Realization of "Political Hajj": A Strategy for the Unity of the Islamic Ummah

he President of the International University of Islamic Denominations, in an interview with Tasnim News Agency, elaborated on the political and strategic dimensions of this great Islamic obligation and emphasized the need for a wise utilization of Hajj’s potential to strengthen the unity of the Islamic Ummah.Dr. Mohammad Hadi Fallahzadeh stated that Hajj is not only a personal act of worship but also a social and civilizational phenomenon, adding: “The realization of 'political Hajj' does not mean the misuse of religion for political purposes, but rather the wise use of the collective capacities of this ritual to counter division and enhance the cohesion of the Islamic Ummah.”

He noted that one of the obstacles to achieving political Hajj is selfish desires and extremist, divisive tendencies, adding: “Those who, with personal or factional motives, damage the unity of the Islamic Ummah are acting against the divine goals of Hajj. Unity is one of the fundamental messages of Abrahamic Hajj.”

Warning against emotional and slogan-driven approaches, Dr. Fallahzadeh emphasized: “Turning Hajj into a battleground for political and factional disputes or exploiting it to promote division and extremism is a betrayal of its philosophy. We must, through religious wisdom, social awareness, and by avoiding emotionalism, transform Hajj into an opportunity for convergence.”The President of the International University of Islamic Denominations also stressed the important role of education and awareness-raising for pilgrims before their departure, stating: “If pilgrims are familiar with the goals, messages, and various dimensions of Hajj, they can act as ambassadors of unity in the Islamic world. Today, more than ever, we need a rational, unifying, and civilization-building Hajj.”He concluded by emphasizing the responsibility of scholars and academics in this regard: “Universities, seminaries, and religious centers must, through research, education, and proper explanation, pave the way for the realization of an ethical political Hajj and stand against distortions and misinterpretations.”