Umrah is the minor pilgrimage to Makkah and is a highly encouraged and non-obligatory act of worship that serves as a profound spiritual, mental and emotional rejuvenation for the Muslims. The key benefits of this holy pilgrimage include the expiation of sins between journeys, removal of poverty, strengthening of faith and intense spiritual connection to Allah Almighty.
There are many rituals of the holy pilgrimage of Umrah and one of these rituals is the observation of Ihram and making Niyyah. Ihram is a sacred and purified state of mind and body which is assumed by the pilgrims before performing Umrah. Ihram is usually marked by specific garments which are two white unstitched cloths for men and an abaya with a head covering for women. This usually symbolizes a total equality before Allah, removing social, economic and cultural distinctions while reminding the believers of death, humility and strict adherence to the divine laws.
Millions of pilgrims travelling from several countries around the world come together in order to show unity and perform the holy pilgrimage of Makkah and many of them opt for the Umrah Deals for their ease. Pilgrims living in Britain usually rely upon Umrah packages UK and get all the arrangements handled regarding flights, accommodation and transportation.
Significance of Ihram
The true value of Ihram is much more than just being a garment. Wearing an Ihram means that the pilgrims have entered a spiritual state that symbolizes purity, equality and submission to Allah Almighty. The purpose of Ihram is to strip away the worldly distinctions and prepare the believer to focus solely on their worship. The pilgrimage of Umrah will be considered invalid without entering the state of Ihram.
Entering the Ihram properly
It is mandatory for the pilgrim’s top enter the state of Ihram before entering the sacred places of worship to perform Umrah and Hajj.
Spiritual and Physical preparation
Before entering Ihram, one must take a full body ghusl. If ghusl is not possible then one must perform wudu. Clipping nails, trimming hair, and using the restroom are all part of the Ihram preparation. The cleanliness aspect of the state of Ihram reflects the inner readiness of the pilgrims.
Sunnah Practices before entering Ihram
There are several sunnah practices that one can practice before entering the state of Ihram which include applying a non-fragrant oil for men and wear Ihram. It is suggested to offer two units of prayer with the intention of Ihram. These practices have been carried out by Muslim men since the time of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
Umrah itself is one of the most beloved sunnah of the holy Prophet (PBUH) and it is suggested that one must perform this holy pilgrimage at least once in their life. Umrah revives one’s heart and strengthen their faith. After facing all the hardships of life, it is essential to seek guidance and mercy of Allah Almighty. Performing Umrah during the holy month of December has an added reward and is of much more significance than when performed during any other month of the year. Muslims who are planning to have a similar experience must book December Umrah Packages from UK and get the maximum reward by performing Umrah during the in the winter season.
Making the Niyyah and saying Talbiyah
After crossing the Miqat, pilgrims are obliged to state their intention for Hajj or Umrah. The Niyyah is done by saying the Talbiyah in a loud and clear manner. The Talbiyah is usually narrated as “Labbayk Allahumma Umrah” or “Labbayk Allahumma Hajj” for Umrah and Hajj respectively.
General Rules of Ihram for Men and Women
Once you enter the sacred state of Ihram, there are certain actions that become prohibited and must not be done. The general rules of Ihram that ensure spiritual purity and focus of the pilgrims on their Ibadah. These rules are mentioned in the guide as follows.
Do not apply perfume and fragrance
Incorporating all sorts of scented products is forbidden during the state of Ihram. This includes lotions, deodorants, mists, perfumes and essential oils. The use of all these products is not allowed as they can break the state of Ihram.
Do not engage in sexual activity
Couple who are performing Umrah must keep in mind that during the state of Ihram they must not participate in sexual activities with their partner. The sexual discussions with your partner are also prohibited and must be avoided at all costs.
Do not cut hair or nails
After entering the state of Ihram, the pilgrims cannot trim or pluck their hair. Even cutting the nails is not allowed during the state of Ihram, Violation of these rules will result in a penalty and your state of Ihram will be compromised.
Do not hunt or kill animals
Any sort of animal hunting or insect killing is forbidden for the pilgrims in Ihram. The only exception in which the hunting or killing can be allowed is if only you had any potential danger from that animal or insect and the situation was unavoidable.
Prohibited Acts for Men in Ihram
There are certain acts that are prohibited for men and if they do these they will break out of the state of Ihram. Some of these acts are mentioned as follows.
- Covering their heads or faces
- Wearing socks or closed shoes
- Using scented items
- Shaving or cutting their hair
Prohibited Acts for Women in Ihram
Similar to men, women are also prohibited from certain acts in order to stay in the state of Ihram. Some of these acts are mentioned as follows.
- Applying perfume or makeup on the face
- Wearing gloves or niqab to cover their face and hands
- Cutting their nails or hair
- Engaging in sexual activity with their partner
Although many schools of thought believe that women must be accompanied by a mahram for Umrah or Hajj but the government of Saudi Arabia has now lifted the ban on women travelling without a mahram. This guide will give you an insight on the mistakes that you must avoid in order to maintain the state of Ihram.