Can Umrah Be Performed on Behalf of Others?
Introduction to Umrah
Umrah is one of the most sacred acts of worship in Islam. It is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah, performed by millions of Muslims every year. While Umrah is not an obligatory religious duty like Hajj, it holds immense spiritual significance. It allows believers to seek forgiveness, gain closeness to Allah, and purify their souls.
Unlike Hajj, which has specific dates and is mandatory for financially and physically capable Muslims at least once in their lifetime, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. This makes it a more accessible form of worship for those who want to visit the House of Allah and seek His blessings.
Performing Umrah requires the pilgrim to enter a state of Ihram, perform Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba), Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah), and conclude with the act of Halq or Taqsir (shaving or shortening the hair).
The question that arises is whether Umrah can be performed on behalf of someone else. Many Muslims wish to perform Umrah on behalf of deceased loved ones or those unable to undertake the journey due to illness or other valid reasons. This article will provide detailed insights into this topic while addressing common concerns and questions related to the subject.
Can Umrah Be Performed on Behalf of Others?
Yes, Umrah can be performed on behalf of others, including deceased individuals and those who are physically unable to perform it themselves. This practice, known as "Umrah Badal," is widely accepted in Islamic teachings.
Conditions for Performing Umrah on Behalf of Someone Else
- The Person Performing Umrah Must Have Completed Their Own Umrah
- Before performing Umrah for someone else, the person must have completed their own obligatory Umrah at least once.
- The Intent (Niyyah) Must Be Clear
- The performer must make an intention (niyyah) before beginning the rituals, clearly stating that the Umrah is being performed on behalf of the other person.
- The Person on Whose Behalf Umrah Is Performed Must Be Eligible
- Umrah Badal is valid for deceased Muslims or those who are permanently unable to travel due to health conditions.
- The Performer Must Follow All Rituals Properly
- The individual performing Umrah on behalf of someone else must ensure that all steps are followed correctly as per Islamic guidelines.
Islamic Perspective on Performing Umrah for Others
Several hadiths support the concept of performing Hajj and Umrah on behalf of others. One of the most well-known hadiths states:
A woman came to the Prophet (PBUH) and said, "O Messenger of Allah, my father is very old and cannot perform Hajj or Umrah." The Prophet (PBUH) responded, "Perform Hajj and Umrah on his behalf." (Sunan Abu Dawood, 1810)
This hadith establishes a strong foundation for the legitimacy of performing Umrah on behalf of someone who is unable to do it themselves.
Steps to Perform Umrah on Behalf of Someone Else
- Make the Intention (Niyyah): Before entering Ihram, clearly state that the Umrah is being performed for the other person.
- Enter the State of Ihram: Wear Ihram clothes and recite the Talbiyah with the name of the individual for whom Umrah is being performed.
- Perform Tawaf: Circumambulate the Kaaba seven times while making du'as.
- Pray at Maqam Ibrahim: Pray two Rak’ahs behind the Maqam Ibrahim.
- Perform Sa’i: Walk between Safa and Marwah seven times.
- Complete the Umrah: Shave or trim the hair to conclude the Umrah.
Features and Benefits of Performing Umrah on Behalf of Others
- Spiritual Rewards: Performing Umrah for others brings immense rewards for both the performer and the intended individual.
- Fulfillment of a Religious Duty: Helps those who cannot travel fulfill their desire to perform Umrah.
- Strengthening Bonds: A beautiful way to honor deceased loved ones and gain blessings for them.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
No, Umrah can only be performed for one person at a time.
Yes, you can perform Umrah for deceased or living parents if they are unable to perform it themselves.
No, Umrah can be performed anytime throughout the year.
Yes, women can perform Umrah for others, following the same conditions.
If the person is alive, you should seek their permission before performing Umrah on their behalf.
Yes, you may perform Umrah for your deceased spouse.
Yes, if you cannot travel, you can hire someone trustworthy and pious to perform Umrah for you.
Make sincere intention (niyyah) and follow all the rituals properly.
Children are not required to perform Umrah, but a guardian can take them if they wish.
No, the rituals are the same for both.
Conclusion
Performing Umrah on behalf of others is a beautiful and rewarding act in Islam. Whether for a deceased loved one or someone who cannot travel due to illness, this practice ensures that more people can gain the blessings of visiting the holy city of Makkah. If you are planning to perform Umrah for yourself or someone else, Al Raheem Travels offers the best and most affordable Umrah packages in the USA. Our expert team will assist you at every step, making your spiritual journey smooth and fulfilling.
For more details and free consultation, contact Al Raheem Travels today and let us help you embark on this blessed journey.
