Umrah has a deep religious significance and is regarded as one of the most sacred acts of worships in Islam. Umrah, also known as the minor pilgrimage involves a journey to the Holy Kaaba where the pilgrim performs a series of rituals. It is a treasured Sunnah that offers a distinct opportunity for a believer to revive one’s faith and ask for the mercy and forgiveness of Allah. Pilgrims make sincere duas and repentance and perform deeds to get closer to Allah.

But there were a series of events and struggles that Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his people went through to perform Umrah. In this blog, we will delve into the history of Umrah and how the first Umrah was performed.

HISTORY OF THE FIRST UMRAH PERFORMED

Inspired by a dream, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with his 1400 followers, set out to Makkah to perform the rituals of Umrah. When the people of Makkah heard about their plan and the number of Muslims forthcoming, they were anxious that the Muslims intended to attack them and the city of Makkah.

Prophet Muhammad sent a message upon reaching the borders of Makkah explaining that they only planned on performing Umrah and then going back peacefully. However, they were stopped at Hudaybiyyah where the people of Quraish banned their entry and asked them to come back next year.

Diplomatic discussions took place after which Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his companions went back. These negotiations resulted in the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah with the condition that during a period of 10 years, there would be no conflicts between the parties and the Muslims would be permitted to enter the holy site of the Kaaba for three days every year.

Fulfilling the terms of the treaty, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), along with 2000 companions performed the first-ever Umrah, in 629 CE (6 AH), the following year which lasted for three days. However, the peace treaty ceased within two years when Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) and his followers were attacked by the associates of the Makkans, leading to the death of some Muslims. Hence, the treaty was dissolved since the condition of peace and no fighting were violated.

By that time, Muslims had grown into a strong force. In 630 CE, Prophet Muhammad directed the conquest of Makkah, with an army of over 10,000 Muslims. They marched towards Makkah and this resulted in the surrender of the leaders and residents of Makkah. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) performed Umrah four times during his lifetime.

SIGNIFICANCE OF UMRAH FOR MUSLIMS

The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) faced a lot of struggles and opposition to performing Umrah, but he was determined – to leave this highly regarded Sunnah and an act of worship for the Muslims. This serves as a reminder for the Muslims today that we should worship Allah and stay away from sins and perform good deeds and acts of worship. If you are planning on performing your first Umrah this year, then explore our Umrah Packages 2024 for the best and the most reliable travel experience to the holy Kaaba.