Introduction
Allah Almighty has provided clear guidance for the Muslim Ummah through two primary sources: the Holy Quran and the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). These sources guide Muslims in every aspect of life so that they may live according to Islamic principles. The actions of the Prophet (PBUH) are known as Sunnah, and his sayings are recorded as Hadith. Together, they serve as a complete code of life for Muslims, covering acts of worship, daily conduct, and spiritual development.
When Muslims prepare for the minor pilgrimage of Umrah, they strive to follow the Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) in every step. This includes purifying their intention (niyyah), ensuring that their expenses come from halal earnings, and performing each ritual of Umrah exactly as prescribed in the Quran and Sunnah. Pilgrims perform every act carefully and step by step to gain the full reward of Umrah.
Many Muslims, especially those traveling, choose Umrah packages from UK that assist with visa processing, accommodation, flights, and local transport. Preparing for Umrah in accordance with the Quran and Sunnah is essential to attaining its spiritual rewards. This article clearly explains how one should prepare for Umrah in light of authentic Islamic teachings.
Table of contents
Setting Your Intention According to Sunnah
The first and most important step in performing Umrah is making a sincere intention (niyyah) according to the Sunnah of the Holy Prophet (PBUH). He emphasized that all acts of worship must begin with a pure intention solely for the sake of Allah. A sincere intention forms the foundation of Umrah and ensures that the pilgrimage is accepted.
Pilgrims should mentally prepare their hearts and minds before beginning Umrah. Ideally, the intention should be made when reaching the Miqat or just before it, such as when boarding the plane. Many Umrah service providers help pilgrims from the UK Umrah visa arrangements, flights, accommodation, and transportation to make this process smooth and stress-free.
The Holy Prophet (PBUH) said:
“The reward of deeds depends upon intentions, and every person will get the reward according to what he intended. So whoever migrated for Allah and His Messenger, then his migration was for Allah and His Messenger. And whoever migrated for worldly benefit or to marry a woman, then his migration was for what he migrated for.”
This hadith highlights the importance of sincere intention. No act of worship is rewarded unless it is done purely for Allah. Worship is meant to bring a person closer to Allah and protect them from evil. If it fails to do so, the intention must be reexamined.
Spiritual and Physical Preparation According to Sunnah
A pure intention is the foundation of Umrah, but both spiritual and physical preparation are equally important. These preparations help pilgrims perform Umrah with devotion, discipline, and humility.
Repentance and Seeking Forgiveness
Before embarking on the journey of Umrah, Muslims should sincerely repent for their past sins and seek Allah’s forgiveness. The heart should be cleansed of negative emotions such as envy, grudges, and hatred toward others. Pilgrims should also ask forgiveness from family and friends. Repentance softens the heart, and a soft heart is closer to Allah Almighty.
Physical Cleanliness According to Sunnah
Physical purity is essential for performing Umrah. The Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) emphasizes cleanliness and personal hygiene.
- Performing Ghusl (full-body purification) before wearing Ihram is recommended.
- Cleanliness is half of faith, as mentioned in the Hadith. Pilgrims should clip their nails, remove unwanted body hair, and maintain proper hygiene.
- Cleaning the teeth with miswak is encouraged to maintain cleanliness and avoid unpleasant impressions.
- Men are allowed to apply perfume before wearing the Ihram, but it must not come into contact with the Ihram clothing.
Travel Etiquette According to Sunnah
The Sunnah of the Prophet (PBUH) teaches Muslims to be considerate, patient, and well-mannered during travel. While traveling for Umrah, pilgrims should demonstrate kindness and discipline.
It is recommended to recite the dua for leaving home when starting the journey. Traveling in groups is encouraged, as it promotes cooperation and mutual support. Pilgrims should remain patient and respectful toward one another throughout the journey.
The Prophet (PBUH) taught the following supplication when beginning a journey:
“In the name of Allah (SWT), I place my trust in Allah (SWT). There is no power and no strength except with Allah(SWT).”
Completing the Rituals of Umrah
To complete Umrah, pilgrims must perform all its essential rites correctly. These include:
- Entering the state of Ihram
- Performing Tawaf around the Kaaba
- Performing Sa’i between Safa and Marwah
- Drinking Zamzam water
- Trimming or shaving the hair to exit the state of Ihram
By following these steps according to the Quran and Sunnah, pilgrims complete their Umrah and, Insha’Allah, earn its full reward.
