In 2012, I was blessed with the opportunity to perform my first Umrah with my parents during the holy month of Ramadan. The journey was not just a physical pilgrimage but a deeply spiritual experience that left an indelible mark on my heart. Spending the last ten nights of Ramadan, the sacred Taaq Raat, and celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr in the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah was a dream come true.
Arriving in the Holy Land
The moment we landed in Jeddah, a wave of emotions swept over me. There was a mix of excitement, gratitude, and awe. As we made our way to Makkah, the sight of the Holy Kaaba for the first time is something I will never forget. Seeing it in person, standing in its presence, I felt a sense of peace and connection unlike anything I had ever experienced before.
Performing Umrah
Performing Umrah with my parents was a profound experience. From the Tawaf around the Kaaba to the Sa’i between Safa and Marwah, every step felt like a renewal of faith. The exhaustion of travel melted away in the face of the overwhelming spirituality of the place. Praying in the Haram, amidst thousands of believers from around the world, made me realize the true essence of unity in Islam.
The Last Ten Nights: Taaq Raat in Makkah
The last ten nights of Ramadan, known as the Taaq Raat, hold immense significance, and experiencing them in Makkah was extraordinary. The Haram would fill with worshippers, all seeking Laylat-ul-Qadr, the Night of Power. The air was heavy with devotion, and the sight of people engaged in prayer, recitation, and supplication was deeply moving. Spending these nights in worship with my parents beside me was a privilege I will always cherish.
A Visit to Madinah
After completing our Umrah, we traveled to Madinah, the city of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). The tranquility of Masjid-e-Nabawi was a stark contrast to the intensity of Makkah. Praying in Riyadh-ul-Jannah, visiting the Rawdah Mubarak, and walking the same streets where the Prophet once walked filled my heart with serenity and love for Islam.
Eid-ul-Fitr in the Holy Land
Celebrating Eid-ul-Fitr in Makkah was an experience beyond words. The joy of completing Ramadan in the holiest of places, combined with the collective euphoria of millions of Muslims, made this Eid incredibly special. The morning prayers in the Haram, the heartfelt embraces of fellow believers, and the overwhelming sense of gratitude made this Eid one I will never forget.
A Journey That Changed Me
Looking back, my first Umrah in 2012 was more than just a pilgrimage; it was a turning point in my spiritual journey. Sharing these moments with my parents made it even more meaningful. The lessons of patience, humility, and devotion that I learned continue to guide me in my life today.
May Allah grant every believer the opportunity to visit His sacred house and experience the blessings of Umrah and Ramadan in the holy cities. Ameen.