A Brief Guide On The Hajj For Kids

Hajj is the name given to the Pilgrimage made by millions of Muslims each year. This holy journey begins at Makkah Saudi Arabia and is given a significant relevance in the Islamic religion.

Every adult Muslim is required to make this pilgrimage at least once during their entire lifetime. The pilgrimage is performed during the Islamic month of Zul Hijjah which is also the last month of the Islamic calendar.

Now that we know about the significance that Hajj plays in the lives of Muslims. It’s time to take a look at its role in the lives of kids.

Can kids perform the Hajj? Should they embark on this holy journey with their parents as pilgrims? What are the Islamic rules and regulations regarding Hajj for kids?

To help you answer questions similar to these and more. We’re taking a closer look at Hajj for kids.

 

Read Also: Raising Children with Deen and Duniya

 

What should parents tell their children regarding Hajj for kids?

Since kids are at a growing age. It is important for the parents to teach valuable lessons about the pilgrimage during this era. They must remind their children that it is the biggest annual gathering in the world.

All physically and financially able Muslims must perform this journey every year. The main purpose of performing pilgrimage is to demonstrate the attribute of solidarity amongst the Muslim Ummah or population.

Can kids perform the Hajj?

As we mentioned previously. The pilgrimage can be thought of as a valuable lesson for children during their growing age. Anyone that is able to perform this righteous deed is considered to be blessed.

For many parents taking their children for Hajj is a wonderful opportunity to grant them an experience that they will remember for a lifetime. It can serve as great teaching about the significance that pilgrimage holds in the Islamic religion.

Kids may also simultaneously reap the rewards of this holy pilgrimage too. It is up to the parents whether they choose to take their kids but there is no obligation upon kids to perform the pilgrimage.

What is the minimum age limit for kids to perform Hajj?

There are certain religious facts to consider about this sacred journey. A Hadith of the Holy Prophet PBUH has been mentioned which states that children will be given the great rewards of performing the pilgrimage in their childhood.

At the same time. It should be mentioned that this does not eliminate the fact that children must perform the pilgrimage during their adulthood period. It will still be mandatory when they reach the adult stage of their life.

This is because the true understanding and performance of rituals cannot be comprehended by kids during their growing age.

Helpful tips of Hajj for kids

The following tips are useful when it comes to Hajj for kids:

• All necessary immunizations should be completed.
• Kids and their parents should be hydrated and their clothing should be light and airy.
• An inquiry should be made with facilitators regarding Hajj programs/activities for kids.
• Basic medicines for kids like cough syrup and pain killers must be taken to deal with unforeseen circumstances.