Lirboyo Cleric: If Performed Correctly, Hajj Will Eliminate Poverty
Translated from Indonesian, summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Indonesian Hajj pilgrims are expected to have a better experience in 2026 compared to previous years, according to KH Abdullah Kafabihi Mahrus of Lirboyo Islamic Boarding School.
- While overall improvements are noted, minor issues during the peak Hajj period in Armuzna still require attention.
- Mahrus emphasized that Hajj is a spiritual obligation, not a vacation, and performing it according to Islamic tenets can alleviate poverty and lead to a blessed end.
KH Abdullah Kafabihi Mahrus, a prominent figure at the Lirboyo Islamic Boarding School in Kediri, East Java, has expressed optimism about the upcoming Hajj pilgrimage in 2026. He believes the organization of the Hajj will be superior to previous years, attributing this to divine will.
Despite the anticipated improvements, Mahrus, who also serves as a supervisor for the Hajj organizing committee in Saudi Arabia, acknowledged that minor challenges persist, particularly during the peak Hajj period in Armuzna (Arafah and Muzdalifah). He stated that while significant issues have been avoided, attention to these smaller details is still necessary for future enhancements.
Year this Hajj, God willing, will be better than previous years
Mahrus underscored the spiritual significance of the Hajj, differentiating it from a recreational activity. He asserted that fulfilling the Hajj obligations in accordance with Islamic teachings can bring profound benefits. According to him, a properly performed Hajj can lead to the eradication of poverty for the pilgrim, grant a good end (husnul khatimah), and foster overall personal improvement in social and religious aspects.
His arrival at Soekarno Hatta Airport was met by the Indonesian Minister of Religious Affairs, Mohamad Irfan Yusuf. The minister highlighted the crucial role of religious scholars like Mahrus in ensuring that the Hajj pilgrimage for Indonesian pilgrims adheres strictly to Islamic law and principles. The scholars are tasked with overseeing the rituals to ensure they align with religious guidelines.
If haji is truly performed, it will benefit the person performing hajj and be accepted by Allah, then hajj will eliminate poverty
Originally published by Republika in Indonesian. Translated, summarized, and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.