WHAT ARE pillars of umrah
Umrah, an abbreviated form of Hajj, unfolds annually as a spiritual visit for Muslims worldwide. Devotees hailing from diverse corners of the globe converge upon this sacred sanctuary. While not obligatory, Umrah is an enlightening act of devotion, open to every Muslim, regardless of caste, ethnicity, social standing, or cultural background.
The Purpose Behind Umrah
Human nature predisposes us to sin, ranging from minor transgressions like backbiting to grappling with major moral dilemmas. Islam presents a beautiful avenue for seeking forgiveness and spiritual renewal—the pilgrimage of Umrah. Facilitated by various Umrah packages, obtaining an Umrah visa becomes a streamlined process, providing an opportunity to cleanse one’s soul of past indiscretions. Opening one’s heart before Allah (S.W.T.), Umrah becomes a transformative experience, aligning life with Islamic principles and drawing the faithful closer to the divine. It is said that prayers uttered within the precincts of Allah’s house find fulfilment.
The Crucial Pillars of Umrah
Embarking on this sacred odyssey requires obtaining Umrah visa services from a reputable travel agency. Even for single ladies, the prospect of this journey is now accessible through contacting local Umrah Travel Agencies in the U.A.E. Understanding the four pivotal pillars of Umrah is imperative before embarking on this soul-stirring venture, each elucidated below with fundamental guidance.
- Ihram
- Initiating with Ihram, a distinctive attire for men, necessitates impeccable personal hygiene. Ghusl, while recommended, allows for wudu as an alternative. Adorning two white garments, Izar and Rida, men wear Ihram before crossing the Miqat boundary, approximately five miles from the Holy Kaaba. Anointing their beard with a hint of perfume, men perform Salah al-Ihram, after which the pilgrimage officially commences.
- Tawaf
- The second phase involves Tawaf at Al Masjid Al Haram. Commencing from the black stone, pilgrims circulate the Holy Kaaba seven times, invoking Allah’s will and proximity. Istilam, touching or kissing the black stone, punctuates each round. Men engage in Ramal during the initial three circuits, after that, completing the games at a regular pace. Post-Tawaf, two Rakat prayers at Maqam Ibrahim ensue, culminating in supplicating and consuming Holy Zamzam water at Multazam.
- Sai’i
- Transitioning from Al Masjid Al Haram to Masaa, Sai’i unfolds as an essential rite commemorating the trials of Hazrat Hajra. Pilgrims traverse between Safa and Marwa, men running and women walking, reciting SubhanAllah with each step. The final round concludes at Marwa, followed by two Rakat Nafl prayers at Masjid Al Haram and fervent dua at the Holy Mosque.
- Tahallul
- The concluding act, Tahallul, applies to both men and women. Men shave entirely their hair, while women trim a small section. Tahallul represents total submission to Allah (S.W.T.), symbolizing detachment from physical appearance, marking the end of Umrah restrictions. A return to regular clothing from Ihram signifies the culmination of this transformative journey.
Initiating this transformative journey requires acquiring an Umrah visa, a seamless process for residents in the U.A.E., with diverse Umrah packages available from Dubai.
Frequently Posed Queries
- Ihram Prohibitions:
- Shaving, perfume application, hunting, and any sexual activity are strictly prohibited once in the state of Ihram.
- Timing of Niyyah:
- The Niyyah must be pronounced before or upon approaching the Miqat, with repeated Talbiyah until the second phase of Umrah commences.
- Sevenfold Circumambulation:
- Symbolizing the angels’ circumambulation around Allah’s house (al-Bayt al-Ma’mur).
- Idtiba’a in Umrah:
- Umrah involves the act of Idtiba’a, wherein the right shoulder is uncovered during Tawaf, emphasizing spiritual openness.
- Al Rukn Al Yamani:
- Positioned opposite the Hajar e Aswad, the southwestern corner of the Kaaba, facing Yemen, pilgrims circumnavigate between the Rukn al Yamani and the black stone.
- Safa and Marwa Locations:
- Safa is to the south, and Marwa is to the north.
- Distance Between Safa and Marwa:
- Approximately 450 meters separate Safa and Marwa.
- Significance of Tahallul:
- Tahallul marks the conclusion of Umrah, symbolizing complete submission to Allah (S.W.T.), freeing oneself from the constraints of Ihram.
- Saudi E-Visa for Umrah:
- Yes, Muslims worldwide can obtain a Saudi E-Visa with tailored packages, including provisions for single ladies, ensuring their safety.
- Timely Visa Acquisition:
- Liaise with Umrah Travel Agencies in the U.A.E. or U.K. to expedite the visa process, ensuring a prompt journey.
- Umrah Frequency:
- Umrah frequency has no restrictions; individuals can perform it multiple times, fostering a continuous connection with Allah (S.W.T.). Secure an Umrah visa for U.A.E. residents in 2023 for a serene journey towards divine forgiveness.