ISLAMABAD: While over 1.5 million pilgrims gathered at Arafat on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah for the pinnacle of Hajj, the women of Makkah embraced their unique spiritual role through a centuries-old tradition known as the Day of Khullaif.
This powerful act of devotion sees local women filling the Holy Masjid al-Haram, ensuring that the heart of Makkah continues to resonate with prayer, service, and community care while pilgrims observe Waqf at Arafat.
Spiritual Guardians of the Holy Mosque
On the Day of Khullaif, women, children, and the elderly from Makkah gather at the Grand Mosque, performing Tawaf, offering supplications, and engaging in Umrah.
This symbolic participation carries deep meaning. The term Khullaif, derived from Takhalluf, refers to “those who stay behind,” a respectful nod to the residents who maintain the spiritual fabric of the city while the pilgrims complete their rites at Arafat.
Draped in traditional black abayas, women arrive with their families and transform the Mataf into a serene scene of unity and worship.
The women not only pray and perform religious rituals but also play vital roles in mosque maintenance—cleaning the sacred space and preparing it for the return of pilgrims.
Service, Fasting, and Acts of Compassion
Beyond worship, the Day of Khullaif is also a day of selfless service.
Women tend to the elderly, distribute food and water, and care for homes vacated by pilgrims.
Many observe fasting on this sacred day, reviving the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and share iftar meals with those around them, embodying the spirit of generosity.
This living tradition is a remarkable reflection of spiritual resilience and communal harmony, as the women of Makkah hold the city’s sacred rhythm in their hands during Hajj’s most critical moments.
