This brief guide will outline the Umrah rituals. It contains all the necessary information regarding Umrah’s methods, rights, and formalities.

1- The intention to perform Umrah

When performing Niyyah (intention)for Ihram, one should remember that the intention should not be uttered by the tongue only. It should come from the pilgrim’s heart. Islamic scholars believe that since Niyyah is made from the heart, pilgrims do not need to utter it verbally. Moreover, there is no evidence that the Prophet or his companions ever said Niyyah aloud before prayer.

2- Ihram

Ihram is the clothing worn during the holy pilgrimage of Umrah and Hajj. Ihram means to enter into a state of purity and prohibition, Ihram for Umrah and Hajj is the first necessity of the pilgrimage. It is a state where many things are forbidden. To enter this state, pilgrims must perform certain rituals. Let’s understand them one by one. Things To Do Before Wearing Ihram

Despite being an important aspect of the pilgrimage, not everyone knows how to wear Ihram for Umrah. Before wearing Ihram, pilgrims must:

• Take ghusl, which is an ablution or body cleansing.
• He or she should trim the nails.

Let’s understand a few important things in detail:

Ghusl in Ihram

You should perform Ghusl, a highly recommended step for those intending to assume Ihram. It is Sunnah for every man, woman, and child, including those women experiencing menses or post-natal bleeding, to bathe before donning the Ihram garments.

Ihram Sheets

Men should wear a white sheet around the waist and cover the upper body with the other sheet. Women’s ordinary clothes are their Ihram. Both should wear flip-flops (hawai chappal) so that the middle bones of the upper part of the feet are not covered.

Nafl Salah

After you have donned the Ihram garments, it is Sunnah to perform two Rakaats of Salah al-Ihram before making the intention to enter the state of Ihram. This should be performed before the Miqat is crossed. Provided it isn’t one of the prohibited times for prayer, observe the Salah to perform two Rakaats Nafl for Ihram.

If any other prayer is performed after changing into the Ihram clothes and before pronouncing the intention, whether it is obligatory or Sunnah such as (The Prayer of Greeting the Masjid), it will count for this prayer, even if there is no intention to do so.

3- Tawaf

Tawaf is one of the easiest yet most significant rituals in Islam. It is an act of worship and a mandatory ritual for pilgrims who intend to perform Hajj and Umrah. Because it is a holy ritual, Tawaf has many duas and prerequisites.

It involves going around the Kaaba anti-clockwise 7 times beginning at the Black Stone (Hajar-Al-Aswad).

Pilgrims should touch or kiss Hajar Al Aswad (the black stone) which is in the first corner of the Kaaba where the Tawaf starts. However, if the mattaf is so congested that it is not possible to do so, the Tawaf can still be completed without this act.

They must then pray two rakaat at Maqam Ibrahim. This is the stone on which the prophet Ibrahim (Peace be upon him) stood on while building the Kaaba and is located in front of the Kaaba doors.

Worshippers must make sure they are praying so that Maqam Ibrahim is between them and the Kaaba (but they do not have to be directly in front of it).

In exceptionally congested periods, this prayer can be prayed anywhere in Masjid-ul-Haram.

Having completed these prayers, pilgrims must drink Zamzam water from any of the water points and then leave for Saa’i.

4- Saa’i between Safa and Marwah

Safa and Marwa are two small hills, connected to the larger Abu Qubais and Qaiqan mountains respectively. They are now part of the Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. Muslims travel back and forth between them seven times in what is known as Saa’i (Saa’i or Saa’iy; lit. ‘seeking/searching or walking’) is a ritual of Ḥajj and Umrah as a tribute to Hajar’s search for water in the area when she ran out of provisions after Prophet Ibrahim left her with Ismail in the valley upon Allah’s command.

The space between the two mountains pilgrims walk through is called Mas’aa.

Originally the word Saa’i comes from the Arabic word Saa’i which linguistically means to walk, pursue, or strive. However, according to Islamic terminology, Saa’i is to run or walk between Safa and Marwa while performing Hajj or Umrah. Performing Saa’i is the fourth compulsory rite of Hajj or Umrah. Muslims are obligated to perform Saa’i after Tawaf and its prayers. Based on Islamic history, Saa’i commemorates a mother’s sacrifice for her son.

5- Shaving the head/Cutting hair

It is necessary (wajib) to shave or trim at least one-quarter of the hair on your head after performing pilgrimage rites (hajj/umrah). The Sunnah is to shave or trim the entire head, and it is unacceptable to do less than this.

Generally, it is superior to shaving, given that it was emphatically encouraged by the Messenger of Allah (PBUH), but trimming your hair is also acceptable on condition that the hair is shortened by roughly the extent of a finger-joint, namely, two centimeters.

When you are ready, sit in front of the barber and have your head shaved or a small portion of your hair cut. It is important to note that for men, head shaving is preferred over hair cutting. However, if you cannot shave your head, you can cut a small portion of your hair. For women, haircutting is the preferred option.

Umrah is a non-obligatory but righteous deed that every Muslim wants to carry out once in a lifetime. Those who are financially and physically strong or able to do so are the only ones. However, this journey allows us to wipe out old sins and start a fresh life with fresh souls. Muslims can perform Umrah multiple times in their lives. Therefore, Kaaba is considered the most sacred and holy place for Muslims.

Every year millions of Muslims gather in Makkah to perform Umrah. People from all over the world come and gather in this one place in front of the Kaaba. This gathering increases unity and tolerance among Muslims to remind them that they are all brothers.

If you are interested in visiting Makkah and Madinah, you are welcome to join us on our next Umrah trip. Jerusalem will also be part of our trip.

Reserve your place for an unforgettable journey to the three holy cities. Be Part Of Our Exclusive Group!

The post Umrah Trip Walkthrough Explained appeared first on Muslim Voice for Peace.

something’ or ‘to walk around something’. In the Islamic context, Tawaf refers to

taking rounds or encircling the Holy Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction

as part of Umrah or Hajj, starting from Hajar Al-Aswad (the black stone). It is among

the most significant obligations of both Hajj and Umrah, without which the great and

minor pilgrimages would be incomplete. When performing Tawaf, pilgrims recite

Takbir and various other supplications based on the Sunnah of the Prophet

Mohammad (PBUH).

The Purpose of Tawaf

Tawaf is believed to be an essential part because it shows the unity of Allah’s believers

and servants from different parts of the world. These believers come to His home to

worship Him. They all worship their one God in unity and harmony and walk in rounds

together, showing Allah their firm trust in Him with their complete petition towards

him. It is many times misinterpreted that Muslims are there to worship the Kaaba. On

the contrary, Muslims are there to worship their one God in unity and harmony and

this is the real purpose of Tawaf.

The purpose of Tawaf is to represent the notion that our lives should revolve around

remembering and staying obedient to Allah Ta’ala. By performing Tawaf we are re-

enforcing the centrality of this spiritual focus in our life.

How to Perform the Tawaf

Once you’re in Mataf, observe Idtiba, the uncovering of the right shoulder, as per the practice of the Sunnah for Tawaf Al-Umrah. This can be easily done by passing the upper sheet of your Ihram under your right armpit and hanging it from your left shoulder. Keep your right shoulder uncovered throughout the Tawaf.

The starting point for Tawaf is at the corner of the Kaaba where Hajar Al-Aswad or the black stone is positioned. Stand facing the Kaaba with the black stone on your right side. This is where you’ll make the niyyah to perform Tawaf. Recite the following words to make the intention:

Bismillah, wa Allah Akbar, Allahumma imanan bika w tasdeqan bi kitabika wa wafaan bi a’ahdika wa attba’an li sunnati nabik Muhammad (Salallah Alaihi Wasallam).

Translation: I begin in the name of Allah; Allah is the greatest. O Allah, out of faith in You, belief in Your book, in fulfillment of Your covenant, and the emulation of the Sunnah of Your Prophet (PBUH).

Begin your Tawaf by heading to your right so that the Kaaba is on your left. This way, you’ll be making the round in an anti-clockwise direction. Raml is another Sunnah practice that should be observed while performing Tawaf Al-Umrah. It refers to the practice of walking quickly, forcefully lifting the feet, and sticking out the chest. You should perform the first three rounds of your Tawaf in this manner then return to your normal walking state for the rest of the four rounds.

Perform your Tawaf with humbleness, keeping in view the greatness of the Kaaba. Avoid eating and drinking and talking unnecessarily about worldly things.

5 Different Types of Tawaf in Islam

We would like to take a moment to tell you a little about the different types of Tawaf in Islam before we conclude this article.

Tawaf Al-Ifada and Tawaf Al-Ziyarah

Tawaf Al-Ifada is performed on the day of the Festival of Sacrifice when one comes to Al-Masjid Al-Haram after performing waqfa in the Plain of Arafat. It is also called the circumambulation of visiting (Tawaf Al-Ziyarah).

It is not permissible to postpone Tawaf Al-Ifada without a legitimate excuse and without performing this Tawaf, the hajj will not be complete. Women who are menstruating can perform this Tawaf after their menses end.

Tawaf Al-Qudoom

Tawaf Al-Qudoom is the initial Tawaf carried out by the pilgrim upon entering Al-Masjid Al-Haram in Makkah. It is performed instead of Tahiyyat Al-Masjid (prayer of greeting the mosque).

The majority of scholars agree on it being sunnah for those coming from outside Mecca. According to the Maliki School, it is obligatory.

The time of Tawaf Al-Qudoom ends upon staying at ‘Arafat according to the Hanafi, Maliki, and Shafi‘i schools and one of two opinions of the Hanbali School.

According to this opinion, the pilgrim entering Mecca after staying at ‘Arafat does not have to perform Tawaf Al-Qudoom, and no penalty is required for default according to all except the Maliki who require a blood sacrifice.

Tawaf Al-Wada’a

What is the Farewell Tawaf? Have you ever seen a honey bee circulating through flowers? Why are the moths attracted to the light? Philosophers explain these phenomena as honey bees and moths’ adoration of flowers and light. That is how Muslims love the Holy Kaaba, the nucleus of the Ummah, and yearn to circumambulate around it by performing Tawaf. Tawaf is an expression of true love from the heart of the believer towards his Creator. It is also an essential ritual of the Hajj and constitutes encircling the Kaaba seven times.

Tawaf Al-Umrah

Is the Tawaf that is carried out by those performing Umrah outside of the Hajj season and those who have the intention of performing Hajj Al-Tamattu. It is identical to Tawaf Al-Qudoom except for the intention that is made. During Tawaf Al-Umrah, Ihram is worn and Idtiba and Raml are observed.

Nafl Tawaf

Performing Tawaf is a Nafl act and it can be performed anytime without wearing an Ihram. Normally, people perform a Nafl Tawaf whenever they want in Masjed Al-Haram.

Perform Tawaf as much as you can, when you are in Makkah because this privilege cannot be gained anywhere in the world.

Al Kaaba represents the spiritual center of the globe, the spiritual axis around which believers rotate. Tawaf is performed as a form of submissiveness to Allah’s orders and for that one would gain great rewards.

Tawaf Umrah and Hajj are similar in most ways. It refers to the act of circumambulating the Holy Kaaba in Al Masjid Al-Haram in reverence to God. The importance of Tawaf can be judged by the fact that it connects you with Allah, reflects every orbiting matter in this universe, forms a necessary step in greater and minor pilgrimages, and more, and also symbolizes unity and equality as people from every corner of the world come together in one place irrespective of their status. 

We believe that Allah Ta’ala possesses infinite wisdom, which is why He never orders anything unwise. every corner of the world comes together in one place irrespective of their status. We believe that Allah Ta’ala possesses infinite wisdom.

If you are interested in visiting Makkah and Madinah, you are welcome to join us on our next Umrah trip. Jerusalem will also be part of our trip.

Reserve your place for an unforgettable journey to the three holy cities. Be Part Of Our Exclusive Group!

The post Tawaf Al-Umrah Guide: Meaning and Steps  appeared first on Muslim Voice for Peace.

Every Muslim is required to undertake this journey at least once in their lifetime.

Before we start our article, let us pray for Muslims who travel for Hajj to really and truly come back with a Hajj mabroor. And what we mean by Hajj mabroor is that Allah accepted the Hajj to the degree that the person returned as pure as the day they were born.

Al-Bukhari (1773) and Muslims (1349) narrated from Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) said:

“An accepted Hajj brings Paradise.”

For the Hajj to be accepted, a person must complete his pilgrimage sincerely. When Allah, the Highest, enjoined Hajj on Muslims in the Quran, he indicated that this obligation is for him and nothing else.

You may be wondering if your Hajj has been accepted or not. The good news is that it’s easy to tell, and in this article, we will guide you through the process.

First: How to perform an accepted Hajj

Second: Signs of an accepted Hajj

Third: A guide to Hajj

How to Perform an accepted Hajj:

The pilgrim must have a purely sincere intention to observe this great pillar of Islam, Hajj, solely for the sake of Allah. This is the most important requirement, and if not met, the Hajj will be invalid.

1- You should intend to perform Hajj for Allah. This is sincerity (ikhlaas). You should perform Hajj according to the way the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did. To ensure the acceptance of any righteous deed, including performing Hajj, two fundamental conditions must be met: sincere intention and adherence to the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said during his Hajj: “Learn from me your rituals.”

2- Another condition is that Hajj must be done with halal funds, for Hajj done with haram funds is haram and not permitted. Some scholars even said Hajj is not valid in this case.

3- You have to avoid whatever Allah has forbidden, whether in the Hajj or elsewhere. This includes immorality and sin, haram speech, haram deeds, listening to music, etc. You should also avoid what Allah has forbidden particularly in Hajj, such as al-rafath (intercourse with women). Also, avoid wearing what the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) forbade us to wear in Ihram. In general, you should avoid everything forbidden while in Ihram.

4- The pilgrim should also be kind, generous, and easy-going with his wealth and actions. You should treat your brothers well as much as possible. You must avoid annoying or disturbing Muslims in the holy places and marketplaces, or in the crowded conditions of the mataaf (the area around the Ka’bah where tawaf is performed) and the mas’aa (the place where saa’i is performed) and around the jamaraat, and in others.

It is important to treat your brothers with kindness as much as possible, while also being mindful to not bother or disrupt Muslims in the holy places, marketplaces, or in the crowded conditions of the mataaf (the area around the Ka’bah where tawaf is performed) and the mas’aa (the place where saa’i is performed) and around the jamaraat, and in others.

The pilgrims must do all these things as they are obligatory for them. The optimal approach to achieve this is to embark on your journey with a wise and learned companion who can provide guidance and reminders about the teachings of your faith. If that is not possible, you should read scholars’ books before leaving for Hajj; so that you can worship Allah with knowledge.

Signs of an Accepted Hajj:

The below-mentioned signs are some signs of an Accepted (Mabroor) Hajj. The pilgrim should continue performing good deeds and acts of worship regularly until you meet Allah Almighty. May Allah accept the Hajj of all pilgrims this year!

1- An accepted Hajj is one that is performed truly and offered with full sincerity to Allah Almighty.

2- Additionally, signs of an accepted Hajj include returning as a better person than before and refraining from sins.

3- The pilgrim must maintain sincerity of intention even after completing the Hajj and should avoid showing off.

4- A clear sign of an accepted Hajj is a positive change in the pilgrim’s life and behavior. They will actively engage in good deeds and strive to follow Allah Almighty’s commands.

5- If the Hajj is accepted, the pilgrim will distance themselves from all things disliked by Allah Almighty.

6- The pilgrim should make every effort to fulfill the obligations set by Allah and express gratitude for the acceptance of their Hajj.

How to Perform Hajj?

Step 1 Ihram and Intentions

Making a pure intention and wearing the Ihram are the two of the first essential steps when traveling for Hajj. After making the niyat (intention), Muslim pilgrims are advised to wear the Ihram- two pieces of unstitched white sheets for men and a loose-fitting Abaya for women, properly covering the whole body. It is recommended that pilgrims should wear the Ihram on Dhul-Hijjah before entering Miqat – the outer boundaries of Makkah.

Step 2 Mina aka “City of Tents”

Mina, also known as the city of tents, is a valley famous for its important role during Hajj Pilgrimage. It is located 8 kilometers east of Makkah, Saudi Arabia. Inside the valley, as far as the eye can see, the open space is covered with tents.

Mina can hold up to 3 million people and is also the largest tented city in the world. Pilgrims coming to Hajj have to camp in Mina for multiple nights. During the Hajj season, the city is crowded with pilgrims and remains deserted the rest of the year.

The valley of Mina is also the place where Prophet Ibrahim was ordered to sacrifice his son Ismael in a dream by Allah.

Step 3 Mina to Arafat, 9th day of Dhul-Hijjah

9th of Dhu’l-Hijjah: This is the Day of Arafat. You will be in Arafat from dawn until sunset on the 9th of Dhu’l-Hijjah.

After performing the dawn (Fajr) prayer at Mina, leave for Arafat on the morning of the 9th of Dhu’l-Hijjah.

When you reach Arafat, you may stay anywhere in Arafat, except in ‘Batn Oranah, the valley immediately after the Namirah Mosque in the direction of Qibla. Devote as much of your time as possible to prayer. Repent of your sins, and seek Allah’s forgiveness.

At the Namirah Mosque listen to the Arafat day sermon.

From the afternoon onwards, perform Wuquf at Arafah. This is the most holy of times when you stand alone with Allah. Go outside your tent, and face towards the Qibla in the Holy City of Makkah, raise your hands and pray to Allah, pray as you wish, pray in your language, pray for sin forgiveness, and pray with all your heart.

When the sun sets, leave Arafat for Muzdalifah.

Step 4 Muzdalifah

On their return from ‘Arafat to Makkah, pilgrims pass al-Ma’zimayn which is located between two mountains. Ma’zim refers to a narrow pass and a gorge. It refers to the two narrow passages of going and coming through this area, passing which pilgrims arrive at Muzdalifah or the land of al-Mash’ar al-Haram.

After sunset on the Day of Arafat, pilgrims leave Arafat and move toward Muzdalifah. The time of staying in Muzdalifah is from the fajr of Eid al-Adha until sunrise. In Muzdalifah, there is nothing obligatory other than staying there.

However, performing many actions is recommended including remembrance of God and collecting stones for Rami al-Jamarat.

Step 5 Rami al-Jamarat

Rami al-Jamarat, also known as the “Stoning of the Devil,” is a rite carried out by Hajj pilgrims in Mina where small pebbles are thrown at three pillars that symbolically represent the devil, serving as a reenactment of Prophet Ibrahim’s rejection of Satan’s temptation. The act of throwing stones at the Jamarat is known as “Rami”.

Step 6 Nahr

The Day of Nahr is the day of ‘Eed Al-Adh-ha, the Day of the Great Hajj, and the best day of the entire year, according to scholars. These great virtues and merits are because it coincides with great rites of the Hajj that are carried out by pilgrims and acts of worship that are carried out by non-pilgrims.

Slaughtering the Hadiy (sacrificial animal) if it is affordable. If the pilgrim cannot offer a Hadiy on that day, he can offer the sacrificial animal on any of the following three days and nights.

Step 7 Farewell Tawaf

Performing circumambulations of the holy Kaaba during Umrah is known as Tawaf. It is a compulsory ritual for all pilgrims aiming to perform Umrah successfully. It is a holy ritual and hence there are several prerequisites and duas associated with it.

Tawaf is one of the important religious rituals in the Umrah. During the age of Jahiliyyah, before the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Arabs used to perform Tawaf naked, regarding it as an ancestral ritual. They believed that clothes contained sins and let people tramp on them. Many legends explain why Tawaf is performed. Scholars give more than one reason regarding the importance of Tawaf and its process. One of the reasons why pilgrims perform Tawaf in one direction in a circular fashion is that it symbolizes their belief in the one and only Almighty Allah.

Like other pillars of Islam, Hajj is considered sacred because it strengthens your spirituality and connection to Allah SWT. But its emphasis on Islam’s history can also help you better understand the religion, strengthening your relationship with Allah SWT even more.

If you are interested in visiting Makkah and Madinah, you are welcome to join us on our next Umrah trip. Jerusalem will also be part of our trip.

Reserve your place for an unforgettable journey to the three holy cities. Be Part Of Our Exclusive Group!

The post What is an Accepted Hajj? – A Full Guide appeared first on Muslim Voice for Peace.

An expiatory act or propitiatory act is one performed to profess your regrets and apologize for previous wrongdoing by doing something (or accepting punishment) to atone for a sin whether it was a shortcoming or a bigger sin such as a willful transgression against the laws of religion.

Hajj is one of the best deeds one can perform. Therefore, if done according to legal procedures and solely for the purpose of pleasing or obeying Allah then will serve as a means of atonement for all the sins committed by the person.

The main and clear aspect of pilgrimage is that we hasten to respond to God’s call, wearing nothing of the ornaments, which are part of our custom. If we practice a strong sense of devotion and sincere submission during our pilgrimage, God will generously compensate us for our efforts. In other words, the more we devote ourselves to the pilgrimage and submit to God during the process, the greater our rewards will be.

Upon completing our pilgrimage, Allah forgives our sins and grants us a clean slate. We understand that our transgressions were a violation of our own souls and a neglect of our obligation to submit to Allah’s commandments.

When we respond to His call with dedication and submission, as we do during the pilgrimage, He accepts our submission and erases our past sins.

First, let us answer a question everyone should know before moving on to the topic of the article.

What are the 7 Major Sins in Islam?

• Shirk
• Witchcraft
• Killing a soul whom Allah has forbidden us to kill
• Consuming orphans’ wealth
• Consuming Riba
• Fleeing from the battlefield
• Slandering chaste, innocent women.

To help you avoid committing these sins, we will provide a brief description of each one for your awareness.

• Shirk

The worship of others along with Allah. It also implies attributing divine attributes to anyone or anything other than Allah.

It is the belief that power, harm, or blessings come from others besides or with Allah.

• Witchcraft

Committing witchcraft is also a kind of shirk because it involves seeking help and power from sources other than Allah such as worshipping the jinn and seeking their help to misguide people. Black magic harms people and creates illusions by using jinn.

Allah says in the Quran (interpretation of the meaning by Clear Quran):

“They ˹instead˺ followed the magic promoted by the devils during the reign of Solomon. Never did Solomon disbelieve, rather the devils disbelieved. They taught magic to the people…” (Qur’an 2:102)

This verse emphasizes the prohibition of magic in Islam and warns against its harms. On this basis, it is not permissible to use witchcraft for any purpose whatsoever. Witchcraft or magic is falsehood, and all kinds of falsehood are kufr and evildoing.

• Killing a soul whom Allah has forbidden us to kill

The greatest sin in Islam is taking the life of another person or depriving them of their right to live. The Prophet of Islam (PBUH) said: “Seeing the destruction of the world is easier for God than seeing a believer being murdered.”

This means that harming or killing someone is considered a very serious offense and is strictly prohibited in Islam

Furthermore, under Islamic law, the punishment for killing someone without a legal permit in this world is execution.

• Consuming orphans’ wealth

Anyone who defrauds an orphan of his property will be presented on the Day of Judgment with flames protruding from his mouth, nose, and ears. People will remember him as the man who usurped orphans’ property. This implies that anyone who takes away an orphan’s rightful property will be condemned to Hellfire, even though he has committed no other sin.

• Consuming Riba

Riba is a concept in Islamic banking that refers to charging interest. It has also been called usury, or the charging of unreasonably high-interest rates. There is also another form of riba, according to most Islamic jurists, which refers to the simultaneous exchange of goods of unequal quantities or qualities.

Islam aims to promote charity and help others through kindness.

To remove selfishness and self-centeredness, which create social antipathy, distrust, and resentment. By making riba illegal, Sharia law creates opportunities and contexts in which people are encouraged to act charitably, lending money without interest.

• Fleeing from the battlefield

This is a sin as this act may affect the troops of believers and they may end up losing the battle and it is a form of treachery.

In the Quran, it is mentioned (interpretation of the meaning by Clear Quran):

“O you who believe! When you meet those who disbelieve on the march, never turn your backs on them.

Anyone who turns his back on them on that Day, except while maneuvering for battle, or to join another group, has incurred wrath from God, and his abode is Hell—what a miserable destination!” (Qur’an 8:15-16)

• Slandering chaste, innocent women.

People who accuse pure women unjustly of committing adultery and illegal intercourse are cursed in this world and the hereafter and deserve serious punishment.

In the Quran, it is mentioned (interpretation of the meaning by Clear Quran):

“Those who accuse chaste women, then cannot bring four witnesses, whip them eighty lashes, and do not ever accept their testimony. For these are the immoral.

Except for those who repent afterwards, and reform; for God is Forgiving and Merciful.” (Qur’an 24: 4-5)

Pilgrimage is a significant act of worship in Islam that demonstrates our submission to God. It involves expressing remorse for our past sins and making a firm commitment to do better in the future. However, many Muslims often have the same question regarding Hajj, which is:

Do all Sins Get Forgiven in Hajj?

If a person performs his Hajj correctly, all his sins are forgiven. There is a difference of opinion among scholars as to whether this includes the major sins.

Some say that the major sins are also forgiven.

Others say that the major sins are only forgiven by Tawbah, i.e., sincerely repenting from those sins.

The way to reconcile these two views is that it is only befitting of a true pilgrim that he will, during his Hajj, make sincere Tawbah from all sins.

Thus, in this way, a person who performs his Hajj correctly, including Tawbah, will have his major sins forgiven as well.

Generally speaking, Hajj is not solely meant for seeking forgiveness of sins.

Instead, Muslims are encouraged to turn to Allah and seek His forgiveness at all times and in all places, as seeking forgiveness is a continuous process and not limited to a specific act of worship such as Hajj.

Allah Almighty says:

“And when My servants ask you about Me, I Am near; I answer the call of the caller when he calls on Me. So let them answer Me, and have faith in Me, that they may be rightly guided.” (Qur’an 2:186).

If you are interested in visiting Makkah and Madinah, you are welcome to join us on our next Umrah trip. Jerusalem will also be part of our trip.

Reserve your place for an unforgettable journey to the three holy cities. Be Part Of Our Exclusive Group!

The post Hajj and Expiation of Sins appeared first on Muslim Voice for Peace.

For Muslims around the world, Hajj and Umrah are among the most important and sacred pilgrimages they can undertake. 

These journeys are steeped in history and significance and can provide a profound spiritual experience for those who make them. 

In this blog post, we’ll explore the key aspects of Hajj and Umrah and provide tips for those who are planning to undertake these pilgrimages.

What are Hajj and Umrah?

Hajj and Umrah are two Islamic pilgrimages that are performed in and around the holy city of Mecca in Saudi Arabia. 

Hajj is the larger of the two, and is performed during a specific period in the Islamic calendar (the month of Dhul Hijjah). Umrah can be performed at any time of year.

Both pilgrimages involve a series of rituals that are designed to reflect important events in Islamic history, and to demonstrate the unity and devotion of the Muslim community.

The History and Significance of Hajj and Umrah

The history of Hajj and Umrah goes back thousands of years, and is closely tied to the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). 

According to Islamic tradition, the Kaaba (the cube-shaped structure at the center of the Great Mosque in Mecca) was originally built by the Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) and his son Ismail, and was later rededicated to the worship of Allah by the Prophet Muhammad.

Today, millions of Muslims from around the world undertake Hajj and Umrah each year, in a powerful demonstration of their faith and devotion. 

These pilgrimages offer a unique opportunity to connect with the history and traditions of Islam, and to experience the spiritual power of the Muslim community.

A Step-by-Step Guide to Performing Hajj and Umrah

For those who are planning to undertake Hajj or Umrah, it can be helpful to have a step-by-step guide that outlines the key rituals and procedures involved. Here’s a brief overview of what you can expect:

Hajj:

Ihram: This is the state of ritual purity that you must enter before performing Hajj. You will wear special clothing (two pieces of white cloth) and refrain from certain activities (such as cutting your hair or nails) during this time.

Tawaf: This involves walking seven times around the Kaaba, while reciting specific prayers.

Sa’y: This involves walking seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwa, which are located near the Kaaba.

Standing at Arafat: This is the most important part of Hajj, and involves standing in prayer and contemplation on the plain of Arafat.

Stoning of the Jamarat: This involves throwing stones at three pillars that represent Satan, as a symbolic rejection of evil.

Umrah:

Ihram: As with Hajj, you will enter a state of ritual purity before beginning Umrah.

Tawaf: This is the same as the Tawaf performed during Hajj.

Sa’y: This is also the same as the Sa’y performed during Hajj.

Tips for Preparing for Hajj and Umrah

Preparing for Hajj and Umrah can be a complex and challenging process, but with the right guidance and support, it can also be a deeply rewarding experience. 

Here are a few tips to keep in mind:

Research in advance: Make sure you have a clear understanding of the rituals and procedures involved in Hajj and Umrah, and prepare accordingly.

Pack appropriately: Make sure you have all the necessary clothing and supplies for your journey, including

Consult with a trusted travel agent: It’s important to work with a travel agent who is knowledgeable about Hajj and Umrah, and who can help you navigate the logistics of your journey.

Stay hydrated and healthy: The climate in Mecca can be hot and dry, so it’s important to drink plenty of water and take care of your health during your pilgrimage.

Be respectful: Hajj and Umrah are sacred pilgrimages, so it’s important to show respect to your fellow pilgrims and to the holy sites you will be visiting.

Reflect and meditate: Take time during your journey to reflect on the significance of the rituals you are performing, and to connect with the spiritual power of the Muslim community.

The Hajj and Umrah experience is not only a physical journey but also a spiritual and emotional one. Pilgrims often describe the experience as life-changing, and many returns home with a renewed sense of faith and purpose.

During Hajj and Umrah, pilgrims are surrounded by a diverse group of fellow believers from all over the world. 

This creates a sense of unity and community that is rare in our modern world. Pilgrims often feel a sense of connectedness with others that transcends language, culture, and nationality.

One of the most important aspects of Hajj and Umrah is the opportunity to reflect on the teachings of Islam and to connect with Allah. 

The rituals involved in the pilgrimage are designed to help pilgrims focus on the essential elements of their faith and to set aside the distractions of everyday life. 

Pilgrims often report feeling a deep sense of peace and serenity during their journey.

Another important aspect of Hajj and Umrah is the opportunity to visit the holy sites of Islam. The Kaaba, which is the focal point of the Hajj and Umrah rituals, is one of the most sacred places in Islam.

While the physical journey of Hajj and Umrah can be challenging, the spiritual rewards are immeasurable. 

Many pilgrims describe the experience as a “rebirth,” and return home with a renewed sense of purpose and clarity.

In addition to the spiritual benefits, Hajj and Umrah can also have a positive impact on a pilgrim’s mental and physical health. 

The rituals involved in the pilgrimage can help to reduce stress and anxiety and promote feelings of well-being and happiness.

If you are interested in visiting Makkah and Madinah, you are welcome to join us on our next Umrah trip. Jerusalem will also be part of our trip.

Reserve your place for an unforgettable journey to the three holy cities. Be Part Of Our Exclusive Group!

The post Hajj and Umrah: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Muslim Voice for Peace.

In addition to performing Umrah and worship rituals, we explored various aspects of Islamic culture and visited several historical Islamic landmarks.

We also had the opportunity to delve into the infinite ocean of the Quran, the book of Allah Almighty, through a series of lectures delivered by Br. Mohammed Hijab.

Our efforts to promote Islamic teachings and culture continue, and we are committed to organizing more educational trips in the future.

We encourage you to participate in this life-changing experience, as it has the potential to transform your perspective and enrich your life.

By donating, you can help less fortunate Muslims partake in this rewarding journey. Donate now and make their wishes come true.

Thank you for your consideration and support.

If you are interested in visiting Makkah and Madinah, you are welcome to join us on our next Umrah trip. Jerusalem will also be part of our trip.

Reserve your place for an unforgettable journey to the three holy cities. Be Part Of Our Exclusive Group!

The post Our Umrah Trip of 2022 appeared first on Muslim Voice for Peace.