How to Perform 'Umrah

What is Umrah?


In Arabic, the word ‘Umrah is derived from I‘timar which means a visit. However, ‘Umrah in Islamic terminology, means paying a visit to Ka’bah, performing Tawaf (circumambulation) around it, walking between Safa and Marwah seven times. A performer of ‘Umrah puts off his Ihram by having his hair shaved or cut. ‘Umrah can be performed along with Hajj and in other days as well.
Specification
‘Umrah can be performed during anytime in the year, there is no fixed time for ‘Umrah.

The Pillars of `Umrah are four:
a) Ihram: 
which is assumed at the Meeqat.

b) Tawaf: 
around the House.
c) Sa'y: 
walking between As-Safa and Al-Marwah, which consists of seven circuits.

d) Tahal-lul: 
which means coming out of the state of Ihram; becoming lawful what was previously prohibited during Ihram.

During ‘Umrah, pilgrims do not go to Mina, ‘Arafat and Muzdalifah or throw pebbles on the Jamrahs (stone pillars representing devils) or offer animal sacrifice. These rites are only performed during Hajj.

How to perform ‘Umrah:

1.Basic instructions
When the one who wants to perform ‘Umrah arrives at the Meeqat, it is recommended for him (both man and woman) to take a bath if convenient, including menstruating women and those experiencing postnatal bleeding. The man perfumes his head and beard but not his Ihram garments. There is no harm in what remains of it after Ihram. There is nothing wrong if it is not possible to take a bath at Meeqat.

2.Dress of umrah
 Men are to change into their clothing of Ihram while the women only need to make their intention at that time in the clothing they are already wearing. There is no specific clothing designated for women, except that they are prohibited from wearing the Niqab (face-veil) and gloves. Instead, they may cover their hands with the lower part of their khimar (head covering), while using the upper part of their jilbab (outer garment) or a separate piece of fabric to cover their faces by drawing it down, if there is need to do so.
As for men, they must assume their Ihram at the Meeqat by wearing two pieces of fabric called the Izar and the Ridaa’. The Ridaa’ covers the top half of the body, while the Izar covers the lower half. No other clothing is allowed to be worn in addition to these – no underwear, no pants, no shirt, no turban, no hat, etc. are to be worn.

intention at the Meeqat
Then the pilgrim makes the intention at the Meeqat to begin the rites of ‘Umrah by entering the state of Ihram. The intention must be made in the heart, while the statement made afterwards is: “Labayka ‘Umrah” or “Allahumma labbayka ‘Umrah”. This statement begins the rites of `Umrah. So the first pillar of `Umrah is the Ihram. The intention is made in the heart, while the tongue recites the opening Talbiyyah. And if you wish, when uttering Talbiyyah, you may state a condition to Allah fearing that which may prevent you from completion of the ‘Umrah whether illness or fear - saying “in habasanee habes fa mahillee haithu habastanee” (I come out of the state of Ihram from the place You prevent me from continuing). So if you do that and are then prevented or become ill - then you may come out of Ihram. Then repeat the Talbiyyah: “labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la shareeka laka labbayk, innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la shareeka lak” (“In response to your call O Allah I perform ‘Umrah, here I am O Allah. In response to Your call. You have no partner. In response to Your call. All Praise and Blessings, and the Ownership of all that You created is Yours (alone). You have no partner”)

Upon arriving at the sacred mosque in Makkah (Al-Masjid Al-Haram), you should enter with your right foot and say: "Bismillah, Allahumma Salli 'Ala Muhammad, Allahumma Ighfirli waftahli Abwaba Rahmatik. (In the name of Allah! O Allah! Exalt the mention of your Messenger.
" O Allah! Forgive my sins, and open the gates of Your mercy for me)." You should enter in a manner expressing humility and gratitude to the blessings He, Almighty, conferred upon you"

3.Hijri As wad
Upon arriving at the Ka’bah, stop reciting the Talbiyyah, then approach the Black Stone, touch it with your right hand and kiss it. If this isn't possible, you should face the Black Stone and point to it. Don’t push and shove, causing harm and being harmed by other people. When touching the Stone, the following is said: “Bismil-lah, Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest) or "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest).

A pilgrim must walk, keeping the Ka’bah on his left. When you reach the Yamani corner touch it with your right hand, if possible, but do not kiss it, and say: “Bismil-lahi wa Allahu Akbar”. If this is difficult for you, then go on performing tawaf without touching it, pointing at it or even saying “Allahu Akbar” because this was not narrated from the Prophet on the other hand whenever you reach or are parallel to the black stone, touch it with your right hand, kiss it and say, “Bismillah Allahu Akbar”, if it is not possible then it is enough to point at it and say, “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar”.

During this Tawaf it is preferred for a man to do two things:

a) Al-Idhtibaa' from the beginning of Tawaf until the end, which is placing the middle of one's Redaa' under the right arm and the ends of it over the left shoulder. When you are finished performing Tawaf, you may return your Reda' to its original state because the time for A-Idhtibaa' is only during Tawaf.

b) Ar-Raml during the first three circuits only. Ar-Raml means speeding up one's pace with small steps.

Make supplication from your heart, for that which will benefit you. Recite whatever you wish, supplicate to Allah by asking for good, recite the Quran, anything you wish. There are no specific statements or supplications to be recited during the Tawaf that are authentically established in the Sunnah. However it is recommended to say between the two corners during each circumbulance as it is reported from the Messenger of Allah : 
“...Our Lord, grant us good in this life and good in the hereafter and save us from the punishment of the Hellfire.” [Quran: 2:201]

4.After Tawaf
 When you complete seven circuits of Tawaf, approach Maqam Ibraheem (Ibraheem’s station) and recite this verse (which means): “And take you (people) the Maqam (place) of Ibraheem as a place of Prayer...” [Quran: 2:125]

Then pray two short Rak’ahs, as close as conveniently possible, behind Maqam Ibraheem. If it is not possible then you can pray them anywhere in the sacred mosque. It is preferred to recite during the first Rak'ah the chapter "Al-Kafiroon" [109] and during the second one the chapter of “Al-lkhlas” [112].

Upon completing the two Rak'ahs, return to the Black Stone and touch it, if convenient

5.As-Safa and Al-Marwah
 The next stage is to go to Safa. Upon approaching the foot of Safa, the following verse is recited (which means): “Verily, As-Safa and Al-Marwah are from the symbols of Allah. So it is not a sin on him who performs Hajj or 'Umrah of the house (ka 'bah) to perform the going (tawaf) between them. And whoever does good voluntarily, then verily, Allah is the All-Recognizer, All-Knower.” [Quran; 2:158]

6. kalmat
Then climb unto mount Safa until the Ka'bah is visible, if possible. Facing the Ka’bah the following is to be said 3 times, and between each time one is to make ones own supplication:

“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. La ilaha il-lall-llahu wadahu la shareeka lahu, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu, wa huwa 'ala qulli shay'in qadeer. La ilaha il-lall-llahu wahdahu, anjaza wa'dahu, wa nasara 'abdahu, wa hazamal ahzaba wahdahu" (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. None has the right to be worshipped except Allah alone, Who has no partner. To Him belongs the dominion, to Him belongs all praise, and He has power over everything. He fulfilled His promise, gave victory to His servant, and defeated the confederates alone.)

7. Then descend and go towards Marwah, running between the fluorescent green lights (for men only), upon reaching Marwah climb upon it if it is possible, and repeat the same procedure as when ascending Safa except you are not to recite the above-mentioned verse, because it is recited when ascending Safa for the first time only. This completes one circuit. Then one continues back to Safa running between the fluorescent green lights (for men only) - thus completing two circuits.

There are no particular supplications to be recited between Safa and Marwah. Seven circuits are to be completed ending the last one on Marwah.
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Then one is to have his hair cut although shaving it is better. Women should shorten their hair by a finger-tips length from the end. The rights of 'Umrah have now been completed.

What is Umrah?
In Arabic, the word ‘Umrah is derived from I‘timar which means a visit. However, ‘Umrah in Islamic terminology, means paying a visit to Ka’bah, performing Tawaf (circumambulation) around it, walking between Safa and Marwah seven times. A performer of ‘Umrah puts off his Ihram by having his hair shaved or cut. ‘Umrah can be performed along with Hajj and in other days as well.

‘Umrah can be performed during anytime in the year, there is no fixed time for ‘Umrah.

The Pillars of `Umrah are four:

a) Ihram: which is assumed at the Meeqat.

b) Tawaf: around the House.

c) Sa'y: walking between As-Safa and Al-Marwah, which consists of seven circuits.

d) Tahal-lul: which means coming out of the state of Ihram; becoming lawful what was previously prohibited during Ihram.

During ‘Umrah, pilgrims do not go to Mina, ‘Arafat and Muzdalifah or throw pebbles on the Jamrahs (stone pillars representing devils) or offer animal sacrifice. These rites are only performed during Hajj.

How to perform ‘Umrah:
1. When the one who wants to perform ‘Umrah arrives at the Meeqat, it is recommended for him (both man and woman) to take a bath if convenient, including menstruating women and those experiencing postnatal bleeding. The man perfumes his head and beard but not his Ihram garments. There is no harm in what remains of it after Ihram. There is nothing wrong if it is not possible to take a bath at Meeqat.

2. Men are to change into their clothing of Ihram while the women only need to make their intention at that time in the clothing they are already wearing. There is no specific clothing designated for women, except that they are prohibited from wearing the Niqab (face-veil) and gloves. Instead, they may cover their hands with the lower part of their khimar (head covering), while using the upper part of their jilbab (outer garment) or a separate piece of fabric to cover their faces by drawing it down, if there is need to do so.
As for men, they must assume their Ihram at the Meeqat by wearing two pieces of fabric called the Izar and the Ridaa’. The Ridaa’ covers the top half of the body, while the Izar covers the lower half. No other clothing is allowed to be worn in addition to these – no underwear, no pants, no shirt, no turban, no hat, etc. are to be worn.

Meeqat
Then the pilgrim makes the intention at the Meeqat to begin the rites of ‘Umrah by entering the state of Ihram. The intention must be made in the heart, while the statement made afterwards is: “Labayka ‘Umrah” or “Allahumma labbayka ‘Umrah”. This statement begins the rites of `Umrah. So the first pillar of `Umrah is the Ihram. The intention is made in the heart, while the tongue recites the opening Talbiyyah. And if you wish, when uttering Talbiyyah, you may state a condition to Allah fearing that which may prevent you from completion of the ‘Umrah whether illness or fear - saying “in habasanee habes fa mahillee haithu habastanee” (I come out of the state of Ihram from the place You prevent me from continuing). So if you do that and are then prevented or become ill - then you may come out of Ihram. Then repeat the Talbiyyah:

 “labbayk Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la shareeka laka labbayk, innal-hamda wan-ni'mata laka wal-mulk, la shareeka lak” (“In response to your call O Allah I perform ‘Umrah, here I am O Allah. In response to Your call. You have no partner. In response to Your call. All Praise and Blessings, and the Ownership of all that You created is Yours (alone). You have no partner”)

Upon arriving at the sacred mosque in Makkah (Al-Masjid Al-Haram), you should enter with your right foot and say: "Bismillah, Allahumma Salli 'Ala Muhammad, Allahumma Ighfirli waftahli Abwaba Rahmatik. (In the name of Allah! O Allah! Exalt the mention of your Messenger. O Allah! Forgive my sins, and open the gates of Your mercy for me)." You should enter in a manner expressing humility and gratitude to the blessings He, Almighty, conferred upon you.

3. Upon arriving at the Ka’bah, stop reciting the Talbiyyah, then approach the Black Stone, touch it with your right hand and kiss it. If this isn't possible, you should face the Black Stone and point to it. Don’t push and shove, causing harm and being harmed by other people. When touching the Stone, the following is said: “Bismil-lah, Allahu Akbar” (In the name of Allah, Allah is the Greatest) or "Allahu Akbar" (Allah is the Greatest).

A pilgrim must walk, keeping the Ka’bah on his left. When you reach the Yamani corner touch it with your right hand, if possible, but do not kiss it, and say: “Bismil-lahi wa Allahu Akbar”. If this is difficult for you, then go on performing tawaf without touching it, pointing at it or even saying “Allahu Akbar” because this was not narrated from the Prophet on the other hand whenever you reach or are parallel to the black stone, touch it with your right hand, kiss it and say, “Bismillah Allahu Akbar”, if it is not possible then it is enough to point at it and say, “Bismillah, Allahu Akbar”.

During this Tawaf it is preferred for a man to do two things:
a) Al-Idhtibaa' from the beginning of Tawaf until the end, which is placing the middle of one's Redaa' under the right arm and the ends of it over the left shoulder. When you are finished performing Tawaf, you may return your Reda' to its original state because the time for A-Idhtibaa' is only during Tawaf.

b) Ar-Raml during the first three circuits only. Ar-Raml means speeding up one's pace with small steps.

Make supplication from your heart, for that which will benefit you. Recite whatever you wish, supplicate to Allah by asking for good, recite the Quran, anything you wish. There are no specific statements or supplications to be recited during the Tawaf that are authentically established in the Sunnah. However it is recommended to say between the two corners during each circumbulance as it is reported from the Messenger of Allah

: “...Our Lord, grant us good in this life and good in the hereafter and save us from the punishment of the Hellfire.” [Quran: 2:201]

4. When you complete seven circuits of Tawaf, approach Maqam Ibraheem (Ibraheem’s station) and recite this verse (which means): “And take you (people) the Maqam (place) of Ibraheem as a place of Prayer...” [Quran: 2:125]

Maqam Ibraheem
Then pray two short Rak’ahs, as close as conveniently possible, behind Maqam Ibraheem. If it is not possible then you can pray them anywhere in the sacred mosque. It is preferred to recite during the first Rak'ah the chapter "Al-Kafiroon" [109] and during the second one the chapter of “Al-lkhlas” [112].

Upon completing the two Rak'ahs, return to the Black Stone and touch it, if convenient
5. The next stage is to go to Safa. Upon approaching the foot of Safa, the following verse is recited (which means): “Verily, As-Safa and Al-Marwah are from the symbols of Allah. So it is not a sin on him who performs Hajj or 'Umrah of the house (ka 'bah) to perform the going (tawaf) between them. And whoever does good voluntarily, then verily, Allah is the All-Recognizer, All-Knower.” [Quran; 2:158]

6. Then climb unto mount Safa until the Ka'bah is visible, if possible. Facing the Ka’bah the following is to be said 3 times, and between each time one is to make ones own supplication:

Takbeer e Tahreema

“Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. La ilaha il-lall-llahu wadahu la shareeka lahu, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu, wa huwa 'ala qulli shay'in qadeer. La ilaha il-lall-llahu wahdahu, anjaza wa'dahu, wa nasara 'abdahu, wa hazamal ahzaba wahdahu" (Allah is the 

Translation

Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. None has the right to be worshipped except Allah alone, Who has no partner. To Him belongs the dominion, to Him belongs all praise, and He has power over everything. He fulfilled His promise, gave victory to His servant, and defeated the confederates alone.)

7. Then descend and go towards Marwah, running between the fluorescent green lights (for men only), upon reaching Marwah climb upon it if it is possible, and repeat the same procedure as when ascending Safa except you are not to recite the above-mentioned verse, because it is recited when ascending Safa for the first time only. This completes one circuit. Then one continues back to Safa running between the fluorescent green lights (for men only) - thus completing two circuits.

Safa and Marwah
.There are no particular supplications to be recited between Safa and Marwah. Seven circuits are to be completed ending the last one on Marwah

Then one is to have his hair cut although shaving it is better. Women should shorten their hair by a finger-tips length from the end. The rights of 'Umrah have now been completed.
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Perform Umrah in Ramadan for Greater Spiritual Rewards

10 Things to Do on the First 10 Days of Dhul-Hijjah

The month of the Dhul-hijjah is one of the most precious months in Islam and we are sure that by now, you are either in Hajj or at home looking forward to Eid. This is the month of Eid al-Adha, and the month of Hajj – the month whose first ten days are better than the days of Ramadan.




“There are no days more beloved to Allah that He be worshipped in them than the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah, fasting every day of them is the equivalent of fasting a year, and standing every night of them (in prayer) is the equivalent of standing on the Night of Qadr.” (Tirmidhi)

Fast
These days have been described as blessed and glorious, so whether you are in Hajj or not, there are definitely many things you can do to max out the rewards of these days.
These first nine days are a really good time to fast. That’s every day up until the day of Eid (fasting on the day of Eid is not permitted). Even if you cannot fast all the nine days, it’s especially recommended to fast on the 9th day of Dhul-hijjah. Because according to the Prophet (SAW), fasting on this day erases our sins from the previous year and the next.

Give Charity
Remember how good deeds get rewarded multiple times in Ramadhan? In the first nine days of Dhul-hijjah, it is the same. Go out of your way to give in charity, help your colleague, help your neighbour, give money to the poor, spend time with your family, or help your parents.In these days, anything you do to make another person happy is an act of charity that will be rewarded in multiple ways.

Read the Qur’an
This is a good time to read more Qur’an. We don’t have many days like Ramadhan, so every minute needs to be used well. Challenge yourself to see how many chapters of the Qur’an you can read during these first nine days.There are people who are gunning to read the whole Qur’an in these nine days. If that’s not you, don’t feel bad. Just do your best.

Do More Adhkar
Muslims on pilgrimage will be reciting the talbiyah during the rites of Hajj. If you are in Hajj, get used to saying the talbiyah so that it becomes a part of you when the rites of Hajj start. If you are not, recite the dhikr that we have been encouraged to recite in the first ten days of Dhul-hijjah


“Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, laa ilaaha ill-Allaah, Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, wa lillaahi’l-hamd


(Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no god but Allah, Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, and to Allah be praise).”
Remember Allah (SWT) as often as you can as you leave the house, while in commute, while watching your kids at the playground, grocery shopping, heading to a meeting, going to the library, etc. Whatever you are doing, keep your tongue moist with remembrance of Allah (SWT).


Do a Good Deed for Your Parents
Many people may not focus on this but how many times do we do things solely because of our parents? This is not talking about taking the chicken out of the freezer to thaw, or picking up laundry. But how many times have you said a prayer for them, donated money on their behalf, or planted a tree and gave charity on their behalf? 
One of the best things that a person can have is a righteous child who prays for them. In these blessed nine days, make your parents a priority and dedicate a good deed to them. Remember, you also get the reward of that good deed. So, win win!

Give Salam to a Stranger
We get cautious these days of interacting with people especially when they know we are Muslims. We don’t want to be the target of ridicule, or of a stranger not answering your greeting because they don’t know you.But these first days of Dhul-hijjah, renew your intentions and give salam to someone you don’t know. Give salam to that fellow Muslim that you meet on the train or that lady down the street. Respond when a stranger gives you the salam and even give them a smile. Spread the spirit of brother/sisterhood in these holy days.

Wake Up for Tahajjud
If you find it difficult to wake up for the midnight prayers before, now is a good time to motivate yourself. Think how blessed but short these nine days are and think of all the things that you want to ask Allah (SWT) for.

Get a tahajjud buddy if you need to but don’t miss out on the great rewards of spending the night in prayers.

Pray in the Masjid
The reward for praying in the masjid is greater than that of praying at home and now is a good time to get more of those rewards. If you have the opportunity to observe your salah in the masjid, do so. Even if you are a woman who prays at home, in the spirit of Dhul-hijjah, observe some of your salah in the masjid, take the kids along and share the spirit of Dhul-hijjah with them.

Teach the Kids about Dhul-hijjah
Many kids already know that granny went to Hajj, and Eid is coming. But they may not understand the whole beauty of the month of Dhul-hijjah. This is a good time for parents to connect the kids with our Islamic traditions by teaching them about this month. You can tell them the story of Prophet Ibraheem (AS) and his son, the story of Ibraheem’s wife, Hajar, and the Zamzam water, etc.

Spread the Message of Islam
As the spotlight focuses on Hajj and our shopping sprees for Eid begin, do a good deed by telling people about Islam.It could be as simple as telling your non-Muslim family member about Dhul-hijjah when they come visiting for Eid dinner, or telling your colleague about your reasons for fasting outside of Ramadhan. Whatever method you use, help people see the beauty of Islam in this blessed month.
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Umrah Packages in UK Help Pilgrims Explore Sacred Mountains

Wonderful Opportunity for Muslims
The Islamic pilgrimage of Umrah is a wonderful opportunity for Muslims to benefit spiritually. Many of the Muslims living in different parts of the globe embark on a journey from their place of residence to the holy city of Makkah every year for this reason. Performing this ‘lesser pilgrimage’ is not an obligation, but it is highly recommended, as it is the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It can be performed at any time of the year and can be accomplished within a shorter period of time when compared to Hajj, as this pilgrimage involves a lesser number of rituals.

Wide range of Umrah packages
A wide range of Umrah packages offered by tour operators based in the United Kingdom gives Muslims living in the country the chance to fulfil their dream of performing the lesser pilgrimage. The prospective pilgrims can have greater savings by booking any of these packages several months earlier. However, in order to book the desired package well in advance, they need to be absolutely certain about the date of departure and the number of days they intend to spend in Makkah. Once they are certain about these aspects, they can go ahead and book the package. The savings made while booking can be utilised to visit some important Islamic sites in and around Makkah.

Imortance of Jabal al-Noor
In the list of Islamic sites that pilgrims can visit using the savings on Umrah packages UK tour operators provide are the three mountains. One of them is Jabal al-Noor, which means ‘Mountain of Light’. This mountain is of great significance for Muslims all over the world, as it houses the Cave of Hira. In this cave, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had spent many days in deep contemplation and received his first revelation of the Quran. Jabal al-Noor is located in the Hejazi region near the holy city of Makkah and it takes a strenuous hike of an hour or two in order to reach the cave.

Abu Qubais 
Muslims performing the lesser pilgrimage can also utilise the savings made on Umrah packages UK tour operators provide for visiting Abu Qubais. This is a sacred mountain located on Makkah’s eastern frontier and is believed to have been known as ‘Al Amin’ during the days when pagan Arabs resided in the region. One of the legends states that this is the place where the first of men lived and were buried after their death. According to the Islamic traditions, this is also the place where the miracle of the ‘splitting of the moon’ was shown to pagans by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

Jabal al-Rahmah
While in Makkah, pilgrims from the UK can also visit yet another sacred mountain called Mount Arafat or Jabal al-Rahmah. The name ‘Jabal al-Rahmah’ literally translates as ‘Mountain of Mercy’. The origin of this name can be traced to the Islamic traditions that state that this is the place where the first prophet Adam (peace be upon him) was forgiven by The Almighty Allah for his sin. A pillar has also been erected in order to indicate the exact spot where the event took place.

UK Muslims can accomplish their lesser pilgrimage in the holy month with any of the Ramadan Umrah packages offered by tour operators based in the country.

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Get Special Offers on Umrah packages in December

Importance of Dhu al-Hijjah

Millions of Muslims living in different parts of the world make their journey to the holy city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia to perform their Umrah every year. This Islamic pilgrimage is often referred to as the ‘lesser pilgrimage’ or the ‘minor pilgrimage’. The ‘greater pilgrimage’ is Hajj, which is also one of Islam’s five pillars and an obligation for every Muslim. Performing Umrah is not compulsory for Muslims. However, it is highly recommended, as it is the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). The greater pilgrimage is performed in the month of Dhu al-Hijjah, while the lesser pilgrimage can be performed at any time during the year.

For Muslims living in countries that are faced with extreme winters, the opportunities for Umrah December packages offer can help them escape the chilly weather of their home country and make their journey to the holy city of Makkah. The climate of this city in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia would be highly pleasant for them during this time of the year, which offers them great comfort while performing their lesser pilgrimage. Visiting all the places of great importance in and around the holy city after performing their Umrah can also be a pleasure for them in the month of December.

Last Week of December

In the last week of December, most of the educational institutions and commercial establishments are closed for Christmas and New Year celebrations. Muslims belonging to the working class can book Umrah packages in December for this time of the year and benefit from these holidays. They can visit the holy city of Makkah along with their family members for accomplishing their lesser pilgrimage. It would be a wonderful idea to take children their children along with them as they can be introduced to Umrah and its rituals at an early age. This would help them in the later years when they perform the lesser pilgrimage as adults.

Special Discounts during December

December is also a wonderful time for discounts. Many of the tour operators that specialise in the Islamic religious tours of Hajj and Umrah offer special discounts on packages for the lesser pilgrimage in the month of December. The best deals for December 2019 Umrah are being offered by most of the tour operators currently. This would be an excellent opportunity for prospective pilgrims to save more on their packages. Savings thus made can be utilised by the pilgrims to buy souvenirs from the local markets or to explore interesting places after performing the lesser pilgrimage.

While the climate of Makkah in the month of December may be extremely pleasant for the pilgrims coming from countries facing a chilly climate with extreme cold and snowfall, there are many from tropical countries who avoid visiting the holy city in December. The reason for this is that the weather may be too cold for them. This reduces crowds of pilgrims in this month to some extent, resulting in a drop of hotel room rates. Muslims who go for high-end packages in this month can get accommodations in any of the 5-star hotels located close to the Masjid al-Haram without any hassles.

Upon booking one of the cheap Umrah packages, the prospective pilgrims can reduce the costs involved in their pilgrimage to a great extent.

Last Sermon (Khutba e Hujja Tul Vida) of Our Beloved Prophet (SAWS)

The narrations of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) were recorded by the Companions in the form of Hadith. After Quran, these hadiths are what help Muslims understand Islam in the rightful manner. Among these hadiths, there are some that are famous and every Muslim uses them as a common reference, while there are other narrations that are there for scholarly debate and they hold great intellectual depth for the understanding of Muslims. One of such narrations is the Last Sermon of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) gave His Last Sermon on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah in the year 10 Hijri or 632 AC in the valley of Arafat. This is one of the most renowned Sermons of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) as He gave it on His first and last Hajj. The sermon is a series of proclamations in which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) spoke about various matters of guidance for Muslims.



Khutba e Hujja Tul Vida:

“O People, lend me an attentive ear, for I know not whether after this year, I shall ever be amongst you again. Therefore listen to what I am saying to you very carefully and TAKE THESE WORDS TO THOSE WHO COULD NOT BE PRESENT HERE TODAY.

O People, just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of every Muslim as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your LORD, and that HE will indeed reckon your deeds. ALLAH has forbidden you to take usury (interest), therefore all interest obligation shall henceforth be waived. Your capital, however, is yours to keep. You will neither inflict nor suffer any inequity. Allah has Judged that there shall be no interest and that all the interest due to Abbas ibn ‘Abd’al Muttalib (Prophet’s uncle) shall henceforth be waived…

Beware of Satan, for the safety of your religion. He has lost all hope that he will ever be able to lead you astray in big things, so beware of following him in small things.

O People, it is true that you have certain rights with regard to your women, but they also have rights over you. Remember that you have taken them as your wives only under Allah’s trust and with His permission. If they abide by your right then to them belongs the right to be fed and clothed in kindness. Do treat your women well and be kind to them for they are your partners and committed helpers. And it is your right that they do not make friends with any one of whom you do not approve, as well as never to be unchaste.

O People, listen to me in earnest, worship ALLAH, say your five daily prayers (Salah), fast during the month of Ramadan, and give your wealth in Zakat. Perform Hajj if you can afford to.

Equality of Humainity

All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety (taqwa) and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood. Nothing shall be legitimate to a Muslim which belongs to a fellow Muslim unless it was given freely and willingly. Do not, therefore, do injustice to yourselves.

Remember, one day you will appear before ALLAH and answer your deeds. So beware, do not stray from the path of righteousness after I am gone.

O People, NO PROPHET OR APOSTLE WILL COME AFTER ME AND NO NEW FAITH WILL BE BORN. Reason well, therefore, O People, and understand words which I convey to you. I leave behind me two things, the QURAN and my example, the SUNNAH and if you follow these you will never go astray.

All those who listen to me shall pass on my words to others and those to others again; and may the last ones understand my words better than those who listen to me directly. Be my witness, O ALLAH, that I have conveyed your message to your people”



The lines below try to highlight and discuss the major elements discussed by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) during His last sermon.

Sanctity Of Life And Property Of A Muslim:
One of the primary factors discussed and addressed by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) in His sermon is the life and property of a Muslim. Prophet (PBUH) told the people that the way they think sacred of the month of Dhul Hijjah and the city and day on which the sermon was taking place, so should they also consider sacred the life and property of a Muslim. When they are entrusted with these two elements, they should take care of them and consider it a sacred trust.

Returning Trust And Justice:

In His Last Sermon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also spoke about keeping the trust of people and fulfilling it in addition to being just with people. He told that if someone entrusts a person with some kind of goods then he or she must return the goods to the rightful owner and fulfill the trust. On the other hand, the other thing that a Muslim must do is treat others justly so that he or she does not receive any unjust treatment from others. All of this should be done with the thought in mind that one day we all have to meet our Lord and He will hold us accountable for our deeds.


Forbidding Usury:

Another thing that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) addressed in His last sermon is the forbidding of usury. Prophet (PBUH) forbade usury and told Muslims that whoever had any previous usury receipts left, they are waived off from them and the only thing that they can keep is the capital. This verdict regarding usury stands explicit and from then onwards usury is forbidden in Islam.

Beware Of Satan:

There is no denying the fact that Satan is the greatest enemy of mankind and all he wants to do is to make people go stray from the path of righteousness and commit the acts that go against the will of Allah Almighty. Prophet (PBUH) also warned Muslims to beware of Satan, but this warning was a slightly different compared to the other warnings regarding Satan. In this warning Prophet (PBUH) told Muslims that Satan has lost hope in making people astray in big things, therefore, one should remain aware and not follow his temptations in small things. Therefore, the idea that one should refrain from the big evil deeds and be lenient pertaining to the ordinary or small ones is wrong and one must remain away from the small evil deeds as well.

Rights Of Women:

The other important thing regarding which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) spoke during His last sermon was the rights of women. According to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) although men have rights over women however, they also have rights on men as well. For a husband it is imperative to be kind to his wife and feed and clothe them with kindness as they are the partners and helpers of men. Therefore, in His last sermon as well, Prophet (PBUH) spoke about giving women their rights and asserting the fact that they have the same level of rights over men as men have on them and because of their being women they should not be considered inferior or treated badly.

The Pillars Of Islam:

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) also stressed on Muslims following and establishing the five pillars of Islam. He told them to believe in Allah as the only God worthy of worship, perform the daily prayers five times a day, fast during the month of Ramadan, give Zakah and perform Hajj if one can afford to perform it.

Universal Equality:

Perhaps the most important element for which the last sermon of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is known is the message of universal equality about which He spoke. According to the sermon, all the humans are created from Adam and Eve therefore, no one enjoys any superiority over the other whether it is on the base of race or color. All men are equal in the eyes of Allah and the only differentiator between them is the piety and good actions. Therefore, if humans are to compete with each other in order to be different then the only two things that can make them different are piety and good deeds, other than that everyone is equal to God.

Brotherhood

Moreover, all Muslims are brother and a thing of one Muslim brother is not lawful on any other Muslim until and unless he or she gives it to the other with free will. This stands as a clear message to all those who want to usurp the belongings of others. Therefore, they should avoid any such actions and not be unjust in their dealing with others.

Islam As The Last Religion:
By the end of His Sermon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) told the Muslims that He is the Last Prophet and that there will be no other Prophet after Him and the only way to stick to the path of righteousness after Him is by following Quran and the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). Prophet (PBUH) took all the people present there as a witness to His conveying the message of Allah to mankind and commanded them to pass on His message to all those who are not present. Since then Muslims continue on spreading the message of Islam to different parts of the world and showing people the last religion of guidance sent by Allah for the guidance of mankind.                                                                                                     www.quranreading.com/blog