Umrah is a beautiful and sacred act of worship for Muslims. It is often called the "lesser or minor pilgrimage" because it is not obligatory like Hajj. However, it holds immense spiritual significance and can be performed at any time of the year.
If you are planning your first Umrah, this guide will help you every step of the way.
What is Umrah?
Umrah is a pilgrimage to Makkah. It involves performing specific rituals that bring you closer to Allah. Unlike Hajj, it is not a compulsory act of worship, but it is highly recommended in Islam.
The purpose of Umrah is to cleanse your soul, seek forgiveness, and connect with Allah on a deeper level. It is a chance to leave behind worldly distractions and focus entirely on your faith.
Difference Between Hajj and Umrah
Although both Hajj and Umrah are acts of worship performed in Makkah, they differ significantly in terms of obligations, timing, and rituals.
1. Timing
Hajj: Performed only during specific days in the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah, from the 8th to the 12th.
Umrah: Performed at any time of the year, making it more flexible for pilgrims.
2. Obligation
Hajj: A compulsory pillar of Islam for all Muslims who are financially and physically capable.
Umrah: A voluntary act that is not obligatory but carries immense blessings and rewards.
3. Rituals
Hajj: Includes more extensive rituals such as the Day of Arafat, stoning the Jamarat, and sacrificing an animal.
Umrah: Has fewer rituals, primarily involving:
a. Entering Ihram: A state of purity and intention.
b. Tawaf: Circumambulating the Kaaba.
c. Sa’i: Walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
d. Halq or Taqsir: Shaving or trimming the hair.
4. Duration
Hajj: Takes several days to complete and involves extensive travel between sacred sites in Makkah, Mina, Arafat, and Muzdalifah.
Umrah: Can usually be completed in a few hours or a single day.
Learn in detail the key differences and beautiful similarities between Hajj and Umrah—click here to explore the full blog!
Preparing for Your Journey
Preparation is key to a smooth and fulfilling Umrah experience. Here’s how you can get started:
1. Booking Flights and Accommodation
a. Choose reliable travel agents who specialise in Umrah packages.
b. Book accommodation close to the Haram to save time and energy.
2. Packing Essentials
Prepare a checklist to ensure you don’t forget anything important.
a. Ihram: The white, seamless cloth worn during Umrah (for men). Women can wear any modest clothing that covers them properly.
b. Toiletries: Unscented soap, shampoo, and other essentials.
c. Comfortable footwear: Walking is a significant part of Umrah.
d. Travel documents: Passport, visa, and ID copies.
Visit Riwaya to find all your Umrah travel essentials, including compact prayer mats, prayer beads, and Dua books!
3. Learning the Steps of Umrah
Study the rituals in advance and familiarise yourself with the duas (supplications) and practices. This will help you feel confident during the pilgrimage.
4. Preparing Spiritually
a. Perform a sincere intention (niyyah) for Umrah.
b. Repent for past sins and seek forgiveness from Allah.
c. Learn the etiquettes of Umrah and practise patience and humility.
For a more detailed guide on how to prepare yourself for Umrah, give our previous blog a read!
A Simple Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Umrah
Now let’s go through the steps of performing Umrah.
1. Ihram: Entering the State of Purity
Ihram is the sacred state you enter before starting Umrah. It symbolises purity and equality before Allah.
For men: Wear the two white pieces of cloth known as Ihram.
For women: Wear loose, modest clothing that adheres to Islamic guidelines.
Make your intention (niyyah) for Umrah by reciting:
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ عُمْرَةً
“Labbaik Allahumma Umrah”
Translation: “O Allah, I respond to Your call for Umrah.”
Start reciting the Talbiyah:
لَبَّيْكَ اَللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ – لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ – إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ – لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ
“Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik La Shareeka Laka Labbaik, Innal Hamda, Wan-Ni'mata, Laka Wal-Mulk, La Shareeka Laka.”
Translation: "Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Surely all praise, blessings, and dominion belong to You. You have no partner."
2. Ihram Guide for International Travellers
If you’re travelling internationally, entering Ihram requires some preparation:
Before Departure:
a. Pack Ihram clothing in your hand luggage.
b. Cleanse yourself by performing Ghusl (ritual bath) and trimming your nails and hair.
During Your Journey:
a. Change into Ihram before crossing the Miqat (the boundary around Makkah). This can be done in an airport near the Miqat or the aeroplane washroom. For flights heading directly to Jeddah, which is within the Miqat, ensure you are already in Ihram before landing.
b. Listen for Miqat Announcements: Airlines usually announce when you’re approaching the Miqat. Be ready to enter Ihram at that time.
c. Make Your Intention (Niyyah) and start reciting the Talbiyah as you cross the Miqat.
At the Miqat:
a. Ensure you’re already in Ihram if flying over the Miqat.
b. If travelling by road, use the designated facilities at airports or rest stops to change and make Niyyah.
3. Tawaf: Circling the Kaaba
Tawaf is one of the main rituals of Umrah.
a. Begin at the Hajar Al-Aswad (Black Stone). If you can’t touch it, point towards it and say:
“Bismillah Allahu Akbar”
Translation: “In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest”.
b. Walk around the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction and make duas or recite Quranic verses as you perform Tawaf.
c. After completing Tawaf, offer two rak’ahs of prayer near Maqam Ibrahim (if possible).
4. Sa’i: Walking Between Safa and Marwah
Sa’i is the act of walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
a. Begin at Safa. Face the Kaaba and recite:
“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah…”
(Quran 2:158).
b. Walk to Marwah while making duas.
c. Repeat this seven times, ending at Marwah.
5. Halq or Taqsir: Completing the Rituals
The final step is to symbolically remove a part of your hair.
For men: Shave your head (halq) or trim it (taqsir).
For women: Cut a small portion of hair, about a fingertip's length.
With this, your Umrah is complete!
Essential Tips for Beginners
Performing Umrah for the first time can feel overwhelming. Here are some tips to make it easier:
1. Stay Calm in Crowds
The Haram is often crowded, especially during peak times. Stay patient and avoid pushing others.
2. Drink Plenty of Water
Walking in the heat can be exhausting. Stay hydrated by drinking Zamzam water, which is available throughout the Haram.
3. Plan Your Day
Perform rituals at less crowded times, such as early morning or late at night.
4. Learn Common Duas
Keep a small booklet of duas or memorise a few. Use this time to make heartfelt supplications.
Explore Riwaya for travel-friendly compact Dua books, perfect companions for your Umrah journey!
5. Stay Focused on Your Intentions
Remember, Umrah is about seeking Allah’s pleasure. Avoid distractions like excessive shopping or sightseeing.
Conclusion
Umrah is a life-changing journey filled with spiritual rewards. It helps you reconnect with Allah, cleanse your soul, and gain countless blessings.
Whether you are performing Umrah for the first time or the tenth, always remember the importance of sincerity and humility. Let this journey transform your heart and bring you closer to your Creator.
May Allah accept your Umrah and grant you the strength to perform it with ease and devotion. Ameen.
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