It opened with a beautiful Qirat recitation, of which a segment of Surah Baqarah was pertinent to this journey of a lifetime: Hajj.
Professional general practitioner, Dr. Bilquis Hoosen, was invited to provide the segment on physical wellness and fitness. Though Hajj is a spiritual journey, physical health was greatly emphasised, in which those attending were advised to know their health status prior to this tremendous journey.
Paired with healthy diet adjustment recommendations, tips for hydration, physical fitness, and the importance of choosing one’s clothing carefully for the hot season, integral advice was provided to prospective guests of the Haramayn to prepare them for this ultimate experience.
Next, a DOU host addressed the sisters about the psychological wellbeing and preparation for Hajj, comparing it to the journey of the Hereafter. Practical advice was provided, such as setting goals, hopes, and aspirations long before leaving on the journey, as well as essential tips on how to reduce feelings of anxiety and being overwhelmed.
Guests were encouraged to strive for presence during this auspicious journey, and to reconnect with Allah and reflect on their behaviour, habits, and deeds.
Hayd considerations were discussed thereafter, and was stressed as not being a barrier to worshipping Allah. It is an opportunity for greater rewards, to display obedience to Allah, and contentment with His decree. This was paired with highlighting other acts of worship for women when in Hayd, such as Du’a, Dhikr, and Salawat; amongst several others; to empower and give closure to those who struggle during this time.
Mufti Zubair Bayat - Ameer of the Darul Ihsan Humanitarian Centre - thereafter addressed the gathering, further emphasising the preparations and contingencies during Hajj. This included making one’s time valuable in the deeply spiritual Haramayn, staying focused so that its purity may enter one’s heart, as well as the importance of sincerely asking Allah for acceptance of one’s Hajj, Du’as, and forgiveness of sins.
Guests were encouraged to go on this journey as ambassadors of the Ummah, and to maximise this blessed opportunity so that they return as transformed people.
Darul Ihsan Media Desk