Preparing for the Sacred Journey of Hajj and Umrah

Introduction

Embarking on the blessed journey of Hajj and Umrah is a deeply spiritual and life-transforming experience. It demands not only physical readiness but also sincere spiritual preparation. The pilgrim should focus on cleansing the soul, seeking forgiveness, and adopting piety before stepping into this divine voyage.

This article provides a comprehensive guide to spiritual and practical preparations for Hajj and Umrah based on authentic Islamic teachings.

Adopting Piety – The Best Provision

"And take provisions, but indeed, the best provision is Taqwa (piety)."
(Surah Al-Baqarah, 2:197)

Before setting out for Hajj or Umrah, the most essential requirement is to adopt Taqwa—God-consciousness and piety. Abstain from sinful acts, maintain humility, and focus on fulfilling the rites with sincerity.

Key Spiritual Guidelines Before Departure

1. Repentance and Forgiveness

Sincerely repent for all past sins and begin the journey with a clean heart. True repentance leads to the washing away of previous sins, and a sincere heart will draw the mercy of Allah.

2. Settle All Trusts and Debts

If you owe any rights, trusts, or belongings to others, ensure they are returned or settled before departing.

3. Purify Your Intentions

Adopt Ikhlas (sincerity) in your intention. A righteous deed is only accepted when performed solely for Allah’s pleasure.

4. Use Lawful (Halal) Wealth

Your expenses for Hajj and Umrah must be sourced from Halal earnings. Wealth gained through impermissible means can nullify the reward of this great act.

Etiquette and Conduct During the Journey

• Avoid indecent behaviour, arguments, or sinful speech throughout the journey.

• Men must refrain from shaving the beard and wearing gold (e.g., rings or chains), as these acts are prohibited and sinful.

• Avoid all forms of Shirk (associating partners with Allah) and Bid’ah (innovations in religion), as these can render deeds void and misguide others.

Recommended Timing and Companionship

• Although Hajj and Umrah can be undertaken on any day, it is Sunnah (recommended) to depart on Thursday, preferably in the early morning or, at the very least, at noon.

• Choose a righteous, morally upright companion who follows the Sunnah and can support you during the journey.

Prayers at the Time of Departure

Is There a Sunnah for Two Rak’ahs Before Travel?

There is no authentic hadith from the Prophet ﷺ proving the practice of praying two rak’ahs before travel. However, it is authentically reported that:

• Ibn Umar رضي الله عنه used to pray two rak’ahs in the mosque before departing for travel.

• Upon returning from a journey, the Prophet ﷺ would pray two rak’ahs in the mosque before entering his home.

Sunnah Acts During Departure and Return

• Enter your home during daytime or early evening upon returning from travel.

• The Prophet ﷺ advised against returning home at night without informing the family, as it could cause distress or suspicion.

Supplications for the Journey

When Leaving Home:

“In the name of Allah, I place my trust in Allah; there is no power and no strength except with Allah.”
(بِسْمِ اللّٰہِ تَوَكَّلْتُ عَلَى اللّٰہِ وَلَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللّٰہِ)

When Bidding Farewell:

The one sending off the traveller should say:

“I entrust your religion, your trust, and the last of your deeds to Allah.”
(أَسْتَوْدِعُ اللّٰہَ دِينَكَ وَأَمَانَتَكَ وَخَوَاتِيمَ عَمَلِكَ)

The traveller should reply:

“I place you in the care of Allah, whose trust is never lost.”
(أَسْتَوْدِعُكُمُ اللّٰہَ الَّذِى لَا تَضِيعُ وَدَائِعُهُ)

Supplication Upon Mounting the Vehicle

“Allahu Akbar (three times). Glorified is He who has subjected this to us, and we could never have accomplished it [by ourselves]. And indeed, to our Lord we will surely return.”
(Surah Az-Zukhruf, 43:13–14)

(اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، اللّٰهُ أَكْبَرُ، سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي سَخَّرَ لَنَا هٰذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لَهُ مُقْرِنِينَ، وَإِنَّا إِلَى رَبِّنَا لَمُنقَلِبُونَ)

Caution Against Unnecessary Hardship

Performing Hajj or Umrah on foot over long distances purely for extra reward is discouraged. This is not the Sunnah. Allah has provided transportation as a blessing, and using it is permissible, recommended, and in line with the Prophet’s ﷺ guidance.

Conclusion

The journey of Hajj and Umrah is both a physical and spiritual trial. With sincere intention, lawful means, and pious conduct, a believer earns the immense reward promised by Allah. Begin this journey with purity of heart, and may Allah accept it as a means of forgiveness, mercy, and transformation.