Umrah is a sunnah pilgrimage. Therefore, the rules associated with it are not that strict as compared to the ones associated with the obligatory pilgrimage of Hajj. Yet, for the pilgrims arriving in the region with Umrah packages, there are certain rules and regulations that must be adhered to. So that a peaceful and hassle-free Umrah travel can be made possible.
Here’s everything you need to know about the rules of Umrah.
Rules associated with the rituals of Umrah.
The primary rituals of Umrah are four;
1. Assuming Ihram.
- Ihram must be assumed by a pilgrim from the Meeqat region. If the boundary of Meeqat is crossed by the pilgrim without having entered the state of Ihram, a penalty i.e., Dam is due for him/her but the pilgrimage is valid.
- Ihram clothes are specific for men and women;
- For men, ihram can be two sheets of white cloth only. Also, men cannot wear stitched clothes in Ihram and their feet/ankles should remain uncovered at all times.
- For women, ihram can be their ordinary clothes of any colour but modest and simple. Women must keep their feet and head covered at all times because the only exception is of face and hands to be left uncovered.
2. Tawaf of the Holy Kaabah.
- Tawaf must be proceeded by the pilgrims in an anti-clockwise direction.
- Though it is recommended to complete the seven rounds of Tawaf consecutively, you can take small breaks if necessary.
- Each round of Tawaf must start/end at the place of Hajar-al-Aswad.
- Men must do ‘Raml’ for the first three rounds of Tawaf while women are not required to do so.
- The right shoulder of male pilgrims should remain uncovered at all times during the Tawaf performance.
- Pilgrims must keep on reciting specific supplications during the Tawaf performance.
3. Sayee of Safah and Marwah.
- Sayee must proceed in a manner that the first round starts from Safah towards Marwah and the second round is from Marwah to Safah. In such a way, the seventh round must end at Marwah Hill.
- It is necessary that you complete the Sayee on foot by yourself. However, if there are any health complications, you can also take assistance.
- Just like Tawaf, Sayee is also advised to be completed in consecutive rounds. However, small breaks can be taken if a pilgrim feels tired.
4. Halq/Taqsir.
- Men must get their heads shaved completely because it is a recommended act known as Halq. However, if they want to opt for trimming, it is also permissible.
- Women can only cut a fingertip’s length of their hair and it is known as Taqsir.
Prohibited acts in the State of Ihram for Umrah.
– Cutting Hair and Nails.
In your state of Ihram for Umrah, both men and women should avoid cutting/trimming their hair or nails because it is a prohibited act. If anyone does so intentionally, a penalty is due for him/her.
– Using Scented Products.
Using scented products in Ihram is also not allowed. Therefore, avoid all sorts of perfumes and other scented products/toiletries in Ihram.
– Intimate Relations.
It is prohibited for pilgrims to engage in any intimate relations with their spouse in Ihram. Otherwise, a penalty is due for a person who does so.
– Hunting or Killing Animals.
Hunting or killing any animal/insect is also strictly forbidden in your Ihram for Umrah. However, if done in self-defence, it does not count.
– Arguing and fighting.
Peaceful behaviour should be practiced throughout your Umrah performance. Therefore, avoid all sorts of arguments, fights, and disruptive behaviour. Try to display patience and understanding towards others.
Can women wear jewellery in Ihram?
Yes, female pilgrims are allowed to wear jewellery in the state of Ihram as well. However, self-beautification i.e., doing make-up should be avoided. So, these are the necessary rules of Umrah that every pilgrim intending for the minor pilgrimage should know about. For further guidance and detailed answers to any confusion in your mind, it is advised to contact a religious scholar. For performing Umrah you have to purchase the Umrah Packages. Carrying the Holy pilgrimage with the Qatar Airways Flights will open the doors of exposures for you. The fleet which flies from UK to Jeddah is really amazing and luxurious.