Umrah: The Lesser Pilgrimage to the House of Allah
Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage to the House of Allah in Makkah that can be performed anytime of the year, except during the days of Hajj. Unlike Hajj, Umrah is not obligatory (Farz), but it holds great spiritual significance. The pilgrimage includes:
- Wearing the sacred Ihram garments.
- Performing Tawaf, the circumambulation of the Holy Ka’aba.
- Performing Sa’i between Safa and Marwah.
- Tonsure or trimming of hair upon completion of rituals.
While Umrah is not compulsory, Islamic schools differ in opinion:
- According to the Hanafi School, performing one Umrah in a lifetime is considered a strong Sunnah.
- According to the Shafi School, it is regarded as obligatory.
The conditions for performing Umrah are similar to those of Hajj, including physical and financial capability. Unlike Hajj, Umrah does not require staying at Mina, Arafat, or Muzdalifah, nor does it include the ritual of Ramy-e-Jamarat (stoning of Shaitan) or animal sacrifice.
Traditionally, many pilgrims from India combine Umrah with Hajj or perform it during visits to Saudi Arabia. In recent years, performing Umrah in the holy month of Ramadan has become increasingly popular among Muslims seeking greater spiritual rewards.
