Emotional Control, Good Character Key To Haj Mabrur

From Amirul Mohd Sajadi

MAKKAH, May 22 (Bernama) -- A haj mabrur, or pilgrimage accepted by Allah SWT, requires more than merely fulfilling the pillars and conditions of the haj, as pilgrims must also maintain good conduct and control their emotions in the face of various challenges in the Holy Land.

Tabung Haji chief haj adviser Datuk Dr Luqman Abdullah said the pilgrimage serves as the greatest tarbiah for Muslims, as pilgrims must endure various challenges, including scorching weather, congestion involving millions of people and changes to their daily routines.

He said in such circumstances, the ability to maintain good relations with others becomes one of the key factors in determining whether the haj is accepted.

“Do not become angry easily and do not engage in arguments. In situations where there are huge crowds and the weather is hot, emotions can easily be affected.

“However, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) taught that a truly strong person is one who is able to control himself when angry,” he told reporters here recently.

Luqman said haj mabrur is not merely about performing the pillars and conditions of the pilgrimage, but also requires the development of good character and purification of the soul.

According to him, many pilgrims focus on the technical aspects of the pilgrimage but are less aware that patience, tolerance and guarding one’s speech are also part of the spirit of haj.

“Haj mabrur is a haj accepted by Allah SWT and filled with acts of goodness. That is why maintaining good conduct is very important throughout one’s time in the Holy Land,” he said.

He said the haj teaches people humility as all pilgrims come in the state of ihram regardless of rank, status or wealth.

“In ihram, people leave behind all worldly pride and come solely for Allah SWT,” he said.

Meanwhile, he reminded pilgrims to increase their prayers, zikir and talbiah, especially during wukuf in Arafah, which is the pinnacle of the haj pilgrimage.

He said the period of wukuf should be fully utilised to draw closer to Allah SWT and seek forgiveness.

“Hopefully, pilgrims will leave Arafah not only with a valid haj, but with haj mabrur and return home with better character and conduct,” he said.

-- BERNAMA