assets/images/whatsapp-icon.png

Phone: +1 667 421 7876

info@nurulumrah.com

Can Umrah Be Done for Alive Person?

https://nurulumrah.com/uploads/blog/82948.jpg

Introduction and Importance of Umrah

The pilgrimage of Umrah is one of the most rewarding spiritual journeys in Islam. While it is not obligatory like Hajj, Umrah holds immense value for Muslims around the world. For many, especially those living in the USA, performing Umrah is a deeply personal and transformative experience. Can Umrah be done for alive person is a common question that arises, especially among those who wish to gift this spiritual reward to their loved ones who may not be able to perform it themselves.

Umrah, often referred to as the "lesser pilgrimage," can be performed at any time of the year. It includes rituals such as Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba), Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah), and shaving or trimming the hair. Although smaller in scope than Hajj, Umrah is filled with blessings and carries significant spiritual merit.

The desire to perform Umrah for another person—whether alive or deceased—is motivated by love, care, and the hope of earning spiritual rewards for them. Can Umrah be done for alive person? Yes, it can, but there are specific guidelines in Islam regarding this matter. Understanding these rules will help believers perform this act in a manner that aligns with Islamic teachings.

What Is Umrah? A Detailed Guide

What Does Umrah Mean?

Umrah means "to visit a populated place" in Arabic, but in Islamic terminology, it refers to the act of visiting the Holy Kaaba in Makkah and performing specific rituals. Unlike Hajj, Umrah is not limited to specific dates and can be done throughout the year.

Rituals of Umrah

1. Ihram

Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim must enter before performing Umrah. It involves wearing specific clothing and making the intention (niyyah) to perform Umrah. For men, it consists of two white sheets; for women, modest Islamic dress suffices.

2. Tawaf

Tawaf involves walking around the Kaaba seven times in a counter-clockwise direction. It is a symbolic act of devotion and submission to Allah.

3. Sa’i

Sa’i is walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This act commemorates the struggle of Hajar (AS), the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), in search of water for her son Ismail (AS).

4. Halq or Taqsir

Halq is shaving the head (for men), and Taqsir is trimming a portion of the hair (for both men and women). This act signifies purification and the completion of Umrah.

Who Can Perform Umrah?

Any Muslim who is physically and financially able can perform Umrah. There are no restrictions based on nationality, but one must adhere to the visa regulations of Saudi Arabia.

Can Umrah Be Done for Another Person?

Yes, it is permissible under Islamic law to perform Umrah on behalf of another person, but certain conditions must be met.

Can Umrah Be Done for Alive Person?

Islamic Viewpoint

According to Islamic scholars, Umrah can be done for a living person only if that person is unable to perform Umrah themselves due to chronic illness, old age, or disability. It cannot be done for someone who is capable but simply unwilling or unable to go for personal reasons.

Conditions for Performing Umrah for an Alive Person

  • Permission Must Be Granted: The person must give verbal or written permission.
  • Valid Reason Required: The person must be unable to perform it themselves.
  • Single Intention: One Umrah cannot be split between two people.
  • Sincerity: The intention must be purely for Allah and to benefit the other person.

Who Can Perform It?

A close relative or trusted individual can perform Umrah for the person. It's also possible to hire someone to do it on their behalf, though this should be approached with caution and sincerity.

Documentation

It is advisable to carry a notarized letter if you are performing Umrah for another person, especially if the person is still alive. This ensures transparency and prevents confusion.

Rewards

The person performing Umrah on behalf of someone else also gains reward. However, the primary spiritual benefit goes to the intended recipient.

Features of Umrah

1. Spiritual Cleansing

Umrah serves as a way to cleanse one's sins and renew faith.

2. Flexible Timing

Unlike Hajj, it can be performed anytime.

3. Less Costly

It is generally more affordable than Hajj.

4. Shorter Duration

Umrah can be completed in a few hours or a couple of days.

5. High Reward

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said: "An Umrah to another Umrah is an expiation for what is between them."

6. Opportunity for Dua

Performing Umrah is a special time to make heartfelt supplications.

7. Gateway to Hajj

For many, Umrah serves as a spiritual rehearsal for Hajj.

15 Unique FAQs About Can Umrah Be Done for Alive Person

No, it must only be done for someone who cannot perform it due to valid health reasons.

Yes, but written permission is recommended.

Only if they are physically unable due to age or chronic illness.

Yes, but ensure the person is trustworthy and sincere.

Yes, the spiritual reward primarily benefits the intended recipient.

If the child cannot perform it due to illness or disability, yes.

No, permission is a requirement.

Yes, relationship is not a strict requirement.

They can choose to perform Umrah on their own later.

Yes, the conditions apply equally.

Only one Umrah can be done at a time per person.

Intention (niyyah) is key; bad intentions nullify the act.

Conditions are stricter for the living (i.e., they must be unable to go).

Yes, but you must exit Ihram and re-enter for each Umrah.

Yes, if they are permanently incapable of understanding the rituals.

Conclusion

Umrah is not just a journey; it’s a transformative spiritual experience. For many, it’s a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to purify the soul, seek forgiveness, and strengthen their bond with Allah. Understanding the answer to can Umrah be done for alive person helps Muslims to act with intention and clarity. Yes, it is permissible—but only under certain conditions.

If you have loved ones who are unable to perform Umrah due to chronic illness, disability, or other valid reasons, you can be their spiritual representative. This act of love and devotion will not only benefit them but also earn you immense rewards in the sight of Allah.

At Nurul Umrah, we are here to help you every step of the way. Whether you’re planning your own pilgrimage or one for a loved one, we offer affordable Umrah and Hajj packages from the USA tailored to your needs. Contact us for free consultation, and let us guide you on this blessed journey.