Hajjat al-Wada wa Umrat al-Nabi

The importance of Hajj in Islam and the necessity for ordinary Muslims to acquire knowledge about its relevant issues have been discussed by various esteemed scholars in separate sections of their writings. Some scholars have even dedicated independent publications to shed light on the various aspects of Hajj, Umrah, and the rituals associated with it.[2] The obligatory Hajj was performed by the Prophet Muhammad only once in his lifetime, and there are variations in the narrations and events related to it, which opponents of hadith have used as a basis for criticism. During his teaching in 1924, Zakariyya Kandhlawi was inspired to write a treatise on the subject of the Farewell Pilgrimage, taking into consideration the significant Hadith and Fiqhi discussions surrounding it. Engaged in Hadith studies and driven by a desire to serve the Hadith, Zakariyya Kandhlawi authored this book on the Farewell Pilgrimage at the age of 27. The original book was completed within one day and one night, followed by the addition of annotations, explanations, and valuable information based on the author's personal experiences.[3]

Initially in draft form, copies of this treatise were obtained by many scholars. The idea of publishing it arose in 1971. However, due to illness, Zakariyya Kandhlawi was unable to read and write, so the assistance of Muhammad Aqil and Muhammad Salman was sought for typing and proofreading. After numerous additions, the book was first published in 1971 by Kitab Khana Biwi. It spans 209 pages. The second edition, in Arabic script, was published by Darul Uloom Nizamul Ulama, featuring a useful and scholarly introduction by Abul Hasan Ali Hasani Nadwi. The third edition, published by Darul Uloom Beirut, Lebanon, includes a research-based introduction by Yusuf Banuri, titled Al-Mani' Al-Ila Khasais Hajjat-ul-Wada'a. This edition comprises 20 pages.[4] Additionally, Zakariyya Kandhlawi later added information about the Umrah performed by the Prophet.[5] Pakistani scholar Yusuf Ludhianvi translated it into Urdu.[6]

Abul Hasan Ali Hasani Nadwi explains the book's style and writing approach, stating that its objective is to offer a comprehensive understanding of the subject's various aspects. The book is divided into two parts. The first part presents a description of Prophet Muhammad's Hajj, allowing readers to perceive the pilgrimage through their own insight and witness the performance of Umrah and Tawaf. It encompasses a wealth of information pertaining to the Farewell Pilgrimage, ultimately illuminating the true essence of Hajj and Umrah. The second part focuses on Prophet Muhammad's Umrah, elaborating on its significance, specific details, and procedures. It encompasses legal rulings, historical accounts, scientific insights, and in-depth hadith research related to Umrah. The book also addresses aspects such as the types of Ihram, the obligatory and recommended actions associated with Umrah, and provides an understanding of the boundaries in various directions. Moreover, it discusses the issues relevant to women in states of menstruation and postpartum bleeding, shedding light on diverse aspects of the Farewell Pilgrimage in a concise yet comprehensive manner.[6]

The book provides information about various destinations and their names, along with explanations of the changes that have taken place in these locations, drawing from the statements of scholars and the author's personal experiences. Additionally, it highlights an aspect of the book: the inclusion of quotations and the attribution of various opinions, particularly when presenting different religious perspectives. Moreover, the book pays homage to the significant contributions of early scholars and holds their esteemed positions in high regard. In expressing his own scholarly stance, the author maintains respect and reverence for these pioneers, displaying humility and deference.[3]

According to Riyaz Ahmad, a scholar from Aligarh Muslim University, this book is a highly comprehensive work in its field, encompassing the opinions of esteemed scholars and addressing all relevant issues. He describes it as an encyclopedia of Hajj.[7]

• Deobandi hadith studies
• Works of Zakariyya Kandhlawi

• Hajjat al-Wada wa Umrat al-Nabi at Internet Archive