AL Makkah

The Arabic term ‘Umrah stems from the word I‘timar, meaning a visit. In Islamic terminology, ‘Umrah refers to a pilgrimage to the Ka’bah, involving Tawaf (circumambulation) around the sacred structure, followed by walking between Safa and Marwah seven times. After completing these rituals, the pilgrim exits the state of Ihram by shaving or trimming their hair. Unlike Hajj, ‘Umrah can be performed at any time throughout the year without a fixed schedule.

Key Rituals (Pillars) of ‘Umrah

1. Ihram: The state of sacred purity assumed at the Meeqat (a designated point).
2. Tawaf: Seven circuits around the Ka’bah.
3. Sa’y: Seven circuits between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
4. Tahal-lul: Exiting the state of Ihram by cutting or shaving the hair.

Unlike Hajj, ‘Umrah does not involve visiting Mina, ‘Arafat, Muzdalifah, throwing pebbles at the Jamarat, or offering animal sacrifices.

Steps to Perform ‘Umrah

1. Entering Ihram at Meeqat

When reaching the Meeqat (a point at which pilgrims must declare their intention for pilgrimage), it is recommended for both men and women to take a bath, including those who are menstruating or experiencing postnatal bleeding. Men should apply perfume to their head and beard but not their Ihram garments. If bathing at Meeqat is not possible, it can be skipped. Men must change into the two pieces of cloth called the Izar (for the lower body) and the Ridaa’ (for the upper body). Women can remain in their regular clothes but should not wear a Niqab (face veil) or gloves. They may use their headscarf or a separate cloth to cover their faces if needed. Upon entering Ihram, the pilgrim declares their intention for ‘Umrah, (Niyyah: Make the intention to perform Umrah). Recite Talbiyah: saying: “Labayka ‘Umrah” or “Allahumma labbayka ‘Umrah,” which marks the beginning of the pilgrimage. The first pillar of ‘Umrah, Ihram, involves making the intention in the heart, followed by the verbal recitation of the Talbiyyah: “Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la shareeka laka labbayk. Innal-hamda wan-ni’mata laka wal-mulk, la shareeka lak” “Here I am, O Allah, at Your service. There is no partner with You. All praise and blessings belong to You, and You alone are the Sovereign. You have no partner.” If there is a fear of being prevented from completing ‘Umrah due to illness or other circumstances, one may add a conditional statement: “In habasanee habes fa mahillee haithu habastanee” (“I come out of Ihram from the place You prevent me”). This allows exiting Ihram if necessary.

2. Entering the Sacred Mosque (Al-Masjid Al-Haram)

Upon reaching the sacred mosque in Makkah, pilgrims should enter with the right foot, saying: “Bismillah, Allahumma Salli ‘Ala Muhammad, Allahumma Ighfirli waftahli Abwaba Rahmatik” “In the name of Allah! O Allah, send peace upon Muhammad. O Allah, forgive me and open the doors of Your mercy.”

3. Performing Tawaf

Once inside, stop reciting the Talbiyyah and proceed to the Black Stone (Hajr Al-Aswad). If possible, touch and kiss it. If not, simply face it and point, saying: “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar” (“In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest”). The pilgrim begins Tawaf, walking counterclockwise with the Ka’bah on the left. When reaching the Yamani corner, touch it with your right hand if possible but do not kiss it. When passing the Black Stone again, repeat the process of touching or pointing to it. During Tawaf, men should observe two key practices:

• Al-Idhtibaa’: Exposing the right shoulder by placing the upper garment under the right arm and draping it over the left shoulder for the entire Tawaf.
• Ar-Raml: For men, during the first three circuits of Tawaf, walk briskly with short steps.

There are no specific supplications for Tawaf, but it is encouraged to make heartfelt prayers and ask Allah for anything beneficial. Between the Yamani corner and the Black Stone, recite the following: “Our Lord, grant us good in this life and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the torment of the Fire.”

4. Praying at Maqam Ibrahim

After completing seven circuits of Tawaf, proceed to Maqam Ibrahim (the station of Ibrahim) and recite: “And take the station of Ibrahim as a place of prayer” [Quran 2:125]. Pray two short Rak’ahs, reciting Surah Al-Kafirun [109] in the first Rak’ah and Surah Al-Ikhlas [112] in the second. If close proximity to Maqam Ibrahim is not possible, these prayers can be offered anywhere in the mosque.

5. Performing Sa’y Between Safa and Marwah

Next, proceed to Safa and recite: “Verily, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah” [Quran 2:158]. Climb Safa, face the Ka’bah, and say the following three times, making personal supplications in between: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. La ilaha illallah wahdahu la shareeka lah, lahul mulk wa lahul hamd, wa huwa ‘ala kulli shay’in qadeer.” Descend Safa and walk towards Marwah. Men should run between the green fluorescent lights. Upon reaching Marwah, repeat the same supplications and actions as done at Safa, completing one circuit. Seven circuits are completed by ending on Marwah.

6. Cutting or Shaving the Hair

After completing Sa’y, men should shave their heads, although trimming the hair is also permissible. Women are required to cut a small portion of their hair, about the length of a fingertip. With this final step, the rites of ‘Umrah are complete, and pilgrims can exit the state of Ihram.

Final Notes

Umrah offers an opportunity for spiritual renewal, and performing it with devotion and care brings immense rewards. May your pilgrimage be blessed.