What is Umrah, and how is it different from Hajj?

Umrah is a pilgrimage to the holy city of Makkah in Saudi Arabia that can be performed at any time of the year, unlike Hajj, which has specific dates in the Islamic calendar (the 8th to the 13th of Dhul-Hijjah).

Key Differences Between Umrah and Hajj:

1. Obligation:

• Umrah: It is a Sunnah act, meaning it is recommended but not obligatory for Muslims.

• Hajj: It is one of the Five Pillars of Islam and is mandatory for every financially and physically capable Muslim at least once in their lifetime.

2. Duration and Rites:

• Umrah: It involves fewer rituals and can be completed in a few hours or a day. The main acts include:

• Entering Ihram (state of ritual purity)

• Tawaf (circling the Kaaba)

• Sa’i (walking between Safa and Marwah)

• Halq/Taqsir (shaving or trimming hair)

• Hajj: It is more comprehensive and involves additional rituals such as standing at Arafat (Wuquf), staying at Muzdalifah, and performing the stoning at Mina.

3. Timing:

• Umrah: Can be performed any time of the year.

• Hajj: Must be performed during the designated days of Dhul-Hijjah.

4. Significance:

• Umrah: Often called the “minor pilgrimage,” it is highly rewarded but not as significant as Hajj.

• Hajj: Known as the “major pilgrimage,” it is a cornerstone of Islamic worship with immense spiritual significance.

Both acts are a means of seeking closeness to Allah, but Hajj holds a higher status in terms of religious obligation and spiritual impact.