FAQ About Hajj
Can I perform Umrah before or after Hajj?
Yes, it is permissible to perform Umrah before or after Hajj. Many pilgrims choose to perform Umrah as a separate journey either before or after the Hajj pilgrimage. Here are a few important points to consider:
Before Hajj: Performing Umrah before Hajj is known as "Umrah al-Tamattu." In this case, pilgrims enter the state of Ihram, perform the rituals of Umrah (including Tawaf and Sa'i), and then exit the state of Ihram. They will then re-enter the state of Ihram for the Hajj rituals at the designated time.
After Hajj: Performing Umrah after Hajj is known as "Umrah al-Qiran" or "Umrah al-Ifrad." In this case, pilgrims combine the Hajj and Umrah rituals, performing the Hajj rites first and then proceeding to perform the Umrah rites without exiting the state of Ihram. This is usually done by those who intend to perform both Hajj and Umrah with a single Ihram.
Separate Ihram: When performing Umrah before or after Hajj, pilgrims need to enter the state of Ihram specifically for Umrah. They must follow the Ihram restrictions and perform the Tawaf and Sa'i as part of the Umrah rites. After completing the Umrah, they may exit the state of Ihram until they enter it again for the Hajj rituals if performing Umrah before Hajj.
Time Considerations: It's important to plan the timing of Umrah accordingly, taking into account the specific days of Hajj and any travel or logistical arrangements. The dates and duration of Hajj are determined by the Islamic calendar, so it is advisable to consult with authorized travel agents or local scholars to determine the best schedule for Umrah before or after Hajj.