Things To Do Before Wearing Ihram

Despite being an important aspect of the pilgrimage, not everyone is aware of how to wear Ihram for Umrah. Before wearing Ihram, pilgrims must:

1. Take ghusl, which is ablution or cleansing of the body.
2. After taking ghusl, he/she must apply fragrance or Itar.
3. Then he/she should trim nails.

Let’s understand a few important things in detail:

Ghusl in Ihram

Ghusl is the term for the ‘main ablution’ in Islam, which is when the complete body is washed with ritually clean water and is necessary for both the living and the dead. Every time a significant ritual impurity has been attained, the ghusl, together with a declaration of purpose, must be done. A person who is junub (impure) is forbidden from participating in the daily ritual prayer, making the main and minor pilgrimages around the Ka’bah in Mecca, touching the Qur’an, reciting its words, or entering a mosque. Because it is known that the Prophet performed ghusl when he was in ihram, it is acceptable for the pilgrim to do ghusl for the sake of cleanliness while they are in ihram. Additionally, it is acceptable for the pilgrim to exchange his ihram clothing for newer, cleaner items. He may also take pleasure in utilising the air conditioning and other comforts.

Niyat for Ihram Umrah

Niyyah or Niyat for Ihram may be defined as the intention in one’s heart to carry out the deed for Allah’s benefit. It simply refers to the desire to carry out a worshipful deed. It is a necessary condition for carrying out any Ibadat. It is justified by Niyyah’s distinction between the sacred acts of worship and routine daily activities. Additionally, it distinguishes between the kind and degree of worship, determining whether the prayer is required or optional.

According to the Prophet, a deed’s outcome depends on the performer’s intentions. And, a person gets rewarded according to what is on their thoughts and in their heart when they perform the deed. Among the rites carried out during Umrah, the Umrah Niyat dua is of the highest importance.

How To Wear Ihram Clothing?

Umrah Ihram for men and women differs in many aspects, including clothing and rules & regulations.

Ihram For Men

The Hajj and Umrah Ihram for men consists of two white unstitched sheets. The cloth used for Ihram is a simple unstitched plain white cloth that must be wrapped around the body. Also, it must be new, otherwise the Umrah will be invalid.

It is believed that the cloth worn as Ihram is used as a Kafan, which is the cloth wrapped around a person when he/she dies. Kafan should not have a single stitch according to the religious rules. The shoes should not be stitched either, hence it is advisable to wear slippers or flip-flops. Men must not cover their hair nor their face while in Ihram. While wearing Ihram, they should make sure that their calves must be visible.

Ihram For Women

The Hajj and Umrah Ihram for ladies is very different as compared to men. Women can wear any ordinary dress for Umrah. They must cover their head but are forbidden to cover their faces. They are not allowed to wear burkha or niqab (an item of clothing used by Muslim women to cover their bodies) while in Ihram. A hijab (a cloth used by women in Islam to cover their hair) is mandatory. Their head dress must not cover their forehead. While in Ihram, women must not cut or trim nails or hair. Application of any type of fragrance or makeup is forbidden while being in Ihram.

Here is everything to know about Ihram for women.

When & Where To Wear Ihram For Umrah?

Ihram is obligatory beyond a certain (geographical) boundary called Miqat. Pilgrims should wear Ihram before or at the time of entering the miqat. Once a person enters a miqat, he/she cannot remove the Ihram clothing until the pilgrimage is completed. The four important miqats in Umrah are:

1. Miqat Qarn al-Manazil

This Miqat is situated 80km northeast of Masjid al-haram and 40 km from the city of Ta’if. It serves as a Miqat for people living in Najd, Ta’if and Riyadh and for people from UAE, India, Pakistan, Australia, Malaysia and Singapore.

2. Miqat Yalamlam

This Miqat is situated 100km southwest of Makkah and 90km north of the city of al-Lith. It serves as a Miqat for people traveling to Makkah from the south and also for pilgrims travelling from countries like Nigeria, South Africa, etc.

3. Miqat Dhu al Hulayfah

This Miqat is located 7km southwest of Masjid- an- Nabawi and was defined by Prophet Muhammed (PBUH) as a Miqat for pilgrims from Madina.

4. Miqat al-Juhfah

This Miqat is located 182km northwest of Makkah, 17km southeast of Rabigh and 15km east of the Red Sea. It is a Miqat for people travelling from North America, Europe, Turkey, Syria, Egypt, Algeria, Sudan, and various other African countries.

After completing Umrah, pilgrims can remove Ihram at the respective Miqat. Before removing the Ihram, men shave their head while women trim their hair by the size of a finger. Ihram for Umrah and Hajj is the same. The only difference is Umrah Ihram is worn till the end of the pilgrimage while Ihram for Hajj is worn for 4-5 days.

Ihram for Umrah conveys that on the day of Qayamat (the day of judgement), Allah will judge every person by his deeds not by his worldly achievements. It is an important ritual that symbolizes equality of all humans, and iterates that whether the pilgrim is a prince or a pauper all are the same in front of Allah. It shows that all should stand united irrespective of their status in society and devote themselves in the service of Allah.

Ihram For Umrah Guide FAQs

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The Black Stone probably belongs to the pre-Islamic religion of the Arabs. As of today, it is divided into three large pieces with some fragments and is surrounded by a stone ring while being held together with a silver band. According to a legend in Islam, it was given to Adam on his fall from paradise, and that it was originally white in colour but turned black by absorbing the misdeeds of the pilgrims kissing and touching it.

The Black Stone holds a lot of significance and is valued in Islam as a stone from heaven. There are various legends as to how it came into existence and was placed in the Holy wall of Kaaba. Let’s go through a few of them.

The Black Stone History

The Black Stone was given to Ibrahim from Jannah to be placed on the corner of the Holy Kaaba. Abd Allah Ibn Abbas – a cousin of Prophet Muhammad narrated that the Prophet said: “The Black Stone came down from Paradise and it was whiter than milk, but the sins of the sons of Adam turned it black.”

According to Islamic scholars, duas are accepted at the Hajar al-Aswad and on the Day of Judgement, it will be testifying in favour of all those who have kissed it. The Prophet said: “By Allah! On the Day of Qiyamah (judgement), Allah will present the Hajar al-Aswad in such a manner that it will have two eyes and a tongue to testify to the Imaan (faith) of all those who kissed it.”

The Black Stone carries greater importance, as according to an account, it is known that while Ibrahim AS was building the house of God, the Holy Kaaba, for spirituality and worship, it appeared that the stones to complete the wall were short. The Prophet Ibrahim sent his son Prophet Ismail AS to look for an appropriate stone to fit in the gap to finish the Holy wall of Kaaba. When he came back empty-handed, he noticed a shiny white colour stone already placed in the empty space. Ibrahim AS told him the unique stone was delivered to him by Jibreel.

Around 930 CE, the Hajar al-Awad was stolen by the Qarmatians, an extremist Muslim sect from the area of eastern Arabia. They looted Makkah, vandalizing the city with corpses and took away the sacred stone to their base in Ihsaa. According to a historian, the Hajar al-Awad was returned and re-established to its primary location around 952 CE.

Story of The Black Stone Resurrection in Kaaba

At the time of the reconstruction of Kaaba, a conflict arose among the masses when the building of Holy Kaaba reached the position of the Black Stone. People quarreled about who was worthy enough to restore the Black Stone to its primary place. It was decided by the Abu UmayyaIbn al-Mugheera (their elder) who asked the Quraysh (a mercantile Arab tribe that inhabited and controlled the city of Makkah and its Kaaba) to agree on the discernment of the first person to come through the Bani Shaybah Gate (the main northern gate to enter into the area of Kaaba). The Prophet was the one who walked through and put the Black Stone back to its primary place.

Suggested Read: Kiswa Of Kaaba – The Holy Cloth That Adorns The House Of Allah

At first, the stone was whole, but with time and various historical incidents, it is now broken into eight pieces of different sizes and attached to a large stone in a silver frame. The first frame was made by Abdullah bin Zubair, a prominent representative of the second generation of Muslim families in Makkah, and then replaced by different Khalifas (rulers) throughout the years.

Paying Respects at The Black Stone

Muslims from around the world come to Makkah to not only witness the stone but also take every possible chance to kiss it. This Black Stone is the only piece of rock from the original structure of Kaaba built by Ibraham and Ismail. It is the single stone that has lasted through all the events and upheavals that took place at Kaaba.

This centerpiece of the Kaaba is the most respected stone in the world. Muslims wish to kiss and touch it because the Prophet Mohammad did so. It is something to honour and take pride in and kissing it is not a duty but an act of love.

“I know that you are a stone, you do not cause harm or benefit; and if it were not that I had seen Allah’s Messenger kiss you, I would never have kissed you.” – Umar bin al-Khattab, the second Khalifa of the Muslims.

Hajr-e-Aswad, Kaaba FAQs

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Lasting 29-30 days, Ramadan is the time when the Muslim community refrains from drinking or eating anything from dawn to dusk. The meal consumed before dawn is known as Sahur, while the post-sunset meal, with which Muslims break the fast, is called Iftar. Many people prefer celebrating this holy month with their families, while some prefer traveling to beautiful destinations. Makkah or Mecca, which is known to be the holiest city in Islamic culture sees a huge number of pilgrims during this auspicious month. Celebrating Ramadan in Makkah has its own significance as it is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad.

Historical places to visit in Makkah during Ramadan

The sacred destination of Makkah is decorated beautifully during Ramadan. One can look forward to visiting Ramadan bazaars, and take part in Qiamullail prayers that begin before Sahur. Usually at its busiest during the holy month of fasting, Makkah is home to different sites that are perfect for visiting while observing Ramadan.

1. Al-Masjid al-Haram

Also known as the Great Mosque of Mecca, Al-Masjid al-Haram is one of the most significant historical sites in Islam. It encloses the holy Kaaba and witnesses a large number of pilgrims every year. Perfect for visiting during Ramadan, this mosque is considered to be an ideal place for performing different pilgrimage rituals. It is also the largest mosque in the world.

If you are spending Ramadan in Makkah, Al Haram is one of the most important places to visit. This grand mosque houses the Holy Kaaba and many more holy sites, namely the Safa and Marwa hills, the Maqam Ibrahim and the Zamzam Well.

2. Cave of Hira

Located approximately 10 km from the holy Kaaba, the Cave of Hira was the place where Prophet Muhammad retreated for the entire month of Ramadan. During the last 10 days of this period, he was visited by the angel Gabriel during which the first divine revelations from Allah descended upon Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). A must-visit place in Makkah during Ramadan, this cave attracts millions of pilgrims every year.

Know more about the cave of Hira here.

3. Mount Arafat

Jabal-Ar-Rahmah or Mount Arafat is amongst the holy places to visit in Makkah during Ramadan. As per the Islamic tradition, Mount Arafat is the place from where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) delivered the ‘Khutbat al-Wada’, also known as the Farwell Sermon, to his companions. As per some beliefs, this is the place where Adam and Eve were forgiven following which they reunited. This is why this mountain is also known as Jabal ar-Rahmah, implying ‘Mountain of Mercy’. Pilgrims can also see a pillar on the top of Mount Arafat where this event is said to have occurred.

4. Hijr al-Aswad

Located in the eastern corner of the Kaaba, Hijr al-Aswad or the Black Stone of Mecca is of great significance. As per the Islamic tradition, the stone was set into the wall of Kaaba by Prophet Muhammad himself. Those visiting the Great Mosque of Mecca during holy pilgrimages perform the ritual of Istilam, i.e. the act of kissing this stone while circumambulating the Kaaba. Holding an important place in Islamic culture, Hijr al-Aswad is an ideal place for visiting in Makkah during Ramadan.

5. Masjid e Taneem

Located in close proximity to the holy Kaaba, Masjid e Taneem is one of the most sacred places to visit in Makkah if visiting during Ramadan. It is also known as Masjid-e-Ayesha, as this is the place where Prophet Mohammed’s wife Ayesha had put on Ihram. This mosque is popular among pilgrims who are planning to commence holy pilgrimages of Umrah or Hajj; and thus witnesses huge gatherings for prayers during Ramadan.

Performing Umrah from Masjid-e-Ayesha

6. Maktaba Makkah-al-Mukarramah

Known to be the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), this place is a must-visit in Makkah during Ramadan. Converted into a national library, Maktaba Makkah-al-Mukarramah receives a large number of visitors annually. It is a part of most-sightseeing tours as it is one of the key historical places to visit in Makkah.

7. Jabal al-Thawr

According to the Islamic tradition, Jabal al-Thawr is the place where Prophet Muhammad and his companion took refuge from a mercantile Arab tribe (Quraysh) on the way to Medina. For Muslims, this place holds great significance, owing to which it is visited by both tourists and pilgrims in large numbers.

8. Safa and Marwa

Two small hills located in Makkah, Safa and Marwa are religiously significant as per the Islamic culture, thus making them a must-visit during the holy month of Ramadan. Among the important sites for Hajj and Umrah pilgrimages, these hills are situated adjacent to the holy Kaaba.

9. The Station of Ibrahim

The Maqam Ibrahim or the Station of Ibrahim is a small square-shaped stone that is known to have the imprint of Prophet Abraham’s feet. As per the Islamic tradition, the imprint appeared when Ibrahim stood atop the stone at the time of building the holy Kaaba.

5 Things to do in Makkah during Ramadan

The holy city of Makkah looks beautiful during the holy month of Ramadan. It is known to be the holiest city in Islam and therefore has a lot to offer to the pilgrims. From paying respects at important sites to exploring the malls, here’s a quick list of the best things to do in Makkah in Ramadan.

1. Offer prayers at the Grand Mosque

The Great Mosque of Mecca, also known as Al-Masjid al-Haram, is one of the most holy sites in the city. Offering prayers to Allah here is considered to be one of the most important things to do in Makkah during Ramadan.

2. Visit the Abraj Al-Bait Towers

Situated in the heart of Makkah, Abraj Al-Bait is a government-owned complex that comprises seven hotels. It is one of the top tourist attractions in Makkah, that stands in close proximity to the Great Mosque of Mecca. Abraj Al-Bait Towers consist of two prayer rooms in order to accommodate pilgrims visiting the Kaaba. This landmark complex also has two viewing platforms that provide a sweeping glance over Makkah. Furthermore, it comprises an observation centre for the moon sighting and a museum of Islamic Art. Home to different hotels, supermarkets, food courts, pharmacies and shopping malls, this complex is truly a one-stop shop. During Ramadan, you can look forward to offering prayers or buy souvenirs for your loved ones from the Abraj Al Bait Mall, or even enjoy picturesque views of the Grand Mosque.

3. Explore Al-Zaher Palace Museum

Featuring significant archaeological discoveries of Saudi Arabia and pre-Islamic history exhibits, revisiting Islamic history at this museum in Makkah is also one of the top things to do during Ramadan. It is a popular Mecca tourist attraction for those who are fond of Islamic history.

4. Shop at the beautiful Makkah Mall

One of the most visited malls in the city, Makkah Mall is a large shopping centre featuring a large number of entertainment areas and shopping brands. Ramadan is one of the ideal times to visit this shopping mall as attractive marketing schemes and lucrative discounts are introduced to gain customers’ attention.

5. Enjoy iftar in Makkah

Makkah is home to some of the most amazing eating joints, which offer delicious special meals for Iftar during Ramadan. During Ramadan, Iftar in Makkah is nothing less than a celebration. People can be seen out on the street, enjoying traditional Saudi dishes at street stalls, shops, as well as at standard and premium restaurants. Tourists can also offer prayers in the holy city of Makkah and eat iftar served in the mosques in Makkah.

Visiting Makkah during Ramadan is an ultimate blessing. It is the birthplace of Prophet Muhammad and home to diverse sacred sites. All the beautiful and blissful sacred sites just add to the holy vibe of celebrating Ramadan in Makkah. Most Makkah tourist places are crowded with locals who celebrate the month of prayers and devotions with joy and gaity.

Ramadan In Makkah FAQs

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History of Zamzam Water

As narrated by Ibn ‘Abbaas, Prophet Ibrahim was ordered by Allah to take away his wife, Hagar and his son, Ismail to Makkah. During this time, Makkah was a barren land. Following the commands of Allah, the Prophet left his wife and son with some dates and water and returned home. After spending some time on this barren land, the dates and water ran out. As young Ismail started crying with thirst, Hagar started looking for water. She went running up and down seven times the hills of Safa and Marwa (that is why circumambulating the Kaaba seven times is an important ritual of Umrah and Hajj both). In this fretful state, young Ismail began kicking the ground. Suddenly, Hagar noticed water flowing out from the spot that Ismail was kicking. She carefully collected some water for herself and started feeding it to Ismail. The water that gushed out came to be known as the blessed water of Zamzam.

Source: https://madainproject.com/

Story of Zamzam Water: Versions & Narrations

A different version of the story says that it was Jibreel, an angel sent by Allah, and not Ismail who kicked the ground with his heel. A few narrations, also take the story forward to tell that the flow of the fountain was later restricted by Hagar to become a well.

An extension of this ancient historic legend is that the discovery of Zamzam water led to the settlement of Jurhum, an ancient Arab tribe. However, they soon started to restrict other people from using the Zamzam water, and as a result were ousted from Makkah. The well remained unused and undiscovered for many years thereafter.

Scholars believe that it was resurrected much later by Abdul-Muttalib, the paternal grandfather of the Prophet. Abdul-Muttalib discovered the well following consequent dreams of an eternal spring amid the desert. After a long quest, he found the well, and was honoured with the exclusive privilege of providing Zamzam water to the pilgrims. This is often referred to as the rebirth of the divine well of Zamzam.

In all versions and narrations of the history of the Zamzam well, one thing that remains common and undisputed is the religious significance of the holy well and its divine water.

The Miracle of Zamzam Water

The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The best water on the face of the earth is the water of Zamzam; it is a kind of food and a healing from sickness.” – Saheeh al-Jaami, 3302

The miracle of zamzam well and it holy water is what makes it an important part of Islamic history. Some of the well-known properties of the zamzam water include:

1. It helps curb pangs of hunger
2. Applying it on eyes helps improve eyesight and other problems related to eyes.
3. It helps reduce acidity.
4. It is helpful in preventing dental caries.
5. It is a good source of nourishment and improves overall health.
6. It fulfills the wishes and duas of pilgrims.
7. It helps repair damaged skin cells.
8. It forties the immune system of the human body.

Ibn al-Qayyim said,

“Myself and others tried seeking healing with Zamzam water and saw wondrous things. I sought healing with it from a number of illnesses, and I was healed by the permission of Allah. I saw someone who nourished himself with it for a number of days, half a month or more, and he did not feel hunger; he performed Tawaaf along with the other people just as they did. And he told me that he consumed nothing but Zamzam water for forty days and he had the strength to have intercourse with his wife, to fast and to perform Tawaaf numerous times.”

Zamzam Water Benefits & Spiritual Significance

Zamzam water in Arabic is also referred to as ‘Murwiya – meaning quenched’ and ‘Shabbaa – meaning satisfying’. The Prophet said that Zamzam water is a nourishing food and not just water. It is blessed by Allah and is said to be a cure for all illnesses. It is also believed that if a person makes a wish after completely drinking Zamzam water, his wish will be fulfilled.

Five Interesting Facts About Zamzam Water

1. Tests have proved that Zamzam water has 366mg/1 of bi-carbonates and that makes it the purest water on earth.
2. The Zamzam well is 30 meters deep, out of which 13 meters is filled with compressed sediments and 17 meters comprise igneous rock. Through the hairline fractures of the rock, the water seeps on and gains its high mineral content beneficial for the humans.
3. Zamzam water has no colour or smell but a distinct taste.
4. Zamzam water is considered to have healing properties due to it having a high content of calcium and magnesium salts.
5. It is considered that drinking Zamzam water increases the immunity of the body.

Zamzam Water As A Souvenir

Pilgrims from around the world travel to Makkah for Hajj. Drinking Zamzam water is an essential aspect of the holy pilgrimage. As mentioned, the water has several health benefits; hence, pilgrims store it in containers and take it back with them to their homes. It is one of the best Saudi Souvenirs to gift to family and friends. The water is rich in calcium and has a distinct taste which is loved by many. Muslims can also purchase the water from any old souk in Makkah or Madinah.

Must Read: Things To Buy In Saudi Arabia: Memorable Saudi Souvenirs For Tourists

During Hajj, pilgrims drink the holy water and also use it to cleanse themselves. They also take some of it back home for their family and friends. For healing properties and the uncommon composition of its water, the sacred well continues to be a point of extreme religious significance for the Muslims.

History of Zamzam FAQs

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