The foundation of Islam is built upon five pillars that are known as
- Shahadah
- Prayer
- Fast
- Zakat
- Hajj
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam, which Muslims have to perform once in a lifetime. It is a form of spiritual act and worship that is performed once in a year. Apart from this, Umrah is also a pilgrimage to Makkah that Muslims perform throughout the year. The Pilgrimage to the house of Allah is the act of devotion, self-improvement and growth. However, in this article, we will discuss the fifth pillar of Islamin detail along with Umrah that also has a connection with it.
What is the difference between Hajj and Umrah?
Hajj:
Hajj is the fifth pillar of Islam and is a mandatory pilgrimage. Now let me tell you that it is mandatory for people who are financially and physically able, once in a lifetime. The Hajj pilgrimage can be performed once a year in the month of Dhul Hijjah, Muslims from all around the world visits Makkah, Saudi Arabia to perform Hajj. It is one of the largest gatherings of Muslims to perform this act of worship.
The following are the rituals of Hajj that are obligatory for the Muslims to perform:
- Ihram
- Tawaf (circling the Kabah seven times)
- Sayii
- Stay in Mina
- Muzdalifa
- Stoning of the devil
- Sacrifice
- Shaving of head
It takes almost 5-6 to complete the Hajj pilgrimage.
Umrah:
Umrah is an optional pilgrimagethat is performed throughout the year and Muslims can perform it whenever they find it convenient. It is also a pilgrimage to Makkah, Saudi Arabia. The primary purpose of this pilgrimage is to cleanse the soul, seek forgiveness and earn spiritual rewards.
The Islamic rituals of Umrah are the following:
- Ihram
- Tawaf
- Sayii
The Umrah is a shorter pilgrimage and it has fewer rituals as compared to Hajj, it takes only a few hours to complete Umrah. In Umrah, you don’t have to visit Arafat, Mina or any other place. It is performed primarily in Makkah.
The purpose of both pilgrimages is the submission to Allah and to achieve his pleasure and approval. Both are unique and have their own benefits, for people who cannot afford Hajj but are longing to visit Makkah, Umrah is the best choice and is also an enriching experience for them.
What are the important benefits of Hajj and Umrah?
Hajj and Umrah both serve the purpose of submission to Allah and both purify the soul. These are the few benefits of both pilgrimages:
Spiritual cleansing and growth:
Both the Pilgrimages are a source of purifying oneself of past sins and shortcomings. The pilgrimage offers great opportunities to seek forgiveness from Allah and to make an oath to refrain from sins in future.
Unity and equality:
Hajj and Umrah are an unprecedented example of unity and brotherhood. The pilgrimage promotes unity and equality among Muslims as they wear similar Ihram, belong to diverse backgrounds and perform the same rituals.
Historical significance:
Both the Pilgrimages are deeply connected with the Islamic history. They have a great connection with the story of Prophet Ibrahim and Prophet Ismail, how he was willing to sacrifice his son, how he tried to get rid of Shaitan when he tried to divert him from following Allah’s command. Then Sayii, represents the run of Hajar from the hills when she searched for water for her son.
Similarly, the last Hajj of Prophet Muhammad PBUH taught us the Islamic rituals of Hajj and how to perform them.
Physical and mental challenges:
During Hajj and Umrah, Muslims have to face a lot of challenges like heat, thirst, walking long distances, dealing with people, living at an unfamiliar place etc. So it tests the pilgrims level of patience, perseverance, faith and physical as well as mental endurance.
Therefore, Hajj and Umrah both are sacred pilgrimages to Makkah, Saudi Arabia. They hold great significance and spiritual benefits for the pilgrims. Therefore, pilgrims can strengthen their faith, seek forgiveness and experience divine mercy and spiritual growth. Many more pilgrims hire trusted Hajj companies in Pakistan to make their journey less challenging. Such companies provide guided tour with handling of visa, accommodation and travel matters as well.
