Fahmida Choonara | fchoonara@radioislam.co.za
18 May 2023 | 14:00 CAT
2 min read

Photo Credit: SAHUC

With the month of Hajj only a few weeks away, Ebrahim Abed, who has performed Hajj on many occasions, was the perfect guest for this week’s profile.

He embarked on his first Hajj journey in 1977 and joined the Sabahul Muslim team to discuss his incredible life.

His journey began more than 45 years ago when he left to study Arabic in Makkah, Saudi Arabia, where he became attached to the blessed lands and made dua that he would return many times more.

Looking back, he said that in the older days, the Arabs were hospitable and welcoming to the Hujjaj, whereas today, the experience has become expensive and commercialised.

Annually, he ensured that he was financially ready to embark on the journey. Over the last fifteen years, he has been associated with Khimatul Awam, a travel agency allowing him to visit at any opportunity.

Looking back over 46 years, he said watching the hujjaj, who have come from all corners of the world, busy with rituals within the precincts of the Haram, those who have saved over the years to make the journey warm his heart and fills him with gratitude.

In his work as a guide during the Hajj, he passionately responded that serving the Hujjaj was a wonderful experience.

Speaking on the experience of days gone by to today, he says most Hujjaj don’t experience much difficulty but have very high expectations.

Years ago, the crowds were less dense, which made the pilgrimage easy, but with the large numbers now, many rules and restrictions have been put in place, which takes away from the experience. He cited the touching and kissing of “The Black Stone”, hanging on to the Mutazam and performing salah in the Hatim.

His parting advice for those embarking on the Hajj journey is to be well-prepared, stay with the groups and Ulama they accompany and ask questions when needed.

Listen to the full interview with Sulaimaan Ravat on Sabahul Muslim here