Umrah & Ziyarah – Guided Umrah

Chapter 1: Introduction to Umrah

What is Umrah?

Umrah is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, performed by Muslims as an act of devotion. Unlike the Hajj, which is obligatory and occurs during specific dates in the Islamic calendar, Umrah can be performed at any time of the year and is considered a lesser pilgrimage. Despite being non-obligatory, it holds great spiritual significance and serves as an opportunity to cleanse the soul, renew one’s faith, and seek forgiveness from Allah.

Umrah consists of four main rituals:

Ihram – Entering a state of physical and spiritual purity.
Tawaf – Circumambulating the Kaaba seven times.
Sa’i – Walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah.
Halq or Taqsir – Shaving or cutting a portion of the hair.

The Spiritual Significance of Umrah

Umrah offers a chance to break away from daily life and focus solely on worship. Pilgrims experience the powerful sense of unity with Muslims worldwide, as they join others in performing these rituals. The journey also fosters a deep connection with the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham), his family, and their sacrifices in establishing Mecca as a sacred city.

The Difference Between Hajj and Umrah

Many people often confuse Hajj and Umrah, so it’s essential to distinguish between the two:

Hajj is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and must be performed once in a lifetime by every adult Muslim who is physically and financially capable. It takes place during the Islamic month of Dhul-Hijjah and follows specific rites over several days.
Umrah, on the other hand, is a voluntary act of worship and can be performed at any time of the year. While it includes some of the rites of Hajj, it is shorter in duration and less physically demanding.

Who Should Perform Umrah?

Although Umrah is a highly recommended act, it is not obligatory. However, Muslims who have the means—both financially and physically—are encouraged to perform it at least once in their lifetime.

Financial Ability:
- You must be able to cover the cost of the journey, including travel, accommodation, and food, without going into debt.
- Financial responsibilities toward dependents, such as family, should be met first.
Physical Capability:
- Performing Umrah involves physical exertion, including walking long distances and enduring the heat. It’s essential to be in good health or have the necessary support (e.g., wheelchair or assistance).

The Importance of Intention (Niyyah)

Every act of worship in Islam begins with a sincere intention. When planning to perform Umrah, it’s crucial to purify your intentions for the sake of Allah alone, as this will ensure the acceptance of your pilgrimage. Before embarking on the journey, take a moment to make a heartfelt Niyyah, declaring your purpose to perform Umrah to seek Allah’s pleasure.

The Rewards of Umrah

Performing Umrah brings immense rewards:

Forgiveness of Sins: The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “The performance of one Umrah to the next is an expiation for the sins committed between them” (Sahih Bukhari).
Renewed Faith: Pilgrims often return with a sense of spiritual renewal and a deeper connection to their faith.
Closer to Allah: Umrah offers the chance to seek Allah’s forgiveness and increase your devotion through acts of worship performed in the holiest places in Islam.

Chapter 2: Spiritual Preparation

Mental and Emotional Readiness

Performing Umrah is not just a physical journey, but also a deeply spiritual one. As you prepare, it’s crucial to develop the right mindset and emotional state, focusing on why you are embarking on this sacred pilgrimage. Reflect on your relationship with Allah, your purpose in life, and how Umrah can bring you closer to your Creator.

Key points to consider:

Sincerity (Ikhlas): Ensure that your intentions are purely for Allah’s sake, without any desire for recognition or worldly gain. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of Niyyah (intention), stating that “Actions are judged by intentions.”
Self-Reflection: Take time to reflect on your past actions, seek forgiveness for your sins, and commit to spiritual growth.
Humility: Umrah is an act of submission to Allah. Approach it with a humble heart, recognizing that it is a privilege to be able to undertake this journey.

Actions to Strengthen Your Intentions:

Increase in Worship: Begin preparing by praying extra voluntary prayers (Nawafil), reading the Quran, and making regular Dhikr (remembrance of Allah).
Sincere Repentance (Tawbah): Ask Allah for forgiveness for your past mistakes and make a firm intention to avoid sins in the future.
Seek Knowledge: Educate yourself about the rituals of Umrah. The more you know, the more meaningful your journey will be.

Duas (Supplications) to Recite Before the Journey

Reciting duas is an essential part of spiritual preparation, as they help guide your thoughts and focus your heart. The following are recommended supplications to make before starting your journey:

Dua for Traveling:
Before leaving home, recite this dua for safety and ease during your travels:
“Subhanalladhi sakh-khara lana hatha wa ma kunna lahu muqrinin. Wa inna ila rabbina lamunqaliboon.”
(Glory to Him Who has brought this [vehicle] under our control, though we were unable to control it [ourselves], and indeed, to our Lord we will return.)
- Source: [Quran, Surah Az-Zukhruf (43:13–14)]
Dua for Intention (Niyyah):
“Labbayk Allahumma Umrah”
(Here I am at Your service, O Allah, for Umrah.)
This declaration marks your entry into the state of Ihram and the beginning of your pilgrimage.
Dua for Guidance:
Before embarking, ask Allah for guidance and a successful journey:
“Allahumma inni as’aluka an taj’ala hadha safar khayran wa an taj’alahu ma’rufan wa anta barik fihi wa tazwadni khayr.”
(O Allah, I ask You to make this journey a beneficial one, a journey of goodness, and grant me blessings in it, and provide me with all that is good.)

The Importance of Patience and Humility

Umrah is a spiritual test that requires patience and resilience. Throughout your journey, you may face challenges such as long queues, crowded spaces, and the intense heat of Mecca. It’s essential to remember that these difficulties are part of the spiritual experience, designed to teach you patience, humility, and submission to Allah.

Patience in Practice:
As you encounter delays or discomfort, remember that every moment is an opportunity to grow spiritually. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The believer who mixes with the people and bears their annoyance with patience will have a greater reward than the one who does not mix with the people and does not bear their annoyance.”
(Sunan Ibn Majah)
Letting Go of Ego:
Whether you are wealthy or poor, strong or weak, Umrah is a reminder that all pilgrims are equal before Allah. Wearing the Ihram symbolizes this equality, stripping away outward differences and encouraging humility.

Strengthening Your Faith Through Dua and Dhikr

In preparation for Umrah, you should increase your supplications and remember Allah often. This will help you stay focused on the spiritual aspects of the journey and cultivate a deeper connection with Him.

Regular Dhikr (Remembrance of Allah):
Practice frequent Dhikr by reciting:
- “SubhanAllah” (Glory be to Allah)
- “Alhamdulillah” (Praise be to Allah)
- “Allahu Akbar” (Allah is the Greatest)
Make Dua for Acceptance:
Continuously ask Allah to accept your Umrah and guide you throughout the journey. Dua is a powerful tool, and making it regularly will keep your heart connected to Allah.

Chapter 3: Practical Preparations

Documents and Travel Logistics

Before you begin your Umrah journey, there are several key travel logistics and document preparations you need to complete. This chapter will guide you through the essentials:

1. Visa and Passport Requirements

Passport Validity:
Ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your intended travel.
Umrah Visa:
You’ll need to apply for an Umrah visa through an authorized travel agent or the Saudi Embassy in your country. This process typically requires:
- A completed application form.
- Valid passport-sized photographs.
- Proof of vaccination (especially for Meningitis and COVID-19, as per recent health regulations).
- A confirmed return flight ticket and accommodation details.

2. Vaccination and Health Checks

Required Vaccinations:
- Meningitis (for all pilgrims).
- Additional vaccines like yellow fever or COVID-19 might also be mandatory, depending on your location and travel history.
Health Certificate:
Some countries require a health certificate to prove that you’ve received the necessary vaccinations. It’s best to check the latest health requirements with your travel agent or local authorities.

3. Flights and Accommodation

Booking Your Flight:
Plan and book your flights early, especially if you’re traveling during peak seasons like Ramadan. Direct flights to Jeddah or Medina are preferable, and ensure you allow enough time for rest before starting Umrah rituals.
Accommodation:
Most pilgrims stay in hotels close to the Haram (the Grand Mosque in Mecca) for convenience. The closer your accommodation, the less physical strain you will face during the journey. However, hotels farther from the Haram can be more affordable but may require more walking.

4. Travel Insurance

Why You Need Insurance:
Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, cancellations, lost baggage, and other potential issues. This ensures peace of mind and helps avoid unexpected financial burdens during your journey.

Packing List for Umrah

Preparing the right items for your journey can significantly ease your experience. Here’s a suggested list of essential items:

1. Ihram (For Men)

Ihram consists of two simple white, unstitched cloths worn by male pilgrims.
Ensure your Ihram is clean and comfortable. It’s wise to carry a spare set of Ihram clothes in case the first gets dirty.

2. Modest Clothing (For Women)

Women must wear modest, loose-fitting clothing that covers their body and hair. An abaya and headscarf are typical choices, but the garments do not have to be white.

3. Footwear

Comfortable and easy-to-slip-on sandals are essential since you’ll need to remove footwear frequently when entering the mosques.
Avoid heavy or restrictive shoes; lightweight and breathable sandals are recommended.

4. Personal Care Items

Sunscreen: The heat in Mecca can be intense, so make sure to use sunscreen to protect your skin.
Unscented toiletries: Since fragrances are prohibited while in the state of Ihram, pack unscented soap, shampoo, and deodorant.
Towel and wet wipes: Handy for refreshing yourself after long walks or during prayer breaks.

5. Prayer Essentials

Prayer mat: Useful if you need to pray in a public space or hotel room.
Quran or Pocket Prayer Book: Carry a small Quran or a booklet with relevant duas and prayers to recite during the journey.

6. Medical Kit

Over-the-counter medications: For headaches, dehydration, and digestion issues, it’s smart to have medications like pain relievers, antacids, and rehydration salts.
Prescription medications: Bring enough of your regular medication to last the entire trip, plus a few extras in case of delays.

Financial Planning for Umrah

Budgeting for your Umrah is a crucial step. Costs may vary depending on your country of origin, the season, and personal preferences.

1. Main Costs

Flights and Visa:
These are often the most significant expenses. Compare ticket prices and book early to get the best deals. The Umrah visa fee also varies by country.
Accommodation:
Hotels near the Haram are more expensive but offer convenience. Plan according to your budget and physical capabilities.
Transportation within Saudi Arabia:
You may need to arrange transport between Mecca, Medina, and Jeddah. Many pilgrims take organized group transport, but taxis and private buses are also available.

2. Daily Expenses

Food and Water:
Although most hotels provide meals, eating out in local restaurants is common. Plan for meals, snacks, and hydration, especially during long worship sessions.
Gifts and Souvenirs:
Many pilgrims like to bring gifts back for family and friends. Plan a budget for traditional items like prayer beads, dates, and Zamzam water.
Donations:
Charity (Sadaqah) is a significant part of the pilgrimage. Consider setting aside a portion of your budget for donations to the poor or for mosque upkeep.

Chapter 4: Understanding Ihram

What is Ihram?

Ihram is the sacred state a pilgrim enters before performing Umrah or Hajj. This state is not just about the clothes worn; it represents a spiritual transformation where the pilgrim sets aside worldly concerns and focuses entirely on worship, humility, and submission to Allah.

Key Components of Ihram:

Clothing (Ihram garments):
For men, Ihram consists of two simple, white, unstitched cloths. Women, however, wear modest clothing that covers the body, but do not have a prescribed garment. No perfumes or scents are allowed.
State of Purity:
Entering Ihram also means adhering to specific rules and refraining from certain actions like cutting hair or nails, wearing perfume, and engaging in marital relations.

How to Enter the State of Ihram

1. Miqat: The Designated Locations

Before performing Umrah, you must enter Ihram at specific points called Miqat, which are physical locations pilgrims must not pass without assuming the state of Ihram. There are different Miqats depending on where you are coming from.

For pilgrims coming by air:
Airlines usually announce when the flight is approaching the Miqat so that pilgrims can prepare to enter Ihram. Pilgrims should put on the Ihram garments and make their intention (Niyyah) before crossing the Miqat boundary.

2. Ritual Purification (Ghusl and Wudu)

Before entering Ihram, it is Sunnah (recommended) to perform a full-body purification (Ghusl), similar to the one performed after major ritual impurities. If this isn’t possible, you can perform Wudu (ablution).

Ghusl:
This is a complete shower to clean your body and spiritually prepare you for entering Ihram.
Wudu:
If Ghusl is not practical or possible, performing the standard ablution (Wudu) is sufficient.

3. Wearing the Ihram Garment

For men:
The Ihram consists of two white, unstitched cloths: one wrapped around the waist covering the body from navel to ankles, and the other draped over the shoulders. It symbolizes purity, humility, and equality before Allah.
For women:
Women wear their normal modest clothing, covering the entire body except for the face and hands. No specific garment is required, but clothing must be loose-fitting and non-revealing.

4. The Intention (Niyyah)

Once you are physically prepared and have worn the Ihram, you make the Niyyah, or intention, to perform Umrah. This is a crucial step because it signifies the official entry into the state of Ihram.

The intention is typically declared by saying:
“Labbayk Allahumma Umrah”
(Here I am, O Allah, for Umrah)

After making this declaration, you are now officially in the state of Ihram, and the specific rules and restrictions apply to you until you complete the rituals.

5. The Talbiyah: A Prayer of Devotion

Immediately after making the Niyyah, you should begin reciting the Talbiyah, a special prayer of submission and readiness to serve Allah:

“Labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayk la sharika laka labbayk, inna al-hamda wa ni’mata laka wal-mulk, la sharika lak”
(Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Indeed, all praise, grace, and sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.)

The Talbiyah is recited frequently during the journey, especially upon entering Mecca and the Haram, and before each significant ritual.

Restrictions While in Ihram

Once you are in the state of Ihram, certain actions become prohibited to maintain spiritual focus and purity. Violating these restrictions can result in penalties, so it is essential to be mindful of them.

Prohibited Actions for Both Men and Women:

No Cutting Hair or Nails
Once in Ihram, you cannot trim or cut your hair, beard, or nails until the completion of Umrah.
No Use of Perfume or Scented Products
Fragrances, whether in perfume, soap, shampoo, or lotion, are not allowed while in Ihram. Only unscented products should be used.
No Hunting or Killing Animals
Pilgrims are prohibited from hunting or harming animals during their pilgrimage.
Avoid Marital Relations
Engaging in any form of intimate contact, including kissing and sexual intercourse, is forbidden while in Ihram.
Avoid Arguments and Bad Behavior
Quarreling, fighting, or engaging in bad behavior goes against the spirit of Ihram, which emphasizes patience, humility, and peace.

Additional Restrictions for Men:

No Stitched Clothing or Covered Head
Men must refrain from wearing stitched or fitted clothing like shirts, trousers, or underwear. The Ihram garment must remain loose and unstitched. Additionally, men cannot cover their heads (hats or turbans are prohibited).

Additional Restrictions for Women:

No Covering the Face
Women should not cover their faces while in Ihram. However, they can wear a headscarf, ensuring their face is visible.

Exceptions to Ihram Rules

There are certain exceptions and allowances during Ihram:

Use of Sunglasses or Umbrellas:
These are permissible for protection against the sun but must not cover the head for men.
Medical Needs:
If medical treatment is required, such as applying cream or taking medicine, this is allowed, though scented products should still be avoided.

Exiting the State of Ihram

After completing the major rituals of Umrah—Tawaf, Sa’i, and the cutting of hair—you may exit the state of Ihram. This is done by shaving (for men) or trimming (for both men and women) a portion of hair, signifying the completion of the pilgrimage.

Next Steps: Once you have completed the preparations of Ihram, you are now ready to begin the major rituals of Umrah, starting with the Tawaf, which we will cover in the next chapter.

Tawaf: The Circumambulation of the Kaaba

The Meaning and Significance of Tawaf

Tawaf holds a central place in the rituals of Umrah, as it demonstrates the pilgrim’s focus on Allah as the center of their life. The act of walking around the Kaaba is symbolic of:

The Unity of Muslims: All pilgrims, regardless of race, nationality, or social status, circle the same sacred structure, united in their faith.
Submission to Allah: The movement around the Kaaba reflects the human soul’s recognition of Allah as the core of existence.
The Connection to Prophets: Tawaf is a practice established by the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and continued by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

The Different Types of Tawaf

There are several types of Tawaf, but for Umrah, the focus is on Tawaf al-Umrah, which is the mandatory circumambulation that every pilgrim must perform during Umrah.

Other types of Tawaf include:

Tawaf al-Qudum (Arrival Tawaf): A greeting circumambulation performed by pilgrims arriving for Hajj.
Tawaf al-Ifadah: Performed during Hajj, one of the main pillars of the pilgrimage.
Tawaf al-Wada (Farewell Tawaf): The farewell circumambulation performed before leaving Mecca.
Tawaf al-Nafl: A voluntary Tawaf that can be performed at any time.

For Umrah, Tawaf al-Umrah is obligatory and must be completed properly to fulfill the requirements of the pilgrimage.

How to Perform Tawaf

1. Begin at the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad)

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Position Yourself: Begin Tawaf at the corner of the Kaaba where the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad) is located. The Black Stone is a revered relic, and while it is Sunnah (recommended) to touch or kiss it, this is often not possible due to crowds. Instead, raise your right hand toward the Black Stone and say:“Bismillah, Allahu Akbar”
(In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest)
Note: It is important to remain calm and respectful. Pushing or shoving others to reach the Black Stone is discouraged, as the spiritual essence of the ritual is more important than physically touching it.

2. Circumambulate the Kaaba Seven Times

Direction: Move counter-clockwise around the Kaaba, with the Kaaba on your left side.
Focus on Dua: As you walk, engage in personal supplication (Dua) or remembrance of Allah (Dhikr). There are no specific, required supplications during Tawaf, so you can make any Dua from the heart. Common phrases include:
- SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah)
- Alhamdulillah (All praise be to Allah)
- Allahu Akbar (Allah is the Greatest)
Each circuit begins and ends at the Black Stone, and you continue to raise your hand in its direction as you complete each round.

3. The Multazam

The Multazam is the area between the Black Stone and the door of the Kaaba. It is a place where many pilgrims make heartfelt supplications, asking for forgiveness, blessings, and guidance. It is recommended to pause here and make Dua, though it may be crowded.

Physical Considerations During Tawaf

Crowds: During peak seasons, such as Ramadan or Hajj, Tawaf can be physically challenging due to large crowds. Remain patient, calm, and avoid pushing. Focus on the spiritual aspect of the ritual, even if it means performing Tawaf from a greater distance, such as the upper levels of the Haram.
Speed: The first three circuits of Tawaf are traditionally performed at a brisk pace, and the remaining four at a slower pace. However, it is more important to maintain decorum and safety, especially when it is crowded.
Completion: After completing the seventh circuit, you move on to the next steps of Umrah (praying at Maqam Ibrahim and drinking Zamzam water).

What to Do After Tawaf

1. Pray at Maqam Ibrahim

Maqam Ibrahim: After completing Tawaf, it is Sunnah to offer two units of prayer (Rak’ah) near Maqam Ibrahim, which is a small structure near the Kaaba that houses the footprints of the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham).
Reciting Surahs: In the first Rak’ah, recite Surah Al-Fatiha followed by Surah Al-Kafirun, and in the second Rak’ah, recite Surah Al-Fatiha followed by Surah Al-Ikhlas.
However, these Surahs are not obligatory, and any Surah can be recited.

2. Drink Zamzam Water

Zamzam Water: After the prayer, proceed to drink Zamzam water, which is readily available in the Haram. It is a Sunnah to drink this water while facing the Kaaba and to make Dua, asking Allah for blessings, healing, or whatever your heart desires.The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:
“The water of Zamzam is for whatever it is drunk for.” (Ibn Majah)

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Tawaf

Disrupting Others: Tawaf is a collective act of worship, and pushing or shoving others to get closer to the Kaaba or the Black Stone should be avoided. Respect for fellow pilgrims is crucial.
Inappropriate Focus: Some pilgrims get distracted by taking pictures or socializing during Tawaf. It’s essential to maintain concentration on the spiritual aspect and avoid distractions.
Skipping a Circuit: It’s important to complete all seven circuits of Tawaf. If you lose count or miss a circuit, you must return and complete the remaining ones.

Next Steps: Sa’i (The Walk Between Safa and Marwah)
Once you’ve completed Tawaf, the next step in Umrah is Sa’i, the symbolic walk between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This ritual commemorates Hagar’s search for water for her son, Ismail, and is another essential act of devotion during Umrah.

Sa’i: The Ritual Walk Between Safa and Marwah

Historical and Spiritual Significance of Sa’i

The ritual of Sa’i is deeply rooted in the story of Hagar. After being left in the desert with her son Ismail by Allah’s command, Hagar ran between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times in search of water. Her determination and faith were rewarded when the angel Jibril (Gabriel) struck the ground, and the Zamzam well gushed forth. The act of walking between these two hills reminds pilgrims of:

Trust in Allah’s plan: Hagar’s belief that Allah would provide for her despite her dire circumstances.
Persistence in the face of hardship: Even when things seem impossible, faith and effort bring rewards.
The Mercy of Allah: Just as Allah provided water for Hagar, He provides for all who put their trust in Him.

How to Perform Sa’i

1. Starting at Safa

After Completing Tawaf: After you finish Tawaf and pray at Maqam Ibrahim, you proceed to the hill of Safa, which is located inside the Masjid al-Haram near the Kaaba.
Facing the Kaaba: Once you reach Safa, stand facing the direction of the Kaaba. Recite the verse from the Quran:
“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah…” (Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:158)Then, you make your intention (Niyyah) for Sa’i, saying something like:
“I intend to perform Sa’i between Safa and Marwah for the sake of Allah.”
Supplication and Dua: At the start of the Sa’i, it is recommended to raise your hands in supplication, recite the Talbiyah, or make personal Duas. Many pilgrims recite:
“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, wa lillahil-hamd”
(Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, and to Allah belongs all praise)

2. Walking from Safa to Marwah

Seven Circuits: The Sa’i consists of walking seven times between the two hills of Safa and Marwah. Each leg from one hill to the other counts as one circuit. The walk begins at Safa and ends at Marwah.
Running Between the Green Lights: During the walk, there is a marked area with green lights that signify the portion of the distance where Hagar ran between the hills. It is recommended for men to run briskly between these two points, while women may continue walking at their normal pace. The green lights represent the area where Hagar hurried in her search for water.
Making Dua Along the Way: Pilgrims are encouraged to make personal supplications (Dua) throughout the walk, asking for Allah’s blessings, mercy, and forgiveness. There are no specific required prayers for Sa’i, so pilgrims can recite any prayers they feel drawn to. Reciting verses from the Quran or Dhikr, such as SubhanAllah (Glory be to Allah) and Alhamdulillah (All praise is due to Allah), is also encouraged.

3. Reaching Marwah

Completing One Circuit: Once you reach the hill of Marwah, you have completed one circuit. You should again make Dua and supplications while facing the direction of the Kaaba. From Marwah, you turn around and walk back to Safa.
Repeating the Process: This process is repeated seven times, with the final stop being Marwah. The total number of legs is seven, which means you walk from Safa to Marwah and back, completing the seventh circuit at Marwah.

Spiritual Etiquette During Sa’i

Patience and Humility: Sa’i is a physical act, and during peak times, it can be crowded. Pilgrims are encouraged to remain patient and avoid pushing or rushing. Sa’i is a test of spiritual and physical endurance, reminding pilgrims of Hagar’s perseverance.
Focus on the Significance: Sa’i is not just a walk; it’s a reenactment of Hagar’s profound faith and struggle. As you walk or run, reflect on the lessons of trust and reliance on Allah.

Completion of Sa’i

Once the seventh circuit is completed at Marwah, the next step is the symbolic cutting of the hair, known as Tahallul:

For men: It is recommended to shave the head completely, which symbolizes a full renewal and purification. However, if shaving is not possible or preferred, trimming a portion of the hair is also acceptable.
For women: Women are required to trim a small portion of their hair, about the length of a fingertip, as a symbol of modesty and renewal.

Once the hair is trimmed, the pilgrim has completed the Sa’i and exited the state of Ihram. This marks the completion of the main rituals of Umrah, and the pilgrim can resume normal activities such as wearing regular clothing, applying perfume, and other everyday actions that were restricted in Ihram.

Common Mistakes to Avoid During Sa’i

Skipping or Losing Count of Circuits: It’s crucial to complete all seven circuits of Sa’i. Losing count is common due to distractions, so pilgrims should remain focused and be mindful of how many circuits they have completed.
Rushing or Pushing Others: Sa’i can be crowded, especially during peak seasons. Pushing or hurrying others to complete the ritual faster goes against the spirit of patience and humility.
Neglecting Dua: Sa’i is a time for reflection and supplication. While there are no specific required prayers, many pilgrims overlook the opportunity to make personal Duas during this part of Umrah.

Symbolism and Lessons from Sa’i

Trust in Allah’s Provision: Just as Hagar trusted that Allah would provide for her in a moment of despair, Sa’i reminds pilgrims to rely on Allah for their needs.
Effort and Patience: Hagar’s running between Safa and Marwah symbolizes the human struggle and effort, but also the reward that comes from persistence and faith. Sa’i teaches the importance of patience in facing life’s trials and uncertainties.
A Universal Struggle: The act of Sa’i connects every pilgrim to the trials faced by all prophets and believers throughout history. It is a reminder that spiritual success requires struggle and sacrifice.

After Sa’i: Completion of Umrah

After completing Sa’i and the symbolic hair-cutting, the pilgrimage of Umrah is complete. Pilgrims can now relax and reflect on their journey, thankful for the opportunity to fulfill this sacred obligation. Many choose to remain in Mecca for additional worship, praying in the Grand Mosque and spending time in reflection and supplication.

Experience the Spiritual Blessings of Ziyarah to Al-Madinah

After performing Umrah, visiting Al-Madinah and making Ziyarah to the Prophet’s Mosque is a spiritually fulfilling experience. Here’s a step-by-step guide:

Travel to Al-Madinah: Plan your journey from Makkah to Madinah, ideally by train, bus, or private car.
Enter Al-Masjid an-Nabawi: Upon arrival, enter with respect and say a prayer of greeting.
Visit the Rawdah (Riyadh ul-Jannah): Pray in this area, known as “a garden of Paradise,” located between the Prophet’s (PBUH) pulpit and his grave.
Make Salutations: Stand before the grave of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and offer respectful salutations (Salam). Extend your greetings to Abu Bakr and Umar as well.
Visit Key Sites:
- Quba Mosque: The first mosque built by the Prophet (PBUH).
- Mount Uhud: Visit the battlefield and remember the sacrifices of the martyrs.
- Masjid al-Qiblatain: Where the Qiblah direction was changed from Jerusalem to Makkah.
Additional Prayers and Reflection: Spend time in quiet reflection and additional prayer within the mosque.