Scholar Describes Virtues of Performing Umrah in Islam’s Holiest Month

IQNA – A religious scholar has highlighted the unique spiritual rewards of performing Umrah during Ramadan, emphasizing its significance in Islamic teachings.

Pilgrims from across the globe are departing for Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah Pilgrimage in the holy month of Ramadan. But does performing this voluntary pilgrimage during Ramadan hold greater significance compared to other times of the year?

Hojat-ol-Islam Mohammad-Ali Akhavian, a cleric accompanying Iranian Umrah groups and the head of training at the cultural department of the Islamic Revolution Leader’s Hajj mission, addressed this question in an interview with IQNA.

“Worship is a fundamental aspect of human existence, created for establishing a connection with God,” he said, adding that the rewards for acts of worship vary across different periods.

“Worship during the months of Rajab, Sha’ban, and Ramadan carries greater rewards. Similarly, performing recommended acts of worship on Fridays holds special merit. These specific times enhance the value of worship,” he said.

Umrah brings abundant rewards and spiritual purification, he said, adding, “Umrah allows individuals to have a closer connection with God, gain numerous virtues, seek forgiveness for their sins, and even experience physical well-being and increased sustenance.”

He added that performing Umrah during special periods, particularly Ramadan, can bring exceptional rewards, sometimes equating to the reward of an accepted Hajj.

Referring to Islamic traditions, he stated, “Performing Umrah during the months of Rajab, Sha’ban, and especially Ramadan is highly meritorious because Ramadan is a month of worship and spiritual elevation. The sanctity of this month amplifies the rewards of performing religious acts in sacred locations such as the Prophet Mosque and the Grand Mosque.”

“When pilgrims enter the state of Ihram, chant the Talbiyah, and perform Umrah rituals within the Grand Mosque during Ramadan, the rewards are multiplied,” he continued. “Hadiths indicate that performing Umrah in Ramadan is equivalent in reward to Hajj, which is a remarkable virtue.”

Akhavian also addressed the concern that some pilgrims may not be able to fast during their journey. He reassured that even without fasting, the act of performing Umrah in Ramadan remains spiritually rewarding. “Everyone partakes in the blessings of Ramadan.”

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