Living Quran

Surah Al-Hajj (The Pilgrimage)

Al-Hajj means "The Pilgrimage," referring to the annual pilgrimage to Mecca that is one of the surah's central themes.

Al-Hajj is the 22nd surah of the Quran, most commonly classified as Medinan, though some scholars regard portions as Meccan. It contains 78 ayahs. The surah takes its name from its extended treatment of the pilgrimage rites, including the historical call to pilgrimage associated with the Prophet Abraham and the site of the Sacred House. Its subject matter is unusually varied for a Medinan surah, opening with a vivid warning about the upheaval of the Last Hour and moving through reflections on resurrection, the stages of human creation, and signs in the natural world. It addresses permission for the believers to defend themselves, the sanctity of God's symbols, and the ethics of sacrifice. The surah repeatedly contrasts sincere devotion with hollow or wavering faith, and closes with an appeal to worship, perseverance, and reliance on God.
Surah number
22
Revelation
Medinan
Ayahs
78
Arabic
الحج

Read Surah Al-Hajj online — full Arabic text with the Pickthall English translation.

Main themes

  • The Day of Judgment and resurrection
  • The rites and history of the pilgrimage
  • Signs of God in creation
  • Permission for self-defense
  • Sincere versus wavering faith
  • Devotion, sacrifice, and God's sacred symbols

Why this surah matters

Al-Hajj holds a distinctive place as a surah blending Meccan-style themes of resurrection with Medinan concerns of community and struggle. It is widely noted for containing verses of prostration (sajdah) recognized in various scholarly traditions, and for its foundational references to the pilgrimage. Many Muslims value it for its powerful imagery of the Last Day and its call to steadfast worship. Its themes of devotion and God-consciousness make it a frequent point of study, though specific rulings are matters addressed within the schools of law.

Frequently asked questions

Is Surah Al-Hajj Meccan or Medinan?

It is most commonly classified as Medinan, though some scholars hold that certain verses were revealed in the Meccan period. Its blend of themes is often noted as unusual.

Why is it named "The Pilgrimage"?

The name comes from its extended treatment of the pilgrimage to the Sacred House in Mecca, including the historical call to pilgrimage and the rites associated with it.

What is notable about its structure?

It uniquely combines Meccan-style themes such as resurrection and the Last Hour with Medinan themes of community, defense, and worship.

Read Surah Al-Hajj

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