Hajj compared to Umrah, holds more significance in religion. Known as the larger pilgrimage, it is one of the five Pillars of Islam. Every year, millions of Muslims travel to the holy city of Mecca to perform this ritual. Whether you travel in March or via an Ramadan Umrah package, there is a specific tenure to fulfil this practice. This blog will discuss some of the types of Hajj that devotees can perform to gain the blessing of God Almighty and attain spiritual growth.
Can Pilgrims Perform Umrah During Hajj Time?
This is one of the common concerns for pilgrims, especially for first-time travellers. While it is best to perform the rituals of Hajj only during this time, you can still go for Umrah. According to the Ministry of Hajj and Umrah, only those pilgrims with an official Hajj permit are eligible for both these rituals during the Hajj season.
Moreover, there is no conflict of opinion among scholars about performing Umrah during this time. Hence, it is permissible for Muslims to go on Umrah while in the Kingdom for Hajj. There are certain conditions to perform the former practice which will be explored under the types of Hajj section.
Types of Hajj
Contrary to popular belief about having a single type of Hajj, there exist three different varieties of this ritual. Each of these types has certain rules that must be followed for the successful completion of this sacred act. Letβs understand the types of Hajj in detail.
- Hajj Ifrad
It is one of the simplest forms of Hajj. Hajj Irfad can be performed by pilgrims who live within the boundaries of Miqat points and those who live in Jeddah. In this type, pilgrims are supposed to indulge in the act of Hajj only. Worshippers intending to perform Umrah during this Hajj will not be then eligible for Hajj Ifrad. To put it simply, pilgrims cannot perform both rituals at the same time. Mufrid (the person who performs Hajj Ifrad) doesnβt have to make an animal sacrifice during this form of Hajj. They can exit the state of Ihram only after they have completed the stoning at the Jamarat site. Hajj Ifrad is also said to be an isolated Hajj.
- Hajj Qiran
The second type of Hajj is the Hajj Qiran. The word Qiran translates to combine. This is the form of pilgrimage which involves both the rituals of Hajj and Umrah. Muslims coming from the UK can indulge in Hajj Qiran to seek the rewards for both practices. Qarin (an individual who performs this type of Hajj) can perform the rituals with a single Ihram state.
They are not required to change the Ihram every time for both rituals as in the Hajj Ifrad. Pilgrims can perform Umrah in the preceding months of the Hajj or during the first eight days of the Dhul-Hajj. During this form of pilgrimage, It is better to perform the Umrah first and then later on move to the bigger ritual. It is a must for pilgrims to sacrifice an animal.
- Hajj Tamattu
Hajj Tamattu is similar to Hajj Qrian with a minor difference. Both the rituals are to be performed in two different Ihram states. Moreover, this form of pilgrimage is known as an Enjoyable Hajj as it allows Muslims to do Umrah in a relaxed state of mind without rushing for Hajj immediately. Pilgrims who engage in Umrah as a part of this type of Hajj cannot leave the city without completing the Hajj ritual.
Why Hajj is Important for Muslims?
Hajj is a sacred journey that every Muslim must take at least once in their lifetime if they can afford it. This pilgrimage to Makkah is not just a physical journey but also a deeply spiritual experience. It brings Muslims closer to Allah and strengthens their faith.
One of the biggest reasons Hajj is important is that it unites Muslims from all over the world. People from different countries, cultures, and backgrounds come together as equals. Everyone wears the same white garments, known as Ihram, to show that in the eyes of Allah, all humans are the same. There is no difference between rich and poor, black and white. This reminds Muslims of the importance of humility and equality.
Hajj is also a way for Muslims to seek forgiveness. It is believed that if a person performs Hajj sincerely, all their past sins are wiped away. This gives them a fresh start, allowing them to return home spiritually purified. The rituals of Hajj, such as Tawaf (circling the Kaaba) and Sai (walking between Safa and Marwa), remind Muslims of important events in Islamic history and strengthen their connection with the past.
Hajj also teaches patience and self-discipline. The journey can be physically demanding, but it reminds Muslims that life itself is a test. Through hardships, they learn to trust Allah and remain strong in their faith. The experience also encourages kindness and brotherhood, as pilgrims help each other during the trip.
Final Words
This blog has shared different types of Hajj that can be performed by Muslims. Each form of the bigger pilgrimage has certain regulations that must be kept in mind to complete the rituals. Whether you wish to travel in Ramadan or in October when there is less crowd, pilgrims can perform the Umrah any time of the year.
Are you looking for travel packages for flying to the Kingdom? Then reach out to Muslims Holy Travel to get customised Hajj and Umrah packages at an affordable price. With more than a decade of experience, we provide a memorable journey to our clients, ensuring an unforgettable experience.