What Is Umrah? A Sacred Journey Every Muslim Should Understand

Umrah is a voluntary pilgrimage to Makkah that is highly spiritual; it is performed by millions of Muslims who visit it to draw closer to Allah. Unlike the Hajj, which is carried out once a year during the month of Dhul-Hijjah and is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, Umrah can be performed at any time, as it is a potent mode of worship, cleansing, and renewal of faith.

This guide is tailored specifically for individuals who are willing to learn how to perform Umrah step by step, particularly those new to the pilgrimage. It contains the necessary rituals, preparation hints, and the spiritual essence of Umrah.

Why Performing Umrah Is Spiritually Rewarding

The Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said:
“One Umrah to another is an expiation for what comes in between them.” (Sahih Bukhari)

Umrah not only removes sins but also softens the heart, revives the soul, and strengthens one’s connection with Allah. It is a profoundly moving journey that brings inner peace and spiritual fulfillment.

How to Prepare for Umrah

Before embarking on this sacred journey, preparation is essential. Here’s how to get ready:

• Learn the rituals: Understand what is required in each step, from Ihram to Halq.

• Make your Niyyah (intention) sincerely for Allah.

• Ensure documents and vaccinations are in order.

• Pack essentials: Ihram clothes, prayer mat, unscented toiletries, Qur’an, slippers, and basic medicines.

• Practice patience and humility: Umrah is not just a physical journey, but an emotional and spiritual one.

Step-by-Step: How to Perform Umrah

Performing Umrah involves four main rituals. Here’s a simplified guide:

1. Enter the State of Ihram

• Wear the designated Ihram clothing at the Miqat.

• Make your intention and recite the Talbiyah:
  “Labbayka Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka laa Shareeka Laka Labbayk…”

• Avoid perfumes, cutting nails, or engaging in prohibited acts while in Ihram.

2. Perform Tawaf

• Upon arriving at Masjid al-Haram, walk seven times counterclockwise around the Kaaba.

• Begin at the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad), raise your hand and say “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar”.

• Recite duas and praise Allah throughout the Tawaf with sincerity and presence of heart.

3. Perform Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah

• Begin at Safa, face the Kaaba, and praise Allah.

• Walk between Safa and Marwah seven times, remembering the struggle of Hajar (AS).

• Men should walk briskly between the green markers.

4. Shave or Trim the Hair

• Men should shave (Halq) or trim (Taqsir) the hair.

• Women should trim a fingertip’s length of hair.

• This completes your Umrah, and you can now exit Ihram.

Umrah Guide for Families and Children

Umrah can be an enriching experience for the whole family. When traveling with kids:

• Explain the rituals in simple language.

• Keep them close during busy areas.

• Bring snacks, hygiene items, and dua cards.

It’s also an excellent opportunity to instill Islamic values and history in young hearts.

Powerful Spiritual Lessons from Umrah

Umrah teaches patience, humility, unity, and submission to Allah. The rituals reflect the sacrifices of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), Hajar (AS), and Prophet Muhammad ﷺ, reminding us to live with taqwa (God-consciousness).

Some key benefits include:

• A clean slate from sins.

• Strengthening your relationship with Allah.

• Experiencing the unity of the Muslim Ummah.

• Renewed sense of purpose and gratitude.

Learn More with Kanzol Quran Through Online Quran Classes

Whether you want to explore the spiritual aspects of your Umrah trip or connect with the Quran, Kanzol Quran offers flexible Online Quran classes for all age groups. You are a beginner, a parent seeking structured lessons for your children, or an adult wanting to enhance your Tajweed. Kanzol Quran has qualified teachers, offering both male and female instructors to help you with your learning.

Kanzol Quran has made it easier than ever before to establish a solid foundation in Islamic knowledge through their personalized one-on-one sessions, and all this can be done comfortably in the comfort of your home. Their systematic courses offered include the Quran with Tajweed, Quran memorization, Tafseer, and Islamic studies, so that in case you get alienated in the pre-pilgrimage or post-pilgrimage spiritual process, you are right on track.

Final Thoughts

Umrah is not a mere trip to the holy land, even to the believers who are seeking the light of the soul. It is a matter of submitting to Allah’s will, repenting, and returning home as a new person, spiritually. Whether you are alone or going with your family, you will be blessed by preparation, patience, and pure intention.

May Allah accept your Umrah and make it easy for you to complete your pilgrimage.

And take provisions, but the best provision is taqwa, and then take provisions, but the best of provisions is Taqwa. (Qur’an 2:197)

Mushu

Mushu, an experienced Saudi Arabia traveler and writer, shares insightful tips and spiritual reflections to enhance Hajj and Umrah journeys for fellow pilgrims. He has been to Makkah and Madina from 2016 to 2023 many times and his posts will reflect this.