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Performing Umrah
Umrah is a sacred act of worship consisting of four essential rites. Each rite should be performed with sincerity, humility and an awareness of its spiritual significance.
The Four Rites of Umrah
1. Entering Ihram
Before reaching the designated Miqat, pilgrims prepare themselves to enter the state of Ihram. This includes completing personal purification, wearing the appropriate Ihram clothing, performing two Rak’ahs of Salah and making the Niyyah (intention) for Umrah.
Once the intention has been made, the pilgrim begins reciting the Talbiyah, expressing their response to Allah’s call.
2. Tawaf
Upon reaching Masjid al-Haram, pilgrims perform Tawaf al-Umrah, circling the Ka’bah seven times in an act of worship and devotion.
After completing Tawaf, two Rak’ahs of Salah are performed, preferably in the vicinity of Maqam Ibrahim, where circumstances allow.
3. Sa’i
Pilgrims then perform Sa’i, walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah. This rite commemorates the devotion and perseverance of Hajar (peace be upon her) as she searched for water for her son, Isma’il (peace be upon him).
4. Halq or Taqsir
The final rite is the cutting of the hair. Men may either shave their heads completely (Halq) or shorten their hair (Taqsir). Women shorten a portion of their hair.
Upon completion, the restrictions of Ihram come to an end and the Umrah is complete.
Sunnah acts to perform
Males show their right shoulder while circumambulating.
Males speeding up their steps during the first three rounds of Tawaf.
Praying two rak'ahs behind the shrine of Ibrahim, after Tawaf.
Males jogging when running between Safa and Marwa.
