Hajj: A Sacred Journey and the Modern Temptation of Vanity

Jelilat Omobolanle Olaniyan

Perfecting the fundamentals of Islam about fourteen centuries ago, Hajj became a conditional obligation for Muslims. Since its inception in 10 AH (632 CE) until the present times, it has stood as one of the world's most profound religious experiences, with an average of 2 million pilgrims participating in the annual exercise and reaching its peak of 2.4 million just in 2019 before the pandemic. Its origin can be traced back to Prophet Ibrahim, and the hajj is seen as an enduring testament to faith, sacrifice, and unity. Beyond being physical, its spiritual aspect is profound, seen in the immaculate dressing of the pilgrims, who, among other things, gather on the Mount of Arafat, where they stand in prayer and reflection, modelling a mini scene of the Day of Judgment.

In our mundane dispensation, Hajj teaches us a sense of unity and humility. The Muslim global community is represented there, from diverse cultures, speaking myriad languages, gathering in a singular expression of faith. All of those divisive variables, such as social status, political power, cultural differences, and economic standing, are not important on this day when all pilgrims humble themselves in the presence of their Lord, the Almighty Allah.

Yet, in today's digitally connected world, the Hajj is experiencing an unintended transformation, influenced by the tendrils of digital distractions and disruptions, with the omnipresent urge to share, document, and sometimes show off what is supposed to be a man-to-God affair.

Between Devotion and Display

Oozing from the bumps of modernity, the serene and introspective nature of Hajj is increasingly being challenged by the contemporary culture of social media. The urge to document every moment has seeped into this sacred practice, with smartphones capturing what should be intimate moments of worship and reflection. Today’s pilgrims do not only have the Quran in their hands and do not only busy themselves with ibadat. They also see a need to update their social media community on their activities in the exercise.

Truly, sharing one's experiences may not be entirely wrong. Social media can spread awareness, provide real-time updates to loved ones, and even inspire others to undertake the pilgrimage. But when the motivation shifts from sharing to showing off, the essence of Hajj is diluted. The sacred pilgrimage risks being reduced to just another event to be showcased on Instagram or Facebook, complete with hashtags and filters.

The Selfie Stick Dilemma

One issue with the modern hajj exercise vis-a-vis technology is the dilemma of the selfie stick. What was once an accessory reserved for tourists at the Eiffel Tower has now found its way into the holy sites of Makkah. Pilgrims snapping selfies in front of the Kaaba, or even during Tawaf, is not an uncommon sight in today’s hajj exercise. While capturing memories is a natural human desire, the act of prioritising the perfect selfie over the spiritual act can be seen as a symptom of a deeper issue: the shift from worship to vanity. Imagine the logistics of managing a selfie stick while trying to keep up with the crowd during Tawaf. It’s an absurd image, one that would be laughable if it weren't indicative of a broader cultural shift. Pilgrims, caught up in the moment of sharing their journey, might miss the profound personal moments that the Hajj is meant to inspire. As a matter of fact, it may quickly facilitate the invalidation of one’s hajj as such a pilgrim would have the tendency to push other pilgrims and protect their coverage tools,

From Humility to Hashtags

The tradition of Hajj emphasises humility, simplicity, and a break from worldly possessions. Pilgrims don simple garments (Ihram) to symbolise a state of spiritual purity and equality before the Almighty Allah. But the influx of social media into this sacred space introduces a paradox: a practice designed to foster humility and introspection metamorphosing into a medium to seek attention and validation. People now cover their moments and even tag their online public community so they do not miss their posts. There are even tales of pilgrims engaging in mini-photoshoots, posing in carefully curated angles to ensure they look their best while performing rituals. There are also instances of branded Ihram garments and luxury Hajj packages that cater to the affluent, turning a journey meant to strip away materialism into a showcase of wealth and status.

The Pilgrim’s Paradox: Seeking Validation in Solitude

The pilgrimage to Makkah is traditionally a time for personal reflection and spiritual growth. It is a period to introspect on the different challenges that culminate into the whole exercise, aiming to increase piety and Allah’s consciousness. Hajj is essentially used to draw people closer to Allah and appreciate His diverse creations. Yet, the constant urge to document and share can detract and distract one from the immersive experience. Pilgrims, instead of finding solitude and spiritual solace, might find themselves constantly checking their phones for engagements and ensuring they stay connected to their online audience. The irony is stark. While carried away by obsession with seeking validation from others, we move further away from the core purpose of Hajj, which is to seek validation and forgiveness from Allah. This paradox is a modern challenge, one that requires a delicate balance between the benefits of connectivity and the sanctity of personal worship.

A Call for Balance

Technology has no doubt contributed immensely to the modern age. It has enhanced numerous things, including religious matters. Focusing on the hajj in particular, it can connect pilgrims with their loved ones, offer support networks, and provide a platform for sharing the beauty and significance of the pilgrimage. While trying to leverage technology for a better living, we must be careful to separate shafts from grains when it comes to religious matters. We must particularly maintain the spiritual integrity of Hajj. Pilgrims should be encouraged to be present at the moment and prioritise their spiritual journey over digital documentation. The evolution of Hajj in the digital age offers broader lessons for our interconnected world. It highlights the tension between tradition and modernity, between spiritual depth and surface-level engagement. It challenges us to find balance in our own lives and to seek moments of genuine connection in an era of constant connectivity.

Conclusion: A Modern Reflection on an Ancient Practice

The Hajj pilgrimage remains one of the most significant spiritual journeys in the world. Its essence, rooted in humility, sacrifice, and unity, continues to inspire millions of Muslims and even non-Muslims in the global world. However, as with all aspects of modern life, it is not immune to the influence of technology and the culture of social media. The modern pilgrim faces the challenge of balancing the desire to share with the need for spiritual immersion. By acknowledging the temptations of vanity and striving to maintain the sacredness of the journey, pilgrims can ensure that the true purpose of Hajj — spiritual purification and connection with Allah — remains at the forefront.