THE PILGRIMGE (AL-HAJJ) AND LESSER PILGRIMAGE
(AL-UMRA) IN LANGUAGE AND ISLAMIC JURISPRUDENCE
1) The literal
meaning of Hajj in Arabic is to set out towards a definite objective. In
Islamic law it means to set out for the Ka'ba, the Sacred House, and to
fulfil the pilgrimage rites.
2) Umra is derived
from I'timar meaning a visit. In Islamic law it means visiting the Sacred
House, drawing near to God in accordance with the rules which are subsequently
referred to.
The distinctions
between Hajj and Umra will be pointed out in due course.