How Umrah is Done
Introduction to Umrah
Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage to Mecca that holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims worldwide. While it is not an obligatory duty like Hajj, it is highly recommended and carries great rewards. The word Umrah means "to visit a populated place," and in Islamic terms, it refers to visiting the Holy Kaaba and performing specific rituals.
For many believers, performing Umrah is a life-changing experience. It purifies the soul, strengthens faith, and grants an opportunity for supplication in the holiest of places. Unlike Hajj, which has a specific time frame, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. However, it follows a structured process that every pilgrim must adhere to.
Importance of Umrah
1. A Spiritual Cleansing
Performing Umrah is seen as a means of spiritual purification. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, "The performance of Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed between it and the previous one." (Sahih al-Bukhari)
2. Following the Sunnah
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed Umrah multiple times, making it an important Sunnah act for Muslims who can afford it.
3. Strengthening Faith
Standing in front of the Kaaba, engaging in Tawaf (circumambulation), and making Dua (supplications) create a deep connection between the pilgrim and Allah.
4. Equal Rewards as Jihad for Some
The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) mentioned that for women, elderly, and weak individuals, performing Umrah is equivalent in reward to participating in Jihad.
5. Removing Poverty and Hardships
One of the most inspiring benefits of Umrah is the promise of eradicating poverty. The Prophet (PBUH) encouraged frequent Umrah, stating that it removes sins and poverty just as a furnace removes impurities from iron.
How Umrah is Done – Step-by-Step Guide
Performing Umrah requires specific steps that every pilgrim must follow. Below is a detailed step-by-step guide:
1. Preparation and Intention (Niyyah)
Before embarking on Umrah, one must make the intention (Niyyah). This includes a sincere commitment to performing the pilgrimage for the sake of Allah.
2. Entering the State of Ihram
Ihram is a state of spiritual purity that every pilgrim must enter before starting Umrah. It involves:
- Wearing the Ihram garments: Men wear two white unstitched clothes, while women wear modest Islamic dress.
- Reciting the Talbiyah: "Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik..." to announce the beginning of the pilgrimage.
3. Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba)
Upon arriving at the Masjid al-Haram, pilgrims perform Tawaf around the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction. During Tawaf, pilgrims recite supplications and prayers, asking for Allah’s mercy and forgiveness.
4. Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwah)
After completing Tawaf, pilgrims proceed to perform Sa’i, which involves walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. This act commemorates Hajar’s search for water for her son, Prophet Ismail (AS).
5. Hair Trimming or Shaving (Tahalul)
The final step of Umrah is trimming or shaving the hair. Men typically shave their heads, while women trim a small portion of their hair.
6. Completion of Umrah
After cutting their hair, pilgrims exit the state of Ihram, marking the completion of their Umrah.
Features of Umrah
- Flexible timing: Unlike Hajj, which has fixed dates, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year.
- Spiritual benefits: It cleanses sins, increases faith, and brings pilgrims closer to Allah.
FAQs About How Umrah is Done (FAQs)
Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage that can be performed anytime, whereas Hajj is obligatory once in a lifetime and must be done during specific Islamic months.
Yes, children can perform Umrah, but they must be accompanied by a guardian.
Yes, entering the state of Ihram is mandatory before starting Umrah.
Yes, you can perform Umrah on behalf of a deceased or physically unable person.
There is no limit, but it is recommended to perform one Umrah per visit to Mecca
Pilgrims recite Dua, Talbiyah, and other supplications while performing Tawaf.
Women require a Mahram (male guardian) to perform Umrah unless permitted under new travel policies.
Off-peak months like Shawwal, Muharram, and Rajab are ideal to avoid crowds.
If a mandatory step is missed, it must be completed before leaving Mecca.
No, using perfumes is prohibited while in Ihram.
Conclusion
Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that brings countless blessings. It involves Niyyah, Ihram, Tawaf, Sa’i, and hair trimming, each step carrying immense significance. At Alraheem Travels, we specialize in offering affordable Umrah and Hajj packages tailored to your needs. Whether you are a first-time pilgrim or an experienced traveller, we ensure a hassle-free experience with our expert guidance.
Contact us today for a free consultation and let us help you embark on your spiritual journey with ease!
