival
