Embarking on their sacred journey of Hajj 2023, Japanese pilgrims share their profound insights on the meaning of Hajj as a transformative experience. Leave behind worldly possessions and responsibilities to immerse yourself in a divine connection with God. Join us as we delve into the stories of these Japanese pilgrims and their awe-inspiring encounters during this spiritual pilgrimage.
"Hajj means to leave everything behind, such as money and responsibilities, just to spend time with God," expressed Japanese pilgrims on their transformative journey to Hajj 2023. The Saudi Center for Government Communication (CGC) had the privilege to capture their inspiring narratives.
Almas Choji, a Japanese Muslim, embarked on her first Hajj this year after learning about Islam from a fellow Muslim working in a food company. Their discussions on Islamic details and halal food kindled a curiosity within her.
Reflecting on her delayed Hajj, Choji shared, "I got married four years ago, and my Mahr was a trip to Hajj. However, due to the spread of the COVID-19 pandemic, we had to postpone it."
The grandeur of the Grand Mosque in Makkah left Choji awestruck. Despite having seen numerous pictures of the mosque online, witnessing its magnificence in person exceeded her wildest imagination.
Choji discovered a striking similarity between the tent city of Mina, one of the world's largest tent cities, and the tourist camps in Japan. Hajj became an avenue for self-discovery and reconciliation.
Saema Honda, another Japanese Hajj pilgrim, experienced the sheer scale and splendor of the Holy Site as she ascended the escalators. Comparing the picturesque mountain features to Mina, Honda marveled at the progress and services now available at the site.
Hajj not only encompasses performing rituals; it serves as a meeting ground for individuals from all corners of the globe. Honda shared her joy in connecting with people and forming bonds, even with face masks concealing their expressions.
"It's an incredible feeling to find familiarity among a group of people without even seeing their faces," Honda exclaimed, cherishing the happiness derived from such connections.
Murama Tsuguku, a Japanese Hajj pilgrim, recounted her journey towards embracing Islam. Overwhelmed by the call to prayer (Adhan) and the sense of liberation it evoked in her heart, Tsuguku decided to delve deeper into the study of the Islamic faith.
For Japanese pilgrims, Hajj symbolizes a departure from worldly attachments, providing an opportunity to commune with God on a profound level. Their encounters with the Grand Mosque, the tent city of Mina, and the diverse pilgrims they met along the way shaped their spiritual journey. These tales of transformation and newfound connections serve as a testament to the profound impact of Hajj on the hearts and souls of those who embark on this sacred pilgrimage.
