Umrah: A Journey of the Heart
The Light of Forgiveness and Spiritual Renewal
Umrah, known as the ‘lesser pilgrimage,’ carries immense spiritual weight for Muslims across the world. While it is not obligatory like Hajj, it is a highly recommended Sunnah of our beloved Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). What makes Umrah so special is its flexibility — it can be performed at any time of the year, making it accessible for millions who seek spiritual elevation and closeness to Allah.
For the believer, Umrah is not just a physical journey to Makkah and Madinah; it is a soul-stirring experience. The act of performing Tawaf around the Holy Kaaba, making Sa’i between the hills of Safa and Marwah, and drinking from the blessed Zamzam water rekindles faith and fosters humility. In these sacred moments, distinctions of wealth, race, and background dissolve — all stand equal before Allah (SWT), united in devotion.
More than a ritual, Umrah is a transformative experience. It allows Muslims to detach from the distractions of the world and realign their hearts with divine purpose. Every step, every prayer, every tear becomes a means of forgiveness, purification, and spiritual rebirth. With Tawhid International, embark on a journey that will stay with you for a lifetime — in your soul, your character, and your connection with Allah.
Umrah in 7 Simple Steps
Step-by-Step Umrah Guide for Bangladeshi Pilgrims
Performing Umrah is a beautiful act of worship and submission to Allah (SWT). Below are the essential steps that make up this sacred pilgrimage:
1. Intention (Niyyah) & Ihram
Before crossing the Miqat, pilgrims must make the sincere intention for Umrah and enter into the state of Ihram.
Men: Wear the two white unstitched cloths (one around the waist, one over the shoulder).
Women: May wear modest Islamic clothing; no specific color is required, but proper hijab is mandatory.
2. Recitation of Talbiyah
Begin reciting the Talbiyah as you enter Ihram:
“Labbayka llāhumma labbayk(a), labbayka lā sharīka laka labbayk(a), inna l-ḥamda wa n-ni’mata, laka wa l-mulk(a), lā sharīka lak.”
Men should recite aloud (without disturbing others), while women should recite softly.
3. Tawaf (7 Circuits Around the Kaaba)
Upon entering Masjid al-Haram, perform Tawaf by circling the Kaaba seven times in an anti-clockwise direction, starting from the Black Stone (Hajr-e-Aswad). This is one of the most spiritual acts of the pilgrimage.
4. Prayer at Maqam-e-Ibrahim
After completing Tawaf, offer two units (rak’ahs) of prayer near Maqam-e-Ibrahim if possible. Recite Surah Al-Kafirun and Surah Al-Ikhlas in these prayers.
5. Drink Zamzam Water
Next, go to the Zamzam well and drink the blessed water while facing the Kaaba. Make du’a and personal intentions while drinking — the Prophet (PBUH) said that Zamzam water fulfills the purpose it is drunk for.
6. Sa’i between Safa and Marwah
Begin Sa’i by walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah seven times. This act commemorates the struggle of Hajar (AS) in search of water for her son, Ismail (AS).
7. Hair Cutting/Shaving (Tahallul)
The final step is to shave (Halaq) or trim (Qasr) your hair.
Men are recommended to shave their heads completely.
Women should cut a small portion (about a fingertip’s length) of their hair.
After this, your Umrah is complete. You may now exit the state of Ihram.
