Difference Between Hajj And Umrah

Umrah and Hajj are two types of Muslim festivals. Although many practices performed in Hajj and Umrah are the same, yet there are some differences between the two. Both are Islamic pilgrims, the main difference is the level of importance. Hajj is a major pilgrimage while umrah considered as a small pilgrimage. Hajj is obligatory for every Muslim once in their lifetime but umrah is a non-compulsory pilgrimage. There are also more requirements and qualifications for a pilgrim in conducting a hajj. Hajj is designated Ismalic month however, umrah can be performed at any time. As a pilgrimage, umrah is of two types al-Umrat al mutradah (umrah without hajj) and Umrat-al tammatu (umrah with hajj). The first type can be performed by the individual while the second type can be performed collectively with the other pilgrims for the hajj. Hajj is one of the five pillars of Islam which means it is considered as a religious duty by the religion's followers. Both are similar in start but umrah can be performed in less time as compared to Hajj. It is a belief that hajj erases all the past sins of pilgrims. The gift of hajj is nothing but Jannah. Significance of Umrah is that A person who circumambulates this House (the Kaaba) seven times and performs the two Rak’at Salat (of Tawaf) in the best form possible will have his sins forgiven. Despite of their differences, both umrah and hajj have similarities. Both pilgrims are marks of strong Muslim faith and fidelity. The two also promote a unified and one Muslim community in retelling and retracing the steps of the Muslim faith. Hence, we can conclude that Hajj is the major pilgrimage than Umrah.