Umrah is one of the most loved demonstrations of love in Islam. Though not obligatory like Hajj, it carries immense spiritual significance. The journey to the holy city of Makkah offers Muslims the chance to renew their faith, seek Allah’s forgiveness, and earn abundant rewards. This article provides a comprehensive guide on the steps and rituals involved in performing Umrah, ensuring that each ritual is performed with proper understanding and devotion.
What is Umrah?
Umrah is a journey to Makkah that can be performed whenever of the year, not at all like Hajj, which has explicit dates. It consists of several rituals that are intended to cleanse the soul, purify one’s intentions, and bring the pilgrim closer to Allah.
Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Umrah
Before embarking on the journey to Makkah, it is essential to understand the key steps and rituals involved in Umrah.
1. Preparation and Entering the State of Ihram
Ihram is a sacrosanct condition of profound virtue and commitment that a Muslim enters prior to performing Umrah. It symbolizes a commitment to Allah and the observance of certain prohibitions.
Rituals for entering Ihram:
- Ghusl (ritual purification): It is recommended to perform ghusl before donning the Ihram attire. This ensures physical and spiritual cleanliness.
- Intention (Niyyah): The pilgrim must have the intention of performing Umrah, and it is highly recommended to recite the following:
- Labbayk Allahumma bi-Umrah (“I’m right here, O Allah, making Umrah”).
- Dress for Ihram: Men wear two white seamless cloths, one wrapped around the waist and the other covering the upper body. Women wear modest clothing that covers their entire body, except for the face, hands, and feet. Women should also refrain from using perfume during this state.
Quranic Reference:
- “Furthermore, take an arrangement, however to be sure, the best arrangement is dread of Allah.” (Quran 2:197)
2. Crossing the Miqat
The Miqat is the designated boundary around Makkah from which pilgrims must enter Ihram. Pilgrims must don their Ihram attire and make their intention before crossing this boundary. For those traveling by air, the Miqat is usually crossed just before landing.
3. Reciting the Talbiyah
The Talbiyah is an important prayer recited by pilgrims once they have entered the state of Ihram. Men recite it aloud, while women recite it softly:
Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk (“I’m right here, O Allah, I’m right here. You have no partner, here I am. Indeed, all praise, grace, and sovereignty are Yours. You have no partner.”)
This prayer signifies the pilgrim’s submission to Allah and readiness to perform the rituals of Umrah.
4. Entering Masjid al-Haram
Upon reaching Makkah, pilgrims enter Masjid al-Haram, the holiest mosque in Islam. It is Sunnah (recommended) to enter through the Baab Bani Shaibah (the Gate of Bani Shaibah) and enter with the right foot first. Upon entering, pilgrims recite the following Dua:
Allahumma hadha haramuka wa amnuka, fa-harrimni ‘ala-n-naar (“O Allah, this is Your sanctuary and security, so make me unlawful to the Hellfire, and make me safe from Your punishment on the Day You resurrect Your servants.”)
5. Seeing the Ka’bah for the First Time
Upon entering the mosque, pilgrims will first lay eyes on the Ka’bah. It is recommended to raise both hands in supplication, as it is believed that Allah accepts the duas made here. A common dua recited upon seeing the Ka’bah is:
Allahumma zid hādhā al-Bayt tashrīfan wa ta‘ẓīman wa takrīman wa mahābah (“O Allah, increase the honor, dignity, reverence, and awe of this House.”)
6. Performing Tawaf (Circumambulation)
Tawaf includes strolling around the Ka’bah multiple times in a counter-clockwise bearing. It is important to be in a state of wudu (ablution) before starting Tawaf.
- Starting Point: The Tawaf begins at the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad). Pilgrims try to kiss the Black Stone, but if that is not possible due to crowds, they raise their hand in a symbolic gesture and say Allahu Akbar.
- Initial Three Circuits (Raml): Men perform Raml (strolling energetically) in the initial three circuits, which is a Sunnah. Women walk at a normal pace.
During the Tawaf, pilgrims are encouraged to make dua, remembering Allah’s names and attributes. One of the supplications recited between the Yemeni corner and the Black Stone is:
Rabbanā atina fi-d-dunya hasanatan wa fi-l-ākhirati hasanatan wa qinā ‘adhāb an-nār (“Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”) (Quran 2:201)
7. Performing the Two Rak’ah at Maqam Ibrahim
After completing Tawaf, pilgrims pray two rak’ahs at the Maqam Ibrahim, a stone that holds the footprint of Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham). It is recommended to recite Surah Al-Kafirun in the first rak’ah and Surah Al-Ikhlas in the second rak’ah.
Quranic Reference:
- “Furthermore, assume from the standing position of Ibrahim a position of petition.” (Quran 2:125)
8. Drinking Zamzam Water
After praying, pilgrims proceed to drink Zamzam water, which is sacred water that comes from the well of Zamzam near the Ka’bah. It is recommended to make an intention for what you want from Allah, such as health, sustenance, or guidance, while drinking Zamzam water.
9. Performing Sa’i (Walking between Safa and Marwah)
Sa’i is the act of walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, located near the Ka’bah. The journey starts at Safa, where pilgrims make a supplication facing the Ka’bah, and ends at Marwah. Men are encouraged to run between the two markers, while women walk at a normal pace.
Quranic Reference:
- “For sure, Safa and Marwah are among the customs of Allah.” (Quran 2:158)
10. Shaving or Trimming Hair
After completing Sa’i, male pilgrims are required to shave their heads (Halq), while female pilgrims cut a small portion of their hair, roughly the length of a fingertip. This symbolizes the breaking of the state of Ihram.
11. Completion of Umrah
With the completion of Sa’i and the haircut, the rituals of Umrah are concluded. Pilgrims can now exit the state of Ihram and resume their normal activities.
Conclusion
Performing Umrah is a spiritually enriching experience for Muslims worldwide. By following the steps outlined above and performing each ritual with sincerity and devotion, one can hope to earn Allah’s blessings and forgiveness. The experience strengthens one’s faith and renews the connection with the Creator. Whether it is your first time or you are returning for a second or third pilgrimage, the significance of Umrah remains profound and transformative.
By understanding the rituals, and incorporating the relevant duas and Quranic verses into the performance, pilgrims can ensure they are following the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and fulfilling their duties with sincerity and faith.