Umrah is a powerful act of Ibadat in Islam. It’s a chance for Muslims to refresh their faith and connect deeply with Allah (SWT). Umrah is a Sunnah performed in the holy city of Mecca. Without the month of Dhul-Hijjah, one can perform Umrah at any time of the year.
This sacred journey has two main aspects. One is spiritual and one is physical. Umrah is about cleansing oneself. Pilgrims perform rituals like Tawaf and Sa’i. Through these acts, they seek forgiveness and ask for inner peace. They surrender themselves entirely to Allah (SWT) leaving behind worldly distractions.
The acts of Umrah show humility and equality. Pilgrims wear simple white garments eliminating all the social differences. They walk between Safa and Marwa to show respect for the desperate search of Hagar (AS) for water. These acts strengthen the inner faith and help to gain a sense of rebirth. Umrah is a cherished opportunity to come closer to Allah (SWT) and return home with a renewed soul.
How Umrah Differs from Hajj?
Hajj and Umrah both are sacred pilgrimages to Islam's holy city Mecca. Both of these journeys are performed to seek blessings of the Almighty but there are some differences in these journeys.
- Hajj is wajib (obligatory) for all able-bodied Muslims who can afford it at least once in their lifetime. Umrah, on the other hand, is a sunnah (highly recommended practice) of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
- Hajj happens during a specific period in the Islamic calendar, the month of Dhul Hijjah. Umrah is performed throughout the year, except during these Hajj days.
- Hajj is a longer and more complex journey, taking about a week to complete its rituals. Umrah is a shorter pilgrimage, you can complete it within a few hours.
- Both involve circling the Holy Kaaba and walking between Safa and Marwa. However, Hajj has additional rituals like standing on the plains of Arafah and throwing stones at pillars.
Hajj is a major event of a Muslim’s life, a grand pilgrimage with specific timing. Umrah is a more flexible journey, a chance for spiritual renewal whenever you can manage it. Both bring Muslims closer to Allah (SWT) but in different ways.
About Two Holiest Sites of Islam
For all the Muslims, Mecca and Medina hold a special place. Each of the rituals plays a vital role in Islam's history and a Muslim's faith.
Mecca
Mecca, the holiest city, is like the spiritual heart of Islam. The city houses the greatest Mosque of Islam -Masjid Al-Haram. The Holy Kaaba, known as the House of Allah (SWT) on earth is also placed here. Muslims turn towards this Holy Kaaba five times a day to offer their Namaz, no matter where they are in the world. Every able-bodied Muslim dreams of coming here to the holy city to perform the sacred journey of Hajj and Umrah.
Medina
Medina, the second holiest city, is like another land where Islam was nurtured. It's where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) migrated with his followers during the Hijrah. Here, he established the first Muslim community and laid the foundation for Islamic society. Muslims call Medina the ‘City of Prophet’. It is the place where the Prophet's Mosque is located. Visiting Medina allows Muslims to pay their respects and learn more about the Prophet's life and teachings.
Both cities represent significant moments in Islamic history. Mecca signifies the beginning of and the core rituals of Islam. Medina reflects the formation of the Muslim community and the Prophet's guidance. Together, they remind Muslims of their heritage and inspire them to live their faith in all aspects of life.
How is the Treaty of Hudaibiyah connected with Umrah?
The Treaty of Hudaibiyah was a turning point in Islamic history, directly linked to the pilgrimage of Umrah. In 628 CE, after receiving Allah’s (SWT) command, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) set out for Mecca with his followers to perform Umrah. However, the Quraysh tribe, who controlled Mecca during the time blocked their entry, fearing the growing Muslim community.
Negotiations took place at Hudaibiyah, a place near Mecca. That year, Muslims did not perform Umrah and returned to Medina. However, a crucial point was secured then. They would be allowed to perform Umrah peacefully the following year. The treaty held great significance. It was a 10-year treaty between the community of Muslims and the Quraysh that brought peace and security. More importantly, it recognized the Muslim community as an important force.
The Treaty of Hudaibiyah proved to be a great move. It created space for Islam to spread peacefully, attracting new followers. By the following year, Muslims returned to Mecca for Umrah in greater numbers. It showed their growing strength and fulfilling their journey of faith. The treaty ultimately paved the way for a peaceful conquest of Mecca and the freedom for Muslims to perform Umrah freely.
How many times a Muslim can perform Umrah?
Umrah is one of the good deeds in the sight of the Almighty. A pilgrim can perform this journey more than once in life. In one of the Hadiths of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), he said that Umrah can be performed more than once. There is no issue in performing the holy journey several times.
How the Holy Kaaba was Created?
The building of the Holy Kaaba is a story passed down through generations in Islam. Muslims believe the Prophet Ibraham (AS) and his son Ismail (AS) were chosen by Allah (SWT) to build this special place.
A simple structure, like a box without a roof. That's what the Holy Kaaba is believed to have looked like at first. According to several references, Prophet Abraham (AS) received help from the Angel Gabriel, who showed him where to place the foundation stones.
As the story goes, Abraham needed some extra height to reach higher parts of the building. Miraculously, the very stones he was standing rose him up, allowing him to complete the structure. This special stone is now known as the Maqam Ibrahim, or "The Station of Abraham."
The Holy Kaaba has changed over time. Hundreds of years after Abraham, the ruling tribe of Mecca rebuilt it using wood and stone. They also added a roof and raised the door to prevent flooding. The color of the cloth that covers the building of the Holy Kaaba has also changed over the years. At present, the cloth (termed ‘Kiswa’) is black in color.
One important feature of the Kaaba is the Black Stone, a black meteorite believed by Muslims to be a gift from Allah (SWT). It's fixed firmly in the eastern corner of the building. While the Holy Kaaba itself may have changed, the Black Stone and the Maqam Ibrahim are considered remnants of the original structure that Prophet Abraham (AS) and Ismail (AS) had built.
History and Significance of the Black Stone
The Black Stone or the Hajar al-Aswad, a revered object in Islam, is believed to have come from paradise. As per the most supported beliefs, it was gifted to Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim) by Allah (SWT) to be placed on the Holy Kaaba. Originally it was white in color. Some narrations say it turned black absorbing the sins of humanity.
Muslims believe prayers made near the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad) are more likely to be accepted by Allah (SWT). On the Day of Judgement, it's said the stone will speak and testify to the faith of those who touched it.
The Black Stone holds a special place in history. When the Holy Kaaba was being built, a single stone was needed to complete the structure. Miraculously, a white stone appeared, believed to be brought by the angel Gabriel (Jibreel). Over time, the stone broke into pieces. It is now placed inside a silver case on the eastern corner of the Holy Kaaba.
Millions of Muslims travel to Mecca each year, hoping to see and touch the Black Stone. It's a reminder of the Kaaba's origins and a way to connect with Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) actions. Kissing the Black Stone isn't an obligation, but a cherished act of love and respect for Allah (SWT) and Islamic tradition.
Different Acts of Umrah
Umrah is a beautiful journey of Imaan, but to get the most out of it, one must make proper preparations. Here's a brief description of the main acts of Umrah.
- Entering Ihram: This is the first thing to do. You'll need to be in a pure state and wear special, simple garments called Ihram clothes. Men wear two white sheets, while women wear loose-fitting clothing that covers their entire body. In Ihram, certain actions like arguing or applying perfume are restricted.
- Tawaf: This is one of the most important acts of Umrah. Here, pilgrims circle the Holy Kaaba anti-clockwise, seven times. While circling, pilgrims make Dua (supplications) and raise their hands in devotion to Allah (SWT).
- Sa'i: Next comes Sa'i, a walk between the sacred hills inside the Grand Mosque - Safa and Marwa. This honors Hagar's (AS) search for water for her son Ishmael (AS). Pilgrims walk briskly back and forth seven times, reflecting on Hagar's Imaan and trusting Allah (SWT).
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Halq/Taqsir: This final act signifies the end of Ihram. Men shave their heads completely or cut hair, while women cut a lock of hair. This symbolizes letting go of worldly concerns and surrendering only to Allah (SWT).Throughout Umrah, maintaining a respectful and mindful approach is very necessary. This means being good with fellow pilgrims, focusing on Ibadat and Dua, and keeping your Niyyah (intentions) pure. Remember, proper preparation is essential for a smooth and fulfilling Umrah. Explore our detailed guide to learn the steps in depth and embark on a transformative spiritual experience.
Consider These Things Before Your Journey
- Verify that your passport will still be valid six months after you return. Also, get a valid Umrah visa.
- Check if vaccinations are required for Saudi Arabia and get them updated. You may consider having travel insurance for extra safety.
- Pack comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to manage in the hot region. Don't forget prayer clothes and Ihram garments.
- Choose Umrah dates outside the Hajj season. Also, prefer comfortable weather because Mecca can get very hot in summer.
- Set a proper budget for flights, accommodation, meals, and any extras you might want. Else, you can opt for a reliable Umrah travel agency. Research currency exchange rates beforehand.
- Look for flights that land in Jeddah or Medina, the closest major airports to Mecca.
- Choose a hotel close to the Grand Mosque (Masjid al-Haram) for convenience. Consider facilities like prayer areas and air conditioning.
Maintaining Positivity During Umrah
Before you go, decide what you hope to gain from Umrah. Is it forgiveness? Growth in your faith? To strengthen your connection with Allah (SWT)? Knowing your goals can guide your experience.
- In warm weather, drink plenty of water to stay hydrated throughout your pilgrimage.
- Umrah is a special time to connect with Allah (SWT). Put away your phone and focus on your prayers and rituals for a richer experience.
Conclusion
As you know, Umrah offers a powerful opportunity to renew one’s faith and deepen the connection with Allah (SWT). In this blog, we shared a detail about Umrah and some important aspects related to Islam. However, there is much more to know about the journey. By setting clear intentions for your journey, staying physically prepared, and minimizing distractions you can make a better spiritual focus. Thank you for investing your precious time this guide. Now, take the first step towards a transformative experience – plan your Umrah journey today.
