Make Hajj a priority and plan early
“As we do plan for college fund for our kids, or retirement fund, we should be able to plan for Hajj too.”
Because Hajj is a central obligation and a transformative legacy of Ibrahim for anyone financially and physically able, Muslims should prioritize it, plan for it early, and use it to deepen remembrance of Allah.
The khutbah in 5 steps
- Opens with prayers for Gaza and concern over Pakistan, India violence, asking for mercy and peaceful resolution.
- Introduces Hajj as the fifth pillar and explains Ibrahim's ancient call that draws Muslims from across the world.
- Explains Hajj's obligation when a person has financial and physical capacity, along with its spiritual benefits.
- Warns against postponing Hajj until old age, using limited lifespan and rising costs to urge early planning and saving.
- Calls listeners to prioritize Hajj, remember Allah at Arafat and Muzdalifah, and pursue Umrah if Hajj is not yet possible.
In the khateeb's words
“It's very important that we, insha'Allah, if Allah has given us the capacity, make this as a priority.”
“The average lifespan of human being on this planet is 76.9 years.”
“As we do plan for college fund for our kids, or retirement fund, we should be able to plan for Hajj too.”
For the dinner table
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, and it becomes an obligation when a Muslim has the financial and physical ability to go. The khateeb reminded us not to postpone it indefinitely, because life is short and travel costs may keep rising. He encouraged families to plan and save for Hajj just as they plan for college or retirement, while staying healthy. During pilgrimage, Muslims should remember Allah and be grateful at Arafah, Muzdalifah, and Mina. If Hajj is not yet possible, he suggested considering Umrah and continuing to seek closeness to Allah.
- What is one important goal you would start planning for today if you remembered that life is short?
- How could our family prepare for Hajj together?
- What might it mean to be a guest of Allah?
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