Pilgrimage of heart; My unplanned journey to Makkah

By Fatumah Mustapher

Some journeys are not planned; they are calls we are destined to answer. My pilgrimage to the holy cities was one such journey. Without months or years of preparation, I found myself on my way, ready to embrace the spiritual transformation that awaited.

The unplanned journey, guided by Allah, was led by faith rather than logistics. With just two weeks to the departure date for the January 2024 Umrah, I felt an inner calling to set my Niyyah (intention) for the pilgrimage. Within my heart, a question echoed; ‘Why not seize this opportunity to perform Umrah?’

I looked around for quick options, and a relative who had previously been to the holy cities, referred me to Makkah – Madinah Hajj Services that promptly arranged for my travel. The mood for the journey had set in, everything unfolded swiftly, with modest preparations but unwavering faith.

From the amazing Prince Mohammad bin Abdul-Aziz international airport, Madinah, to the Prophet’s city of peace and reflection, every moment felt divine. The city’s peace and tranquil felt almost surreal.
Upon entering the revered Masjid al-Nabawi, the Prophet’s Mosque, an indescribable feeling enveloped me, inviting self-reflection on life’s choices and Allah’s guiding presence.
In the sacred Rawdha, I felt an unparalleled moment of grace. My heart beamed with joy at every thought of the Hadith where the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Between my house and my pulpit lies a garden from the gardens of Paradise.” Here I was, seated in one of the most precious places on earth. Alhamudulillah!

Touring the historical sites in the Madinah area, I was captivated by the remarkable story of Bir-al Shifa, a well transformed by our noble Prophet’s miracle. Its once bitter and salty water now offers healing properties, quenching both physical and spiritual thirst.

At Uhud, the Prophet’s teachings resonated deeply. I grasped the significance of participating in funeral processions and praying for the departed. Gazing up at Mount Uhud, I realized the abundance of rewards I would miss by neglecting this duty. Attending funeral prayers has become a steadfast commitment for me.
In Makkah, responding to the divine call amidst the sounds of the Talbiyah; “Labayika Allahuma labayik…” overwhelmed me with awe. The Kaaba, a symbol of unity, reminded me that despite our differences, we share a common purpose. The Tawaf, the back-and-forth walk between Safah and Mar’wah among other rituals humbled me. I surrendered and allowed the experience to reshape my inner-self, reminding me of the humility and devotion that form the core of our faith.