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One of the first question that every pilgrim has before starting the Umrah journey: Where should I enter the state of Ihram? Pilgrims must need to get knowledge about Meeqat points for Umrah. These are holy checkpoints established by Prophet (PBUH). Meeqat points are not just geographical boundaries. Meeqat points are essential part of holy pilgrimages.
This phase is difficult for first time pilgrims. They are confused about what needs to be done before arriving or how can one avoid mistakes? If you are planning to perform Umrah from UK, Islamic Travel provides Umrah Packages all-inclusive with provides complete guide about Meeqat points, the importance of Meeqat, the rules of Ihram and give practical tips to make the process easier.
What is Meeqat?
Meeqat is fixed boundary or points. They are specific points around the Makkah where pilgrims must put on their Ihram and make intention for Hajj or Umrah. These points cannot be crossed without wearing Ihram. Meeqat is spiritual starting points for the journey. If pilgrims crossed these points without wearing Ihram a penalty may be requires. It is spiritual transition point that helps pilgrims to focus on worship and leave worldly matters behind.
Significance of Meeqat
Meeqat marks the beginning of Ihram. Pilgrims should make clear intention at this point. It is transformative point when focus shifts entirely to worship and worldly concerns leave behind. Meeqat is where pilgrims enter Ihram. This state demands purity, focus and obedience to Allah. Observing Meeqat honors the guidance of the Prophet (PBUH) who designed these locations. Pilgrims should avoid mistakes and bad behavior that could invalidate the pilgrimage.
Pilgrims should make sure that their Umrah journey will start in the correct spiritual state.
The Different Meeqat Points
There are five main Meeqat points for pilgrims coming from different directions.
- Juhfah:
- Situated close to Rabigh.
- The Meeqat is for pilgrims travelling from Egypt and the Levant (Palestine, Syria and Jordan). This Meeqat may be crossed by some UK flights routes.
- Qarn al-Manazil:
- Situated close to Ta’if
- Usually suitable for flights that go straight to Makkah from Europe or the UK.
- Dhul Hulaifah (Bir Ali):
- Situated close to Madinah.
- It is used by pilgrims who go to Madinah first before going to Makkah.
- Dhat Irq:
- Situated northeast of Makkah.
- The Meeqat is for pilgrims coming from Iraq and surrounding regions.
- Yalamlam:
- Situated southeast of Makkah.
- The Meeqat is for pilgrims coming from Yemen.
Each Meeqat point is clear geographical boundaries. Pilgrims must enter Ihram before crossing these pints.
How to Choose the Right Meeqat Points for your Journey
Your travel routes specifies the correct Meeqat point:
- Direct flights from the UK to Jeddah or Makkah: Most of the time cross over Juhfah and Qarn al-Manazil.
- Flights with a stop in Madinah: Dhul Hulaifah is the Meeqat point for pilgrims.
- Flights with Middle Eastern stopovers (e.g., Cairo, Amman, Istanbul): Meeqat may vary based on flight routes. But for many UK pilgrims it is usually Juhfah.
Airlines usually make an announcement when a plane approaches a Meeqat. Pilgrims should be ready in advance to avoid rushing.
How to Enter in State of Ihram at Meeqat
Ihram is a holy condition of purity. It is more than a clothing requirement.
When you arrive at Meeqat, you need to
- Make true and sincere intention for Umrah
- Wear Ihram here
- offer two rakahs which is Sunnah practice
- start reciting Talbiyah quietly for women and loudly for men
Labbayka Allahumma Umrah
Here I am, O Allah, for Umrah
- maintain Ihram rules
Your sacred journey is properly starts with this process.
Rules While in Ihram
Pilgrims must follow specific rules after entering into the state of Ihram.
These rules include:
- Weaning the specific clothing
- No scented perfume after wearing Ihram
- Avoid hunting or harming animals
- No cutting hairs or nails
- Avoid bad language, anger and fights
- Do not wear stitched clothes only for men.
- No sexual relations
Women wear modest clothing that cover the entire body expect the hands and face. Men wear two white unstitched garment.
Common Mistakes to Avoid that Pilgrims make at Meeqat
Many first time pilgrims are confused about what to do at Meeqat.
The following mistakes should be avoided:
- Forgetting to make clear and proper intention
- Crossing the Meeqat without entering Ihram
- Delay Talbiyah after crossing Meeqat
- Men avoid to wear stitched clothes at Meeqat
- Applying scented perfumes or other scented items after wearing Ihram
Pilgrims should learn about these rules before travelling. Knowing the rules avoids penalties and assures a smooth Umrah experience.
Islamic travel offers Ramadan Umrah Packages from UK that includes all the necessary guidelines and guidance from expert Islamic scholars. Book your Umrah trip with Islamic travel at affordable rates.
