Umrah is a lesser pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca, Saudi Arabia. It is a spiritual journey that can be undertaken by Muslims of all ages and abilities. The essential steps of Umrah are:
Entering the state of Ihram. This is a state of ritual purity that is entered into by taking a shower, wearing the Ihram garments, and reciting the Talbiyah.
Circumambulation (Tawaf) of the Kaaba. This is done seven times counterclockwise around the Kaaba.
Walking between Safa and Marwah (Sa'i). This is done seven times, alternating between the two hills.
Shaving or cutting the hair. This is done by men, while women may cut a small lock of hair.
Here are the detailed steps of how to perform Umrah for women:
1. Make the intention (niyyah) to perform Umrah. This can be done silently or aloud.
2. Take a shower and wear the Ihram garments. The Ihram garments for women are a loose-fitting dress that covers the entire body, and a head covering that covers the hair and neck.
3. Recite the Talbiyah. The Talbiyah is a declaration of intention to perform Umrah. It is recited repeatedly throughout the Umrah.
4. Enter the Masjid al-Haram (Grand Mosque). The Grand Mosque is located in Mecca and is the site of the Kaaba.
5. Circumambulate the Kaaba (Tawaf). The Tawaf is done seven times counterclockwise around the Kaaba. It is recommended to start the Tawaf at the Black Stone, which is located in the eastern corner of the Kaaba.
6. Perform two Rakahs of prayer (Salah) behind Maqam Ibrahim. Maqam Ibrahim is a stone located near the Kaaba where the Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) stood while building the Kaaba.
7. Walk between Safa and Marwah (Sa'i). The Sa'i is done seven times, alternating between the two hills of Safa and Marwah. The starting point for the Sa'i is located near the Zamzam Well.
8. Shave or cut the hair. This is done by men, while women may cut a small lock of hair.
After completing the Umrah, it is recommended to stay in Mecca for a few days to pray and visit the other holy sites.
Here are some additional things to keep in mind when performing Umrah:
* It is important to be in a state of purity throughout the Umrah. This means avoiding sexual relations, shaving, cutting nails, and wearing perfume.
* It is also important to dress modestly and avoid wearing anything that is tight or revealing.
* Women should also cover their faces when they are not in the presence of their mahram (unrelated male relatives).
* It is recommended to pray and recite the Quran throughout the Umrah.
* It is also a good idea to make dua (supplications) to Allah.
I hope this helps!