Difference between Hajj and Umrah:
For Muslims, traveling to the house of Allah is considered to be one of the biggest journeys of their lifetime. Traveling to the holy land of Makkah and Madina is an obligation for Muslim who can afford to travel. Allah clearly states in the Quran, “And proclaim to the people the Hajj [pilgrimage]; they will come to you on foot and on every lean camel; they will come from every distant” [22:27]. Although most Muslims are aware of the basic knowledge about performing Hajj and Umrah however, some brothers and sisters often question the difference between the two acts of worship. The confusion only seems natural as both obligations require Muslims to travel to Makkah and Madina in order to carry out specific acts of worship for Allah. Traditionally speaking, Al-Raad Tours & Travel offers both Hajj and Umrah packages that contain all the necessary information to enhance your knowledge. Our 2020 premium Hajj and Umrah packages can be easily acquired through our website. Our business operation expands to different parts within the USA including, but not limited to Chicago, Los Angeles, New York, New Jersey, Boston, Seattle, California, and Phoenix.
We believe every Muslim should be equipped with proper knowledge before moving forward with their spiritual journey. Here are some of the primary differences between Hajj and Umrah.
- Fardh and Sunnah
Perhaps the biggest difference between the two forms of worship is the value of its sovereignty. Hajj is considered to be one of the five pillars of the Islamic faith. It is fardh for every healthy Muslim who can afford the journey. The Quran clearly states, “In it are clear signs [such as] the standing place of Abraham. And whoever enters it shall be safe. And [due] to Allah from the people is a pilgrimage to the House – for whoever is able to find thereto a way. But whoever disbelieves – then indeed, Allah is free from need of the worlds” [3:97]. Whereas, on the other end, the act of performing Umrah is a sunnah that was carried out by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). No doubt both these journeys are held in high regard, but when it comes to being obligatory, Hajj is considered to be fardh.
- Rituals
Another major difference between the two events is the difference of rituals that are performed. Umrah is relatively easier to perform as Muslims can visit Makkah and Madina throughout most of the year. At the same time, Hajj can only be performed once a year during the month of Zul-Hijjah. Hajj has particular rituals that are to be followed within a span of 5-6 days. And with a larger of people present in the same area, Hajj requires comparatively more effort than Umrah.
- Difference in reward
Relating back to the sovereignty of each event, Hajj, carrying more weightage, offers a far greater reward in comparison to Umrah. It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Prophet (blessings and peace of Allah be upon him) say: “Whoever performs Hajj for the sake of Allah and does not utter any obscene speech or do any evil deed, will go back (free of sin) as his mother bore him.” (Sahih Al Bukhari 1449, Sahih Muslim 1350).
We hope this clarifies the basic understanding of the differences between Hajj and Umrah. For more information, please feel free to contact us at any point in time. Make sure to also visit our website details in order to know about the 2020 Hajj and Umrah packages that are being offered from USA. Jazak’Allah Khair.
