History of Umrah
Umrah, also known as the minor pilgrimage, traces its origins to 629 CE when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers performed it for the first time. This significant event followed years of struggles, negotiations, and sacrifices by devout Muslims.
Overview of Umrah
Umrah is an Islamic pilgrimage to Makkah, the holiest city for Muslims in the Hejazi region of Saudi Arabia. It is the second most important pilgrimage in Islam and can be undertaken at any time of the year except during the Hajj pilgrimage. As one of the most revered acts of worship in Islam, Umrah involves visiting the Kaaba and performing specific sacred rituals.
The Historical Context of Umrah
During the time of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), Muslims were initially denied access to Makkah for performing Hajj and Umrah due to its occupation by idol-worshipping Arab Pagans. The struggle to gain this religious right was significant in Islamic history, rooted deeply in the teachings of the Quran and the Prophet’s mission.
The Origins of Umrah
Umrah’s history begins in 622 CE when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers migrated from Makkah to Madinah to escape persecution by the non-believers and authorities of Makkah. Despite settling in Madinah, the desire among Muslims to return to Makkah and perform Umrah persisted.
The Confrontation at Hudaybiyyah
In 628 CE, tensions escalated between Muslims and the Pagans of Makkah. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and 1400 Muslims set out to perform Umrah, prompting fears among the Makkans of a potential attack. Despite peaceful intentions, they were halted at Hudaybiyyah and negotiations ensued, eventually leading to an agreement to perform Umrah the following year.
Following Prophet Muhammad’s steadfast refusal to enter Makkah through force, respecting the sanctity of the Kaaba, diplomatic negotiations unfolded. These discussions culminated in the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah, which outlined a ten-year period of peace. Under this treaty, Muslims were granted access to the Kaaba for three days annually. Consequently, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions returned home without completing their Umrah pilgrimage.
The First Umrah Pilgrimage
In 629 CE, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and 2000 followers performed the first Umrah pilgrimage, abiding by the terms of the Hudaybiyyah treaty. The pilgrimage lasted three days, marking a significant moment despite the peace treaty’s eventual dissolution due to hostilities.
Dissolution of the Treaty
Within two years, hostilities resumed when allies of the Makkans attacked Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers, resulting in Muslim casualties. To uphold the treaty’s intent of preventing bloodshed, Prophet Muhammad denounced the treaty after these events.
Conquest of Makkah
By 630 CE, Muslims had grown stronger, prompting Prophet Muhammad to lead a conquest of Makkah with an army of over 10,000. The Makkah leaders surrendered, and Muhammad forgave those who had persecuted early Muslims, an event known as the “Conquest of Makkah” or “Fath Makkah“.
The Significance of Performing Umrah
Umrah holds profound religious importance due to its history filled with struggles and battles, underscoring its pivotal role in Islam. It is considered a direct Sunnah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and serves as a spiritual “quick-fix” for those unable to perform Hajj.
Spiritual Cleansing and Renewal
Umrah provides Muslims with a unique opportunity to pray for their needs, seek forgiveness, and rejuvenate their faith. It is believed to cleanse sins and purify the mind, body, and spirit, offering pilgrims a spiritual retreat in the house of Allah.
Spiritual Rewards and Benefits
Performing Umrah is equated to jihad in its spiritual rewards, and its benefits during Ramadan are comparable to those of Hajj. Prophet Muhammad highlighted the virtues of Umrah, reinforcing believers’ faith in Allah and offering expiation for sins.
Divine Experience
Millions undertake the journey to Makkah to complete this minor pilgrimage, particularly during Ramadan, a holy month that witnesses a surge in pilgrim numbers seeking divine blessings and spiritual fulfillment.
Prophet Muhammad’s Emphasis
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) considered Umrah an effective form of worship and performed it four times in his lifetime. Like fasting during Ramadan, Umrah facilitates direct communion with Allah, fostering a deeper connection and spiritual growth.
