What does hajj mean?
The hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, performed by Muslims during Dhu al-Hijjah, the final month of the Islamic lunar calendar. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam, and Muslims who are physically and financially able are expected to undertake it at least once. The journey includes ritual acts such as circling the Kaaba and gathering at Arafat. In English, “hajj” normally refers to the pilgrimage as a whole rather than to an individual traveler; “haji” or “hadji” more often denotes someone who has completed it. The word carries strong religious and cultural associations, suggesting devotion, endurance, preparation, and the shared experience of pilgrims from many nations. Although its vocabulary is specialized, the hajj is widely known because it brings millions of Muslims to Mecca each year and has a central place in Islamic history. Outside explicitly religious contexts, it is best used with that meaning in mind rather than as a casual synonym for any journey.
nounThe hajj is the annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca, undertaken by Muslims during the month of Dhu al-Hijjah. It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is required once for those who are physically and financially able.
- The annual Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca performed by Muslims during Dhu al-Hijjah, especially as one of the Five Pillars of Islam.
"She saved for years to make the hajj."
"She saved for years to make the hajj."
"The hajj is obligatory for Muslims who are able to undertake the journey."
The plural is uncommon and can refer to people who have made the hajj, though “someone who has performed the hajj” may be clearer in context.
"The account offers advice to hajjis preparing for the journey."
The hajj brings millions of Muslims to Mecca each year, making it one of the world's largest recurring gatherings.
Reviewed by Deb Chak, Editor. AI-assisted content curated by RJS Tech Solutions LLP.
Where does hajj come from?
English borrowed hajj from Arabic ḥajj, meaning “pilgrimage,” particularly the Islamic pilgrimage to Mecca. The Arabic noun is connected to a root associated with undertaking a pilgrimage or journey to a sacred place. Related forms include Arabic hājjī, “one who has made the pilgrimage,” reflected in English hadji and haji, and hijrah, “migration,” whose historical background includes the Prophet Muhammad's departure from Mecca.
How hajj is actually used
Usually capitalized when referring to the pilgrimage, though lowercase is common in general prose. It is a specialized religious term rather than a general synonym for any journey or pilgrimage.
Easily confused with hajj
A hijrah is a migration, especially the Prophet Muhammad's historic migration from Mecca to Medina, whereas a hajj is the pilgrimage to Mecca.
A hajj is the pilgrimage itself, while a haji or hadji is a person who has completed it.