Umrah is the holiest journey to Makkah and Madina. It is not obligatory but people from all over the world visit throughout the year to perform to purify their soul and repent for their sins. However, there is a specific rule for women in menstruation. The Umrah rituals for women in their menstruation cycle are complex.
Understand Menstruation in Islam
Menstruation (Hayd) is considered a natural process in Islam. During this period, women are treated with respect and sensitivity. The women refrain from certain worship, such as offering salah or keeping the fast. However, it does not stop from worshiping Allah. There are certain prohibitions and allowances.
The Significance of Menstruation in Islam
Menstruation is a natural biological process that every woman goes through, and it holds specific significance and guidelines in Islam. Understanding the Islamic perspective on menstruation helps in appreciating its role within the faith and how it impacts religious practices.
- Natural Process: In Islam, it is considered a natural process. It also symbolizes women’s health and ability to become mothers.
- Religious Rulings: There is a clear guideline about what women should or should not do during their menstruation. They cannot offer Salah, Fasting, or certain rituals on their pilgrimage journey.
- Maintaining Spirituality: Women are allowed to gain knowledge, learn about the religion, can do Dua (make supplication) and Dhikr (remember Allah)
- Personal Hygiene and Cleanliness: Islam highlights cleanliness, and this extends to menstrual hygiene. Women are encouraged to take regular baths and use sanitary products to stay clean and comfortable during menstruation.
- Marital Relations: During menstruation, some interactions between the spouses are temporarily prohibited. This period allows women to rest and take care of their health. However, they can maintain the bond and love in the relationship.
- Educational Aspect: Islam encourages women to seek knowledge, and understanding the menstrual cycle can be an important aspect of personal and communal well-being.
- Historical Perspective: Islamic teachings have taken a respectful approach to menstruation. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) treated menstruating women with kindness and respect, setting an example for Muslims to follow.
Instructions to perform Umrah during Menstruation
- Ihram: Women in menstruation can assume the Ihram. This includes Ghusl (Purification bath or ablution), making Niyyah for Umrah (Intention), and reciting Talbiyah (a specific prayer for Umrah).
- Prohibition of Tawf: Women are prohibited from performing Tawaf ( circulation of Kaaba), as it is considered the same act of worship as Salah (Namaz prayer).
- Permissible act or worship: Certain Umrah rituals for women are permissible during Menstruation.
- Reciting Talbiyah: Women can recite it until they complete their Umrah.
- Performing Sa’i: Walking or running between the mountains of Safa and Marwa is permitted as it is not considered a prayer.
- Reciting Dua and Dhikr: Women can recite Dua (supplication) and Dhikr (remembrance of Allah), that is they can recite "SubhanAllah," "Alhamdulillah," and "Allahu Akbar". They are prohibited from touching the hard copy of the Quran but can recite it without touching it.
- Seeking knowledge: Use the time to learn about the rituals of Umrah and Hajj. Read Hadith ( saying or practice of the Prophet)
- Delayed Tawaf: If menstruation starts before Tawaf, women are advised to wait until the menstruation cycle ends. Then they must perform Ghusl, and complete their umrah.
- Leaving Makkah before completing Tawaf: If the women need to leave Makkah city, they are advised to visit again after their cycle ends and complete the ritual.
Tips to plan the Umrah Tour according to your Menstruation cycle
- Know the Dates: Women are advised to plan their Umrah tour keeping in mind the menstruation date.
- Consult a scholar or guide: Seek knowledge from scholars or Umrah guides, who can help with the complex ritual.
- Consult a doctor: Women can also visit the doctor and ask for medication and how to use it to delay menstruation.
- Package selection: Choose the Umrah package that goes well according to the menstruation dates. There are several short-day Umrah package from India.
- Pack accordingly: If the menstruation cycle is going on or about to start, pack your clothes and hygienic supplies such as pads, wipes, and disposal bags accordingly.
- Take rest: If the woman is menstruating, they are advised to take rest if they are facing cramps and fatigue.
- Purification: Once menstruation is complete, women need to purify themselves. They need to clean themselves and adequately take a bath.
Conclusion
The best umrah package helps to manage menstruation during the Umrah tour by planning and understanding the need. By following the permissible acts of worship and maintaining a strong spiritual connection, women can still have a fulfilling and meaningful Umrah experience. Remember, the journey is about connecting with Allah and seeking His blessings, regardless of the temporary restrictions menstruation may impose.