Introduction
The spiritual journey of Umrah holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. It is an act of devotion that brings immense rewards, including the expiation of sins and the promise of Paradise for a Hajj Mabrur. Performing Umrah during Ramadan carries exceptional merit, likened to performing Hajj alongside the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The Essentials of Umrah
The rites of Umrah consist of four key components:
- Entering the state of Ihram
- Performing Tawaf around the Ka'bah
- Completing Sa'ee between Safa and Marwah
- Shaving or clipping the hair
Step-By-Step Guide To Perform Umrah:
1. Entering the State of Ihram & Masjid Al-Haram
- Prepare by entering Ihram:
- Men wear two seamless cloths.
- Women wear their regular, modest attire.
- Recite the Talbiyah and proceed to Masjid Al-Haram, preferably through Bab as-Salam.
- Enter with the right foot and offer supplications.
- Upon the first glimpse of the Ka'bah, recite "La ilaha illallah, Allahu Akbar" three times, offer Salawat upon the Prophet, and make personal supplications.
2. Performing Tawaf of Umrah
- Perform Iztaba (for men) by placing the upper sheet of Ihram under the right arm and over the left shoulder.
- Make the intention (Niyyah) for Tawaf facing the Hajar-e-Aswad.
- Perform Istilam by kissing, touching, or gesturing towards the Hajar-e-Aswad.
- Circumambulate the Ka'bah counter-clockwise seven times.
- During the first three rounds, men should perform Ramal (walking briskly with short steps).
- Recite supplications throughout Tawaf and ensure you circle around Hatim, not through it.
- Upon reaching Rukn Yamani, touch it if possible, and recite the supplication between Rukn Yamani and Hajar-e-Aswad.
- After completing seven rounds, perform Istilam again.
- Offer two Rak'ahs of Nafl behind Maqam Ibrahim. if you want to learn Namaz online, then join Awwal Quran today.
- Make supplications at Multazam and drink Zamzam water while reciting the appropriate supplication.
3. Completing Sa'ee Between Safa & Marwah
- Perform Istilam of Hajar-e-Aswad once more.
- Proceed to Safa and make the intention (Niyyah) for Sa'ee.
- Recite the prescribed verses and supplications while facing the Ka'bah.
- Walk towards Marwah, reciting supplications along the way.
- Men should run between the green pillars, while women walk at a normal pace.
- Upon reaching Marwah, repeat the supplications recited at Safa.
- Complete seven rounds, ending at Marwah.
- Offer two Rak'ahs of Nafl in Al-Haram if it is not a forbidden time.
4. Shaving or Clipping the Hair
- Men should either shave their heads or clip their hair.
- Women should clip a small portion of their hair.
- With this, the Umrah is complete.
Nafl Tawaf & Visiting Madinah
- Nafl Tawaf can be performed without Ihram, Ramal, Iztaba, or Sa'ee.
- Visiting Madinah to offer Salam at the Prophet's (peace be upon him) Mosque is highly recommended.
- Offering 40 prayers in Masjid-un-Nabawi holds immense reward, with each prayer equaling the reward of one Hajj.
Conclusion
Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual experience that purifies the soul and strengthens one's connection with Allah. By following these steps with sincerity and devotion, one can ensure a fulfilling and accepted Umrah. May Allah grant all believers the opportunity to embark on this blessed journey and accept their acts of worship. Ameen.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Q: Can women wear jewelry during Ihram?
A: Yes, women can wear jewelry during Ihram, provided it does not attract undue attention.
Q: Is it permissible to use scented soaps or lotions during Ihram?
A: No, scented soaps or lotions are not permissible during Ihram.
Q: Can I perform Umrah on behalf of someone else?
A: Yes, Umrah can be performed on behalf of someone deceased or unable to perform it themselves.
Q: What is the significance of Zamzam water?
A: Zamzam water is blessed and has healing properties. Drinking it is a Sunnah.
Q: What if I forget a step during Umrah?
A: Consult with a knowledgeable scholar or religious guide for clarification and guidance.
Q: What is the best time to perform Umrah?
A: Umrah can be performed anytime, but performing it during Ramadan is especially virtuous.
