Umrah Guide

Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey for Muslims, and it involves a series of rituals and acts of worship. Here is a comprehensive guide on how to perform Umrah:

1. Preparation:

1. Learn about Umrah: Study the rituals and obligations of Umrah to understand its significance and perform it correctly.
2. Make intention (Niyyah): Purify your intention to perform Umrah solely for the sake of Allah and seeking His pleasure.
3. Complete your travel arrangements: Arrange transportation, accommodation, and necessary documentation (e.g., visa) for your journey to Mecca.

2. Ihram:

1. Enter the state of Ihram: Ihram is a state of ritual purity and consecration required for performing Umrah. Men wear two pieces of white, seamless cloth, while women can wear any modest, loose-fitting attire.
2. Perform Ghusl: Take a bath (Ghusl) to cleanse yourself physically and spiritually before entering Ihram.
3. Recite the Talbiyah: Begin reciting the Talbiyah, a declaration of intention and devotion to Allah.

3. Tawaf:

1. Enter Masjid al-Haram: Upon arrival in Mecca, enter the Masjid al-Haram (the Grand Mosque).
2. Approach the Kaaba: Perform Tawaf by circumambulating the Kaaba counterclockwise seven times, beginning at the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad).
3. Perform Istilam: Touch or point towards the Black Stone at the start and end of each Tawaf if possible. If unable to do so, make a gesture towards it.
4. Maqam Ibrahim: After Tawaf, offer two Rak’ahs of Salah behind Maqam Ibrahim, if possible.

4. Sai:

1. Proceed to Safa: After Salah, proceed to the hill of Safa to begin Sai.
2. Perform Sai: Perform Sai by walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa. Begin at Safa and end at Marwa.
3. Dua at Safa and Marwa: Recite supplications and remembrance of Allah while walking between Safa and Marwa.

5. Halq or Taqsir:

1. Shave or Trim Hair: Upon completing Sai, men have the option to shave their heads (Halq) or trim their hair (Taqsir). Shaving is preferred but not mandatory.

6. Conclusion:

1. End of Ihram: With the completion of Tawaf, Sai, and hair cutting, your Umrah is complete, and you can exit the state of Ihram.
2. Additional Worship: Spend your time in Mecca engaging in additional acts of worship, such as reciting Quran, making dua (supplication), and performing voluntary prayers.
3. Departure: Upon completion of your stay in Mecca, make your way to your next destination, reflecting on the blessings and spiritual growth gained from performing Umrah.

Perform Umrah with sincerity, humility, and devotion, seeking forgiveness and guidance from Allah throughout the journey. May your Umrah be accepted, and may it bring you closer to Allah.