What is Umrah?
Umrah is a deeply sacred journey and a significant act of worship, performed in the holy city of Mecca. It provides Muslims with an opportunity to purify their hearts, seek forgiveness, and strengthen their bond with Allah. Unlike Hajj, which is obligatory for those able to perform it at least once in a lifetime, Umrah is voluntary but carries immense spiritual rewards. It serves as a chance to reset our intentions, start anew, and renew our connection with Allah. For many, performing Umrah is a transformative experience, leaving their hearts filled with gratitude and resolve. However, completing this beautiful journey doesn’t signify an end—it marks the beginning of a new spiritual chapter. Here are seven actions to take after returning from Umrah to continue benefiting from its blessings.
1. Express Gratitude to Allah
Performing Umrah is an extraordinary gift from Allah, and the best way to honor this gift is by expressing gratitude. Take time to raise your hands in Dua, thanking Allah for granting you the opportunity to visit His sacred house. Reflect on how many people long for this opportunity and how blessed you are to have experienced it. Let your gratitude inspire you to fulfill your duties and foster a closer relationship with Allah.
2. Inspire Others to Pray
During your Umrah journey, you likely strengthened your connection to Salah. Now is the time to inspire others around you to do the same. Encourage your family, friends, and even younger siblings or children to prioritize their prayers. Remind them that, as mentioned in a Hadith: “Whoever directs someone to a good deed will have the same reward as the one who does it.” (Sahih Muslim). Share the peace and joy you felt in Salah and motivate others to establish regular prayer in their lives.
3. Abandon Bad Habits
Umrah serves as a form of purification—washing away sins and offering a fresh start. Now, reflect on the habits that may distance you from Allah. Whether it’s controlling your anger, abandoning gossip, or avoiding distractions, use this opportunity to replace harmful habits with beneficial ones. As the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: “The best of people are those who are best in character.” Set spiritual goals and strive to align your actions with the Sunnah, starting afresh with a clean slate.
4. Begin Everything with the Name of Allah
A simple yet powerful habit to cultivate is to start every action with “Bismillah” (In the Name of Allah). Whether you’re beginning your work, having a meal, or making decisions, saying “Bismillah” brings blessings to your actions and reminds you that Allah is always with you. This practice will bring barakah and ease into your daily life.
5. Continue Acts of Charity
During Umrah, many are inspired to give in the way of Allah. Carry this beautiful habit forward by continuing to donate to those in need, support community projects, and offer help wherever possible. Charity is not just an obligation; it’s a source of great reward. As Allah says in the Quran: “Indeed, those who give charity, men and women, and lend to Allah a good loan—it will be multiplied for them, and they will have a noble reward.” (Quran 57:18). Your generosity can bring barakah to your life and others’ lives.
6. Keep Up with Spiritual Practices
The worship you engaged in during Umrah should continue long after you return. Maintain the habits you developed, such as performing timely prayers, reciting the Quran, and engaging in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah). These practices keep your heart connected to Allah and help you carry the blessings of Umrah forward. Strive to maintain your Tahajjud (night prayer) as a means of seeking Allah’s mercy and blessings.
7. Share Your Experience
Your Umrah experience is a powerful story that can inspire others to embark on their own spiritual journey. Share your experiences with family and friends, recounting the profound moments you witnessed—standing before the Kaaba, the peace of Tawaf, and the joy of sincere worship. Encouraging others to follow in your footsteps can spark a longing in their hearts to perform Umrah. Remember, guiding others towards goodness brings rewards from Allah.
Conclusion
Completing Umrah is much more than a religious duty; it is a life-changing experience that reorients your heart and actions toward Allah. By expressing gratitude, inspiring others, and maintaining your spiritual practices, you can continue to benefit from the immense blessings of Umrah. Let this sacred journey shape your intentions, actions, and relationship with Allah, guiding you towards greater faith and good deeds. May Allah accept your Umrah, forgive your sins, and continue to bless you on your spiritual journey. Ameen.
