Hajj

The greatest experience for a Muslim is to perform hajj. It is one of the pillars of Islam. It is compulsory on every Muslim male and female to perform the pilgrimage as long as they are physically and financially able. Alhamdulillah I have had the privilege of making this journey twice and there is no experience more rewarding. No words can describe the feeling of seeing the blessed cities of Makkah and Madina and nothing is more incredible than making tawaaf around Al Ka'ba, the beloved House of Allah. It's nothing like you've ever imagined especially if you know the history that surrounds these magnificent cities. I hope that these pictures can give you an idea of what it's like and encourage anyone who might be hesitant about making this journey.

These are the minarets of Masjid ul Haram. They were the tallest structures in Makah so their beauty was most seen until recently. The Saudi government built two towers known as Zam Zam towers which are about one and a half times the height of the minarets of the Mosque. As a result their beauty became shaded. Nevertheless they are extremely gorgeous especially at night time.

This is what is known as Maqamme Ibraheem or The Place of Standing of Prophet Ibraheem.

This is located very close to the Ka'ba. Inside the glass case is a stone with his footprint.When Prophet Ibraheem was building Al Ka'ba he stood on this stone to complete the upper walls.

This is the inside of Masjid un Nabawi, the Prophet's (saw) Mosque. It is extremely huge and as you can see, very beautiful. They even have escalators going to the roof and trust me, its not like any roof you've ever seen before. This was one of the most memorable parts of my journey. Knowing that this is where our beloved Prophet (saw) prayed, lived, died and is now buried inside this mosque. Obviously he wasn't buried in the Mosque in his time but due to the great expansion of his Mosque his grave ended up in the Mosque.

Beautiful door of the Prophet's (saw) Mosque.

On our way to do the action of stoning the Shaitaan.

These are the tents at Mina. Tents go as far as the eyes can see. For me this may have been the most trying part of my journey but it isn't the same for everyone. For someone else it can be the most enjoyable part. What is important to remember is that for every individual, it is a totally and completely different experience.
It all depends on your frame of mind before, during and after the whole experience. We must always remember to check our intention every step of the way. For every action is judged based on intention.