Nigeria- An Islamic scholar from Iwo, Dr. Sirajudeen Bilaal Al Asrau, is urging Hajj pilgrims to prioritize sincerity in their worship, rather than showing off. He warned that displaying wealth or status could diminish or even invalidate their religious rewards. Dr. Al Asrau, who also directs Inaayatullahi Travels and Tours Limited, shared this crucial advice during a daily lecture for pilgrims in Makkah, Saudi Arabia.
The respected scholar specifically advised against fixing golden or silver teeth to signify having performed Hajj. He emphasized that such practices are not part of the sacred Hajj rites. Dr. Al Asrau also expressed disapproval of adding prefixes like "Alhaji" or "Alhaja" to pilgrims' names upon their return from the Holy Land.
He observed that many people resort to these gestures, like getting elaborate dental work, merely to signal that they've completed the Hajj. This, he cautioned, could ultimately reduce the spiritual benefits of their pilgrimage. Therefore, Dr. Al Asrau strongly advised all pilgrims to ensure their intentions are pure and solely for Allah before even embarking on their sacred journey. His message underscores the importance of humility and genuine devotion over outward displays in religious worship.