How to perform Umrah | A step-by-step Guideline
Umrah, an optimistic act of devotion, is a non-mandatory pilgrimage that holds immense spiritual significance for Muslims around the world. Discover the essence of devotion with US-Bangla Umrah and Tourism detailed instructions on how to perform Umrah.
Embark on the sacred journey of Umrah to Makkah, guided by US-Bangla Umrah and Tourism. We provide comprehensive support and essential information, ensuring a truly memorable pilgrimage experience for you.
The Niyyah | Pure intention
The Niyyah for Umrah should be made at the Miqat or very near it as you proceed in its direction. It is advised (Mustahabb) that you declare your desire both out loud and internally.
The Arabic intentions listed below are illustrative only:
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِيْدُ الْعُمْرَةَ
Meaning: O Allah, I want to perform the Umrah.
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِيْدُ الْعُمْرَةَ فَيَسِّرْهَا لِيْ وَتَقَبَّلْهَا مِنِّيْ
Meaning: O Allah, I want to perform Umrah, so accept it from me and make it simple for me.
Ihram the ceremonially plain clothing during Umrah
Before entering the state of Ihram, pilgrims must cleanse and purify themselves. Ihram, men will wear two unstitched garments. And women will wear loose casual clothes. Before assuming the state of Ihram, it is Sunnah to offer two Rakahs of Salah.
Reciting Talbiyah
In order to confirm your purpose and enter the state of Ihram, you must recite the Talbiyah after making your Niyyah. Hanafi and Maliki's schools of thought both agree that the Talbiyah statement is Wajib.
Talbiya is,
لَبَّيْكَ اللهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ - لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ - إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْكَ - لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ
Pronunciation: Labbayk allahumma labbayeek, labbayeeka l’aa sharika laka labbayeek, innal-ḥamda wan-ni’mata, laka wal-mulk, l’aa sharika lak.
Meaning: Oh Allah your service, at your service. At your service, you have no partner. Truly all praise, favor, and sovereignty are Yours. You have no partner.
Tawaf | Encircling the Holy Ka'abah seven times
Commence your Umrah by performing the Tawaf, which involves seven rounds of circumambulation around the Kaaba. This ritual represents unity and devotion to the Almighty.
Safa Marwa and Sa'i
Follow the Tawaf with Sa'i, walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This act commemorates Hagar's search for water for her son Isma'il and signifies perseverance and faith.
For the Sa’i to be considered valid, the following is necessary:
- To conduct Sa'i on oneself
- To have performed the Sa'i after entering into Ihram
- Must remain in Ihram till the Sa'i is finished
- Sa'i to start at Safa and end at Marwa
- To conduct Sa'i after Tawaf has been completed
- Sa'i must be performed on foot (Unless you have a valid excuse)
- To perform seven rounds
Halq or Taqsir
Complete your Umrah rites by shaving your head (for men) or trimming your hair (for women). This act represents humility and the renewal of oneself in the service of Allah. It is more virtuous for a man to have his head shaved completely.
Visiting Madinah - Masjid an Nabawi
If your journey allows, take the opportunity to visit the blessed city of Madinah and offer prayers at the Prophet's Mosque (Masjid an-Nabawi). Seek blessings from this sacred site and pay your respects at the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) grave.
Additional activities during the umrah journey
Spending time in I'tikaf
During the last ten days of Ramadan, consider observing I’tikaf (spiritual retreat) at the Grand Mosque in Makkah or other mosques for increased spiritual rewards.
Praying at Mount Arafat and Muzdalifah
If your Umrah coincides with the Hajj season, partake in some Hajj rituals, such as standing at Mount Arafat and spending the night in Muzdalifah.
Additional Tawaf and Sa'i
Perform additional Tawaf and Sa’i to express gratitude and devotion to Allah.
