Some practices of first time pilgrims

Q: Certain habits which relate to pilgrims who go for their first Hajj are spread in our town. People call such a pilgrim "Surur" while their family practice some customs before and after Hajj.As for habits that people follow before the pilgrim's return from Hajj:1- Female relatives and neighbors of the pilgrim gather at the latter's home and have an evening of entertainment. They sing in a loud voice that may be heard by men. Not only that, but sometimes the foregoing involves free intermixing (of men and women) as well. (Part No. 2; Page No. 216) Such gathering takes place the night before the first day of `Eid-ul-Adha (the Festival of the Sacrifice) and two nights following it. This habit is called Al-Madrihah or Al-Durhah.2- A new bed is prepared especially for the pilgrim and used only by them.As for habits that people follow after the pilgrim's return from Hajj:1- Firing weapons as a manifestation of showing joy for the return of the pilgrim.2- Putting a green flag on the house of the pilgrim as a sign that they have returned safely.What is your opinion regarding the foregoing? Provide us with your beneficial answer please. May Allah reward you.

A: All these habits which are practiced before and after the arrival of the pilgrim are considered Munkar (acts which are unacceptable or disapproved of by Islamic law and Muslims of sound intellect). They are all Haram (prohibited) customs that Muslims are not allowed either to participate in or to accept. They are just acts of Jahiliyyah (pre-Islamic time of ignorance) that Muslims have to forbid and abandon, as it is reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Anyone who does an action which is not stated in this matter of ours (Islam) will have it rejected. May Allah grant us success. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions.