5 Blessing Factors Why is Umrah Important for Muslims
History of Umrah
During the early days of Islam, hostilities between Muslims and kuffar (pagans) in Makkah were constantly on the increase, preventing the former from conducting Hajj in the city. The Muslims journeyed from Medina to Makkah in 628 AD (6 Hijri) after the Prophet (peace be upon him) saw visions of Muslims completing Umrah ceremonies.
The Quraysh tribe, however, refused them admission, and the Prophet refused to approach the sacred site by force out of respect for the Ka’aba. Diplomatic talks took place between the two parties, culminating in the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, which promised ten years of peace and three days of annual access to the Ka’aba.
The Importance of Umrah
Many people believe Umrah to be the “small pilgrimage,” whereas Hajj is the “main pilgrimage. “It is a Sunnah, not a mandatory activity, and Muslims are encouraged to perform as many as they can during their lifetime. There are different Umrah Packages you can choose any of them which suits you.
And the recompense for Hajj Mabrur (approved pilgrimage by Allah) is Paradise.” (Al-Bukhari)
In the following Hijri year, the Prophet (peace be upon him) travelled to Makkah with 2000 Muslims, men, women, and children, to conduct the ceremonies of what would become Islam’s first Umrah.
Just though we Muslims consider Umrah to be a lesser pilgrimage does not make it any less important. In actuality, it shares the same religious beliefs and concerns as “Hajj,” but in distinct ways. Whether the travel is long or short to the House of Allah, Umrah has been elegantly done following Prophet Muhammad’s Sunnah (P.B.U.H).
Difference Between the Two
As Muslims undertake Umrah, they reap enormous advantages. In Arabic, the word “Umrah” signifies “to travel to a crowded place.” On the contrary, those who are physically healthy and can manage it attend Hajj as a necessary one of the fifth Islamic pillars. It is undertaken on specific days determined by the Islamic lunar calendar, whereas Umrah can be completed at any time. Another significant distinction that distinguishes both pilgrimages is the extent of time they require. Although both have similarities, Umrah is much shorter compared to Hajj. Hajj is a time-consuming pilgrimage with additional ceremonies.
Factors Why Umrah is Important for Every Muslim
Everyone reading this should quickly learn about the prizes so that you may save this modest pilgrimage for this year.
1. Become an Allah’s Guest
What a real Muslim desire is to be Allah’s guest at His home. We all yearn for this occasion our entire lives, whereas Allah waits to be the most merciful host. Travel and conduct Umrah like there’s no tomorrow to be accompanied by His favours.
According to Abu Hurairah (R.A), Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said: “Allah’s guests are three: the Ghazi (the warrior who fights in Jihad), the Hajj (the pilgrim who performs Hajj), and the Mutamir (the pilgrim who performs Umrah).”
2. The Economic Situation Improves Stable
Muslims spend money on visas, transportation, and food to commemorate Allah’s gift. Allah repays them by making their financial situation sound and improving. Taking this trek may result in the abolition of poverty.
According to Ibn Abbas (R.A), Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said, “Consecutively perform Hajj and Umrah; for they eliminate poverty and sin as bellows cleanse impurities from iron.”
3. Visiting Medina, the Holy City
Medina is officially known as “the city of the Prophet (PBUH).” When visiting this site, recite Darood Sharif as much as you can because this is where the Holy Quran’s verses were compiled. Make your way to the Prophet’s mosque clothed and perfumed in fresh garments.
4. Your Sins Will Disappear
The fundamental reason why Umrah is necessary for Muslims is to atone for their sins and seek Allah’s compassion. You have unlimited opportunities to repent of your past and present transgressions, and the reward for doing so is Paradise (Jannah).
5. It is the same as Jihad
This prize is given to those Muslims who are elderly, ladies, or frail. Allah saves this gift for ordinary individuals with kind features. Consider that the reward for Jihad is Shahadat, so consider what the reward for this holy visit would be if it is equal to Jihad.
According to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH),
“Hajj and Umrah are Jihad of the Elderly, the Young, the Weak, and the Women.”
Furthermore, till he or she is back home, any Muslim who goes for Umrah is deemed a pilgrim. In a hadith recorded by Ibn Umar, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Those who conduct Hajj and Umrah are deputations of Allah Almighty.” He replies when they call on Him, and He forgives them when they ask for His pardon.
Final Words
The above saying of the Holy Prophet (PBUM) proves the importance and significance of Umrah. Now it is important for those who can`t afford Hajj, and they can conduct Umrah, which will be equal to Hajj.
