and be granted success—namely, success in attaining a righteous Hajj and a blessed journey. There are many etiquettes involved, some obligatory and others recommended. By way of example rather than exhaustive listing, I mention the following:

1. He should perform istikhara (seeking Allah’s guidance) regarding the time of departure, the means of transport, the travel companion, and the choice of route when several routes are available; and he should consult people of experience and righteousness. As for the very act of Hajj, it is goodness beyond doubt. The procedure of istikhara is to pray two units of prayer and then recite the reported supplication (1).

2. The pilgrim or ʿumrah-goer must intend by his Hajj and ʿumrah the Face of Allah Most High and nearness to Him. He must beware of intending worldly gain, boastfulness, the pursuit of titles, or ostentation and reputation, for such motives nullify the deed and bar its acceptance. Allah the Exalted said: “Say, ‘Indeed, my prayer, my rites of sacrifice, my living and my dying are for Allah, Lord of all the worlds; He has no partner. This is what I have been commanded, and I am the first of those who submit.’” (2) And He said: “Say, ‘I am only a human being like you; it has been revealed to me that…’”