A Beginner's Guide to Performing Umrah: Step-by-Step Instructions
Introduction
Umrah, a sacred pilgrimage in Islam, holds immense spiritual significance. For beginners embarking on this journey, here’s a step-by-step guide to help navigate the rituals with ease and devotion.
Preparations
- Intentions: Purify your intentions, seeking solely the pleasure of Allah in undertaking this sacred journey.
- Education: Familiarise yourself with the essential rituals of Umrah through reliable sources, guides, or knowledgeable individuals.
- Packing: Prepare necessary items such as Ihram clothing, personal hygiene items, and essentials for the journey.
Entering Ihram
- Men’s Ihram: Wear two pieces of seamless white cloth.
- Women's Dress: Maintain modest attire without any specific color code.
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Talbiyah: Begin reciting the Talbiyah, declaring your intention for Umrah.
- Dua: "Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik la sharika laka labbaik. Innal-hamda wan-ni’mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak."
Performing Umrah
Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba)
- Start at the Black Stone: If possible, touch or point towards the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad).
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Seven Circuits: Walk seven anti-clockwise circuits around the Kaaba.
- Dua: Make personal supplications while performing Tawaf.
Sa'i (Walking between Safa and Marwah)
- Start at Safa: Head towards Safa hill from the Kaaba.
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Seven Back-and-Forth Walks: Walk briskly seven times between Safa and Marwah.
- Dua: "Rabbighfir warham wa anta khairur Rahimeen."
Conclusion
- Trimming/Shaving: Men typically shave or trim their hair; women trim a small portion.
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Additional Prayers: Spend time in supplication and seek forgiveness from Allah.
- Dua: "Allahumma inni as’aluka ‘ilman naafi’an wa rizqan tayyiban wa ‘amalan mutaqabbalan."
Final Thoughts
Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual experience, fostering a sense of devotion and humility. As a beginner, seek guidance from knowledgeable individuals or scholars to ensure the proper execution of rituals.
Remember, the essence of Umrah lies in sincerity, devotion, and seeking closeness to Allah. May your journey be blessed and accepted.
This simplified guide aims to provide beginners with a clear understanding of the essential steps involved in performing Umrah, while also emphasising the significance of sincere intentions and heartfelt supplications.