How to Perform Umrah?
The Steps of Umrah
Umrah is a beautiful journey of faith, an act of devotion that every Muslim is encouraged to undertake. Unlike Hajj, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year. It involves fewer rituals but holds significant spiritual meaning, offering a way to cleanse oneself of past sins and renew commitment to Allah. Here’s a detailed guide to performing Umrah, directed towards helping you complete this blessed pilgrimage with clarity and purpose.
Step One
Intention (Niyyah) and Entering Ihram
The first step in Umrah is to make a sincere intention (Niyyah) solely for Allah. Before entering the boundary of Miqat, pilgrims should be in the state of Ihram, which is a state of spiritual purity. Men wear two white, unstitched cloths, while women wear modest clothing that covers the entire body except the face and hands. Once in Ihram, certain activities become prohibited, such as cutting hair or nails, wearing perfume, and engaging in any form of argument. Recite the Talbiyah to declare your readiness: “Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner. Here I am. Verily all praise, grace, and sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.”
“And complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah…” (Quran 2:196)
Step Two
Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba)
Upon reaching Masjid al-Haram, begin Tawaf by performing ablution (wudhu) and circling the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction. This act represents unity and devotion, as all Muslims circle around the same focal point. If possible, start at the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad) by raising your hand toward it and saying, “Bismillah Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest). During Tawaf, recite supplications, praise Allah, and make dua in your heart.
"And [mention] when We made the House a place of return for the people and [a place of] security…” (Quran 2:125)
Step Three
Sa’i Between Safa and Marwa
After completing Tawaf, proceed to perform Sa’i, which involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa. This act commemorates Hajar’s (RA) perseverance as she sought water for her son Ismail (AS) and found the Zamzam well by Allah’s mercy. Begin at Safa, face the Kaaba, and make a short dua before starting. Men should walk briskly between the two green markers as a Sunnah, while women may walk at a normal pace.
“Indeed, Safa and Marwa 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…” (Quran 2:158).
Step Four
Shaving or Trimming Hair (Halaq or Qasar)
Once Sa’i is complete, men are required to shave their heads (Halaq) or trim their hair (Qasar), while women are to cut a small portion of their hair. Shaving is highly encouraged for men as it represents a full commitment to purification and humility. This act marks the end of Ihram and signifies spiritual renewal and the completion of Umrah.
Reflections on the Spiritual Journey of Umrah
Completing Umrah brings immense spiritual rewards and purification. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “One Umrah is an expiation of sins committed between it and the next Umrah.” This pilgrimage is a profound reminder of Allah’s mercy and the opportunity for repentance. With each step, from Ihram to the final trimming of hair, pilgrims draw closer to Allah, leaving behind worldly concerns and embracing spiritual renewal.
Final Thoughts
Umrah may be a shorter pilgrimage than Hajj, but its spiritual impact is deep. The journey to the Kaaba, performing Tawaf and Sa’i, and observing the rituals with sincerity offer a chance for purification and closeness to Allah. As you complete each step, take time to reflect, make dua, and thank Allah for granting you the opportunity to perform Umrah.
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