Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage performed by Muslims visiting the Holy Kaaba in Makkah. While it is not obligatory like Hajj, Umrah holds immense spiritual significance and is a way for Muslims to seek forgiveness and blessings from Allah. This religious journey can be performed at any time of the year, making it a preferred choice for those unable to undertake Hajj.

Unlike Hajj, which has specific dates according to the Islamic calendar, Umrah offers flexibility. It is known as the "lesser pilgrimage" and is a powerful way to strengthen one's faith and purify the soul. Pilgrims performing Umrah follow a set of rituals prescribed in Islamic tradition to complete their journey.

This guide provides a step-by-step explanation on how Umrah is performed to help first-time pilgrims understand the procedure easily. Whether you are planning your first Umrah or need a refresher, this article will provide all the necessary details to prepare for this holy journey.

The Importance of Umrah

Umrah is one of the most beloved acts of worship in Islam. It offers Muslims the opportunity to renew their faith, seek forgiveness, and earn immense rewards from Allah. Several Hadiths emphasize the importance and blessings associated with performing Umrah.

Benefits of Performing Umrah:

• Forgiveness of Sins: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated that Umrah erases sins committed between one Umrah and the next.
• Spiritual Purification: It helps cleanse the soul, bringing believers closer to Allah.
• Removal of Poverty: Another Hadith mentions that performing Hajj and Umrah together removes poverty and sin.
• Strengthening Faith: The spiritual journey deepens faith and devotion towards Islam.
• Intercession on Judgment Day: Those who perform Umrah sincerely will receive the blessings and mercy of Allah on the Day of Judgment.

How Umrah Is Performed Step by Step

To ensure a smooth and fulfilling pilgrimage, follow this step-by-step guide to performing Umrah:

Step 1: Entering the State of Ihram

The first step in Umrah is to enter the sacred state of Ihram, which signifies purity and devotion. Here's how you can do it:

• Cleanse Yourself: Perform Ghusl (ritual purification) and trim nails and hair.
• Wear Ihram Garments: Men must wear two white unstitched garments, while women should dress modestly in loose-fitting clothing.
• Intend for Umrah: Make the Niyyah (intention) by saying: 'Labbayk Allahumma Umrah' (O Allah, here I am to perform Umrah).
• Recite Talbiyah: 'Labbayka Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk, innal hamda, wan ni'mata, laka wal mulk, la sharika lak.' (Here I am, O Allah, here I am, You have no partner, Here I am, Truly, all praise and blessings belong to You, and all sovereignty belongs to You, You have no partner.)

Step 2: Entering Masjid Al-Haram

Upon reaching Masjid Al-Haram, pilgrims should:

• Step in with the right foot and say: 'Bismillah, wassalatu wassalamu ‘ala rasulillah'.
• Head towards the Kaaba while keeping a humble heart.

Step 3: Performing Tawaf

Tawaf involves circling the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction.

• Begin at the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad), raise hands, and say 'Bismillah Allahu Akbar'.
• Walk seven rounds around the Kaaba while making dua and supplications.
• After completing Tawaf, perform two Rak'ahs of Salah near Maqam-e-Ibrahim.

Step 4: Sa'i - Walking Between Safa and Marwah

• Head towards Safa Hill, recite 'Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the signs of Allah.'
• Walk between Safa and Marwah seven times while making dua.
• Complete the rounds about-logo Marwah Hill.

Step 5: Shaving or Trimming the Hair

• Men must shave or trim their hair.
• Women should trim a small portion of their hair.

Step 6: Completion of Umrah

Once the hair is trimmed, Umrah is complete, and you can leave the state of Ihram.

Features of Umrah

• No Fixed Time - Can be performed any time of the year.
• Spiritual Cleansing - Helps in seeking forgiveness and renewal of faith.
• Simple Rituals - Unlike Hajj, it has fewer rituals.
• Affordable Pilgrimage - Less expensive than Hajj.

FAQs About How Umrah Is Performed Step by Step

1. What is the first step of Umrah?

The first step is entering Ihram and making the intention for Umrah.

2. How long does it take to perform Umrah?

It typically takes around 3-5 hours to complete all rituals.

3. Is Umrah compulsory in Islam?

No, Umrah is Sunnah but highly recommended.

4. Can Umrah be performed at night?

Yes, Umrah can be performed any time of the day or night.

5. What is the difference between Hajj and Umrah?

Hajj is obligatory and performed once a year, while Umrah is optional and can be done anytime.

Conclusion

Performing Umrah is a deeply rewarding spiritual journey that brings a Muslim closer to Allah. It is an opportunity for purification, forgiveness, and immense blessings. This step-by-step guide ensures that first-time pilgrims understand the entire process with ease.

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