بِسْمِ اللهِ الرَّحْمٰنِ الرَّحِيْمِ
📍 Destinations: Madinah & Makkah
📅 January 15 – January 30, 2025
The year 2025 commenced in the most profound and spiritually uplifting manner—with the sacred privilege of performing Umrah alongside my beloved family. While many begin a new year with resolutions and aspirations, I was blessed to embark on a journey that offered renewal not only for the body but for the soul.
This was my second pilgrimage to the holy cities, yet the experience felt entirely new, filled with heightened emotions, deeper reflection, and unforgettable moments. What made this journey particularly special was the presence of my husband, my mother, my father, my two grandmothers, and my uncle—a multigenerational spiritual voyage that strengthened our familial bonds in ways words cannot fully capture.
Beyond the sacred rituals and spiritual rejuvenation, this pilgrimage was a profound reminder of faith, patience, and gratitude. As I recount this journey, I hope to share not only the experience but also the lessons, emotions, and invaluable insights that made these fifteen days truly transformative.
Madinah: A City of Tranquility and Spiritual Reflection
Our journey commenced in Madinah, a city that embodies peace, serenity, and an atmosphere unlike any other.
Though I had been here before, the excitement remained unparalleled. The knowledge that I would, for the first time, enter Rawdah and stand in one of the gardens of Paradise, made this visit even more significant.
First Encounter with Masjid An-Nabawi
After checking into our hotel and freshening up, we proceeded toward Masjid An-Nabawi for Duhur prayer. The sight of the Green Dome—illuminated against the soft evening sky—sent shivers down my spine. This was not merely a mosque; it was the final resting place of the most beloved Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).
As I stepped inside, the harmonious recitation of the Qur’an, the gentle whispers of supplications, and the serene ambiance immediately enveloped my soul.
It was a moment of immense humility and gratitude—a realization that I was standing in a place visited by millions before me, yet it felt profoundly personal, as if my heart had been called there at that very moment.
My First Visit to Rawdah – A Moment Etched in My Soul
On the following day, I had the immense privilege of entering Rawdah, a place described by the Prophet (PBUH) as a garden from the gardens of Paradise. This was a moment I had longed for, a prayer I had whispered countless times, and now, it was unfolding before me.
As I stepped onto the green-carpeted sanctuary, a wave of tranquility washed over me. The air was heavy with devotion, and for a brief moment, the world outside ceased to exist.
In that sacred space, I prostrated in sujood, pouring my heart out in supplication. Tears fell freely as I beseeched Allah for forgiveness, mercy, and guidance. My mother, beside me, wept silently, while my grandmothers, with trembling hands, raised their palms in earnest prayer.
That moment felt eternal—a reminder of Allah’s infinite mercy and the privilege of standing in a place so dearly loved by the Prophet (PBUH).
Other Spiritual & Historical Visits in Madinah
- Jannat-ul-Baqi – My father and uncle visited the ancient cemetery, paying respects to the great companions and family members of the Prophet (PBUH).
- Mount Uhud – Standing at the site of one of Islam’s most significant battles, my uncle recounted the martyrdom of Hamza (RA), a story that filled us with both sorrow and reverence.
- Masjid Quba – Following the Sunnah, we performed prayers in Islam’s first mosque, embracing the tranquility that surrounded it.
- Masjid Al-Qiblatain – Visiting the place where the Qibla was divinely changed from Jerusalem to Makkah was a humbling experience.
Our final Asar prayer in Madinah was filled with longing and reflection—a deep desire to stay longer in this blessed city. But soon, our hearts turned toward Makkah, where the Kaaba awaited us.
Makkah: Standing Before the House of Allah
On January 18, we embarked on our journey to Makkah, reciting Talbiyah throughout the drive:
"Labbayk Allahumma Labbayk, Labbayka La Shareeka Laka Labbayk."
Although I had been to Masjid Al-Haram before, nothing could ever diminish the awe and reverence of seeing the Kaaba once again. The moment we entered, I held my breath.
And then—there it stood before me, the House of Allah, majestic and serene.
My heart pounded. Tears blurred my vision as I gazed upon the Kaaba, feeling humbled and insignificant yet deeply connected to my Creator.
The Sacred Rituals of Umrah
- Tawaf (Circumambulation of the Kaaba) – We moved in harmony with thousands of worshippers, our lips constantly murmuring duas and praises. Each step felt like a cleansing of the soul.
- Sa’i (Walking between Safa and Marwah) – As I retraced the footsteps of Hajar (AS), I reflected on her unwavering faith in Allah’s provision.
- Halq & Taqsir (Shaving/Trimming of Hair) – With the final act of trimming my hair, a sense of renewal and purity washed over me.
Standing beside my family, we embraced, grateful for the opportunity to complete this sacred journey together.
Other Meaningful Experiences in Makkah
- Drinking Zamzam Water – A drink of purity and healing, a reminder of Allah’s boundless mercy.
- Climbing Jabal Al-Noor – My father and uncle ventured to the Cave of Hira, reflecting on the first divine revelation.
- Performing Salah at Masjid Al-Haram – Each prayer felt like a privileged moment of connection with Allah, surrounded by thousands of worshippers from all over the world.
Reflections on This Transformative Journey
- No Two Visits Are Ever the Same – Though this was my second time, every emotion, every moment felt entirely new.
- Faith is Strengthened Through Experience – The trials of Sa’i, patience in Tawaf, and the solemnity of Rawdah were all reminders of faith, perseverance, and surrender to Allah’s will.
- Gratitude for Family & Togetherness – Experiencing Umrah as a family deepened our spiritual connection and reinforced the beauty of worshiping together.
A Farewell with a Prayer to Return
My heart whispering:
"Ya Allah, call us back again…"
This journey was more than just a pilgrimage—it was a spiritual awakening, a renewal of faith, and a reminder of life’s true purpose.
May Allah grant us all the opportunity to visit these sacred lands and accept our prayers. Ameen! 🤲🏼
💬 Have you performed Umrah before? Share your experiences in the comments!
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