Pilgrimage to Mecca in Saudi Arabia is known as Umrah in Islam, performed by Muslims at any time of the year. Unlike Hajj, it has definite dates and is obligatory for those who can afford it at least once in a lifetime. Umrah is a voluntary act of worship but holds paramount spiritual significance. This article delves into the essence of Umrah, its rituals, importance, and frequently asked questions.
What is Umrah?
Literally, the word means “to visit a populated area”; in this context, it means visiting the holy Mecca. It is often referred to as the “lesser pilgrimage,” as opposed to Hajj. It is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca that Muslims can undertake throughout the year, in contrast to the Hajj, which is limited to certain days. Set for its performance during the month of Dhu al-Hijjah in the Islamic calendar. Though non-mandatory, it is highly recommended and offers numerous spiritual benefits. The core purpose of Umrah is to obtain forgiveness from the Almighty, cleanse one’s soul, and reinforce religious commitment.
The Rituals of Umrah Umrah has a number of sacred rites, which are as follows:
Ihram: This is the state of purity and devotion that a pilgrim must enter before performing Umrah. Pilgrims dress in special white garments, making niyyah to perform Umrah. Men are clad in two unstitched pieces of cloth, while women have modest clothing.
Tawaf: The pilgrims circumambulate the Kaaba or the square structure situated above Masjid al-Harm. They move around it seven times in an anticlockwise direction. This act symbolizes believers uniting in the worship of the One God because, once again, it becomes a movement in which they all move harmoniously together around the Kaaba.
Sa’i: Following the completion of the Tawaf, pilgrims perform the Sa’i, which consists of making seven trips back and forth between the hills of Safa and Marwah inside the Masjid al-Haram. This is a process that re-enacts the activities of Hagar and her son Ishmael in their search for water when they were stranded in the desert. That took place before she was able to realize the existence of the Zamzam well from the angel Gabriel.
Halq or Taqsir: In this final rite, the pilgrim shaves or cuts the hair. For a man, he has to either shave his whole head (half) or, more preferably, cut at least a part of his hair (tafsir), while a woman cuts only a small portion of her hair. That is a sign that the person has cleansed and removed the old spiritual status.
Importance of Umrah To the Muslims, Umrah holds a more top spiritual value. It is worship that draws them closer to their God, and it has numerous rewards. These include:
Spiritual cleansing: the state of taking up Umrah purifies the soul; it is because sins are forgiven and faith is renewed. Renewal of faith: These are the activities surrounding Umrah that enhance the faith of a Muslim and help a Muslim commit to the teachings of Islam. A Sense of Community and Togetherness: Muslims from all over the world join together during the pilgrimage to Mecca, bringing about a sense of universal brotherhood and unity between the believers of Islam. It offers time for personal reflection, prayer, and seeking guidance and mercy from Allah.
How are the Hajj and Umrah different from one another?
Muslims are obligated to perform the Hajj pilgrimage if they are in a financially and physically stable position, once in their lifetimes capable of doing so. Every year, it takes place in the Islamic month of Dhu al-Hijjah. It is possible to conduct the voluntary pilgrimage of Umrah at any time of year.
How long does it take to perform Umrah?
The rituals of Umrah can typically be completed in a few hours. However, many pilgrims choose to spend additional time in Mecca and Medina for further worship and reflection.
Can Umrah be performed multiple times?
Yes, Muslims can perform Umrah as many times as they wish. Each visit provides an opportunity for spiritual renewal and earning additional rewards.
Is Umrah expensive?
The cost of performing Umrah can vary depending on travel arrangements, accommodations, and the time of year. While it can be less expensive than Hajj, it still requires financial planning.
Do I need a visa to perform Umrah?
Yes, pilgrims must obtain a specific visa for Umrah. This can be arranged through licensed travel agents or directly through Saudi Arabian consulates.
