HAJJ & UMRAH
(STEP BY STEP) In this article the procedure to wear Ihram and to perform the rites of Hajj and Umrah are presented in a simplified way. Also included is the procedure to visit the Holy Prophet (pbuh)'s Tomb and his Mosque. 1. IHRAM The literal meaning of Ihram is to make haraam (forbidden). When a haji pronounces the Niyyah (intention) of Hajj and Umrah and utters Talbiyah, certain halaal (permissible) things become haraam for him. This combined action (Niyyah and Talbiyah) is called Ihram. The two sheets that a haji wears are figuratively known as Ihram but the real Ihram is Niyyah & Talbiyah. If someone wears these two sheets and does not declare his intention and utter Talbiyah, he does not become a Muhrim. That is why, before Niyyah and Talbiyah, he can cover his head during two rakahs of Nafl, an act which is not allowed in the real state of Ihram. PROCEDURE

Preparations for Ihram. Comb your hair, shape the beard, trim your mustache, cut your nails, and remove unwanted body hair.
Purification. Take a bath with the intention of Ihram otherwise do wudu. Here it is noted that there are two ways of purification:
Purification of the body, shower or wudu.
Internal purification, sincere repentance on your sins. Say something like this: "O Allah, I sincerely repent on my sins and seek your forgiveness.."

Ihram Sheets. Men should wear a sheet of white cloth around the waist and cover the upper body with the other sheet. Women's ordinary clothes are their Ihram. Both should wear the flip-flops (hawai chappal) so that the middle bones of the upper part of the feet are not covered.
Nafl Salah. If it is not makruh (undesirable) time, offer two rakahs of nafl for Ihram by covering your heads.
Advice. If going to Jeddah by an airplane, it is convenient to get into the status of Ihram inside the plane. Here is what you do. Do everything at home or at the airport except Niyyah (intention) and Talbiyah. Have your shower, pray two rakahs of nafl but you are still not in the status of ihram because you haven't done the main thing yet, i.e., intention and Talbiyah which is done at or before the boundary line called Miqat.
Go to the airplane and sit down with the white sheets on. In a Hajj flight when you are close to Miqat, the pilot will announce that this is the border line to make your intention and to say Talbiyah. Those who did not change their clothes before should do so now although it is not convenient inside the plane. Please note that:
It is a good idea to ask at the time of boarding if the arrival of Miqat will be announced by the pilot. If not, make your intention and say Talbiyah on your own approximately one hour before you reach Jeddah.

If you are flying with a group, follow the instructions of the group leader.

6.Intention and Talbiyah. Now uncover your head and declare your intention. It is assumed that you are performing Hajj al-Tammat'u in which Umrah is performed first as described later in the "Kinds of Hajj".

"O Allah! I intend to perform Umrah. Please make it easy for me and accept it from me. Amen."

Immediately after that utter the words of Talbiyah three times and as often afterwards as possible. If you don't remember it, you can say its translation in English or in any other language but Talbiah or its translation is pronounced in a loud voice by men and in a subdued voice by women.

TALBIYAH

"Labbayk,
Allahumma Labbayk.
Labbayk.
La shareeka laka.
Labbayk.
Innal-hamda wan-n'imata
laka wal-mulk.
La shareeka lak." ( Here we come,
O Allah, here we come !
Here we come.
No partner have You.
Here we come!
Praise indeed, and blessings, are Yours---
the Kingdom too!
No partner have You!)
Du'a. After this recite Darud Sharif and supplicate to Allah Almighty any du'a in Arabic or in your own language.
Prohibitions of Ihram. After intention and Talbiyah, you are in the status of Ihram and from this time on you should not do acts that are forbidden in Ihram , for example, here are some of the things a muhrim must not do:

Cover head (men), cover face (women)
Cover the middle bone of the upper part of the feet (Both men and women))
Shave / cut hair
Cut nails
Wear perfume
Wear stitched clothing (men) / (Women can wear their ordinay clothes)
Hunting / killing
Sex
Journey towards Makkah. When this sacred journey towards Makkah al-Mukarrama starts, recite Talbiyah frequently on the way. Then enter the city very humbly and with great fondness still reciting Talbiyah.
After arranging for your residence, proceed to the Haram Sharif to perform Umrah.

2. HAJJ

KINDS OF HAJJ
There are three ways of performing the Hajj:

Hajj al-Tamatt'u (Interrupted)
This is the easiest way of performing Hajj as described below.
Hajj al-Qiran (Combined)
This denotes entering into ihram for both Umrah and Hajj at the same time, not taking it off until the day of sacrifice at Mina.
In Qiran one has to stick to the long-lasting restrictions of Ihram
Hajj al-Ifrad (Single)
This means entering into ihram only for the Hajj and taking it off only on the day of sacrifice.

HAJJ AL-TAMATT'U

People who come to Saudi Arabia from other countries usually perform Hajj al-Tamatt'u. The Ihram they wear on or before Miqat is for Umrah only and perform Umrah first, then they slip into their ordinary clothes and on 8 Zil Hijjah they put on Ihram for Hajj at their residence in Makkah and perform the rites of Hajj. It is taken off on the day of sacrifice. This article describes the procedure to perform Hajj al-Tamatt'u.

HOW TO PERFORM UMRAH

THE RITES OF UMRAH: The only rites of Umrah are:

Entering the state of Ihram
Tawaf of Ka’bah
Sa’yee between the hills of Safa and Marwah
Shaving or clipping of the hair

IHRAM FOR UMRAH AND ENTERING MASJID AL-HARAM

Ihram: You should be already in Ihram for Umrah before entering Mecca as mentioned above.
Entering Masjid al-Haram: While reciting Talbiyah, enter Masjid al-Haram preferably through Bab

as-Salam with right foot first. Supplicate to Allah and proceed towards Ka’bah. You may recite the following supplication which is usually used before entering a mosque:
Allah huma aftah li abwabe rahmate ka

First Sight: At the first sight of Ka’bah, keep your eyes fixed at Baitullah and standing at one side, it is suggested that you do the following:

Say Allahu Akbar three times

Say La Ilaha Illallah three times
Proclaim Darud on our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) and very humbly and with tears in your eyes supplicate to Allah for whatever you wish. This is a special time for the acceptance of prayers.

The idea is to praise and glorify your Creator before proclaiming Darud and supplications. Therefore, in lieu of Allahu Akbar and La Ilaha Illallah, you may recite some other similar holy verses if you so desire.
After this, while uttering Talbiyah, move forward to perform Tawaf of Ka’bah.
TAWAF OF UMRAH
Tawaf means circling around something . Here it means moving around Ka’bah seven times with extreme love and devotion.

Preparation: Pass the upper sheet of Ihram from underneath the right arm and put it on the left shoulder. This act bares the right shoulder and is known as Iztaba. Ablutions (vudu) is essential for tawaf. Reciting of Talbiyah is stopped when you reach Hajar-e- Aswad, the starting point of tawaf.
Niyyah (Intention): Stand in front of Ka’bah facing Hajar-e-Aswad (the Black Stone) in such a way that the whole Hajre-e-Aswad is on your right side. To achieve this end, you may get help from the black stripe on the floor. This stripe should be on your right side. Then without raising your hands make Niyyah (intention) for Umrah:
" O Allah, I perform Tawaf of Umrah to please You. Make it easy for me and accept it from me."

Istilam: Now moving towards right, come in front of Hajar-e-Aswad and kiss it if possible, or touch it with a stick and kiss the stick; if that also is not possible, raise your hands to your ears keeping your open

palms towards Hajre-e-Aswad and say:
" Bismillahi Allahu Akbar Wa Lilla Hil Hamd"
and drop your hands down. Now point the palms of your hands again towards Hajar-e- Aswad and kiss them. This act of kissing Hajar-e-Aswad or pointing towards it is called Istilam.

Tawaf Starts: After Istilam, turn right and start tawaf counter clockwise.
WARNING

The authorities often apply perfume to Hajar-e-Aswad, Rukn Yamani and Multazam. If so, do not touch them while in the state of Ihram, otherwise a dum will be required as a penalty.
During tawaf, it is not permissible to face or turn your back towards Ka’bah except when you are kissing or pointing towards Hajar-e-Aswad..

Ramal: For the first three circuits of Tawaf of Umrah and Tawaf of Arrival, men are required to move their shoulders and walk with quick short steps. This act is called Ramal and is Sunnah. They walk normally during the remaining four circuits.
Supplications of Tawaf: There are no fixed supplications for tawaf but there are several recommended supplications listed in the books of Hajj and Umrah out of which the following supplication is easy to memorize:
"Subhan-Allah wal-hamdu-lillahi wa la ilaha ill-Allah wa-Allahu Akbar wa la haula wa la quwwata illa-billah."
If you don’t remember these words, you may glorify Allah by repeatedly uttering:
Subhan Allah,
Al-Hamdu lilla,
Allahu Akbar,
La Ilaha Illallah, etc.
The Prophet of Islam (peace be upon him) has said that there are two kalimahs that are light on tongue and (on the day of judgment) they weigh heavy on the scale (Mizan) and are liked by Allah.. These kalimahs are:
Subhan Allah Wabe Hamde hi Subhan Allah Hil Azeem (Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmizi)
You may also use supplications used in the daily Salah or you may seek forgiveness of Allah and ask Him whatever you wish in your own language.
Hatim: Hatim is a semi-circular half-built portion which was originally a part of the Ka’bah but which could not be included in the main structure when the Ka’bah was rebuilt. It is obligatory to go around Hatim also while performing tawaf.
Rukn Yamani and its Supplications: After passing the three corners of the Ka’bah you reach the fourth corner known as Rukn Yamani. Touch it with both hands or with right hand. There is a beautiful supplication to be used while walking between Rukn Yamani and Hajar-e-Aswad:
"Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina azabin-nar."
Our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) has repeatedly recited this supplication. The first circuit is complete when you reach Hajar-e-Aswad.
Seven Circuits: At Hajar-e-Aswad, start the second circuit by kissing it or pointing towards it as you started the first circuit, i.e., come in front of Hajar-e-Aswad, raise both hands to your ears with open palms towards it and say:
" Bismillahi Allahu Akbar Wa Lillah Hil Hamd
Now kiss both palms and drop your hands. After this go around Ka’bah as you did before and similarly complete the seven circuits.
The End of Tawaf: At the end of seven circuits, do Istilam of Hajar-e- Aswad or point towards it eighth time which is Sunnat Mu’akidah. Also say:
"Bismillahi Allahu Akbar Wa Lillah Hill Hamd"

Iztaba Finished : Now Iztaba is finished, therefore, you cover your both shoulders with upper portion of the Ihram sheet. This does not apply to women.
Multazam: Now, come to Multazam which is a place five or six feet in length between Hajar-e-Aswad and the door of Ka’bah. This is a highly sacred place where prayers are accepted. Among a large crowd of people, if it is possible to reach Multazam, cling to it pressing your chest and cheeks, and while trembling and crying with devotion and with all humility seek Allah’s mercy, His blessings and ask Him whatever you wish. If you are unable to come close to Multazam, just face towards it and supplicate from a distance.
Maqam Ibrahim: Next offer two rakahs of nafls behind and close to Maqam Ibrahim without covering

your head. If it is zawal time when sajdah is not allowed, you have to wait till this undesirable time is passed and then offer prayers.
In the niyyah (intention), say that you are offering 2 rakahs of nafls wajib al- tawaf. Recite Qul ya ayya hal kafroon in the first rakah and Qulhu wallah in the second rakah. After this, supplicate to Allah in Arabic or in your own language. Ask Him whatever you wish and invoke His blessings.
If it is not possible to offer this obligatory prayer near Maqam Ibrahim, it can be offered anywhere in Mataf, or in Hatim or anywhere in Masjid al-Haram or even at any place in Haram of Makkah.

Zamzam: Now go to Zamzam well situated in the basement of the Haram about 200 feet from the Ka’bah’s door. There are separate portions for men and women. Zamzam is the best available water in the world. Drink this water to fill while in standing position saying Bismillah. Then supplicate to Allah:
"Allahummah inni as’aluka ilm-an naafi’an wa rizqan waasi’an wa shifa’am min kulli daa’in."

(O Allah! I implore Thee for beneficial knowledge, for vast provisions, and for cure from every disease.)

SA’EY

The literal meaning of Sa’ey is to run or to make effort, but as a Hajj and Umrah term, Sa’ey denotes

walking back and forth seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah which are situated to the south and north of the Ka’bah respectively. Now there are only signs of these hills and the whole route between them is enclosed in a long gallery.
Sa’ey has a historical background. Prophet Abraham left his wife Hazrat Hajra and infant son Hazrat Ismael in the wilderness of Makkah at the command of Allah. The mother and son lived for five days on the food and water they had when the water was completely finished. The mother ran frantically seven times between the hills of Safa and Marwah in
search of water for her son. Suddenly the fountain of Zamzam oozed miraculously near the feet of Hazrat Ismael. Sa’ey is included in the rites of Hajj and Umrah to commemorate this event of search and struggle.

HOW TO PERFORM SA’EY
Istilam of Hajar-e-Aswad. Before starting Sa’ey, do Istilam of Hajar-e-Aswad again the ninth time or point towards it, saying:
"Bismillahi Allahu Akbar Wa Lillah Hil Hamad."
Now Proceed towards Safa. It is a Sunnah to be in the state of ablutions during Sa’ey.
Start of Sa’ey at Safa. Climb the hill of Safa and make intention (niyyah) for Sa’ey:
" O Allah! I perform Sa’ey between Safa and Marwah to please You. Make it easy for me
and accept it from me."
Now recite:
"Inn-as-Safa wal-Marwah min Sha’a’irillah."

(Al-Qur’an 2 : 158)

(Indeed Safa and Marwah are among the Signs of Allah.)
After this climb Safa to the point from where you can see the Ka’bah, then facing the Ka’bah raise your hands in supplication, say Allahu Akbar three times and recite the following supplication or ask Allah whatever you wish:
"La ilaha ill-Allahu wahdahu la Sharika lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa ‘ala kulli shai’in Qadeer."
If you don’t remember this, you may use the supplication recited earlier during Tawaf:
"Bismillahi Allahu Akbar Wa Lillah Hill Hamd"

Proceed towards Marwah. Come down from Safa and move towards Marwah while reciting this supplication:
"Subhan-Allah wal-hamdu-lillahi wa la ilaha ill-Allah wa-Allahu Akbar wa la haula wa la quwwata illa-billa."
If you don’t remember this supplication also, recite Subhan Allah, Alhamdu Lillah, Allahu Akbar repeatedly and keep moving. You may also praise Allah and ask for His mercy in your language or use supplications taken from the daily Salah. When you reach two green pillars between which men have to run but the women walk with their normal pace.
At Marwah. When on top of marwah, praise Allah facing the Ka’bah and repeat the same supplications that were recited at Safa. One trip is over, second trip will be on Safa and third trip will be on Marwah.
End of Sa’ey. In the same way, the seventh trip will end at Marwah. In all trips the men will run between the green pillars but the women will walk in a normal way.
Two raka’at Nafl. If it is not an undesirable (Makrooh) time, offer two raka’ats of nafl in the al-Haram.
Shaving or clipping of hair. After Sa’ey, men should get their heads completely shaved or get their hair clipped to the length of the upper third of their finger or a little more. Both shaving and clipping are permissible for men, though shaving is preferable. Women are, however, allowed to have a lock of their hair clipped. They are forbidden to shave their heads.
Umrah is complete. After cutting the hair, umrah is complete. The restrictions of Ihram are finished. Now wear your everyday clothes and lead a normal life. Be thankful to Allah that He provided the opportunity for performing Umrah and lead rest of your life according to the commands of your Creator.

NAFL TAWAF
You may perform Umrah as often as you want according to the above procedure. And if you want to perform just a nafl Tawaf, follow the same procedure, however, in a nafl Tawaf there is no Ihram, no Ramal, no Iztaba and even no Sa’ey.

PERFORMANCE OF HAJJ
(STEP BY STEP)

SYMBOLS

Red color is the symbol of Fard the performance of which is imperative otherwise Hajj and Umrah will be invalid.
Orange color is the symbol of Wajib the performance of which is obligatory otherwise Dam is required as a penalty.
Green color stand for Sunnah or Mustahab (desirable). Try to perform these acts but no Dam is required if not done.
White color is a symbol indicating general instructions.

8 Zil Hijjah--First Day of Hajj

Hajj Preparations The date 8 Zil Hijjah starts after the Maghrib prayer of 7 Zil Hijjah. Complete all the Hajj preparations during these night hours.
Preparations for Ihram Comb your hair, shape the beard, trim your mustache, cut your nails, and remove unwanted body hair.
Bath Take a bath with the intention of Ihram otherwise do wudu.
Ihram Men should wear a sheet of white cloth around the waist and cover the upper body with the other sheet. Women's ordinary clothes are their Ihram. Both should wear the flip-flops (hawai chappal) so that the middle bones of the upper part of the feet are not covered.
Nafl Salah If it is not makruh (undesirable) time, men offer two rakahs of nafl for Ihram in the Haram Sharif by covering their heads. Women can offer these nafls at home.
Intention
and
Talbiyah
Now uncover your head and declare your intention saying:

"O Allah! I intend to perform Hajj. Please make it easy for me and accept it from me. Amen."

Immediately after that utter the words of Talbiyah three times and as often afterwards as possible. Men should say it in a loud voice but women should say it in a subdued tone.

Prohibitions of Ihram Now the prohibitions of Ihram start. Recall their detail and follow the rules. From this point on men cannot cover their heads for the duration of Ihram.
Departure to Mina After the sunrise proceed towards Mina. On the way, pronounce Talbiyah as often as you can and also utter other supplications. But it is ok to follow the procedure of your Mu'allim who usually arranges for hajis to leave for Mina during the night after Isha prayers.
In Mina In Mina offer Zuhar, Asr, Maghrib and Isha prayers. Spend that night in Mina and on 9 Zil Hijjah, offer Fajr prayer there.

9 Zil Hijjah--Second Day of Hajj

Departure for Arafat Offer Fajr prayer in Mina, say Takbir Tashriq (Allah-u Akbar, Allah-u Akbar La Ilaha ill-Allah wa-Allah-u Akbar, Allah-u Akbar wa Lillah-il-hamd) and Talbiyah. Get ready and reach Arafat by zawal (declining of the sun).
Bath Take a bath, if possible, otherwise perform wudu and have meals. Packages of food are usually provided by the Mu'allim. Also take some rest.
Waquf-e-Arafat Waquf is started at the beginning of zawal (declining of the sun) and ends at the sunset. Spend this time uttering Talbiyah, repent on your sins, seek forgiveness and mercy of Allah, say Darud Sharif and utter all the supplications (du'as) in Arabic and in your own language. It is better to do Waquf while standing but sitting down is also allowed.
Zuhr and Asr Prayers In Masjid-e-Namrah, the imam leads Zuhr and Asr prayers, combined and shortened, at Zuhr time with one adhan but separate iqamahs. At other places in Arafat, some people similarly combine these two salats. But it is advisable that away from Masjid-e-Namrah, offer them at their proper times with jama'at as recommended by the most scholars.
Departure for Muzdalifah When the sun sets in in Arafat, proceed to Muzdalifah without offering Maghrib prayer reciting Zikr and Talbiyah on the way.
Maghrib
and
Isha Prayers

In Muzdalifah offer Maghrib and Isha prayers together at Isha time. For both prayers there is one adhan and one iqamah.

First offer Fard prayer of Maghrib with jama'at. Then say Takbir Tashriq and Talbiyah.
Immediately after that offer Fard prayer of Isha with jama'at.
After this offer two Sunnah of Maghrib.
Then offer two Sunnah of Isha followed by Witr prayer.
Offering Nafl prayer is optional.

Zikr and Du'a

This is a very blessed night in which glorify Allah, recite Darud Sharif, read Quran, utter Talbiyah and supplicate very humbly. Also take some rest.

Pebbles

Pick up forty-nine pebbles of the size of big grams (chick peas) if Rami is to be performed for three days and seventy if for four days.

Fajr Prayer and Waquf

At the Fajr time after two rakah Sunnah, offer Fard prayer with jama'at.. then perform waquf.

Return to Mina

Proceed to Mina when the sun is about to rise.

10 Zil Hijjah--Third Day of Hajj

Rami of Jamrah Aqabah	In Mina, hit Jamrah Aqabah with seven pebbles one after the other. On account of risk to life, the old, weak or sick persons can perform Rami a little before sunset or at night.
Stop Talbiyah	Stop saying Talbiyah when you throw the first pebble. Also don't stop for du'a. Just go to your residence and do Qurbani (animal sacrifice)..
Qurbani (Animal Sacrifice)	There are three days designated for qurbani, i.e., 10, 11 or 12 Zil Hijjah. It can be done any time during day or night. It is usually easy to sacrifice an animal on 11 Zil Hijjah. Do qurbani yourself or ask a reliable person to do it for you.
Halq or Qasr	After qurbani men should preferably get their whole head shaved (Halq) but it is permissible to cut the hair (Qasr) of their whole head equal in length to a joint of a finger (about an inch). It is also permissible to cut the hair (about an inch) of one fourth of the head. A woman is prohibited to shave her head. She can cut about an inch long hair of one fourth of her head. But according to some scholars it is sufficient for a woman to have a lock of her hair clipped. If the sacrifice is postponed till the next two days, Halq or Qasr is also postponed because it comes after the sacrifice. Halq or Qasr can be done at any time up to the 12 of Zil Hijjah even if the sacrifice is not postponed. After Halq or Qasr all prohibitions of Ihram are lifted except the private relations between husband and wife which are permissible after Tawaf-e-Ziarah. Halq or Qasr in Mina is a Sunnah. But you are allowed to do it anywhere in Haram. If done outside the precincts of Haram, it requires a Dam. You have to make sure that Rami, sacrifice and shaving or clipping of the hair are performed in the order in which they are listed otherwise a Dam is required as a penalty.
Tawaf-e-Ziarat	Now perform Tawaf-e-Ziarat. It can be performed any time, day or night, from 10 Zil Hijjah to the sunset of 12 Zil Hijjah. Usually it is convenient to do it on 11 Zil Hijjah. Its procedure is similar to that of Tawaf of Umrah and it is essential that you have performed wudu. According to Sunnah this tawaf is to be performed after Rami, sacrifice and shaving or clipping of the hair, and every effort should be made to do that, but the Fard stands discharged even if Tawaf-e-Ziarat is performed prior to all these practices. As mentioned earlier, Halq or Qasr after Qurbani lifts all the prohibitions of Ihram but the private relations between man and wife are permitted only after this Tawaf.
Sa'ey of Hajj	After this perform Sa'ey. Its procedure is the same as that of Sa'ey of Umrah. It is a Sunnah to make sure that your wudu is intact
Return to Mina	Return to Mina when Sa'ey is done and spend the night there.

11 Zil Hijjah--Fourth Day of Hajj

Rami of Jamrarat	Throw seven pebbles on each of three Jamarat after zawal (decline of the sun). Rami is usually easy a little before sunset and at night. And it is permissible to do Rami at night if there is a risk to life.
Supplicate	Throw seven pebbles at Jamrah Oolah. Then move a little forward. And with your hands raised and facing Qibla, praise Allah and recite Arabic du'as or supplicate in your own words. There are no prescribed du'as.
Supplicate	After this throw seven pebbles at Jamrah Wustah. Here too facing Qiblah, praise Allah and earnestly seek his mercy and blessings. No particular du'a is prescribed here either.
Do not supplicate	Then throw seven pebbles on Jamrah Aqabah. But this time do not supplicate at all, after Rami just return to your place.
Second chance for Tawaf of Ziarah	If you could not do Tawaf-e-Ziarah yesterday, do it today and return to Mina for overnight stay.
Zikr and Ibadah	At your residence, recite Quran, glorify Allah, repent on your sins, and seek forgiveness. Ask Allah whatever you want and don't commit any sin.

12 Zil Hijjah--Fifth Day of Hajj

Rami of Jamrarat	Throw seven pebbles on each of three Jamarat after zawal (decline of the sun). Rami is usually easy a little before sunset and at night. And it is permissible to do Rami at night if there is a risk to life.
Supplicate	Throw seven pebbles at Jamrah Oolah. Then move a little forward. And with your hands raised and facing Qibla, praise Allah and recite Arabic du'as or supplicate in your own words. There are no prescribed du'as.
Supplicate	After this throw seven pebbles at Jamrah Wustah. And facing Qiblah, glorify Allah, recite Darud Sharif and supplicate earnestly for whatever you desire. There is no du'a prescribed for this occassion.
Do not supplicate	Then throw seven pebbles on Jamrah Aqabah and come back to your residence without any du'a.
Last chance for Tawaf of Ziarah	If you could not do Tawaf-e-Ziarah earlier, it is essential to do it today before Maghrib.
Option	After today's Rami, you have the option to return to Makkah before sunset. But if the sun sets before you are able to depart, remain in Mina for the third night and throw pebbles the next day in the same order.
Tawaf-e-Wida	After Hajj, when you intend to return to your country from Makkah, it is Wajib (obligatory) to perform Tawaf-e-Wida (Farewell Tawaf).. Its procedure is the same as that of a Nafl Tawaf.

VISITING MADINAH
(A Journey of Love)

Magnificent View of The Prophet's Mosque

To visit Madinah is not a Hajj or Umrah rite, but the unique merits of the Prophet’s city, his Mosque and his sacred tomb attract every pilgrim to visit it. There is no Ihram nor talbiyah for the visit to Madinah or the Prophet’s Mosque. Unique Merit of the Prophet’s Mosque. The Prophet (peace be upon him) himself participated in the construction of this mosque, called it "My Mosque" and led prayers in it for years. He has also said that a salah performed in the Prophet’s Mosque is better than a thousand salats in any other place except Masjid al-Haram in Makkah. According to Hazrat Anas, the Prophet (peace be upon him) has also said:

"The person who offers 40 prayers consecutively in my Mosque, without missing a prayer in between, will secure immunity from the fire of Hell and other torments and also from hypocrisy." (Musnad Ahmad)

Visiting the Holy Tomb. It is a great privilege for the pilgrims to visit our beloved Prophet’s tomb. The Prophet (peace be upon him) once said:

"The person who comes solely for the purpose of paying a visit to my grave, has a right on me that I should intercede for him." (‘Ilm al-Fiqh, Vol. V)

And he has also said:

"The person who performs Hajj and then visits my Tomb, will be regarded as though he had seen me in my worldly life." (Baihaqi)

PROCEDURE TO VISIT MADINAH

Travel to Madinah and Niyyah. When you start travel to Madinah, Make niyyah (intention) as such:
" O Allah! I start journey to visit the holy tomb of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Please accept it from me."
During this journey, recite Darud Sharif frequently. When the city of Madinah is in sight, show your extreme fondness and excitement and humbly enter the city while reciting Darud and Salam.
Masjid-e-Nabvi. After putting your luggage at your residence, take a bath or perform ablutions (vudu), wear nice dress, apply perfume and proceed towards the Prophet’s Mosque while uttering Darud.
Bab-e-Jibril. Enter the mosque through Bab-e-Jibril or Bab-us-Salaam or if this is not possible, enter through any other door.
Right Foot. Place your right foot first in the entrance, praise Allah (such as say Allhu Akbar, Subhan Allah, Alhamdu Lillah, etc.), recite Darud and say:
"Allah humma aftah li abwabe rahamte ka"
Two Raka’t Nafl. If it is not undesirable (Makrooh) time, offer two rakahs of nafl tahiyyat al-masjid (greeting of the masjid) preferably in Riaz al-Jannah near the tomb of the Prophet or otherwise anywhere else in the mosque.

In front of the Holy Tomb.

Brass screens in front of grave of the Holy Prophet

1. The Holy Prophet

2. Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddique

3. Hadrat Umar Farooq

In front of the sacred tomb of The Holy Prophet (peace be upon him), there are three sections of brass screens and all three have holes in them. Look at the picture carefully. If you stand in front of the middle section between the pillars, you'll see a big round hole on your left. This is in front of the face of the Holy Prophet. Adjacent to it is a door that stays closed. Right after it on the right side is a round hole which is in front of the face of Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddique. On the right of it, there is another round hole which is in front of the face of Hadrat Umar Farooq.

Here is an enlarged view of the screen in front of the sacred face of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him). Standing in front of it and facing it, say in a respectful and hushed voice:

"Assalamu alaika, ayyuhan-nabiyya wa rahmatul-lahi wa barakatuhu"
(Peace be on you, O Prophet, and the mercy and blessings of Allah.)

After this say:

"Assalatu was-salamu alaika ya Rasul-Allah"
"Assalatu was-salamu alaika ya Nabi-yallah"
"Assalatu was-salamu alaika ya Habib-Allah"

Then supplicate to Allah for good things in this life and the life after death. You may use the same supplication recited earlier during the Tawaf :

"Rabbana atina fid-dunya hasanatan wa fil-akhirati hasanatan wa qina azabin nar."

Offer Salam of others. Now offer salam of relatives or friends in your own language or say:
"Asslamu alaika ya Rasul Allah min----."
After the word "min", add the name of your friend or relative.
Salam on Hazrat Abu Bakr Siddique. Then move a little to the right and stand before the grave of Hazrat Abu Bakr (may Allah be pleased with him). Greet him and supplicate to bestow His mercy and forgiveness on him.
Salam on Hazrat Umar Farooq. Again move a little to the right before the grave of Hazrat Umar ( may Allah be pleased with him), and greet him and make supplication for him.
Forty Prayers. Men should offer forty prayers (Salat) in the Prophet's Mosque, but it is not a requirement of any kind. It is only Mustahab, i.e., rewarding if done, but if not done there is no sin.

Other places to visit. Some of the other important places to visit are: Masjid Quba, Jannat al-Baqee, graves of Hazrat Hamzah and other

martyrs of Uhud (may Allah be pleased with them) and Masjid Qiblatain, etc.

Among them Masjid Quba is the most important. It is the first mosque in the history of Islam whose foundation stone was laid down by Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) himself on his migration to Madinah. To offer 2 raka'ats of nafl in it is equal to one Umrah. After visiting the Prophet’s Mosque and his tomb every pilgrim should try his best to visit it and pray in this mosque as well.

Departure from Madinah. When you have to leave Madinah, offer your Salam again to the Prophet (peace be upon him), cry at this separation, supplicate to Allah and leave with the earnest desire to come back.

The Obligation of Hajj

The Obligation of Hajj (Pilgrimage) and its Excellence

Allah, the Exalted, says:
"And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka`bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who can afford the expenses (for one's conveyance, provision and residence); and whoever disbelieves [i.e., denies Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah), then he is a disbeliever of Allah], then Allah stands not in need of any of the `Alamin (mankind, jinn and all that exists).'' (3:97)

1271. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "(The superstructure of) Islam is based on five (pillars), testifying the fact that La ilaha illallah wa anna Muhammad-ar-Rasul-ullah [there is no true god except Allah, and Muhammad ((PBUH)) is the Messenger of Allah], establishing As-Salat (the prayers), paying Zakat (poor due), the pilgrimage to the House [of Allah (Ka`bah)], and the Saum (fasting) during the month of Ramadan.'' [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith has been mentioned earlier. Here it has been repeated in support of the obligation of the fourth pillar of Islam. Thus, Hajj is compulsory for a person who fulfills the qualifications required for it and has the means for it.

1272. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) delivered a Khutbah and said, "O people! Hajj (pilgrimage to the House of Allah) has been made incumbent upon you, so perform Hajj.'' A man inquired: "O Messenger of Allah, is it prescribed every year?'' He (PBUH) remained silent till the man repeated it thrice. Then he (PBUH) said, "Had I replied in the affirmative, it would have surely become obligatory, and you would not have been able to fulfill it.'' Afterwards he said, "Do not ask me so long as I do not impose anything upon you, because those who were before you were destroyed on account of their frequent questioning and their disagreement with their Prophets. So when I order you to do something, do it as far as you can; and when I forbid you from doing anything, eschew it.''
[Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith brings out the following points:
1. Hajj is compulsory once in a lifetime for those who have the means for it.
2. Unnecessary questioning is disliked.
3. Those who believe in Allah and His Prophet (PBUH) are required to do what they are ordained and abstain from what they are forbidden.

1273. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) was asked: "Which deed is the best?'' He (PBUH) replied, "Faith in Allah and His Messenger.'' Then he was asked: "What is next?'' He replied, "Jihad (holy fighting) in the Cause of Allah.'' Then he was asked, "What is after that?'' He (PBUH) replied, "Hajj Mabrur (an accepted pilgrimage).'' [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith points out the fact that Hajj is one of the most prominent religious acts, provided it is done sincerely and keeping oneself away from sins. Some people have interpreted the word "Hajj Mabrur'' as an accepted Hajj. They say that the sign of an accepted Hajj is that one becomes a true worshipper of Allah, which he was previously not..

1274. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Whoever performs Hajj (pilgrimage) and does not have sexual relations (with his wife), nor commits sin, nor disputes unjustly (during Hajj), then he returns from Hajj as pure and free from sins as on the day on which his mother gave birth to him.''
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: The true meanings of "Rafath'' sexual intercourse but it also signifies obscene and frivolous talk and the expression of sexual desire to one's wife. Since coition with one's wife is forbidden during Hajj, so conversation with her on this subject or talking for amusement is also disliked. "Fisq'' means disobedience of Allah and quarrelling with people. One must avoid both of them during Hajj. The Hajj which is performed with all these restrictions, has the merit that one is totally purged of sins. But this purification is from sins which come in the category of minor sins and which relate to the Rights of Allah. Major sins relating to the Rights of Allah and lapses in respect of the rights of people are not pardoned without sincere repentance and compensation to the aggrieved.

1275. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "(The performance of) `Umrah is an expiation for the sins committed between it and the previous `Umrah; and the reward of Hajj Mabrur (i.e.., one accepted) is nothing but Jannah.'' [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: This Hadith tells us that the merit of `Umrah is that it is an expiation for sins. But this, too, is an expiation for minor sins. `Umrah includes assuming Ihram, circumambulation of Ka`bah, going between As-Safa and Al-Marwah and Halq or Taqsir (shaving of head or cutting hair). Whether or not `Umrah is an obligation like Hajj is arguable among the `Ulama'. Some people, like Imam As-Shafi`i, hold that it is obligatory; others like the followers of the Hanafi school of thought regard it Sunnah Mu`akkadah; still others think it to be voluntary. Imam Al-Bukhari is inclined to the first view which is also endorsed by sayings of some Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) about which some Muhaddithun (scholars of Hadith) have even claimed that these sayings are Mausul, the chain of narrators reaches up to the Prophet (PBUH). (For further details, please see Fath Al-Bari.) Otherwise, the view that it is non-obligatory is preferable.

1276. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: I said: "O Messenger of Allah! We consider Jihad as the best deed, should we not then go for Jihad?'' The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "The best Jihad for you women is Hajj Mabrur (i.e., one accepted by Allah).'' [Al-Bukhari].
Commentary: In ordinary circumstances, Hajj is the best of Jihad for women because in Islam, politics, economy, government, military affairs etc., come in the purview of men and men alone. Women are exempted from all such matters. However, in case of war, if the need arises, women can be engaged for supply of food, first-aid of the wounded etc., on the internal front, provided they can do such works without crossing the bounds of the Islamic-type veil. But imparting military training to women and dispatching them to war front are sheer imitations of the western nations for which there is no scope in the teachings of Islam. This Hadith also confirms this view.

1277. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "There is no day on which Allah sets free more slaves from Hell than He does on the Day of `Arafah.'' [Muslim].
Commentary: Almighty Allah emancipates most of His slaves, both men and women from the Hell-fire on this great day. Millions of pilgrims, who by virtue of their sincere repentance, try to seek the Pleasure of Allah certainly stand to earn Allah's Pardon for their sins and thereby emancipation from the Hell-fire. May Allah grant us this grace of His.

1278. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, "(The performance of) `Umrah during Ramadan is equal to Hajj (pilgrimage).'' Or said, "Equal to the performance of Hajj with me.''
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: "Equal to the performance of Hajj'' means the return and reward to which Hajj is eligible. It does not mean that it will serve as a substitute for Hajj and absolve one from the need to perform it.. This distinction of `Umrah in the month of Ramadan is perhaps for the reason, that in this way two acts of worship are combined at one time.

1279. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: A woman came to the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and said, "Allah's obligation upon His slaves has become obligatory on my father in his old age. My father is very old and incapable of riding. May I perform Hajj on his behalf?'' He (PBUH) said, "Yes.''
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary: "Hajj has become obligatory in old age'' means that when Allah has made Hajj obligatory, at that time, her father had attained old age, or he came to possess the means in his old age which made him liable for Hajj, but he is not capable of undertaking the journey because of his poor health. In such cases, the Prophet (PBUH) has granted them permission for Hajj by representation. But we learn from other Ahadith that Hajj by representation can only be done through such a person who has already performed Hajj. Similarly, if a person of means dies without performing Hajj, it is essential that Hajj is performed on his behalf; otherwise, he will be answerable for this omission. This formula does not apply to parents who have died in poverty because they were not liable for it. If someone does it for the sake of reward, he will be hopefully granted the reward of voluntary Hajj.

1280. Laqit bin `Amir (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I came to the Prophet (PBUH) and said: "My father is a very old man and does not have strength to perform Hajj (pilgrimage) or `Umrah or to undertake the journey.'' The Prophet (PBUH) said, "Perform Hajj and `Umrah on behalf of your father.''
[Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi].
Commentary: This Hadith also stresses permission of Hajj through representative where a person is not capable of doing it. But it is essential that the representative agent must have already performed Hajj.

1281. As-Sai'b bin Yazid (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I was seven years old when I was taken to perform Hajj (pilgrimage). This was during the time the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) performed the Hajjat-ul-Wada` (Farewell Pilgrimage). [Al-Bukhari].
Commentary: This Hadith points out the fact that it is permissible to take children to Hajj. The reward of their Hajj will be given to their parents. But when after attaining maturity the child becomes liable for Hajj, it will be necessary for him to perform it again because the one he has performed in childhood, will not be sufficient for him. The reason behind taking children to Hajj is to teach them how to perform this obligation.

1282. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) came across a caravan at Ar-Rauha' and asked who the people in the caravan were. They replied that they were Muslims. They asked: "Who are you?'' He (PBUH) said, "I am the Messenger of Allah.'' Then a woman lifted up a boy to him and asked: "Would this child be credited with having performed the Hajj (pilgrimage)?'' Whereupon he (PBUH) said, "Yes, and you will have a reward.''
[Muslim].

1283. Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) performed the pilgrimage on an unsaddled camel which also carried his provisions (i.e., his Zamilah). [Al-Bukhari].
Commentary: "Zamilah'' is a mount like a horse, mule etc., on which luggage is loaded while travelling. What it means here is that the Prophet (PBUH) travelled for Hajj on such a mount on which he kept his provision for the journey also. In other words, it was his Zamilah as well. This incident happened during Hajjat-ul-Wada` (Farewell Pilgrimage). This Hadith shows the Prophet's total humility and humbleness and his disregard for the life of the world.

1284. Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Ukaz, Mijannah and Dhul-Majaz were markets during the pre-Islamic period. The Companions disliked trading there till the following Ayat of the Noble Qur'an were revealed: "There is no sin on you if you seek the Bounty of your Rubb (during pilgrimage by trading)...'' (2:198)
[Al-Bukhari].
Commentary: The Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) considered trade and commerce during the months of Hajj as sinful because they thought that trade had a sort of resemblance with the bazaars which were arranged on the occasion of Hajj in the pre-Islamic period. Through the Ayah quoted in this Hadith, Almighty Allah removed their misunderstanding. Therefore, trade and commerce on this occasion do not violate the Hajj and `Umrah. This is however, only a permission. If one wants to earn reward in the Hereafter through his utmost devotion to Allah, it is more meritorious to avoid commercial activities and wholeheartedly concentrate on the remembrance of Allah and His worship.