Umrah is a sacred pilgrimage that Muslims can undertake at any time of the year. One of the key rituals of Umrah is head shaving or hair cutting, known as halq or taqsir. This act symbolizes humility and submission before God, and marks the completion of the pilgrimage. In this guide, we will explain the steps for head shaving during Umrah, as well as tips for making the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible.
Step 1: Perform the ritual of Ihram
Before you can begin the head shaving ritual, you must first perform the ritual of Ihram. This involves wearing the prescribed garments, which for men include two white sheets, and making the intention to perform Umrah. You should also recite the Talbiyah, a declaration of intent to perform the pilgrimage, and avoid any actions that are prohibited during Ihram, such as cutting your nails or hair.
Step 2: Proceed to the designated area for head shaving or hair cutting
Once you have completed the Ihram ritual, you can proceed to the designated area for head shaving or hair cutting. This area is usually located near the Grand Mosque in Mecca, and is open to men and women. In general, there will be several barbers available, so you can choose the one that you feel most comfortable with.
Step 3: Sit in front of the barber and have your head shaved or a small portion of your hair cut
When you are ready, sit in front of the barber and have your head shaved or a small portion of your hair cut. It is important to note that for men, head shaving is preferred over hair cutting, but if you are unable to shave your head, you can cut a small portion of your hair. For women, hair cutting is the preferred option.
Step 4: Perform the remaining Umrah rituals
Once the head shaving or hair cutting is complete, you can proceed to perform the remaining Umrah rituals, such as Tawaf (circumambulation of the Kaaba) and Sa’i (walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa).
Tips for a smooth head shaving experience
Make sure that your head is clean and dry before you begin the head shaving ritual.
Bring your own razor or scissors if you prefer, to ensure that they are clean and in good condition.
If you are sensitive to pain, you may want to apply a numbing cream before the head shaving.
Be prepared to wait in line, as the head shaving area can be busy during peak times.
Head shaving during Umrah is a powerful symbol of humility and submission before God. By following these steps and tips, you can make the experience as smooth and comfortable as possible. Remember to keep an open mind and heart, and focus on the spiritual significance of the pilgrimage.
If you’re planning to embark on a spiritual journey to Mecca for Umrah, you’ll need to secure an Umrah visa before your trip. Our easy-to-use Umrah visa form simplifies the process and helps you obtain your visa quickly and efficiently. Simply fill out the form with your personal and travel information, and we’ll take care of the rest.
