Surah Al-Hajj — Verse 28

Word Meanings:

• لِّيَشْهَدُوا (liyashhadū): To witness, attend, or be present at.
• مَنَافِعَ (manāfi‘a): Benefits, advantages, or gains.
• أَيَّامٍ مَّعْلُومَاتٍ (ayyāmin ma‘lūmāt): Known/appointed days — specifically, the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah and the three days following it (the days of Tashreeq).
• بَهِيمَةِ الْأَنْعَامِ (bahīmatil-an‘ām): Grazing livestock — camels, cattle, and sheep/goats.
• الْبَائِسَ (al-bā’is): The one in severe distress and hardship; the destitute.
• الْفَقِيرَ (al-faqīr): The poor, the needy who has nothing.

Tafsir (Explanation):

This verse continues the divine instruction given to Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) to call mankind to the sacred pilgrimage of Hajj. Allah says that the purpose of this call is for the pilgrims to witness benefits for themselves — and what tremendous benefits they are! These include both religious and worldly gains: the forgiveness of sins, the immense reward for performing the rituals with sincerity, the unity of the Muslim ummah as they gather from every corner of the earth, and even the economic benefits of trade and commerce during the pilgrimage season. The believer who answers this call does not lose in either world — he gains in both.

Then comes the command to remember the name of Allah on known days — that is, when slaughtering the sacrificial animals (Hady) on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah and the three days after it. The pilgrim says "Bismillah, Allahu Akbar" as he slaughters the camel, cow, or sheep, thanking Allah for the provision He has granted. This act is not merely a ritual — it is a profound expression of gratitude, a declaration that all sustenance comes from Allah alone, and a living lesson in submission and obedience.

And then comes the beautiful social dimension of this worship: "So eat from them and feed the poor and the distressed." Allah, in His infinite mercy, does not leave the sacrificial meat to be wasted or hoarded. He commands the pilgrim to eat from it himself — for it is a blessing and a provision from Allah — and to share it generously with those who are suffering, those who are in extreme poverty and hardship. This is the spirit of Islam: worship is never separated from compassion, and devotion to Allah is always linked to kindness toward His creation.

Da‘wah Reflection:

Dear reader, look at the beauty of this verse! Allah invites you to a journey that cleanses your soul, forgives your sins, and fills your heart with peace — and at the same time, He teaches you to open your hand and your heart to those in need. This is the religion of balance: you stand before your Lord in humility, and you stand beside your brother in generosity. The Hajj is not just a personal spiritual retreat; it is a school of compassion, unity, and brotherhood. When you feed the poor and comfort the distressed, you are not just helping them — you are completing your own worship and drawing closer to Allah. So embrace this beautiful teaching, and let it transform your heart into a vessel of mercy and love for all of Allah's creation.