The Significance and Rulings of Umrah
Performing Umrah is a revered act of worship, holding immense spiritual rewards. It serves as a means of expiation for sins and elevates one’s spiritual rank, with additional merits when performed during the blessed month of Ramadan. This devotion, encouraged by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is defined as a pilgrimage to the Holy Kaaba in Mecca, intended for acts of worship through rituals such as Tawaf (circumambulation) and Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah). Umrah can be undertaken at any time throughout the year, aside from certain specific days according to some juristic opinions. The majority of scholars agree that Umrah is a valid form of worship, though they diverge on its obligatory nature. Some scholars, notably Ahmad ibn Hanbal and Al-Shafi’i, assert its obligatory status, while most, including Abu Hanifa, Malik, and Ibn Taymiyya, consider it a Sunnah, providing their respective evidences for these viewpoints.
Conditions and Pillars of Umrah
There are several essential conditions that must be met by anyone wishing to perform Umrah. These include being a Muslim, mature, of sound mind, and free. Additionally, the individual must possess the financial and physical capacity to undertake the journey. Umrah consists of three fundamental pillars:
- Ihram, which involves the intention to enter into the state of pilgrimage.
- Tawaf around the Holy Kaaba.
- Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.
Obligatory Acts and Recommended Practices of Umrah
There are three obligatory acts for a pilgrim to fulfill during Umrah. If one of these acts is neglected, the individual must perform a compensatory sacrifice (Damm) to rectify the omission. The obligatory acts commence with entering the state of Ihram from the designated Miqat. If one is already within the sacred precincts, they must enter into a state of Halal (permissible) and remove sewn garments; this requirement is particularly applicable to men, in addition to either shaving or trimming their hair. Numerous recommended practices are associated with Umrah, including trimming nails, applying perfume, and bathing prior to entering Ihram. After donning Ihram, it is encouraged for men to proclaim the Talbiyah aloud. During Tawaf, it is recommended to kiss the Black Stone, provided there is no harm from crowds, uncovering the right shoulder for men, and hastening in the first three circuits. Additionally, pilgrims are encouraged to engage in remembrance and supplication and conclude Tawaf with two units of prayer. When performing Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, it is recommended to ascend to Safa and recite, “We begin with what Allah has begun.” Furthermore, the faithful should jog between the two green markers and should frequently engage in dhikr (remembrance of Allah).