The Umrah, is a journey of spiritual purification and devotion, allowing believers to seek closeness to Allah and renew their faith. In this article, we will explore the essential Umrah guidelines that every pilgrim should be aware of before embarking on their Umrah journey.
Umrah Guidelines
First of all, we will talk about the rituals of Umrah:
Firstly, Ihram
The state of Ihram is a sacred state that pilgrims enter before performing Umrah. It involves wearing special garments for men and adhering to a specific code of conduct.
Men wear two white seamless clothes, while women can wear their usual modest attire. It is crucial to enter the state of Ihram before reaching the designated Miqat point.
To perform Ihram follow these Steps:
- Make the intention (niyyah) for Umrah and state it out loud.
- Take a ritual bath (ghusl) to purify yourself.
- Wear the Ihram garments, which consist of two white seamless cloths for men. Women can wear their usual modest attire.
- Men should wrap one cloth around their waist, covering the lower body. The other cloth is thrown over the left shoulder, leaving the right shoulder bare.
- Women do not need to make any specific changes to their clothing, but they should ensure it is modest and covers their bodies appropriately.
- Make the intention (Niyyah) for Ihram, Learn more with our guide of Niyyah for Ihram.
Secondly, Tawaf
Tawaf is the circumambulation of the Kaaba, the sacred cube-shaped structure in the Masjid al-Haram in Mecca. Pilgrims perform seven rounds of Tawaf, starting from the corner of the black stone, known as the Hajar al-Aswad. It is customary to begin Tawaf from the right side and to maintain a respectful demeanor throughout the ritual.
Tawaf Steps:
- Approach the Kaaba, and upon reaching the corner where the black stone (Hajar al-Aswad) is located, if possible, touch or kiss it. If not, raise your hand towards it and say:
“In the name of Allah, Allah is the greatest”
بسم الله، الله أكبر
- Start Tawaf by facing the Kaaba and making the intention (Niyyah) for Tawaf.
- Begin walking around the Kaaba in a counterclockwise direction, ensuring the Kaaba is always on your left side.
- Maintain a moderate pace and recite supplications or Quranic verses as desired.
- Upon completing each round, touch or point towards the black stone (Hajar al-Aswad) if possible, or raise your hand and say:
“In the name of Allah, Allah is the greatest”
بسم الله، الله أكبر
- Continue this process for a total of seven rounds, ending the Tawaf at the black stone.
Thirdly, Sa’i
After completing Tawaf, pilgrims proceed to perform Sa’i. Sa’i involves walking briskly between the hills of Safa and Marwa, emulating the actions of Hajar, the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (pbuh).
Here are the Sa’i Steps:
- Proceed to the hills of Safa and Marwa, located within the Masjid al-Haram.
- Start at the hill of Safa and ascend it, facing the Kaaba.
- Recite the supplications (Explore More Here)
- Descend from Safa and walk towards the hill of Marwa.
- Upon reaching Marwa, ascend it, face the Kaaba, and repeat the same supplications.
- Complete seven rounds of walking between Safa and Marwa, starting from Safa and ending at Marwa.
Note That:
Pilgrims perform seven rounds of Sa’i, starting from Safa and ending at Marwa.
Lastly, Halq or Taqsir
After completing Tawaf and Sa’i, men have the option to either shave their heads (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqsir). Women, on the other hand, are encouraged to trim a small portion of their hair. This act symbolizes the completion of Umrah and the release from the state of Ihram.
Shaving or trimming the hair marks the completion of Umrah and the release from the state of Ihram.
Umrah Guidelines | Prohibitions
- Firstly, Cutting nails and hair:
While in the state of Ihram, pilgrims are prohibited from cutting their nails or hair. This restriction applies to both men and women until they complete their Umrah rituals.
- Secondly, Perfume usage:
The use of any scented products, including perfumes, lotions, or scented soaps, is not allowed during the state of Ihram.
- Thirdly, Intimate relations:
Engaging in any form of intimate relations or sexual activity is strictly forbidden during the state of Ihram.
- Lastly, Hunting
Hunting or killing any animals within the boundaries of the Haram (sacred precincts) is prohibited.
FAQs
Q1: Can I perform Umrah at any time of the year?
A1: Umrah can be performed throughout the year, except during the Hajj season. However, it is advisable to check for any travel restrictions or recommended times from your local mosque or travel agency.
Q2: Can I combine Umrah with my Hajj pilgrimage?
A2: Yes, it is possible to combine Umrah with Hajj. This is known as Hajj al-Tamattu or Hajj al-Qiran.
However, specific guidelines and additional rituals apply when combining the two pilgrimages.
Q3: Is it necessary to have a Mahram (male guardian) for women to perform Umrah?
A3: According to Islamic teachings, it is strongly recommended for women to have a Mahram accompany them during the pilgrimage. However, some scholars permit women to travel in groups with a trustworthy and responsible group leader.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Umrah is a blessed opportunity for Muslims to purify their souls, seek forgiveness, and strengthen their connection with Allah. By adhering to the Umrah guidelines mentioned above, pilgrims can ensure a smooth and spiritually enriching Umrah experience. It is essential to approach this pilgrimage with utmost reverence, humility, and respect for the sacred rituals and prohibitions associated with Umrah.
