Performing Umrah is a deeply spiritual journey that holds immense significance for Muslims worldwide. It is a voluntary pilgrimage to the holy cities of Mecca and Medina, undertaken to seek the blessings of Allah, renew faith, and purify the soul. Integral to this sacred journey is the recitation of specific dua (supplications) that guide and enrich the experience.
If you’re assisting someone preparing for Umrah, sharing these duas will not only help them perform their rituals with clarity but also deepen their connection with Allah. Below is a guide to essential duas for each stage of the Umrah journey:
1. Before Leaving for Umrah
Before embarking on the journey, it’s recommended to pray for safety, guidance, and acceptance of the pilgrimage:
“O Allah, I seek Your protection during this journey and Your blessings upon it. Make it easy for me and accept it as an act of worship.”
One can also recite:
اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلْنِيْ مِنَ الْمُتَقَبِّلِيْنَ وَاغْفِرْ لِي ذُنُوْبِي وَارْزُقْنِي خَيْرَ الدُّنْيَا وَالْآخِرَةِ
“O Allah, make me among those whose worship is accepted, forgive my sins, and grant me the best of this world and the Hereafter.”
2. Entering the State of Ihram
While entering the state of Ihram, pilgrims recite the Talbiyah, a profound proclamation of their intention to perform Umrah solely for Allah:
لَبَّيْكَ اللَّهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ، إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَ وَالْمُلْك، لَا شَرِيكَ لَكَ
“Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, You have no partner, here I am. Surely all praise, favor, and sovereignty belong to You. You have no partner.”
3. Upon Reaching the Kaaba
When seeing the Kaaba for the first time, many pilgrims find themselves overwhelmed with emotions. It is a moment for personal dua, as it is believed that supplications at this time are often accepted.
“O Allah, increase this House in honor, nobility, and greatness, and bless all who visit it.”
4. During Tawaf (Circumambulation)
While performing Tawaf around the Kaaba, one can recite:
رَبَّنَا آتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ
“Our Lord, give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter, and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.”
Pilgrims are encouraged to make personal duas, asking Allah for forgiveness, guidance, and blessings.
5. Sa’i Between Safa and Marwah
While walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah, pilgrims recall the perseverance of Hagar (Hajar) and reflect on reliance upon Allah. On Safa, one recites:
إِنَّ الصَّفَا وَالْمَرْوَةَ مِنْ شَعَائِرِ اللَّهِ
“Indeed, Safa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah.”
Throughout Sa’i, personal duas can also be made to express gratitude and seek Allah’s mercy.
6. Cutting or Shaving the Hair
At the conclusion of Umrah, men shave or trim their hair, while women cut a small portion. This act symbolizes humility and renewal. After completing this step, a dua of gratitude is appropriate:
“O Allah, accept my Umrah, forgive my sins, and allow me to return to Your House again and again.”
Conclusion
Umrah is not merely a physical act but a spiritual journey that fosters closeness to Allah. Encouraging someone to learn and recite these duas will help them navigate the rituals with deeper devotion and understanding. Additionally, remind them to maintain sincerity, patience, and gratitude throughout their pilgrimage.
May Allah accept their efforts, grant them safe travels, and bless them with a transformative Umrah experience. Ameen.
