My First Umrah A Spiritual Journey to Makkah and Medina

On the 18th of November 2024, I embarked on a spiritual journey that marked one of the most significant milestones in my life, my first Umrah, Leaving my hometown of Mogadishu, I arrived in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, feeling an overwhelming sense of gratitude and spiritual fulfillment. It felt as if I had entered a realm of unparalleled blessings, surrounded by the baraka (divine grace) of the holiest places on Earth.

A Visit to Medina Munawara

My first destination was Medina, the city of the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him). Visiting Masjid Nabawi for the first time was an emotional experience. As I stood before the Rawda (the Prophet’s grave), I felt an indescribable peace. I also visited the graves of Abu Bakr and Umar (may Allah be pleased with them) beside the Prophet, reflecting on their immense contributions to Islam.

In Medina, I explored significant historical sites, including Jannatul Baqi, where many of the Prophet’s family members and companions are buried. I prayed at Masjid Quba, the first mosque built in Islam and Masjid Qiblatayn, where the Qibla (direction of prayer) was divinely changed from Jerusalem to Makkah. Visiting the Masjid Bilal and tasting Ajwa dates, famously cultivated in Medina, added to the richness of this experience.

Medina, the city that welcomed our beloved Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), is a city of unparalleled hospitality. The kindness of its people, both past and present, is truly inspiring. I felt deeply blessed to have the opportunity to walk where the Prophet once walked and to pray where he prayed.

Journey to Makkah

After Medina, I traveled to Makkah to perform Umrah. As we crossed the Miqat, I entered the state of Ihram, reciting the Talbiyah:
"Labbaik Allahumma Labbaik, Labbaik Laa Shareeka Laka Labbaik."
(Here I am, O Allah, here I am. Here I am, you have no partner, here I am.)

Arriving in Makkah, the heart of Islam, was a profound moment. Seeing the Kaaba for the first time brought tears to my eyes. It felt as though my soul had been reborn.

Performing Umrah

1. Tawaf: I circled the Kaaba seven times, starting at the Black Stone (Hajr al-Aswad), pouring my heart out in prayers and seeking Allah’s forgiveness.
2. Sa’i: Walking between the hills of Safa and Marwa, I retraced the footsteps of Hagar (Hajar) in her search for water. This journey reminded me of her unwavering faith and perseverance.
3. Halq/Taqsir: I completed my Umrah by shaving a portion of my hair (Taqsir) as a symbol of humility and submission to Allah.

In Makkah, I also prayed at Masjid Jinn and Masjid Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her). Climbing to the Cave of Hira on Jabal Nur, where the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) received the first revelation of the Quran, was a humbling experience.

Spiritual Reflections

I visited Arafah and Muzdalifah, reflecting on the significance of these sacred places during Hajj. Additionally, I performed Umrah on behalf of my family members, including my father, grandfather, and older brother. Every prayer I offered in the Haram felt like a direct connection to Allah, filling my heart with peace and gratitude.

This journey was a life-changing experience, a fulfillment of every Muslim’s dream. I am grateful that Allah chose me to be among His guests (Duyufu Rahman) and gave me the honor of visiting these holy sites.

A Prayer of Gratitude

May Allah accept my Umrah and all the good deeds I performed during this journey. May He grant every Muslim the opportunity to experience this sacred journey and may He continue to shower His blessings upon Makkah and Medina.
Allahumma Ameen.

ismaildaad@gmail.com