In a Hajj pilgrimage, “Mashair” refers to the important holy places that pilgrims visit. These places include Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah. During this journey, pilgrims spend at least five (05) days in these locations:
- Mina: Pilgrims stay in Mina on the 8th, 10th, 11th, and 12th days of Dhul-Hijjah for the symbolic stoning of the devil (Rami alJamarat). The 13th day of Dhul-Hijjah is optional for this ritual.
- Arafat: On the 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah, pilgrims come to Arafat for a big day of praying and talking to Allah during the “waqoofe-Arafat” time, which starts at noon and goes until sunset. It’s a very important moment during Hajj, often called “Hajj Day.”
- Muzdalifah: After leaving Arafat, pilgrims spend the night in Muzdalifah on the 9th night of Dhul-Hijjah, which falls between the 9th and 10th of Dhul-Hijjah. This night is spent by the roadside with very limited facilities. They collect between minimum 49 or maximum 70 pebbles during this time for a special ritual.
On this night, they perform their Maghrib and Isha (night) prayers. Then they wait until the Fajr (dawn) prayers, perform the Fajr prayer, and engage in a “waqoof” (standing in devotion) after the Fajr prayer as a part of their special act of worship.
These days in the Mashair are a crucial part of the Hajj journey, with specific rituals and prayers performed at each location.
