Umrah Guide

Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that can seem overwhelming for first-time pilgrims. This guide simplifies the process with clear, step-by-step instructions and visual illustrations, ensuring you understand and perform each ritual correctly. Here are the steps

Step 1: Entering Ihram

Instructions:

1. Prepare for Ihram:

   • Take a bath (Ghusl) to purify yourself.
   • Men should wear two white, unsewn cloths: one wrapped around the waist (Izar) and the other draped over the shoulders (Rida).
   • Women should wear modest, simple clothing that covers the entire body except the face and hands.

2. Intention (Niyyah):

   • Stand facing the Qibla and make the intention to perform Umrah.
   • Say: “Labbaik Allahumma Umrah” (Here I am, O Allah, for Umrah).

3. Recitation of Talbiyah:

   • Begin reciting the Talbiyah as soon as you wear Ihram.
   • Say: “Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik. Labbaik Laa Shareeka Laka Labbaik. Innal-Hamda Wan-Ni’mata Laka wal-Mulk, Laa Shareeka Lak.”

Notes:

• Ihram Restrictions: After wearing Ihram, avoid cutting nails, hair, or applying perfume until Umrah is completed.
• Ihram Boundaries: Enter Ihram before crossing the Miqat, a designated boundary for pilgrims.

Step 2: Tawaf

Instructions

1. Starting Point:

   • Begin at the corner of the Kaaba where the Black Stone (Al-Hajar Al-Aswad) is located.
   • If possible, touch or kiss the Black Stone; if not, simply point towards it.

2. Circumambulation (Tawaf):

   • Walk around the Kaaba in a counterclockwise direction.
   • Complete seven circuits (shaws) around the Kaaba.
   • Each circuit starts and ends at the Black Stone.
   • While performing Tawaf, recite prayers and supplications, or keep a state of quiet reflection.

3. Duas During Tawaf:

   • There are no specific supplications that must be recited, but common ones include:
     • “Bismillah Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest).
     • “Rabbana Atina Fid-Dunya Hasanatan wa Fil-Akhirati Hasanatan wa Qina Azab-an-Nar” (Our Lord, give us in this world good and in the Hereafter good, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire).

4. Completion:

   • After completing the seven circuits, perform two units of prayer (raka’ahs) at the Maqam Ibrahim if possible, or anywhere within the mosque.

Notes:

• Keep Count: It’s essential to keep track of your circuits to ensure you complete all seven.
• Respect Others: Be mindful of other pilgrims and avoid pushing or shoving.
• Stay Hydrated: Carry a small bottle of water to stay hydrated, especially during hot weather.

Step 3: Sa’i

Instructions

1. Starting Point: Safa:

   • Begin at the hill of Safa.
   • Face the Kaaba and recite: “Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah. So whoever makes Hajj to the House or performs Umrah – there is no blame upon him for walking between them. And whoever volunteers good – then indeed, Allah is appreciative and Knowing” (Quran 2:158).
   • Follow with: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. La ilaha illa Allah.”

2. Walking Between Safa and Marwah:

   • Walk towards Marwah, covering a distance of approximately 450 meters.
   • Recite supplications and prayers, or reflect quietly.
   • When you reach the green markers, men should jog between them (women should continue walking).

3. Reaching Marwah:

   • On reaching Marwah, face the Kaaba and repeat the same supplication as on Safa.
   • This completes one lap.

4. Complete Seven Laps:

   • Repeat the process of walking back and forth between Safa and Marwah until you complete seven laps.
   • Each trip from Safa to Marwah counts as one lap, and each trip back from Marwah to Safa counts as another lap.
   • You will end your Sa’i at Marwah after the seventh lap.

Notes:

• Stay Focused: Keep your focus on the spiritual significance of the Sa’i, remembering the story of Hagar (Hajira) and her search for water for her son Ishmael (Ismail).
• Hydrate: Drink water, especially from the Zamzam well, located nearby.
• Respect Others: Be considerate of fellow pilgrims and maintain a respectful demeanor.

Step 4: Shaving/Cutting Hair

Instructions

1. Completion of Sa’i:

   • Once you have completed the seven laps between Safa and Marwah, you will proceed to the final ritual of Umrah, which involves cutting or shaving your hair.

2. Shaving for Men:

   • Men have the option to shave their entire head (recommended) or trim their hair by cutting at least an inch from all over the head.
   • Shaving the head is a sign of complete renewal and purification.

3. Cutting Hair for Women:

   • Women should cut a small portion of their hair, approximately the length of a fingertip (about an inch).
   • This is usually done by cutting a small lock of hair.

4. Completion:

   • After shaving or cutting the hair, the state of Ihram is lifted, and you can return to normal activities.
   • This marks the completion of the Umrah rituals.

Notes:

• Respect and Hygiene: Use clean tools and ensure that the process is hygienic.
• Spiritual Significance: Reflect on the spiritual renewal and purification that comes with this act.
• Local Barbers: In Mecca, there are designated places where you can get your hair shaved or cut professionally.

With these steps, you have successfully completed your Umrah. May Allah accept your pilgrimage and bless you with its spiritual benefits. If you need more detailed guidance or assistance, feel free to refer to this guide.