Al-Hajj (الحج) - Surah Details

22. Al-Hajj (الحج)

Meaning: The Pilgrimage

Total Ayahs: 78

Place of Revelation: Medina

Summary

Surah Al-Hajj uniquely combines Meccan and Medinan themes, discussing the Hajj pilgrimage, resurrection, and jihad. It begins with powerful imagery of the Day of Judgment, then transitions to rulings about Hajj and the sanctity of the Kaaba. The Surah provides permission for defensive fighting (22:39) while emphasizing that victory ultimately comes from Allah. It concludes with encouragement for Muslims to strive in Allah's cause with pure devotion.

Core Message

True worship requires both physical devotion (like Hajj) and spiritual submission. Divine help comes to those who uphold justice and fight oppression.

Benefits

The Prophet (PBUH) frequently recited this Surah, especially its verses about Hajj. Scholars note its recitation increases awareness of life's temporary nature and the importance of pure worship. Its middle verses are particularly recommended for those preparing for Hajj.

Famous Verses

22:5 "يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّاسُ إِن كُنتُمْ فِى رَيْبٍۢ مِّنَ ٱلْبَعْثِ..." - 'O people, if you should be in doubt about the Resurrection...'
22:27 "وَأَذِّن فِى ٱلنَّاسِ بِٱلْحَجِّ..." - 'And proclaim to the people the Hajj...'
22:39-40 "أُذِنَ لِلَّذِينَ يُقَـٰتَلُونَ بِأَنَّهُمْ ظُلِمُوا۟..." - 'Permission to fight is given to those who are fought...'
22:78 "وَجَـٰهِدُوا۟ فِى ٱللَّهِ حَقَّ جِهَادِهِۦ..." - 'And strive for Allah with the striving due to Him...'

Moral Lesson

Hajj symbolizes the ultimate submission. Defending truth is a divine right when oppressed. All worship must be directed solely to Allah.

Divine Attributes

An-Nasir (The Helper), Al-Qadir (The Powerful), As-Sami (The All-Hearing), Al-Basir (The All-Seeing)

Keywords

Hajj Resurrection Jihad Kaaba Sacrifice Divine Permission