Umrah
Muslims in Kenya just like any other Muslims across the world observe Umrah. This is an Islamic pilgrimage to the holy city of Mecca/Makkah that can be performed at any time of the year. It is aimed at cleansing a pilgrim and frees them from the wrongs and sins of their past. It is highly recommended for all Muslims but is not compulsory
Umrah Obligatory acts and Pillars
When performing Umrah, obligatory acts include;
- Assuming the state of Ihram after declaring the intention of Umrah,
- Performing Tawa
- Carrying out Sayi between the hills of Safa and Marwa,
- Shaving of the head or clipping a portion of hair.
Performing these Umrah rituals can last a few hours within a day.
Pillars underpinning Umrah include:
- Ihram: this is a sacred state that pilgrims need to be in before beginning the holy rituals.
- Tawaf: this requires pilgrims to encircle the holy Kaaba in an anti-clockwise direction.
- Sayi: this involves walking between the mountains of Safa and Marwah.
- Tahallul: this involves discontinuation of the holy state of Umrah which is then followed by shaving of the head or clipping a portion of the hair.
