What We Learn from the Stories from Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Hajj and Umrah

For Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Hajj and Umrah are much more than historical events; they are everlasting spiritual teachings, humility, and commitment to Allah. They give profound meaning-in-action to worship and journey for believers of today; however, the ritual is a living connection to the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) own experience and guidance. The principles at the heart of Hajj and Umrah are clear for the millions of Muslims around the world who undertake these journeys and explore the various examples presented in the Prophet Muhammad’s (PBUH) own experience and inspirations.

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) Hajj and Umrah

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed one and only Hajj, known as the Farewell Hajj. This event occurred in the 10th year of Hijrah (migration, journey), a few months before the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) passed away. The more profound stories surrounding the Hajj in Islam state that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) exemplified the ability to respond to and fulfill the commands of Allah S.W.T. with sincerity, humility, patience, and consideration.

During his last Hajj, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered the Farewell Sermon, which contained powerful messages related to justice, equality, and the collective identity of the Muslim Ummah. He said in the sermon, “There is no Arab superiority over a non-Arab, nor white superiority over a Black, except by piety and positive action.” This episode is just one of many stories about Hajj that continued to compel Muslims to evaluate their character and actions.

Lessons from the Stories of Hajj

One of the most moving stories related to Hajj is the humility with which the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed the acts related to Hajj. Even though he led the community, he simply rode a camel, wore simple clothes, and behaved in a manner that demonstrated that for Allah, all pilgrims are equal. This moment was a reminder to us that the Hajj Muhammad performed was not about being better than followers of another faith or about our wealth or privilege, but rather about submission and spiritual cleansing.

Another memorable part of this event was the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) making du’a (supplication) for hours at Arafat, with a tear on his cheek, sharing tears with Allah and praying for forgiveness for his Ummah. This highlights the immense love that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had for his followers. Thus we learn from this experience that we must have genuine prayer and seek Allah’s mercy.

Stories from Umrah

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed many Umrahs, which were all different and offered important lessons for us about worship. One story from the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) about Umrah is when he was performing Umrah as part of the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah. When the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and the Muslims entered Mecca, they were unable to complete their Umrah because the Qurash were blocking them. Although he could not do the rituals at that time, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was patient, completed the peace agreement, and honored it, demonstrating the importance of diplomacy, patience with difficult situations, and faith in Allah’s plan.

Eventually, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed Umrah, and he then showed his companions how to do the rituals properly, giving them an example for generations to come. All of these stories of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his Hajj and Umrah show us that, despite challenges, he sustained peace and purpose.

Why These Hajj Stories Matter Today

In a world driven by material success, the overarching story of Hajj is a reminder to us to realize the core essence of our faith is humility, unity, and submission. Thinking through the stories about Hajj encourages us to think about our spiritual journeys with greater awareness and sincerity.

Whether you are a pilgrim preparing for Hajj or simply seeking inspiration in your own spiritual journey, the stories relating to the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Hajj, and Umrah ask us to consider what it means to be a believer, dedicated, humble, and always connected to Allah.