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What is Umrah?

What is Umrah?

What is Umrah?

 

Umrah, meaning "visit" in Arabic, is an important act of worship in Islam. It involves entering the state of Ihram, performing Tawaf (circumambulating the Kaaba), completing Sa'i (walking between Safa and Marwa), and finally shaving or trimming the hair to exit Ihram. Though it resembles Hajj, the main difference is that Umrah can be performed anytime throughout the year, except on the days of Arafah and Eid al-Adha.

Hajj is obligatory during the month of Dhul-Hijjah, whereas Umrah is considered Sunnah in the Hanafi and Maliki schools, and mandatory in the Shafi'i and Hanbali schools. Those who perform Hajj are called Hajjis, while those who perform Umrah are referred to as Mu'tamirs (pilgrims).


Conditions and Steps of Umrah

Umrah consists of two essential pillars (Fard):

  1. Entering Ihram (A mandatory condition)

  2. Performing Tawaf (A fundamental pillar)

Additionally, Sa’i and shaving/trimming hair are obligatory (Wajib) acts of Umrah.

The steps of performing Umrah:

  • Entering Ihram: Pilgrims must enter Ihram from one of the designated Miqat boundaries, where they must wear the special white clothing.

  • Making the intention (Niyyah): Once in Ihram, pilgrims make their intention and enter Masjid al-Haram while reciting Talbiyah, Takbir, and Salawat.

  • Performing Tawaf: Pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba seven times and then pray Tawaf prayer.

  • Performing Sa'i: Walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa seven times (four trips forward, three trips back).

  • Shaving or trimming hair: After completing Sa’i, men shave or trim their hair, and women cut a small portion, marking the completion of Umrah.

Unlike Hajj, Umrah does not include the Arafat stay, Mina, Qudum Tawaf, Manasik, or Farewell Tawaf.

Significant Places to Visit During Umrah

During Umrah, many pilgrims visit sacred sites to enhance their spiritual journey. Some of these locations include:

  • Masjid Quba – The first mosque built for congregational prayers in Islam.

  • Masjid Jumu'ah – Located between Medina and Quba, where the Prophet (PBUH) led his first Jumu'ah prayer.

  • Masjid Qiblatain – The mosque where the Qibla direction was changed from Jerusalem to Mecca.

  • Mount Uhud & Martyrs' Cemetery – The site of the Battle of Uhud, where many Sahaba were martyred.

  • The Birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) – A historically significant site in Mecca.

Conclusion

Umrah is a spiritually rewarding journey that strengthens one's faith and brings immense blessings. While not obligatory like Hajj, it is a great opportunity to seek forgiveness, attain spiritual purity, and deepen one’s connection with Allah. Every Muslim who has the means is encouraged to undertake this sacred journey at least once in their lifetime.

 

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