Don’t worry about trying to feel super emotional when you are doing Umrah. What really matters is just being present, feeling that link with the Qur’an as you move through the rituals, and always coming back to why you made this journey in the first place.

Understanding Mindfulness Through the Qur’an

You’ll often find the Qur’an emphasising awareness, reflection, and consciousness. These ideas are the main part of what we now call “mindfulness.”

Allah says:

This is the Book! There is no doubt about it, a guide for those mindful of Allah. 

(Surah Al-Baqarah 2:2)

Taqwa is not only about keeping yourself away from sins. It’s about living with constant awareness that Allah sees us and guides us.

In Surah Qaf (50:16), we are reminded that:

“Indeed, it is We Who created humankind and fully know what their souls whisper to them, and We are closer to them than their jugular vein.”

These verses are reminders to carry a sense of that Allah is aware of our every action, including Umrah. Whether you are planning your next spiritual journey from the UK or checking Umrah deals, remember that the true journey starts with true sincerity of heart.

Start with the Right Intention

You should set your intention clearly before you leave for Umrah. Because in Islam, we are judged by our intentions. This is not only a checklist trip. This is an act of worship. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will get what they intended.” (Bukhari and Muslim)

Having a clear intention to seek Allah’s pleasure will help you stay focused. You can even write it down and reflect on it daily during your journey.

Bringing Mindfulness Into the Rituals

Tawaf (Circling the Kaaba)

When you walk around the Kaaba, keep in mind that you are joining the flow that has been ongoing since Prophet Ibrahim (AS).

Allah mentioned in the Quran:

And remember when We made the Sacred House a centre and a sanctuary for the people, saying, “˹You may˺ take the standing-place of Ibrahim as a site of prayer.” And We entrusted Abraham and Ishmael to purify My House for those who circle it, who meditate in it, and who bow and prostrate themselves ˹in prayer. (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:125)

Focus on your own heart as it “circles” back to its true centre, Allah. Let go of distractions. You don’t need to say a thousand words. Just be conscious. Praise Allah, remember His names, and reflect on how everything in creation revolves around Him.

Sa’i (Walking Between Safa and Marwa)

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:158), Allah says:

Indeed, the hills of Ṣafa and Marwah are among the symbols of Allah. So whoever makes the major or minor pilgrimage to the ˹Sacred˺ House, let them walk between the two hills. And whoever does good willingly, Allah is truly Appreciative, All-Knowing.

When you walk around Safa and Marwa just remember that Hajar’s (RA) search for water was not just a part of history. It’s a symbol of human effort and trust in Allah’s plan. You might get tired during this part, but this part of Umrah is a powerful reminder that the efforts that we make in His path are always seen. Allah always sees the patience of His servants and rewards them accordingly.

Drinking Zamzam

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

“Zamzam is for whatever it is drunk for.” (Ibn Majah)

Try to drink slowly. Make dua. Just think about how Allah provides water in a desert for a woman and her baby. That same water continues to flow today. It’s a sign of Allah’s mercy.

How to Stay Mindful Practically

Sometimes it becomes difficult to stay focused when you are surrounded by thousands of people, managing heat, tiredness, and emotions. Here are a few practical ways:

• Try to read short Quranic verses on your phone or from a small pocket Quran during breaks. Focus on 2 to 3 verses at a time.
• Use dhikr to centre yourself: repeating “SubhanAllah,” “Alhamdulillah,” or “La ilaha illallah” keeps your tongue and heart active.
• Breathe slowly and reflect before each ritual. A 10-second pause can help reset your focus.
• Keep a small notebook or use a voice memo app to record your feelings linked to certain Quranic teachings.
• Recite or listen to the Qur’an while waiting in lines or during long walks.

Final Thoughts 

Umrah is not just the name of performing some rituals. It is more than a journey. It’s a way to return to Allah, and the Tarteel of Quran guides you, acting as your map along the path of spiritual growth. If you are planning your Umrah and looking for Umrah Packages from Birmingham try to engage your heart and mind through Quranic mindfulness. You don’t need to be perfect. You just need sincere presence. Allah sees our efforts and rewards on the basis of our intentions.

Dhul-Hijjah in the Quran & Sunnah

Allah Himself swears by the “Ten Nights” in Surah Al-Fajr (89:1-2), a profound nod to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. The Prophet ﷺ emphasized:

“There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” (Sahih Bukhari).

This Hadith is a call to immerse oneself in dhikr, salawat, and acts of charity, reflecting the teachings of Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (rah), who stressed the importance of reviving the Sunnah during these blessed days.

Virtues of the First 10 Days

1. A Spiritual Marathon:
   These days surpass even Ramadan in virtue, as narrated by Ibn Abbas (RA). Fasting, Quran recitation, and night prayers (Tahajjud) become keys to divine proximity.
2. The Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah):
   Fasting on this day expiates sins for two years (Sahih Muslim). For those not performing Hajj, Barelvi scholars encourage reciting Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk (Here I am, O Allah, here I am) to spiritually join the pilgrims.
3. Takbeer Tashreeq:
   From Fajr on the 9th until Asr on the 13th, the Takbeer (Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La Ilaha Illallah…) resounds in homes and mosques, a collective declaration of Allah’s greatness.

Barelvi Perspective: Love, Legacy, and Loyalty

The Barelvi school, rooted in the Hanafi tradition and Sufi spirituality, views Dhul-Hijjah as a time to:

• Revive the love of Prophet Ibrahim (AS), whose unwavering faith is the cornerstone of Hajj.
• Celebrate the Urs (spiritual anniversary) of saints, aligning their teachings with the month’s blessings.
• Emphasize Qurbani as an act of tasleem (submission), mirroring Ibrahim’s sacrifice.

Imam Ahmed Raza Khan (rah) wrote extensively about the barakah of Dhul-Hijjah, urging believers to recite Durood-e-Taj and seek intercession (tawassul) through the Prophet ﷺ during this month.

Key Acts of Worship in Dhul-Hijjah

1. Fasting: Especially on the 9th (Day of Arafah) and the first nine days.
2. Qurbani: Sacrificing an animal in the name of Allah, following the Sunnah of Ibrahim (AS).
3. Increased Dhikr: Reciting SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar, and La Ilaha Illallah.
4. Charity: Supporting the poor to ensure they too enjoy Eid’s blessings.

Barelvi Tip: Begin each day with Durood-e-Ibrahimi and distribute sweets in the Prophet’s ﷺ name to honor his legacy.

Common Misconceptions & Clarifications

• Myth: “Only Hajj pilgrims benefit from Dhul-Hijjah.”
  Truth: The month’s blessings are universal. Even simple acts like reciting Salawat or helping neighbors carry immense reward.
• Myth: “Qurbani is optional.”
  Truth: For those who meet the financial criteria, Qurbani is wajib (obligatory) in the Hanafi school.

Actionable Tips for Maximizing Rewards

1. Daily Routine:
   • Fajr prayer + 10 minutes of Istighfar.
   • Recite Surah Al-Ikhlas 12 times daily (Imam Ahmed Raza’s recommendation).
2. Night of Eid: Perform 2 rak’ahs of nafl with the intention of gratitude.
3. Community Unity: Visit local mosques for collective Takbeer and donate to Barelvi-led charities.

Conclusion: A Month of Divine Proximity

Dhul-Hijjah is not a historical relic—it’s a living, breathing opportunity to transcend worldly distractions and reconnect with Allah. For Sunni Barelvi Muslims, it’s a month to celebrate the Noor (light) of the Prophet ﷺ, the courage of Ibrahim (AS), and the unity of the Ummah. As the crescent of Dhul-Hijjah rises, let your heart whisper: Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk—a pledge of love, loyalty, and eternal submission.

What to Do During Hajj

1. Before You Leave

a. Make Sincere Intention (Niyyah)

The foundation of Hajj is sincerity. Your intention should be purely for the sake of Allah, not for showing off or fulfilling a social obligation.

b. Educate Yourself

Learn the rituals of Hajj (Manasik), the sequence of events, and the requirements specific to your school of thought (Hanafi, Shafi’i, Maliki, or Hanbali). Attend workshops or consult scholars.

c. Settle Obligations

Clear your debts, write your will if necessary, and ask forgiveness from those you may have wronged. Seek halal earnings for this journey, as it directly affects the acceptance of Hajj.

d. Prepare Documents & Essentials

Ensure you carry:

• Valid passport and visa
• Vaccination certificates
• Travel insurance (if required)
• Ihram garments, unscented toiletries, slippers, Quran, dua books, and basic medicines

2. Spiritual Preparation

• Begin praying regularly and on time if you’re not already.
• Increase recitation of the Quran, make Dhikr, and give Sadaqah.
• Build patience and humility – essential for the Hajj experience.

3. During Hajj

a. Wearing Ihram

• Men wear two unstitched white cloths; women wear modest, non-scented clothing.
• Enter Ihram at Miqat and make Niyyah for your Hajj type: Tamattu’, Qiran, or Ifrad.
• Recite Talbiyah frequently:
  “Labbayka Allahumma labbayk, labbayka la sharika laka labbayk…”

b. Performing Tawaf and Sa’i

• Tawaf involves circling the Kaaba 7 times, starting from the Black Stone (Hajar al-Aswad).
• Sa’i is walking 7 times between the hills of Safa and Marwah, remembering the struggle of Hajar (AS).

c. Day of Arafah (9th Dhul-Hijjah)

• The most important day of Hajj.
• Stand in Wuquf at Arafah, make dua, repent, and seek Allah’s mercy.
• Fasting is not required for Hujjaj but highly recommended for those not performing Hajj.

d. Muzdalifah (Night Stay)

• After Maghrib at Arafah, head to Muzdalifah.
• Collect pebbles for Rami (stoning).
• Pray Maghrib and Isha combined and rest.

e. Mina and Rami (Stoning of the Devil)

• On 10th Dhul-Hijjah, stone the Jamarat al-Aqabah with 7 pebbles.
• Offer Qurbani (sacrifice) if applicable.
• Shave (Halq) or trim (Taqsir) your hair to exit Ihram.

f. Final Rituals

• Perform Tawaf al-Ifadah (essential pillar of Hajj).
• Continue Rami for the next two or three days.
• Perform Tawaf al-Wida (farewell tawaf) before leaving Makkah.

What to Avoid During Hajj

Despite the spiritual atmosphere, there are many common mistakes that can invalidate or reduce the reward of your Hajj. Here’s what to avoid:

1. Violating Ihram Rules

• Do not apply perfume, deodorants, or scented soap.
• Do not cut your nails or hair while in Ihram.
• Avoid sexual relations or even talking about them.
• Refrain from hunting or harming animals.

2. Bad Behavior

• Avoid arguments, backbiting, shouting, and using offensive language.
• Don’t push or shove fellow pilgrims; be gentle and patient.
• Avoid wasting food, littering, or damaging facilities.

3. Neglecting Prayers

• Many get so caught up in rituals that they delay or skip obligatory Salah.
• Remember that Salah is the most important act of worship and should not be neglected.

4. Taking Unnecessary Photos

• While memories are important, be mindful of the sacredness of the place.
• Avoid disrespectful poses or selfies that distract you and others from worship.

5. Engaging in Business or Leisure

• The purpose of Hajj is spiritual – not shopping, sightseeing, or networking.
• Avoid spending excessive time in malls or markets during these sacred days.

Quick Summary Checklist

Conclusion

Hajj is a life-changing experience – a chance to cleanse your soul and return like a newborn. Performing Hajj properly requires physical effort, mental patience, and spiritual focus. By following this checklist of what to do and what to avoid, you can make the most of this sacred journey and ensure that your Hajj is accepted by Allah (SWT).

May Allah grant all pilgrims a safe, accepted, and rewarding Hajj. Ameen.

🕌 What to Do Before Starting Hajj

Preparations Before Leaving

• Repent sincerely and seek forgiveness from Allah ﷻ.
• Clear debts and resolve disputes with others.
• Make a will if needed and ensure your wealth is halal.
• Study Hajj rituals, ideally from authentic scholars or organizations like Dawat-e-Islami.
• Join a reputable group, preferably with a Sunni background, such as Dawat-e-Islami’s Hajj group.
• Ensure you have all travel documents, vaccines, Ihram garments, and essentials ready.

What to Avoid During Hajj

• Arguing or fighting.
• Using perfumes or scented products.
• Cutting nails or shaving any body hair during Ihram.
• Engaging in sexual relations or indecent talk.
• Killing insects or animals unnecessarily.
• Boasting or showing off.

🕋 Step-by-Step Hajj Guide (As per Hanafi / Dawat-e-Islami)

1. 8th Dhul Hijjah – Yaum al-Tarwiyah

Actions:

• Don Ihram at Miqat with intention (niyyah) of Hajj.
• Recite Talbiyah loudly: “Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk…”
• Travel to Mina.
• Perform five prayers in Mina: Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha, Fajr.
• Rest and prepare for Arafat.

2. 9th Dhul Hijjah – Day of Arafah

Actions:

• After Fajr, proceed to Arafat.
• Perform Dhuhr and Asr combined and shortened.
• Stay in Wuquf (standing) in Arafah from Zawal till sunset.
• Engage in dua, Quran, tasbih — this is the main pillar of Hajj.
• After sunset, head to Muzdalifah (without praying Maghrib).
• In Muzdalifah, pray Maghrib and Isha together, collect pebbles (70 total).

3. 10th Dhul Hijjah – Eid al-Adha

Actions:

• Head to Jamrat al-Aqabah, pelt it with 7 stones.
• Perform Qurbani (sacrifice of animal).
• Shave your head (Halq) or trim hair (Taqsir).
• Exit Ihram – First Tahallul.
• Travel to Makkah and perform Tawaf al-Ziyarah and Sa’i (walk between Safa & Marwah).
• After this, complete Second Tahallul (full exit from Ihram).

4. 11th Dhul Hijjah

Actions:

• Stay in Mina.
• Perform Rami (stoning) of all three Jamarat (small, middle, large) – 7 stones each.

5. 12th Dhul Hijjah

Actions:

• Repeat stoning of 3 Jamarat.
• If leaving Mina, do so before sunset.
• If staying, prepare for an extra day.

6. 13th Dhul Hijjah (Optional)

Actions:

• Again, perform Rami of 3 Jamarat.
• Leave for Makkah after stoning.

7. Tawaf al-Wida (Farewell Tawaf)

Actions:

• Before leaving Makkah, perform Tawaf al-Wida.
• It is wajib (mandatory) according to most Madhab.

Differences Among the Four Imam, Imam Hanafi, Imam Shafi’i, Imam Maliki & Imam Hanbali

🟡 Dawat-e-Islami’s Unique Hajj Guidance

Dawat-e-Islami has simplified the Hajj experience for millions of Muslims globally by offering:

• Free booklets in multiple languages.
• Hajj & Umrah mobile app.
• Online training sessions and practical workshops.
• Scholars’ guidance on proper method (as per Imam Abu Hanifa).
• Sunnah-friendly group travel.

📘 Book to Refer: “Hajj Ka Tariqa“/ A Brief Method of Hajj” by Dawat-e-Islami Download eBook
📲 App: Hajj and Umrah Guide – Dawat-e-Islami

🤲 Sunnahs and Spiritual Practices During Hajj

• Offer Tahajjud, Nawafil prayers.
• Stay in Wudhu as much as possible.
• Do Zikr, Istighfar, Durud Sharif.
• Help fellow pilgrims and maintain humility.
• Feed the poor and avoid waste.
• Visit the Rawdah of the Prophet ﷺ in Madinah if possible.

Conclusion

Hajj is not just a journey of physical endurance, but a spiritual transformation and deep connection with Allah ﷻ. Whether you’re following the Hanafi madhab under guidance from Dawat-e-Islami, or belong to another Sunni school, understanding the rituals, differences, and spiritual meaning is essential. Prepare well, seek knowledge, and go with sincere intention.