LAHORE: Pakistan Ulema Council, Dar-ul-Ifta Pakistan and the International Tazeem-e-Haramain Sharifain Council on Sunday have issued a comprehensive code of conduct for Hajj and Umrah pilgrims, urging strict adherence to Saudi regulations and preservation of the sanctity of the holy sites.
The guidelines were announced at a press conference in Lahore led by Chairman of the Pakistan Ulema Council and Secretary General of the International Tazeem-e-Haramain Sharifain Council, Hafiz Muhammad Tahir Mehmood Ashrafi, along with prominent scholars and religious leaders.
Addressing the gathering, Ashrafi emphasized that pilgrims must respect the sanctity of the Two Holy Mosques and fully comply with the rules and regulations issued by Saudi Arabia’s Ministry of Hajj and Umrah.
He said performing Hajj without a valid permit is both religiously impermissible and illegal, urging those residing in Saudi Arabia to avoid undertaking Hajj without official authorization.
The scholars advised pilgrims to acquire complete knowledge of Hajj and Umrah rituals before departure to avoid difficulties during the holy journey. They stressed that Saudi Arabia continuously strives to facilitate pilgrims, and it is therefore obligatory for visitors to cooperate with authorities and follow the prescribed code of conduct.
Pilgrims were also urged to avoid engaging in political activities during Hajj and not to become part of any such efforts, warning that such actions could disrupt the peaceful environment of the holy sites.
The code further cautioned against booking travel through unregistered or unauthorized Hajj and Umrah operators, including informal online groups.
Highlighting the spiritual essence of Hajj and Umrah, the scholars advised pilgrims to purify their intentions solely for the sake of Allah Almighty and avoid actions driven by showmanship, including unnecessary photography and videography during acts of worship.
They stressed the importance of patience, humility and discipline throughout the pilgrimage, reminding pilgrims that hardships are part of the journey and enduring them brings greater reward.
Pilgrims were encouraged to remain engaged in remembrance of Allah, recitation of Durood Sharif and Talbiyah, especially during travel delays or crowded situations.
The scholars urged pilgrims to strictly follow the instructions of their group leaders, particularly during movement between Mina, Arafat and Muzdalifah, and to avoid haste that could lead to accidents.
Special guidance issued by scholars for women, the elderly and the sick regarding rituals such as Rami al-Jamarat should be followed, they added, emphasizing that Islam provides ease and concessions which should be utilized.
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