Going in Jamaat (also known as Khurooj in the Path of Allah) involves traveling together in a small group of Muslim brothers, typically ranging from 3 to 10, to a Masjid or specified location. During this time, members engage in Da’wa (inviting others to Islam), Ta’leem (teaching and learning), Ibadah (prayers) and Khidma (service). Khidma (service) generally refers to cooking and cleaning works for the Jamaat. Jamaat members takes turn doing Khidma.
The entire Khurooj program serves as a religious program aimed at self-improvement through these activities.
Why go in Jamaat?
Going out in Jamaat is one of the most spiritually uplifting journeys one can undertake in this day and age. Alhamdulillah, many brothers have experienced a profound revival in their Iman (faith in Allah) through these trips. In a world where people are losing faith in Allah, humanity, and hope itself, going in Jamaat is one of the best ways to rekindle faith in Allah SWT, the highest power.
The average number of people in a Jamaat varies between countries, but a Jamaat of 7 members is generally considered a standard size.
Jamaat Durations
Jamaat durations are set by Mashwara (consultation with a Shura). Typical durations for Jamaats are:
- 1-day Jamaat
These Jamaats are exclusive for high school / university students. Note: There is nothing wrong if student wants to spend more than a day. - 3-day Jamaat
This is the best Jamaat for first timers. These Jamaats are typically stay in nearby Masjids for the weekend. Working professionals may have difficulties taking Fridays off from work and may start on Friday evening, making the Jamaat 2-days rather than 3-days. It is encouraged to spend 3 days if possible. - 10-day Jamaat
These Jamaats are typically organized during public/work holidays. They may travel to a slightly further location. It is typically organised for professionals who are unable to take 40 days off from work. It is also a typical Jamaat during Ramadhan. - 40-day Jamaat
These are standard long Jamaats. These Jamaats would typically travel to different states within their own country or nearby countries. - 2-month Jamaat
These are Jamaats that travel to distant countries. The standard duration is 4 months but some times due to certain limitation. or distant states within one’s own country. This is the longest allowed duration for Masturat (ladies Jamaat). - 4-month Jamaat
These are Jamaats that travel to distant countries. Members going 4 months for the first time are encouraged to go to Pakistan or Bangladesh to learn the movement there where it is more established. - 7-month Jamaat
These are special arrangements for Pakistani Foreign Jamaats established by Maulana Yusuf (the second Ameer of Tabligh). - 1-year Jamaat
These are special Jamaats organised for the Ulema (Islamic Scholars). Ulema who finished their studies are encourage to spend Jamaat for this duration.
Jamaat Activities
Hidayat Bayan
The Hidayat Bayan (Talk) is the starting point of a Jamaat. It is the first activity in a Jamaat. It is a ‘Briefing/Instruction’ talk given before a Jamaat goes out in the Path of Allah. The person giving the Hidayat Bayan is generally appointed by Mashwara.
A Jamaat starts by gathering all participants at an agreed time and location, typically a Tablighi Jamaat Markaz.
This talk Hidayat Bayan outlines what the Jamaat should do and reminds them of the dos and don’ts while in the Jamaat especially the 12 Usools (12 Dos and Donts in a Jamaat).
Deciding where the Jamaat should go (if it has not been decided)
After the Hidayat Bayan, if the destination has not been decided, the local Zimmedar or Shura will determine where the Jamaat should go. Some Markazs have a ‘Tashkeel Jamaat’ which determines where the Jamaat should go to. They will present this destination to the deciding Zimmedar. Depending on the suitability of the Jamaat (financially, experience-wise, etc.), the Zimmedar will decide the route. This route is often called the ‘Tashkeel’ place/route
Appointing the Ameer
Next, an Ameer (leader) for the Jamaat will be appointed. Each member will give their opinion on who should be the Ameer, and a Shura or local Zimmedar will make the final decision.
Once appointed, the Ameer will first consult (do Mashwara) with other members on what to do next. Preparations for the journey and the expenses each person should contribute are typically discussed here.
Travelling to the place of Tashkeel
Once preparations are finalized, the Jamaat will then journey to the place of Tashkeel (the destination). It is important for the Jamaat to travel collectively unless absolutely necessary.
Staying at the place of Tashkeel
Depending on the local Mashwara, a Jamaat will typically stay at the place of Tashkeel for 2 to 4 days, with 3 days being the standard duration.
The place of stay may not necessarily be a Masjid, as some Masjids do not allow overnight stays. In such cases, the Jamaat may:
- Stay at a nearby Masjid that allows accodomation.
- Stay at a local brother’s house, provided there are no women in the house.
- Rent a house or stay in a hotel.
- Pitch a tent (typical in remote areas).
Activities during Jamaat
Daily activities in a Jamaat can be categorized into four main activities:
- Da’wah (Inviting others)
This includes daily visits and Gasht (public Da’wah) - Taleem Taalum (Teaching and Learning)
This includes individual reading (during Infiradi/individual time) or the daily 2.5 hours collective Taleem using the approved books. - Zikr and Ibadat
This encompasses all collective and individual prayers, recitation of the Quran, and daily Zikr. Tahajjud (night prayers), although optional, are highly encouraged in Jamaats. - Khidma (Serving others)
This involves serving, cooking, and cleaning for the Jamaat.
These activities are part of the 12 Usool, a simple rule of conduct for members participating in Jamaats.
Returning back
Upon finishing the allocated time, a Jamaat will typically return to the Markaz or their local Masjid, depending on what has been decided.
Before they leave, they will receive the Wapsi Bayan (returning home instructions). This Wapsi Bayan is primarily aimed at reminding members that although they are returning home, their duty for Da’wah does not end. They are encouraged to continue the 5 Amaals (practices) back at home.
Items to bring in Jamaat
The most effective Jamaats are Jamaats that are self sufficient, independent and do not put burden on the local brothers at the place of their Tashkeel.
This is very important when going to places where the local effort is weak.
Group/Shared
- Cooking equipment
- Serving equipments (Plates, pots, ladle, Sufra, etc)
- Transport (if possible)
Individual
See: Complete list of items to bring in Jamaat
Jamaat Expenses
Jamaat expenses are borne by the Jamaat members themselves. Members spend their own money. Although this could seem very expensive, especially when Jamaats travel overseas, it is somewhat miraculous how Allah SWT makes these travels easy. Many Masjids worldwide allow Jamaats to stay, which in itself is a miracle.
What if someone does not have enough money to go in Jamaat?
If a person wishing to go in Jamaat does not have the financial means to travel overseas, it is best that he joins local Jamaats. InshaAllah, with his patience and cry for not being able to travel, this will be the means of Hidaya (Guidance) all over the world.
Jamaat members should not ask for donations or borrow money to meet their financial requirements. The best approach is to ask from Allah SWT. We have countless stories of how Allah SWT miraculously resolves the financial constraints of a person wanting to go in Jamaat.
