Umrah Packages

The pilgrimage to Mecca is one of the five pillars of Islam. Muslims who are able to make the journey, do so at least once in their lifetime. For most Muslims, that means planning an extended trip - or multiple trips - to achieve the necessary frequency. However, there are many nuances involved with this sacred task that even experienced believers may not know. In order to prepare for your first Umrah and future pilgrimages, here are 15 tips that every Muslim should know about this sacred obligation. They will help you tackle all the steps involved with performing a successful Hajj and Umrah.

What is Umrah?

Umrah, also known as Umrat al-tammah, is the “lesser pilgrimage.” It’s a religious journey to the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It’s one of the Five Pillars of Islam that all Muslims are expected to complete at least once in their lifetime. The basic difference between Hajj and Umrah is that Umrah can be performed at any time of the year, while Hajj is only allowed during the month of Ramadan and can only be performed by certain Muslims who meet certain criteria. Umrah can be seen as a spiritual cleanse or a self-reflection of your relationship with Allah. It is a great way to come closer to Allah by spending time in the beautiful city of Mecca.

Why do Muslims Perform Umrah?

The decision to perform Umrah before Hajj is what Muslims commonly refer to as “Qiran.” This is done by those who can’t complete Hajj during the same year. It’s a Sunnah or tradition of the Prophet that is recommended for those who can do both. Umrah is performed to acquire spiritual purity, to increase rewards for Hajj, and to seek forgiveness. It is also a method for people who don’t have the financial means to complete Hajj to still be able to fulfill their religious obligation.

How to Perform Umrah?

First, perform a tawwaf if you haven’t already. Tawwaf is the act of walking around the Kaaba, which is the building in the center of the mosque that is believed to have been built by Ibrahim and Ismael. Next, you will perform sai. Sai is the act of walking between Al-Safa and Al-Marwah. These are two hills that are located near the Grand Mosque.

The Importance of Shaving, Hair & Men's Clothing During Umrah

For men, shaving is important because Muslims are supposed to be cleanly shaven during Umrah. You don’t have to shave your face if you don’t want to, but you do have to shave any other body hair. For women, hair length is important. You must keep your hair long enough to put it in a ponytail. If your hair isn’t long enough, then you can use a scarf to wrap up your hair. Men’s clothing isn’t very strict. Just make sure that you’re not wearing a shirt that is too short or too long. Shorts are okay as long as they aren’t too short. For women, you can wear whatever clothing you feel comfortable in as long as it is long enough to cover you up.

The Rituals of Tawaf and Sai

First, make sure that you are purified by wearing ihram. This is the clothing you put on when you are in the state of pilgrimage to Mecca. While performing tawaf, Muslims begin at the Black Stone on the eastern side of the Kaaba and make seven rotations (walking both clockwise and counterclockwise). They then proceed to walk seven times between the hills of Al-Safa and Al-Marwah. While performing sai, pilgrims walk between the two hills seven times, each time beginning at Al-Safa and ending at Al-Marwah. The ritual concludes with the throwing of pebbles at the Jamarat.

Tips to Keep in Mind While Booking Your Umrah Package From USA

Keep in mind that the Islamic calendar is different from the Gregorian calendar that we use here in the U.S. All the events of Hajj and Umrah fall within this different time frame. There are many ways to book your Umrah package. You can do it online, call a travel agent, or go to a travel agency. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy this once-in-a-lifetime experience. You are about to embark on a journey that will not only be a religious experience, but will also allow you to explore and experience new things.

Conclusion

Preparing for Umrah is a critical process that every Muslim should adhere to if they want to ensure a successful pilgrimage. From shaving to proper clothing and walking the sacred paths of the Kaaba, there are a number of rituals that must be followed. This article highlighted the many essential tips that every Muslim should know about the pilgrimage to Mecca. These tips will help you tackle all the steps involved with preparing for your first Umrah and future pilgrimages.