Umrah is a beautiful pilgrimage that can be performed at any time of the year. Often called the "minor pilgrimage," it holds immense rewards and blessings. Here is a clear guide to the primary pillars of Umrah.
Step 1: Ihram
Enter the state of Ihram at the designated Miqat. This involves physical cleaning, putting on the two white seamless sheets (for men), and declaring your intention (Niyyah) followed by reciting the Talbiyah.
Step 2: Tawaf
Perform seven circumambulations around the Holy Kaaba, starting from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad). Pray two units of prayer behind Maqam Ibrahim and drink Zamzam water.
Step 3: Sa'ee
Walk seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, commemorating the struggle of Hajar (peace be upon her) as she searched for water for her infant son Ismail.
Step 4: Halq or Taqsir
Conclude your Umrah by shaving the head (Halq, for men) or cutting a small portion of hair (Taqsir, for men and women). With this, you exit the state of Ihram.