Introduction to Umrah
Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage to the holy Ka’aba in Makkah, often referred to as the “lesser pilgrimage” compared to the obligatory Hajj. Despite being optional, it holds immense spiritual value. Muslims undertake Umrah to seek Allah’s mercy, purification of the soul, and forgiveness for their sins. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) emphasized the significance of this pilgrimage, stating that those who perform Hajj and Umrah are Allah’s honored guests.
The key rites of Umrah include:
- Ihram: Entering a sacred state.
- Tawaf: Circumambulating the Ka’aba.
- Sa’y: Walking between Safa and Marwa.
- Halq/Taqseer: Shaving or trimming the hair.
Before Leaving Home for Umrah
- Cleanse the Body: Remove hair from private areas and armpits, and trim nails.
- Perform Ghusl: A purification bath as a sign of readiness.
- Apply Perfume: Apply before donning Ihram.
- Niyyah (Intention): Make the intention to perform Umrah.
- Pray Two Rakat: Offer two Rakat for blessings before starting your journey.
Ihram: The Sacred State for Umrah
What is Ihram?
Ihram signifies a state of consecration where specific actions become prohibited for pilgrims.
- Men: Wear two unstitched white garments.
- Women: Wear loose, modest clothing.
Prohibitions During Ihram
- Using perfume.
- Cutting nails or hair.
- Engaging in marriage, proposals, or intimate relations.
- Harming animals.
- Arguing or sinning.
- Men covering their heads or women covering their faces.
- Picking up or taking items from the Haram.
Tawaf: Circumambulating the Ka’aba
Preparation for Tawaf
- Adjust Ihram to expose the right shoulder (Idtiba).
Steps for Tawaf
- Enter a state of wudu.
- Stop reciting Talbiyah upon reaching the Black Stone.
- Make Niyyah facing the Black Stone:
“Bismillahi Allahu Akbar Wa Lillah Hil Hamd.” - Begin circling the Ka’aba counter-clockwise, including the Hateem.
- After completing seven circuits, perform Istilam (touch or gesture toward the Black Stone).
- Pray two Rakat near Maqam-e-Ibrahim (optional).
- Drink Zamzam water as a blessing.
Sa’y: Walking Between Safa and Marwa
Sa’y involves walking and running between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times.
- Order of Sa’y: Performed after Tawaf.
- Dua: Face the Ka’aba and make Dua after completing the seventh round at Marwa.
Taqseer and Halq: Shaving or Trimming Hair
- Men: Shave their heads (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqseer).
- Women: Trim a lock of hair about one inch or more.
Conclusion: Completing Umrah with Devotion
Umrah is a spiritually enriching journey, enabling Muslims to renew their faith and draw closer to Allah. By observing the prescribed steps—Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’y, and Halq/Taqseer—pilgrims can fulfill this act of devotion in alignment with the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
May Allah accept your efforts and grant you the blessings of this sacred pilgrimage.