HAJJ: Merits and Precepts - 'Hajj And Umra

In relation to Baitullah there are two kinds of adorations. Firstly, the 'Hajj', most of the practices of which are performed within the five days of the month of 'Zilhijja'. In other than these particular five days these practices cannot be performed. Its details are given in the following pages. Secondly the Umra which can be performed at all times and in all the months of year except the five days of 'Hajj'. It includes only 3 practices :

(1) Wearing 'Ihram' of Umra at or before Miqat.

(2) Performing Tawaf (circumambulating 'Baitullah') on reaching Mecca.

(3) Performing Sa'i (walking fast seven rounds) between Safa and Marwah. Thereafter, on having the hair cut or shaven, the 'Ihram' formalities come to an end.

Taking into consideration the performance of 'Hajj' and 'Umra' collectively or separately, 'Hajj' is divided into three kinds.