LABBAYKA ALLAHUMMA LABBAYK: HERE WE ARE AT YOUR SERVICE, O ALLAH- BY PROFESSOR TIMEHIN SAHEED

Once again, the chants of " Labbayka Allahumma labbayk" rent the air. The atmosphere is spiritually charged with litanies of glorification. It is the month of Dhul Qa'dah; one of the months of hajj. Pilgrims from different parts of the world are beginning to settle down in Makkah and Madinah. 

The first sets of contingents from Nigeria have also left. The electrifying frenzy has begun. The hills of Makkah; the roads of Madinah; and the markets of both cities have started trembling with excitement and anticipation as their guests throng in, and the bellies of the ancient towns begin to swell by the day.

Hajj holds profound spiritual significance in Islam, deeply capturing the finest moments in humanity's religious history, theological trajectory, and personal devotional struggle. Its significance can be understood on several levels.

To a Muslim, it represents the fulfilment of a pillar of Islam, the commemoration of prophetic legacy, a symbolic odyssey of self-purification and renewal, the affirmation of the unity of the Muslim ummah and its universality, the affirmation of Islamic Monotheism (Tawhid), and reconnecting to the sacred roots of the universal truth through spiritual discipline, patience,  perseverance, and charity.

It is the fifth pillar of Islam. Performing it at least once in a lifetime is an obligation for every adult Muslim who is physically and financially able. It symbolizes complete submission to Allah and obedience to His command.

Hajj reclaims the devotional footprints of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), his wife Hajar, and their son Isma'il (Ishmael). Its key rituals — such as the donning of the Ihram ( wearing the ihram), Tawwaf (circumambulation of the Ka’bah), the Sa’y (running between Safa and Marwah), the sacrifice, the symbolic stonning at the Jamaraat, and the standing at Arafat — are spiritual milestones in the lives of that great familty and a testimony of their unwavering faith and devotion that connects pilgrims and all humanity spiritually to an unprecedented legacy of submission, sacrifice, divine love and total trust.

Hajj presents a uniquely profound opportunity for spiritual cleansing and rejuvenation. Pilgrims wear simple white garments (Ihram), symbolizing purity, equality, and the shunning of worldly status. It reminds believers of the Day of Judgment, where all will stand equal before Allah, the Almighty Author of Existence and triggers deep personal reflection, repentance, and spiritual rebirth.

Hajj enables millions of Muslims from diverse backgrounds to gather in one place for the same purpose, reinforcing the concept of Ummah — the global brotherhood of mankind. The experience breaks down racial, ethnic, and social barriers, instilling humility and empathy.

Every rite of Hajj keeps in view the concept of monotheism. From the Talbiyah declaration (“Labbayka Allahumma Here I am, O Allah at your service...”) to the circumambulation of the Ka’bah, it reinforces a believer’s exclusive devotion to Allah and rejection of all forms of idolatry and ego.

Its physically and emotionally tasking rituals bring out the best traits humanity has ever valued-  patience, self-control, empathy, and endurance. It offers an opportunity for believers to strive to develop these traits in preparation for their post-hajj encounters when they return home. It is akin to paying a visit to the Palace of the Almighty.

Hajj is not just a physical journey but a transformative spiritual expedition. It encapsulates the essence of Islamic devotion — humility, repentance, sacrifice, unity, and unwavering submission to Allah. For many, it marks a turning point in their lives, leaving them spiritually renewed and morally uplifted.

As you read this brief post, I ask Allah to bless your eyes and protect it from physical and spiritual defects; your mind, and protect it from satanic whispers; your brain, and protect it from demonic intrusions, and your ears, and veil them from all such information that may attract Divine chastisement. May Allah grant you commissions from the devotion of all sincere pilgrims in the holy land. 

Jum'ah Mubarakah

© PROFESSOR TIMEHIN SAHEED OLUROTIMI

- Nigeria