Umrah is a small pilgrimage to Mecca, the Holy City. It is a most holy pilgrimage to all Muslims of the world on the planet earth. Not one of Islam's Five Pillars. But it is one of their things and living by their religion for all Muslims. Umrah brings to mind, along the journey of the pillars, which are Islamic. It is along this path that the majority of Muslims need religion. They need further information about religion and consider religious duties.
Umrah and Five Pillars of Islam
Umrah is not one of the Five Pillars of Islam. Shahadah (believe), Salah (pray), Zakah (give alms), Sawm (fast), and Hajj (pilgrimage). These are the pillars of a Muslim's life. It represents and speaks on behalf of them. It is especially popular among Muslims living abroad. Especially including those planning the Umrah journey from the USA. With travel made easier and more comfortable through the Umrah deals, now have more opportunities to fulfil this cherished act of worship.
Let us find out how one of the pillars plays a role in the Umrah process:
1. Shahadah (Testimony of Faith)
It is right amid Umrah that there is a ReAffirmation of religion. Pilgrims, when they get into the state of Ihram, utter "Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk" Here I am, O Allah. It is a Shahadah ceremony, in the testimony that Allah does not have any other god besides Himself. And that Muhammad (PBUH) is His Messenger.
2. Salah (Prayer)
Prayer is a part of the routine in the life of every Muslim, but in Umrah it takes on a very crucial necessity. Pilgrims utter all five obligatory prayers together at Masjid al-Haram, the Grand Mosque. During these prayers in the vicinity of the Kaaba becomes emotional and obligatory. The two rak'ahs uttered after Tawaw near Maqam Ibrahim. Both have an association with the Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH).
3. Zakah (Charity)
Although Zakah was never done in the physical sense, while carrying out Umrah. There is much charity everywhere. Pilgrims give voluntary charity (sadaqah) during the pilgrimage. Charity to fellow Muslims of diverse backgrounds creates a spirit of brotherliness and tolerance.
4. Sawm (Fasting)
Fasting applies only to Ramadan. But self-control, forbearance, and humility are exercised even in Umrah. Simple white Ihram attire and exposed to the hot sun. Miles of walking and standing with patience all hone the same qualities as fasting. Voluntary fasting is performed for more reward during Umrah.
5. Hajj (Pilgrimage)
Umrah is different from Hajj, but it is done as a dry run for Hajj. All Tawaf and Sa'i, and Ihram are obligatory in Hajj. The Umrah ritual provides them with an experience of the sacred environment of Hajj. It honors them for rites and informs them why pilgrimages to the House of Allah matter. So the conclusion is that Umrah sets up the fifth pillar. In the majority of situations is preparation for eventual submission to the pillar.
A Journey That Strengthens Faith
You behold the Kaaba for the very first time at a time that one cannot erase. It softens the heart. Teaches one to place the highest priority on Allah. It gives a clear vision as far as life priorities are involved.
The longer pilgrimage is a period of du'a. Recitation of the Qur'an and reflection on images of the pilgrimage. Most pilgrims who undertake Umrah return more devoted to performing daily prayer. Along with improved character, and with a zeal to enlighten others. Quranic Wisdom and Umrah
Qur'an also does not shy away from instructing us on the importance of Umrah. Allah reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah (2:196) that it is He Who orders us to:
"Complete the Hajj and Umrah for Allah."
It is clearly stated in this ayah that Umrah is a deed of obedience one must do in innocence of heart and soul.
The second ayah of Surah Al-Hajj (22:32) reminds us:
"Thus. And to whom belongs commemorating Allah's symbols - in fact, it is from the righteousness of hearts."
Final Thoughts
Umrah is not a ritual but a spiritual rebirth that leads the believers to Islam's childhood. It is not a pillar, but brings them all together in an enormity of form, and hence an eye-opener of the heart, the mind, and the soul.
Muslims in the USA, including those taking advantage of the Umrah deals. The journey offers both ease and reward. When approached with sincere intention. Umrah strengthens faith, increases gratitude, and renews one’s relationship with Allah.
If you are considering the Umrah journey from the USA, let it be more than just travel. Let it be your return to the pillars of Islam—and your next step closer to Allah.