Hajj is deeply imbued with spiritual significance, serving as a profound act of renunciation of worldly pleasures and a return to a state of purity and devotion to God. Pilgrims leave behind their daily lives, material comforts, and personal indulgences to embark on a journey of faith and self-discipline. The rituals of Hajj, such as donning simple white garments (Ihram), abstaining from certain activities, and engaging in acts of worship and reflection, symbolize a stripping away of worldly distractions. This temporary abandonment of the material world allows pilgrims to focus entirely on their relationship with Allah, seeking forgiveness, spiritual renewal, and a deeper understanding of their faith.

     This spiritual dimension of Hajj is intrinsically linked to Prophet Muhammad's Hijrah, the migration from Mecca to Medina. The Hijrah marked a turning point in Islamic history, representing a physical and spiritual journey of leaving behind a life of persecution and hardship in pursuit of a community founded on faith and righteousness. The Prophet (peace eb upon him) said, "Actions are (judged) by motives (niyyah), so each man will have what he intended. Thus, he whose migration (hijrah) was for the sake of God and His Messenger, his migration is to God and His Messenger; but he whose migration was for some worldly thing he might gain, or for a wife he might marry, his migration is to that for which he migrated" [Bukhari and Muslim]. Similarly, Hajj is a pilgrimage that requires Muslims to undertake a physical journey while also embracing a profound inner transformation. Just as the Prophet's Hijrah was an act of faith and commitment to a higher purpose, Hajj is a manifestation of a pilgrim's devotion and willingness to renounce worldly pleasures for the sake of spiritual growth and closeness to Allah. Through this parallel, Hajj serves as a reminder of the enduring importance of sacrifice, faith, and the pursuit of a life aligned with Islamic principles.

Given that this journey is filled with spiritual significance, it is our duty to strive to preserve its sanctity, especially in this age of social media. This can be achieved by using these platforms responsibly and wisely to share our experiences with others, spread Islamic knowledge, and convey messages of faith and piety to inspire others to perform this great pilgrimage. Additionally, we should share positive messages that promote a sense of brotherhood and equality between the rich and the poor worldwide, rather than boasting about performing the pilgrimage or exploiting the sacred sentiments for advertising and marketing purposes to gain some material benefits.

     Between reality and virtually, there are attempts to strip this sacred journey of its spiritual essence, as it has been surrounded by more crises and negative phenomena. A new phenomenon has emerged, which we might call "Hajj Blogger," sparking widespread debate about the ethics of Hajj and the increasing challenges facing this great pilgrimage.

Using a phone's camera during the Hajj is a topic of significant discussion with various perspectives. On one hand, taking photos and videos can distract pilgrims from the spiritual essence of Hajj, which is intended to be a time of deep reflection, prayer, and connection with God. Pilgrims are encouraged to be fully present in the moment, focusing on their prayers and rituals rather than capturing them on camera. God Almighty says, " And whoever honors the symbols of Allah, it is certainly out of the piety of the heart" (Quran 22: 32).

The sacred sites, such as the Kaaba, Masjid al-Haram, and Masjid al-Nabawi, require a high level of respect and decorum, and constant photography can be seen as disrespectful and interfere with the worship experience of others. Many Islamic scholars advise against excessive use of cameras during Hajj, suggesting that it detracts from the spiritual atmosphere and can turn a holy journey into a tourist-like experience. However, some scholars allow limited use of cameras for capturing memories, emphasizing moderation and discretion. From a safety perspective, using a camera can contribute to crowd congestion and potential hazards, as pilgrims need to concentrate on performing the rites correctly and safely. Sharing photos and videos on social media may breach the privacy of other pilgrims and could be contrary to the humble and sincere nature of the pilgrimage if the intention is to show off. While some pilgrims may want to document their experience for personal memories, it is crucial to balance this desire with the primary purpose of Hajj. Alternative methods like keeping journals or taking occasional photos in less crowded areas can help preserve memories without disrupting worship. Ultimately, using a phone’s camera during Hajj should be approached with caution, respect, and a focus on the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage.

     In conclusion, combining the philosophy of Hajj with that of Hijrah offers a profound reflection on the cyclical nature of faith and spiritual growth in Islam. Hajj, occurring at the end of the Islamic year, symbolizes a culmination of a pilgrim’s spiritual journey, embodying sacrifice, devotion, and renewal of faith. It serves as a moment of reflection, purification, and a recommitment to living a life aligned with the principles of Islam. Conversely, Hijrah, marking the beginning of the Islamic year, signifies a fresh start, embodying the themes of migration, transformation, and the pursuit of a better life in accordance with God's guidance. Together, they represent a continuous cycle of spiritual striving and renewal. As Hajj concludes the year, it leaves believers with a sense of fulfillment and readiness for new beginnings, while Hijrah encourages them to embark on a new chapter with renewed purpose and determination. This harmonious interplay between the end of one spiritual phase and the beginning of another underscores the perpetual journey of faith, growth, and dedication in the life of a Muslim.